If you worked in 2016, don’t miss filing for federal and state tax credits you earned— page 8 Labor Review 109th Year No. 10 February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO David Roe, giant of labor, dies at 92 Garden on the grounds of the Roe led Minnesota state Capitol. AFL-CIO as president “He helped modernize the state, modernize the labor move- from 1966-1984 ment,” said former U.S. Vice President , By Steve Share, speaking at a 90th birthday cele- Labor Review editor bration for Roe in November MINNEAPOLIS — David 2014. Upon hearing of Roe’s K. Roe, a fierce advocate for death, Mondale remarked, 2017 Legislature workers and leader during de- “We’ve lost a dear friend in Da- cades of growth and change in vid Roe.” Unions plan lobby days the labor movement, died Febru- Mondale was elected to the Building Trades: February 28 ary 13 at age 92. U.S. Senate the same year that AFSCME: March 28 “No Minnesota labor leader Roe won election as Minnesota Business attacks local gains loomed as large as David Roe AFL-CIO president, and “We’ve did,” said Bill McCarthy, presi- been almost like members of the —See page 4 dent of the Minnesota AFL-CIO. same family ever since.” “His example as both a leader Dave Roe speaking at the August 3, 2010 dedication of the Workers The two worked together on Memorial Garden on the State Capitol grounds, a project he Labor news and a person is still the gold many issues, including estab- standard for our state’s labor spear-headed for years in his retirement. lishment of national workplace updated daily movement. His death is a huge safety standards through the cre- www.workdayminnesota.org loss to both our movement and beginning in 1966. Prior to that, in 1984, he continued his work ation of OSHA — the Occupa- our entire state.” he was a leader of the state’s on behalf of labor, most notably tional Safety and Health Admin- Minneapolis Regional Roe served as Minnesota Building & Construction Trades as the driving force behind cre- istration — in 1971, Mondale Labor Federation… AFL-CIO president for 18 years unions. Following his retirement ation of a Workers Memorial ROE page 6 Follow us on facebook! www.facebook.com/minneapolisunions Unions claim victory as Trump pick MRLF endorses Elliott in special for Secretary of Labor withdraws election for mayor of Richfield WASHINGTON — Fast scheduled to make his first ap- RICHFIELD — The Min- cation online. food executive Andrew Puzder, pearance before the Senate Feb- neapolis Regional Labor Fed- Early voting will be avail- the controversial nominee for ruary 16. eration, AFL-CIO has en- able in-person at Richfield U.S. Secretary of Labor, with- “Puzder was an outrageous dorsed Pat Elliott for mayor city hall from February 28 drew from consideration Febru- pick for Labor Secretary and to of Richfield in a special elec- through March 6.from 8:00 ary 15, drawing applause from head an agency responsible for tion coming Tuesday, March a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (5:00 p.m. unions and other groups that promoting ‘the welfare of wage 7. (Debbie Goettel, the in- on March 6) and Saturday had opposed him. earners, job seekers and retir- cumbent, was elected Henne- March 4 from 10:00 a.m. to The withdrawal “shows the ees,’” the Communications pin County Commissioner in 3:00 p.m. power of collective action by Workers of America said in a November). An attor- workers,” said national statement. “His long record of Polls will RICHFIELD MAYOR ney by pro- AFL-CIO president Richard public statements and action op- be open SPECIAL ELECTION fession, Pat Trumka on Twitter. posing a fair minimum wage, March 7 at Elliott is a Numerous organizations, led overtime pay and other basic Richfield’s VOTE MARCH 7 three-term by the Fight for 15 movement, policies that support working regular pre- member of held hundreds of demonstra- families made him an unaccept- cinct polling locations from the Richfield city council. He tions in recent weeks opposing able choice.” 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. is a Richfield high school the nomination As CEO of CKE, the corpo- In addition, voters may graduate and his lived in his The decision came as Senate ration that owns Hardee’s and vote early by absentee ballot Richfield home for 32 years, Republicans reportedly told the Carl’s Jr. fast food restaurants, by mail or in person at Rich- where he and his wife raised White House that Puzder was Puzder has faced numerous field city hall. three children. Elliott is a for- losing support in their party and charges of wage theft, sexual Request an application for mer member of UNITE would not get the minimum harassment and anti-union ac- an absentee ballot by calling HERE Local 17. number of 50 votes needed to be tivity. 612-861-0580 or visit MN- For more information, vis- confirmed. Puzder had been LABOR SECRETARY page 4 votes.org to request an appli- it patformayor.com. Our movement, rooted in immigrant workers, must stand with immigrants By Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, President, largest refugee crisis since World War II Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation and humanitarian support is needed now Work. Work is what sustains us. Work more than ever. It is unacceptable that the is the energy and labor we provide to our we would choose to turn away the very community, our families and ourselves. people in greatest need of protection sim- Work transcends race, class, ideology, ply based upon where they are from or and culture. Work sustains our the faith they practice. The la- neighborhoods and work has bor movement is home to built the labor movement. many refugees. Work shakes me awake in Coupled with bans on im- the morning —whether it is migration, we are seeing en- the 75,000 members of the forcement and deportation pol- MRLF or my 2-year old. icies abruptly changed and Work drives a construction broadened. Many families who worker to a site at 5:30 a.m. to have only provided good work beat the hot sun on the pave- to the fabric of our communi- ment. Work inspires a house- ties are suddenly being thrown keeper each day at 5:30 a.m. to fill the into a terrorizing limbo of status and chaos United Way names Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, cart with towels. Work keeps a teacher threatening their very livelihoods. The well into the darkness of the evening to workers impacted by these policies are be- MRLF president, to 2017 board of directors support a student. ing denied their due process and are hav- MINNEAPOLIS — Chelsie Glaubitz Working Partnerships is a United Way This pride, this value of work, is great- ing their voice in the workplace weakened. Gabiou, president of the Minneapolis partner agency and also helps to encour- er than any executive order President We must support immigration policies at Regional Labor Federation, has been age support for United Way among em- Trump can deliver to our movement. the local, state and national level that pro- named to the 2017 board of directors of ployees at unionized workplaces. Core to the labor movement are the val- tects due process for all workers, regard- Greater Twin Cities United Way. In addition to Glaubitz , the United ues of solidarity, freedom, opportunity, less of immigration status. United Way’s 61-member board of Way board currently includes one other and equality for all. As our political cli- But, these harmful policies don’t just directors guides and provides strategic representative from organized labor, Jai- mate grows more divided, our own soli- affect immigrants, they harm all of us. It direction to the nonprofit and aids the se- me Gulley, president of SEIU Healthcare darity must deepen. continues to exasperate the discrimina- nior staff with executing the Minnesota. Donald Trump’s executive orders on tion people of color face in our communi- organization’s mission. The board is The United Way’s new board chair for immigration are an effort to criminalize ties. Enforcement-only deportation poli- comprised of Twin Cities community 2017 is Tim Welsh, senior partner at working people — including people in cies drive more immigrants into the leaders. McKinsey & Company. our own unions. Working people in our underground economy — an economy Glaubitz also serves as chair of the “With 1 in 4 people living in poverty, community are afraid to take their chil- that drags the wages and conditions of all board of Working Partnerships, the there is much work to be done in our re- dren to school and to go to work them- industries down. Lack of trust between non-profit community services arm of the gion,” said United Way president and selves — let alone speak up against abuse law enforcement and the community Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation. CEO Sarah Caruso. and exploitation. erodes public safety for everybody. Minnesota has a rich history of immi- We must not be fooled. Many of these grants building a life for themselves and policies are rooted in a strategy to keep Information for candidates seeking endorsement making Minnesota one of the best places workers afraid and to weaken their power. The Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation In addition, all requests should be copied by to live in the entire country. Immigrants In this moment, it is more important than screens candidates for State Legislative, County, e-mail to MRLF campaigns manager Casey Hudek at come to us from many different avenues ever that our labor movement provides in- Municipal, School Board or other local elected of- [email protected] and to Barb Boettch- — fleeing persecution, searching for bet- formation, support and solidarity to our fices located in Hennepin, Anoka, Wright, Scott, er at [email protected]. ter work opportunities, participating in immigrants, people of color and every oth- Carver, Meeker, and McLeod counties. Please include the following information in your democracy, or seeking education. Some er community directly under attack. Immi- The Minnesota AFL-CIO’s endorsement process request: Candidate name; campaign committee name have even been forced to immigrate here grants are welcome, safe and protected in for state legislative candidates in this region be- and office sought; candidate e-mail address and cell via slavery or exploitation to provide our unions and the workers’ movement. gins with the MRLF screening process. phone (or other daytime phone number); campaign their labor or services. Native Americans While corporate elites try to use poli- Candidates seeking endorsement in 2017 from the manager name, e-mail address and cell phone (if and immigrants from many generations cies of division to exploit our work, we Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO should applicable); candidate or committee U.S. mail ad- have built our economy and will continue will resist. We will use the collective e-mail a request for a screening to MRLF president Chel- dress; campaign website (if applicable). to carry the work forward. power of our work. We will bring fami- sie Glaubitz Gabiou at [email protected]. Today, the world is experiencing the lies together to support each other.

Minneapolis Labor Review The Minneapolis Labor Review Newspaper — USPS 351 120 — (ISSN Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO 0274-9017) is published monthly for $10.00 per year in the United States Executive Board Since 1907 by the Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, 312 Central Avenue, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414-1077. Steve Share, Editor Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, President; Louise Sundin, All other countries $5.00 additional per year. Executive Vice President; Pete Lindahl, First Vice Next issue: Periodical postage paid at Minneapolis, Minnesota T S-70 W I N I T I E S AFL-CIO C President; Mike Zagaros, Second Vice President; Dan DULUTH and additional post offices. March 24, 2017 McConnell, Financial Secretary-Treasurer; Kelly Wilson, POSTMASTER send address changes to: Deadline: Minneapolis Labor Review Newspaper, Register Clerk; Paul Mueller, Deputy Register Clerk; March 8, 2017 312 Central Avenue, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414. Grace Baltich, Reading Clerk; Joyce Carlson, Recording See page 11 for complete 2017 schedule Secretary; Tommy Bellfield, Sgt.-At-Arms; Martin Goff, Office (612) 379-4725 Fax (612) 379-1307 Kyle Makarios, Russ Scherber, Mary Turner and Jigme [email protected] Ugen - Trustees; Steve Buck, Carol Nieters, Judy Russell- “The rights labor has won, labor must fight to protect.” Martin - At Large. —Floyd B. Olson, Minnesota Governor, 1930-1936 www.minneapolisunions.org

Page 2 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Events March 12: Pancake brunch fundraiser for CTUL takes place at new Chicago Ave. center MINNEAPOLIS — The sixth annual eration. pancake brunch fundraiser to benefit Founded in 2007, CTUL has been or- CTUL will be Sunday, March 12 from ganizing among retail janitors and fast 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. food workers. This year’s event will be the first pan- At the March 12 event, CTUL will cake brunch at CTUL’s new Center for launch its “Raise Workers’ Voices Cam- Worker and Community Organizing, paign,” a campaign to take its organizing 3715 Chicago Ave. South, Minneapolis. work to the next level by winning fair The suggested donation is $15 for the wages, fair working conditions, and a “all you can eat” brunch. voice in the workplace with thousands of CTUL — the Center of Workers Unit- low-wage workers. ed in Struggle — is a community affiliate For more information, visit ctul.net or of the Minneapolis Regional Labor Fed- e-mail [email protected] or call 612-322-0663. March 18: ‘Rise of the Modern Right’ discussed ST. PAUL — By the early 1960s, Amer- urban Warriors: The Origins of the New ican conservatives seemed to have fallen on American Right, will speak Saturday, hard times. But, over the next 20 years, a March 18 at the Minnesota History Cen- grassroots campaign shifted the conserva- ter, 345 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul, MN tive movement from discredited clusters of 55102. Her lecture will be presented at extremists to respectability and dominant 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. party status — leading to the election of Tickets are $16, $12 for Minnesota Ronald Reagan as President in 1980 and a Historical Society members. continuing conservative ascendancy. For more information, call 651-259- Historian Lisa McGirr, author of Sub- 3015 or visit www.mnhs.org/event/1916. March 23: 30th annual Nellie Stone Johnson dinner will raise funds for scholarships Your business is local... OAKDALE — The 30th annual Nel- The keynote speaker will be educator lie Stone Johnson scholarship dinner will and activist Josie Johnson, GET YOUR FINANCING be Thursday, March 23, from 5:30-8:30 Cornbread Harris, Twin Cities Musi- p.m. at Envision Catering & Hospitality, cians Union member, will perform. AT OUR LOCAL 484 Inwood Ave. N. Oakdale (formerly The Nellie Stone Johnson Scholarship known as the Prom Center). Program provides financial assistance to COMMUNITY BANK! Ticket prices are $70 per individual, racial minority union members and their You’ll enjoy the local $525 per table of eight. families who wish to pursue an education loan decisions and our The dinner honors the student schol- at one of the Minnesota State Colleges approach to getting things arship recipients and the legacy of Nellie and Universities. done. It’s like having your Stone Johnson (1905-2002), a ground- Buy scholarship dinner tickets online 312 Central Avenue SE • Minneapolis own private bank! 612-379-3222 • www.ubtmn.com • Member FDIC breaking African-American union leader at nsj30.eventbrite.com. For more infor- A Tradition Since 1976 and political activist. mation, contact 651-738-1404. COMMUNITY BANKING IN THE HEART OF THE TWIN CITIES March 24: Save 40 percent on groceries with food packages from Fare for All Express Main Event Signs Minneapolis Locally Owned MINNEAPOLIS — Working Partner- program, Working Partnerships, sponsors ships’ next Fare for All Express pick-up one of the 30 Fare for All Express distri- Union Sign Shop Labor Review will be Friday, March 24 at the Sprinkler bution sites in the greater metro area. Fitters Local 417 union hall, 1404 Central Fare for All Express is a program of the 1907-2017 Ave. N.E., Minneapolis (two blocks north Food Group and is open to everyone. Signicade® A-frames, of Broadway on Central). Pick-up hours: Visit www.fareforall.org for other 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Fare for All Express locations and dates. Banners, and 110th Anniversary Issue: Fare for All Express offers a variety of Fare for All Express accepts cash, discounted grocery packages including EBT, credit cards or debit cards. The pro- Corrugated Plastic Signs May 26, 2017 produce-only, meat-only, and a combo gram is open to all and has no income Discounted ad rates available package with both produce and meat items. requirements. No pre-ordering is neces- Prices range from $10 to $25 and offer a 40 sary and there is no paperwork to fill out. 612.627.9251 FFI or to advertise: percent savings. For more information, call 612-379- Main-Event-Signs.com 612-379-4725 The AFL-CIO community services 8130 ext. 112 or 763-450-3880. www.minneapolisunions.org February 24, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 3 Unions plan lobby days Business backs legislation to block

ST. PAUL — Several of the state’s local policies on wages, sick time unions have announced plans for their By Barb Kucera, editor, Stevensen of the faith group, ISAIAH. 2017 lobby days — dates when they WorkdayMinnesota.org Deborah Schmedemann, professor encourage their members to turn out en ST. PAUL — Debate in the state Sen- emeritus at Hamline Mitchell School of masse at the State Capitol to rally, to ate February 6 over legislation that would Law, testified that the legislation is attend hearings, and most importantly, bar local governments from adopting la- “breathtakingly broad” because it bars to meet with state legislators to share bor protections focused on whether the local governments from adopting, en- personal stories about the issues that measure is a corporate power grab that forcing or administering “an ordinance, matter to them. threatens democracy. local resolution, or local policy requiring Here is information about the lobby The legislation, SF580/HF600, would an employer to provide an employee a days announced so far: restrict local governments from estab- particular benefit, term of employment, AFSCME Council 5: lishing higher employment standards — or working condition.” March 28 like earned sick time, fair scheduling and “To me, that’s very unwise,” AFSCME Council 5’s Day on the 2017 Legislature minimum wage — within their boundar- Schmedemann said. Normally, preemp- Hill will be Tuesday, March 28. ies. Additionally, it would strike down tion laws apply to specific circumstances For more information, or to regis- 10:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Lunch will be any such ordinances passed after January where a state has taken action on an is- ter online: provided. At 11:15, buses will depart 1, 2016, nulling historic victories on sue, she said. The law, if passed, would afscmemn.org/doth17 from the union hall, 2829 Anthony earned sick and safe time in Minneapolis apply to any matter that falls under its IBEW: Lane South, Minneapolis. RSVP by and St. Paul. sweeping language. February 28 February 24 to lobbyday17@gmail. The bills are “clearly in line with Business owner Todd Mikkelson of IBEW Day on the Hill will be Tues- com or at www.local49.org. New this ALEC and the Chamber [of Commerce] Orono said preemption “would stifle” lo- day, February 28, convening at the year: Every member attending will re- and how they look at workers’ rights,” cal elected officials and citizens. ““Don’t IBEW Local 110 hall, 1330 Conway ceive a Local 49 safety vest. said Senator Jason Isaacson, DFL-Shore- take away my voice at the city level,” he St., Saint Paul. 8:00 a.m. check-in, In advance of the February 28 lob- view. “This bill in many ways is an ex- told lawmakers. 9:00 a.m. program, afternoon lobbying by day, members are invited to attend a treme over-reach.” Despite these reservations, the Senate and 3:30 p.m. rally at the Capitol in Building Trades open house reception ALEC, the American Legislative Ex- Jobs and Economic Growth Finance and conjunction with the Minnesota Build- Monday, February 27 from 5:00–7:30 change Council, is a corporate-funded Policy Committee approved the bill, send- ing and Construction Trades Council. p.m. at the Carpenters union hall, 700 entity that produces “model bills” that ing it to the Local Government Committee, For more information: Olive St., Saint Paul. Food and bever- are introduced at the local, state and na- which also passed it. A companion bill has ibew292.org ages will be provided. No RSVP re- tional level. ALEC-written bills privatize passed two House committees. Operating Engineers Local 49: quired to attend the open house and public schools, weaken environmental In contrast to the state legislation, February 28 reception. and consumer protections and institute which is getting only a few hours of hear- The 2017 Local 49 Day at the Cap- For more information: Right to Work laws to restrict unions. ings, the local ordinances on earned sick itol will be Tuesday, February 28 from local49.org The preemption measures before the and safe time underwent extensive re- Minnesota Legislature are “part of a nation- view and discussion over the course of wide ALEC strategy to dis-empower work- many months, said Minneapolis City March 8: City of Minneapolis plans ers and communities,” said the Rev. Grant Council member Elizabeth Glidden. new ‘Worker’s Day at City Hall’ Labor Secretary: Trump picks a second nominee MINNEAPOLIS — Every year, the community members during the break- continued from page 1 and in his inaugural address, and nomi- Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce out sessions. In addition, the information nate a candidate for Secretary of Labor sponsors “Business Day at City Hall” gathered will be used to shape a coming In recent weeks, he acknowledged who will always put workers first and where the business community gets the update to the City’s comprehensive plan. employing a housekeeper who was un- foremost.” opportunity to communicate to the city For more information, contact Coun- documented and failing to pay the proper One day after Puzder withdrew, Pres- council, mayor and city staff about their cil Member Lisa Bender’s office at 612- employment taxes. ident Trump offered a new nominee for priorities and concerns. This year, led by 673-2210. “In nominating Mr. Puzder for Labor Secretary of Labor: Alexander Acosta, City Council Member Lisa Bender’s of- Minneapolis launches new Secretary, President Trump chose for the currently the dean of the Florida Interna- fice, the City will host its first “Workers’ ‘Workplace Advisory Committee’ department that champions workers tional University law school. Day at City Hall.” A new ‘Workplace Advisory Commit- someone whose views and values are not Acosta is a former member of the Na- The event is scheduled for Wednes- tee’ created by the Minneapolis City only antithetical to what workers want tional Labor Relations Board, appointed day, March 8 from 12 noon to 3:00 p.m. Council is about to begin its work. and need, but also out of step with main- by President George W. Bush. Mayor Betsy Hodges will briefly ad- The Workplace Advisory Committee, stream America,” said Christine Owens, Acosta also has served as a Bush-ap- dress the gathering to report on the city’s created by a Council resolution last year, executive director of the National Em- pointee in the Department of Justice’s progress on local workplace policy ini- is tasked with reviewing policy and ad- ployment Law Project. Civil Rights Division and as U.S. Attor- tiatives, including a local sick time ordi- vising policymakers on workplace relat- “Americans support raising the mini- ney for Southern Florida. nance passed last year and a proposed ed issues. mum wage, expanding eligibility for over- “Working people changed the game city minimum wage which is currently Three representatives of organized la- time pay, ensuring safe and healthy work- on this nomination. Unlike Andy Puzder, under consideration. bor have been appointed to the 16-mem- places, extending affordable health care, Alexander Acosta’s nomination deserves Then, attendees will have a choice to ber committee: Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, protecting workers’ retirement savings, serious consideration. In one day, we’ve attend four breakout sessions focusing on president, Minneapolis Regional Labor safeguarding the right to organize and bar- gone from a fast-food CEO who routine- Workplace Regulations, Housing, Public Federation; Brian Elliott, executive di- gain collectively, and creating good, fami- ly violates labor law to a public servant Health and Community Safety, and Par- rector, SEIU Minnesota State Council; ly-sustaining jobs,” Owens said. with experience enforcing it,” said ticipatory Budgeting. and Wade Luneburg, secretary-treasurer, She added: “We urge President Trump AFL-CIO president Richard Trumka. Following the event, according to a UNITE HERE Local 17. to listen to the American people, remain “We will judge this nominee by the com- staff memo, city staff will be charged to The committee will be developing a mindful of the promises he made to mitment he shows to making life better report back on what they heard from two-year workplan, Luneburg reported. working families during the campaign for working people.” Page 4 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org 21,000 CWA members in 14 states preparing to strike at AT&T By Steve Share, Labor Review editor Thompson, Oakdale, works as a retail BLOOMINGTON — With the clock sales consultant at the AT&T store in St. ticking to the expiration of a 14-state Paul’s Highland Park neighborhood. AT&T contract covering 21,000 workers, “They’re asking us to do more every local members of the Communications year,” Thompson said. “The expectation Workers of America rallied outside an of work goes up.” AT&T call center in Bloomington Febru- At the same time, AT&T’s ability to ary 10. They later boarded a bus to visit unilaterally change the commission other AT&T facilities and retail stores in structure for retail sales consultants the Twin Cities as part of a nationwide means those workers have been earning day of action. less and less every year. The contract expired at midnight Feb- “For me, you’re looking at $2,500 ruary 11. less every year,” said Thompson, who “We’re showing support and that has worked 8 years at AT&T. we’re ready to walk,” said Dave Barthel, He said a co-worker’s pay has dropped president of CWA Local 7200. “We had a CWA Local 7200 and Local 7250 members picketed February 10 outside an AT&Tcall by $19,000 over the last several years. strike vote and an overwhelming 93 per- center in Bloomington. The picket signs read, “CWA on Strike —Just Practicing.” “The company reported a profi t of cent authorized a strike.” $13 billion and yet can’t offer the em- “They make billions of dollars and those workers. “We’re willing to fi ght for Meanwhile, the chairman and CEO of ployees a fair wage,” Thompson said. yet they want to continually cut wages a fair cause and a fair contract,” said AT&T, Randall Stephenson, received a He said AT&T also wants to cut in and benefi ts,” said Shari Wojtowicz, Gnerer, who has worked for AT&T about total compensation package exceeding half the number of paid sick days, from president of CWA Local 7250. “It’s hard four years and works in business receiv- $25 million in 2015, according to Morn- 10 days to fi ve days, and increase em- for someone to make AT&T a career ables management. He also is a CWA Lo- ingstar. ployee health insurance costs by 32 per- when they treat their workers so poorly.” cal 7200 union steward. In addition to CWA Local 7200’s cent. CWA Local 7200 organized the work- “Look at the higher-ups at AT&T and AT&T call center employees in Minne- Thompson said declining pay and in- ers at the Bloomington call center, 7900 what they’re making compared to what sota, the expiring contract also covers creasing health costs make setting a fam- Xerxes Ave. So., ten years ago, Barthel we’re making,” he said. “Let’s disperse workers at 27 retail stores in Minnesota, ily budget — and planning for set mort- said. About 235 members of Local 7200 this wealth to some of the people who ac- who are members of CWA Local 7250. gage payments or car payments, for work there, occupying two fl oors of the tually are working for it.” Together, CWA Local 7200 and Local example — very diffi cult. offi ce building and handling business Gnerer said workers in his unit start 7250 represent about 600 AT&T mem- “I’ve got three kids,” Thompson said, calls for AT&T Mobility. out at $12-$13 per hour and max out at bers in Minnesota. “try to fi gure this out.” Brian Gnerer, Burnsville, is one of $18.57 per hour. CWA Local 7250 member Larry CWA page 8

Sponsored by The Peterson Firm, LLP HAVE YOU OR A LOVED ONE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH MESOTHELIOMA? Our Patient Advocates help people with mesothelioma who may have been wrongfully exposed to asbestos on the job — free of charge.

• FREE mesothelioma packet and comprehensive treatment guide • FREE help finding a top mesothelioma doctor near you • FREE financial assistance resources to help cover your expenses

CALL NOW (855) 413-2628 or visit www.asbestos.com/labor-help/

www.minneapolisunions.org February 24, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 5 Roe: Led Minnesota AFL-CIO as president from 1966-1984 continued from page 1 only one of its kind in the country and is one of the most popular spots for visitors said. to the state Capitol, Mandell said. “Under David’s leadership, the Min- “David always took pride in that,” he nesota AFL-CIO became a strong voice said. “He was going to make sure Minne- both at the State Capitol and at the voting sota was the first to recognize the great- booth,” McCarthy said. “David under- ness of everyday workers.” stood how vital it was for union members At the celebration in 2016, Roe re- and all working people to be involved in called his long and close association with the political process and his record Senator and Vice President Hubert Hum- proves it. As president, David led the la- phrey, Humphrey’s final speech to the bor movement in successful efforts se- Minnesota AFL-CIO, and their final curing collective bargaining rights for phone call before Humphrey died of can- public sector workers and enacting Min- cer in 1978. “He said ‘thank you’ and I nesota’s first minimum wage.” said, ‘no, thank you,’” Roe remembered. ‘A great teacher’ Twitter lit up the day Roe died with Danny Gustafson, who succeeded comments from elected officials and other Roe as Minnesota AFL-CIO president, praising Roe’s achievements. U.S. Sena- recalled that Roe “had great support and tor Al Franken called him “an integral part a great following in everything he did — of the Minnesota labor movement.” and he earned it . . . It’s going to be a long Governor Mark Dayton said Roe “was time before somebody like that comes a giant of a man and one of the most in- around again.” fluential Minnesotans of his generation. Roe helped to mentor new labor lead- His lifelong commitment to better wages ers who followed him. “He was a great David Roe, photographed during his time as president of the Minnesota AFL-CIO and working conditions greatly improved teacher,” Gustafson said. from 1966-1984. His path to lead the state labor federation included serving as pres- the lives of thousands of hard-working “David Roe’s presence in the lives of ident and business manager of Lathers Local 190, business representative of the Min- Minnesotans.” so many labor leaders in this state has neapolis Building and Constrution Trades Council, and president of the Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith add- been a major force in shaping the labor State Building and Construction Trades Council. ed, “few have had such a transformative movement in Minnesota,” said Louise impact in the lives of hard-working fami- Sundin, former president of the Minne- movement. “He was a fierce advocate for every- lies. As we mourn the loss of a great lead- apolis Federation of Teachers, longtime In 1954, by one vote, Roe won elec- thing that is right about workers, labor er today, I join workers across Minnesota member of the Minnesota AFL-CIO’s tion as business representative for the and the value of life,” said Paul Mandell, in celebrating David’s many contribu- general board, and longtime executive Minneapolis Building and Construction executive secretary of the Capitol Area tions to the betterment of our state.” vice president of the Minneapolis Re- Trades Council. In 1957, defeating the Architectural and Planning Board. “But Ray Waldron, who, like Danny Gus- gional Labor Federation. “We were incumbent by just two votes, Roe won he was also a teddy bear, an unbelievable tafson, followed Roe’s path from leader- blessed that David led us and brought us election as president of the Minnesota family person.” ship in the Building Trades to head of the together for the most important reason — State Building Trades Council. Roe’s wife, Audrey, died in October. state’s labor movement, said today’s to better the lives of working people in ‘A fierce advocate’ Mandell worked closely with both workers can draw lessons from Roe’s Minnesota. David was the reason that Roe was elected president of the Min- Dave and Audrey Roe on the labor lead- persistence. this state is known for its active, progres- nesota AFL-CIO in 1966 and served until er’s final goal: the creation of the Work- “One thing he always told me, time sive, courageous, and ethical labor move- his retirement in 1984. He remained ac- ers Memorial Garden on the grounds of and again… every step, he would come ment.” tive, however, serving 12 years on the the Minnesota State Capitol. A new mural in to me and say ‘it’s never over,’” Wal- State Building Trades president Harry Board of Re- at the memorial was dedicated at special dron said. “He’s right … We’re going to Melander remembered first meeting Roe gents and tirelessly organizing for great- celebration May 30, 2016. continue to [need to] make those fights.” in 1976 and said he was a “kind and sup- er recognition for workers. The memorial is believed to be the Today, national “right-to-work” legis- portive” person who counseled many lation has been introduced and Minneso- emerging leaders in the labor movement. ta is surrounded by states that have enact- “Dave set the bar for what people ed this legislation to cripple unions and within the labor community should be undermine workers’ collective bargain- like, how people should work together,” ing rights. Melander said. The October 21, 1954, edition of the Roe first became a union member in Minneapolis Labor Review quoted a dire 1946, joining the Brotherhood of Rail- warning from Roe on that same threat: road Workers Local 1310. In 1949, he “We trust everyone will realize that it is joined Lathers Local 190 as an appren- the State Legislature where the effort will tice and moved on to become a journey- be made to destroy organized labor by man and then president and business passing the misnamed Right to Work bill. manager of the local. Election time is the time to stop that by In 1953, the Minneapolis Labor Re- Dave Roe (right) electing candidates who are loyal to the view ran a photo of a young Dave Roe and Vice President principles of industrial democracy.” participating in an annual memorial ser- Roe’s funeral took place February 20. vice at the statue of Farmer-Labor Party (left) were close This story includes contributions from Governor Floyd B. Olson at Highway 55 friends until Hum- Union Advocate editor Michael Moore, and Penn Ave. So. Around that time, La- phrey’s death in Workday Minnesota editor Barb Kucera bor Review editor Robley Cramer cele- 1977. and material from a December 19, 2014, brated Roe as a powerful orator and up- story in the Labor Review about Dave Photos this page courtesy and-coming leader of the state’s labor of Minnesota AFL-CIO Roe’s 90th birthday celebration. Page 6 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Laborer Edwina Pat- terson (left) met with workers in India while on a tradeswomen del- egation in January 2017. Photo courtesy of Edwina Patterson. Minnesota Laborer is finalist for a national social justice award

By Barb Kucera, editor, want our jobs to more inclusive to all.” WorkdayMinnesota.org Prior to being a finalist for the Edna MINNEAPOLIS — Edwina Patter- Award, she received the Emerging son, a member of Laborers Local 563 in Tradeswoman Award from the Women Minneapolis, traveled to Washington, Build Nations conference. In January, D.C., February 9 to be honored for her she was one of 12 tradeswomen selected work to advocate for more people of col- to participate in “Building Bridges 2017: or in the Building Trades. The First U.S. Tradeswomen Delegation Patterson was one of 10 finalists for to India.” She also was a delegate to the the Edna Social Justice Award given by Democratic National Convention in Phil- the Berger-Marks Foundation, a private adelphia. foundation dedicated to supporting the Kerry Jo Felder, lead organizer for leadership of young women in the labor POCUM, said Patterson “quickly be- movement. The 2017 winner is Angelica came part of the core leadership because Clarke, executive director of the Albany of her passion and commitment to seeing Social Justice Center. employers and unions intentionally in- Patterson said she “was excited to be clude those that have been historically nominated and overjoyed to be a final- under-represented for far too long in the ist.” building and construction trades… Her Patterson, who is 32, became a Labor- dedication to wanting more for her com- er in 2013 after working 12 years as a munity, family and friends runs through nurse’s assistant. While she loved work- her veins and stirs her to be part of the ing in health care, it was a struggle to live change, demanding justice.” on a salary that averaged $30,000 a year. Patterson “puts action behind her Her work as Laborer on highway heavy words,” said Laborer Joanne Hager, in and road construction projects pays twice nominating her for the Edna Award. “Ed- as much, she said. wina is very passionate about telling oth- Patterson started out directing traffic ers how to enter the trades, particularly as a flagger and now does “anything from others who have gone through numerous traffic control to hooking up pipe, mixing life struggles like she has… To have that Need help with grocery bills? mud. I’ll get down there in the trenches championed by a young woman of 32 is sometimes …” she said. “You learn a lot truly inspiring.” Fare for All Express offers fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meats and and you get to be around a lot of other Patterson downplays the accolades, staple items. Fare for All Express packages cost $10-$30. The program trades.” calling her advocacy “the right thing to While her work is manual labor, she do.” is open to everyone and has NO income requirements. uses her people skills to promote the Patterson, who has three children ages union and help others. Other workers, 7, 11 and 12, said, “I hope my children Next delivery: whom she calls “her family,” often phone see the positive things I’m doing and that her when they have questions or contact will encourage them to be good people.” Friday, March 24, 2017 her through Facebook. She balances work, family and union Patterson, who is African-American, is commitments, noting, “our membership 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. a core member of the People of Color needs to be more involved, now more Union Members (POCUM) caucus at the than ever.” Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation The Edna award is named for Edna Sprinkler Fitters Local 417 Union Hall and is active in Minnesota Tradeswomen. Berger, a pioneer for women’s rights who “We’re trying to get the hiring goals rose from a receptionist at The Philadel- 1404 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis raised for women in the state of Minne- phia Inquirer to become a writer, editor For more information, see story page 3 or contact sota,” she said. “We’re also trying to and the first female organizer in The Working Partnerships: 612-379-8130 ext. 112 change our construction culture. We Newspaper Guild-CWA. www.minneapolisunions.org February 24, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 7 ‘We’re willing to Classes fight for a fair cause and a fair Collective bargaining class offered in March contract.’ MINNEAPOLIS — The University of open to all. —Brian Gnerer, Minnesota Labor Education Service has In addition to the newly-announced Burnsville, added a new class to its spring schedule: Collective Bargaining course, two previ- CWA Local 7200 a three-session course on collective bar- ously-scheduled spring classes include: gaining will be offered in March. Collective Bargaining 1 & 2 will meet The Labor Movement & Mass Photo, left: CWA Tuesdays, March 7, 14, and 21, from 5:30 Incarceration Local 7200 member to 8:30 p.m. on the University’s Minne- Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Brian Gnerer, apolis campus. Over the past 30 years, the number of Burnsville, was The course is for new bargaining com- people who are incarcerated in the U.S. has among picketers at mittee members and others who want to grown from 300,000 to more than 2.2 mil- an AT&T call cen- understand the process of bargaining a lion, disproportionately impacting commu- ter February 10. contract. It will cover preparing for bar- nities of color and poor people. Meanwhile, gaining, including surveying members labor unions represent thousands of work- CWA: Two-week cooling-off period now underway and conducting bargaining research; cre- ers who staff the jails, prisons, and deten- ating proposals and counter proposals; tion facilities across the United States. Al- continued from page 5 eral days. negotiations tactics and strategies; and though the labor movement and the “The union is here to get a fair con- building power through member and movement to end mass incarceration ap- As the Labor Review went to press tract, and with the continued backing of community engagement. It also features a pear to be at odds, this course will examine February 17, CWA Local 7200 president the membership, we will win! The union collective bargaining simulation that al- the common ground between the two Dave Barthel provided an update: “the and company agreed today to a brief lows participants to put their new skills movements and explore possible avenues two sides are still very far apart and have “cooling-off” period, so we can comb into practice. for collaboration. Registration deadline: agreed to a two-week cool-down period through the piles of data received from Tuition is $100. April 14, 2017. Tuition: $50. as of February 15.” He promised: “More the company. We will reconvene within Registration deadline is February 28. Advanced Grievance Handling actions to follow.” the next two weeks. This is a chance for To register, call 612-624-5020 or go to Wednesday, May 17, 2017, 5:30 – 8:30 CWA’s website offered the following the membership to ramp up mobilization the LES website, www.carlsonschool. p.m. update February 15: and show the company when they get umn.edu/LES. This course is designed for union “The union and company remain back to the table, they need to bargain a The University of Minnesota Labor stewards and leaders who want to im- miles apart on all major issues. The com- fair contract! Thank you for your contin- Education Service offers labor studies prove their ability to investigate, present pany continues to make greedy and retro- ued support. Stay mobilized, stay unified skills courses that provide a foundation in and write grievances. This advanced class gressive demands despite their huge and stay ANGRY!!” “nuts & bolts” areas important to work- that will build on skills learned in Basic profits. The union will not accept these AT&T wireless customers can sign an ing people. Steward Training. Registration deadline: demands and the discussions have be- online petition in support of CWA mem- The classes, which are non-credit, are May 5, 2017. Tuition: $50. come more contentious over the last sev- bers at GoodJobsATT.org. Registration now open for April 19-21 If you worked in 2016, don’t miss filing for Union Women & Femme’s Retreat federal and state tax credits you earned MINNEAPOLIS — Registration is You do not need to be a union member to MINNEAPOLIS — If you’re a earned less than about $14,880 also open for the Minnesota Union Women & attend, but should be interested in being lower-income or moderate-income may qualify. Femme’s Retreat, part of a series of pro- active on workplace issues. wage earner in Minnesota, you may In addition to the federal EIC, some grams sponsored by the University of In planning the 2017 retreat, the fifth qualify for federal and state tax credits families also can get the federal CTC, Minnesota Labor Education Service to the Labor Education Service has offered, that can reduce the amount of taxes which can be worth up to $1,000 per foster greater participation by women the name was changed to be more inclu- you owe. child. and femmes in their workplaces, unions sive. “Women & Femmes Retreat” re- To claim the credits, eligible work- Don’t miss out — according to esti- and communities. flects the understanding of gender as a ers must file federal and state income mates, 20-25 percent of eligible workers The retreat will take place April 19- spectrum, and opens up the retreat to tax returns. do not claim their federal EIC benefits. 21 at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge in the anyone who, in whole or in substantial You can get free help to prepare Minnesota Working Families Credit Brainerd Lakes area. part, locates themselves on the feminine your federal and state tax returns. In and Child and Dependent Care Credit The Retreat is developed with input side of the spectrum, including non-bina- the Twin Cities, dial 2-1-1 or 651-291- If you qualify for the federal EIC, you from labor leaders and activists. General ry, gender non-conforming (GNC), gen- 0211. In Greater Minnesota, dial 800- also may qualify for the Minnesota sessions will include “Women & derfluid, genderqueer, two-spirit and 543-7709. Working Families Credit. The Working Femmes: Our Unique Perspectives for transfeminine people. Federal Earned Income Credit Family Credit is a Minnesota state tax Building Power” and “From #Black- Most participants are sponsored and and Child Tax Credit credit that helps low-income people who LivesMatter to Battling Right to Work: funded by their unions. Free child care The Earned Income Credit (EIC) are working, especially those who are Organizing in Coalition.” Workshops and Spanish/English interpretation will and Child Tax Credit (CTC) are federal raising children. If you get the WFC, you will cover skills important to internal or- be available. Some scholarships will be tax benefits for lower- and -moder will either get a larger state tax refund or ganizing and topics such as FMLA, ADA offered. ate-income workers. pay less in state taxes. and other legal issues. Go to the LES website, www.carlson- The EIC can be worth up to $6,269 Households with incomes less than Keynote speaker is CeCe McDonald, school.umn.edu/LES for more informa- for families who worked in 2016. Mar- $39,510 in 2016 also may qualify for the an activist, speaker and icon in the tion on the content, schedule, cost, schol- ried workers raising children who Minnesota Child and Dependent Care LGBTQ community. arships and more, or visit the Retreat earned less than about $53,500 in 2016 Credit. To claim the credit, file Schedule The Retreat is designed for working Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ may be eligible for the EIC. Single M1CD, Child and Dependent Care Credit, women and femmes, rank-and-file mem- MnUnionWomenandFemmesRetreat. workers not raising children who with your Minnesota income tax return. bers, activists, staff and union officers. Page 8 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Local Union News ATU Local 1005: First Vice President: Grace Baltich. bly with the intent to commit identity The bill passed the Minnesota House ZIPS drivers in Rochester organize Recording Secretary: Open. theft and steal our tax returns. This crime February 9 by a vote of 77-51 and, in dif- Drivers at ZIPS Paratransit Service in Membership Secretary: Deb is growing more common and has been ferent form, passed the Minnesota Senate Rochester, Minnesota have organized Konechne. the subject of recent news coverage.” February 16 by a vote of 39-25. with Amalgamated Transit Union Local Senior Chief Steward: Jim Edin, Ken- She added, “the BFT will learn more A the Labor Review went to press 1005, the union reported. neth Garnier. information about this failure to protect February 17, Governor Mark Dayton ZIPS — Zumbro Independent Passen- Members at Large (3): Angel Alexan- the personal information of our mem- said he would sign the Senate version of ger Service — provides door-to-door der, Remy Huerta-Stemper bers. We will discover when it happened, the bill. Dayton had added, however, “I transportation for people who are unable Trustee: Open. how long it took the district to inform its will not accept any bill that limits or to ride Rochester Public Transit’s bus Positions also are open for five Min- employees of the data theft and whether weakens the Public Utility Commission’s service because of disability. neapolis Regional Labor Federation del- proper procedures and training were in authority to protect the interests of Min- The eight eligible drivers in the unit egates and six alternates and five St. Paul place to guard against this crime.” nesota’s energy consumers.” voted 8-0 to organize with ATU Local Regional Labor Federation delegates and BFT recommends members follow IATSE Local 13: 1005 in a January 11 election conducted six alternates. the steps described in an e-mail employ- OSHA 10 safety training offered by the National Labor Relations Board. Bloomington Federation of Teachers: ees received from the district, including March 7-8, March 9-10 The ZIPS drivers work alongside oth- Data breach at school district exposes taking steps against additional theft OSHA 10 General Entertainment er ATU members at Rochester Public district employees to identity theft through credit cards. Safety Training will be offered in March Transit, noted Mark Lawson, Local 1005 A data breach February 10 at the Boilermakers Local 647: by International Alliance of Theatrical president. “It’s nice to have all the city Bloomington Public Schools led to the Union urged support for expedited Stage Employees Local 13. transit workers unionized now,” he said, release of personal information of cur- approval process for natural gas plant Two sessions will be offered: March Lawson said negotiations for a first rent and former school employees. Boilermakers Local 647 urged sup- 7-8 or March 9-10. Classes run 8:00 a.m. contract for the ZIPS drivers were sched- Les Fujitake, district superintendent, port for Minnesota House File 113, a bill to 4 p.m. each day. uled to begin the week of February 20. reported “an unknown and unauthorized to allow Xcel Energy to build a natural The class is completely free to all par- AFSCME Local 34: individual illegally acquired the personal gas plant in Becker, Minnesota without ticipants, who will earn an OSHA certifica- Election process underway and financial information of our employ- going through the time-consuming and tion upon completion. Both days of the The election of officers is underway at ees that is contained on the federal W-2 costly Certificate of Need process at the class must be attended to earn certification. AFSCME Local 34. Nominations were tax forms through a phishing attempt. A Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. Pre-registration is required. accepted at the February general mem- request was made from what appeared to “…[O]ur union supports the passage For the March 7-8 class, register bership meeting and final nominations be a legitimate Bloomington Public of the bill because of the jobs that will be through the Training Trust Website: will be accepted at the March 1 meeting. Schools e-mail address. Unfortunately, created during construction,” said Luke http://www.iatsetrainingtrust.org/ Voting for any contested ballots will copies of all 2016 employee W-2 forms Voigt, Local 647 business manager. ttf-calendar/2017/3/7/osha-10gener- take place by mail beginning April 3. were provided before we discovered that “With all of the jobs being lost with al-entertainment-safety-minneapolis. Questions regarding the election may the request was fraudulent.” the closing of Sherco I and II next de- For the March 9-10 class, register be addressed to Alex Erickson, elections Wendy Marczak, president of the cade, these jobs represent an important through Kellie Larson at 865-742-7408 chairperson, at 612-348-7304. Bloomington Federation of Teachers, bridge for our union and the city of Beck- or [email protected]. Nominations so far include: noted that the W-2 theft occurred “proba- er, Minnesota,” Voigt said. LOCAL UNION NEWS page 10

Retiree Meetings Minneapolis Minneapolis Regional Retiree Council: St. Paul: Second Wednesday of each shall St. NE, Minneapolis. New members wel- Next meeting March 16 month, 12 noon, Mattie’s, 365 N. Concord come. Labor Review The next meeting of the Minneapolis Re- St., South St. Paul. Plumbers Local 15 Retirees: gional Retiree Council, AFL-CIO will be CWA Local 7200 Retirees: Meet the third Tuesday of each month 1907-2017 Thursday, March 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 No meeting until April All retired Plumbers Local 15 members p.m. The meeting will be at the United Labor The Retired Members Club of Communi- are invited to attend retiree meetings, continu- 110th Anniversary Issue: Centre, 312 Central Ave., Room 219. cations Workers of America Local 7200 will ing the third Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. We will validate parking at the St. Antho- not meet during January, February or March. at Elsie’s Restaurant, Bar & Bowling Center, May 26, 2017 ny Public Parking Ramp (at the corner of 2nd For more information, call the CWA Local 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis (corner of Discounted ad rates available St. SE and University Ave. SE), across Uni- 7200 hall at 612-722-7200. Marshall and 8th Ave.). 612-379-4725 versity from the United Labor Centre build- IBEW Local 292 Retirees: For more information, contact the Plumbers ing. Just park and when you come to the ‘Senior Sparkies’ meet March 14 Local 15 office at 612-333-8601. meeting we will give you a parking voucher. The IBEW Local 292 Retirees — “Senior Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 Retirees: For more information about the Council, Sparkies”— will meet Tuesday, March 14 at the ‘Rusty Tinners’ not meeting until March Minneapolis Regional contact Graeme Allen, community and politi- United Labor Centre, 312 Central Avenue, Min- The Sheet Metal Workers Local 10’s cal organizer for the Minneapolis Regional neapolis, in the Guy Alexander Conference “Rusty Tinners” retirees club will not meet in Labor Federation, at 612-321-5672 or e-mail Room (second floor). Refreshments will be at January or February. The next meeting will be Labor Federation… [email protected]. 12:00 noon. The meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. March 14. For more information, contact Paul ATU Local 1005 Retirees: We will be having a guest speaker. Lesch at 651-433-3748. ‘Like’ us on facebook for: Meet North, South, and St. Paul Save the date: U of M Facilities Management News Updates Here is the schedule for the Amalgamated n Tuesday, April 25, 2017, Retirees’ Trea- and Maintenance Retirees: Transit Union Local 1005 retiree meetings: sure Island Casino bus trip. Meet last Tuesday of month Action Alerts Minneapolis North: Second Tuesday of n Tuesday, May 9, 2017, U.S. Bank Stadi- Retirees from the University of Minnesota each month, 8:30 a.m., Coon Rapids VFW, um tour — in the planning stage. Maintenance Department meet the last Tues- Links 1919 Coon Rapids Blvd. (one block south of For more information, contact the IBEW day of each month at 10:00 a.m. for breakfast Photos of Union Events Hanson Blvd.) Note: the Coon Rapids VFW is Local 292 office at 612-379-1292. at Elsie’s, 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis. the new meeting location, beginning in Sep- Pipefitters Local 539 Retirees: tember and continuing forward. ‘Fazed Out Fitters’ meet third Wednesday If your union local’s retirees group wishes to Minneapolis South: First Wednesday of Pipefitters Local 539 retirees — the “Fazed list your meeting notices here, please contact the each month, 8:00 a.m., VFW Post 5555, 6715 Out Fitters” — meet the third Wednesday of Labor Review at 612-379-4725 or e-mail labor- www.facebook.com/minneapolisunions Lake Shore Drive, Richfield. each month at 11:00 a.m. at Elsie’s, 729 Mar- [email protected]. www.minneapolisunions.org February 24, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 9 More Local Union News continued from page 9 of T The group seeking to eliminate the union, MNPCA, called the 2014 vote for IBEW Local 292 representation by SEIU Healthcare Min- Ice fishing tourney planned March 4 nesota “a gross injustice” and unsuccess- Unseasonably warm weather permit- fully fought in the courts to overturn the ting, the first annual IBEW Local 292 union election and block the contract. RENEW Ice Fishing Tournament is The group needed 10,000 signatures to planned for Saturday, March 4. trigger a decertification vote, but fell The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to short, said the Bureau, which oversees 2:00 p.m. at Medicine Lake in Plymouth. public sector collective bargaining in Meet at East Medicine Lake Park. Minnesota. The cost is $15 per adult, $5 per “Even in the unlikely event that all the youth. cards submitted by the anti-union cam- RENEW stands for “Reach out En- paign proved valid, they at best came up gage Next generation Electrical Work- over 5,000 workers short of the “Show- ers.” To register, or for more information, ing of Interest,” SEIU said in a statement. e-mail [email protected]. Home care workers who support the Laborers District Council: union greeted the news with jubilation.

Union welcomes go-ahead for YWCA photo “This effort was never supported by a Dakota Access Pipeline Tradeswomen introduce skills to girls at YWCA event significant number of home care workers Construction of the controversial Da- or the people with disabilities and seniors MINNEAPOLIS —About 20 middle school girls took part in a special event January 28 at Dunwoody College kota Access Pipeline, which was halted we serve,” said LaTanya Hughes, a Min- of Technology — “Power Girls!” — to introduce construction skills through a hands-on workshop. About 35 by the Obama administration, was given neapolis home care worker and union union tradeswomen assisted the girls in learning the safe use of tools (photo above) and each girl took home the go-ahead January 24 by executive or- board member. “As the people actually their own toolkit. The program was a partnership between YWCA Minneapolis and Construction Careers Foun- der of President Donald Trump. affected, we all know that we need a dation. Participating unions included: Bricklayers Local 1, IBEW Local 292, North Central States Regional Todd Pufahl, president and business powerful voice at the Capitol to address Council of Carpenters, Painters District Council 82, and Pipefitters Local 539. manager of Laborers District Council of the home care crisis Minnesota is cur- Minnesota & North Dakota, issued the rently facing, and the only way we have following statement February 1: sota and North Dakota. of Minnesota and North Dakota.” that is by coming together. That voice, “It’s the only reasonable option for a Todd Pufahl, president and business Pufahl has been a member of the La- SEIU Healthcare Minnesota, worked lawfully-permitted pipeline that is 97 manager, will retire April 30. borers for 38 years. He first was elected tirelessly to reach a tentative agreement percent complete and will provide a safer He will be replaced by Tim Mackey, to union office in 1992. He served as the with the Department of Human Services alternative to rail. Fortunately, Dakota who is currently the business manager of elected business manager of Laborers to raise wages and other benefits for Access was built by skilled union crafts- Minneapolis-based Laborers Local 563. Local 363, representing public sector home care workers. It is unfortunate that men and women working with strong Local 563 business representative Joe workers. He became legislative director there are people who disagree with in- oversight of federal regulators, so we’re Fowler will take Mackey’s place as busi- of the District Council in June 2005 and, creasing wages and benefits for a grow- confident that Energy Transfer Partners ness manager of Local 563. in February 2014, he became president ing workforce by trying to decertify the will prove the critics wrong by operating Pufahl, announcing his April 30 re- and business manager of the District union and hamper efforts for our second a safe pipeline.” tirement, said, “this date will take me Council. contract.” Laborers District Council: through the next round of negotiations The Laborers District Council in- The next step with the tentative agree- Todd Pufahl to retire, Local 563’s and allow time for my replacement to cludes seven affiliated local unions rep- ment will be a contract vote by union Tim Mackey to lead Council transition from running our largest local resent approximately 12,000 workers in members. If approved, the contract next A leadership transition is coming at union to taking on the broader responsi- Minnesota, North Dakota and northwest- would go to the Minnesota Legislature the Laborers District Council of Minne- bilities of the Laborers District Council ern Wisconsin. for ratification and then to Governor Plumbers Local 15: Mark Dayton for his signature. ‘Water’s Off’ community service day UFCW Local 653: Pipefitters Local 539 is coming March 25 Linden Hills Co-op workers vote Plumbers Local 15 is seeking mem- As the Labor Review went to press PIPERS If you have any questions, please contact the bers to volunteer for the union’s annual February 17, workers at Linden Hills Co- Union office. “Water’s Off” day of community service, op in Minneapolis were preparing to vote Thank You Apprenticeship which is scheduled for Saturday, March in a union organizing election scheduled 25. The officers and staff would like to thank The JAC took applications in January for new for February 23. The day will kick-off at 7:00 a.m. An overwhelming 80 percent of Lin- apprentices. There are 166 construction and 51 members for their patience this past month with a breakfast and speakers at the den Hills Co-op employees signed and during our time of re-balancing duties and service applicants for the metro area and 16 Radisson North Hotel, 2540 Cleveland submitted cards to the National Labor catching up due to the loss of our longtime office applicants for the St. Cloud area. All applicants Ave., Roseville. Relations Board February 9 to unionize professional, Lora. We will be looking to bring will receive a notice of their interview date and For more information, or to volunteer, with United Food and Commercial on a new staff person in early 2nd quarter of time. contact the Plumbers Local 15 office at Workers Union Local 653. this year. If you know somebody interested, they 612-333-8601. “Giving all workers a voice will make can e-mail a resume to Russ Scherber at russ@ Website: www.pipefitters539.com SEIU Healthcare Minnesota: employees feel more involved in improv- pipefitters539.com. Pipefitters Local 539 has a website address for State dismisses attempt o decertify ing the Co-op,” said front end floor coor- members to look at information and upcoming home care workers union dinator Evan Adams-Hanson. The state Bureau of Mediation Ser- Linden Hills workers hope to follow Dues events: www.pipefitters539.com. vices February 10 dismissed an attempt workers at the Wedge Community Co-op Remember to pay your January through June to decertify the union for 27,000 Minne- in Minneapolis and Whole Foods Co-op 2017 dues. Notices were sent out in December. If you would like something added to the Pipers section of the Labor Review, call the office at (612) 379-4711. sota home care workers, meaning a con- in Duluth, who have unionized with tract securing their wages, benefits and UFCW Local 1189. Paid for by Pipefitters Local 539 • www.pipefitters539.com working conditions can move forward.

Page 10 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org $5.00 FOR 25 WORDS An exclusive service for subscribing Union members only. Next deadline for Sell, Buy, Rent Ads: March 10. Copy Address Change? must be mailed or delivered. NO TELE- PHONE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Ads must be accompanied by payment in Subscription Instructions? SELL, BUY, RENTDEPARTMENT check or money order. Each ad must in- clude your union affiliation and your Please let us know if your address will be telephone number, along with your mail- ing label. Over 25 words — 15¢ each extra changing, if your household is receiving more word. Your ad runs in one issue only. than one Labor Review, or if you would like to This reader service is provided for Labor Review subscribing Union members who are in good standing cancel your subscription. with their locals. No commercial ads of business firms or any sidelines or hobbies of union members who are selling products or services can be advertised in these columns. For display advertising, please contact Cut out or photo-copy your mailing label from the Labor Review. Mail or deliver your ad and payment to: Sell, Buy, Rent Department, Minneapolis Labor the front page of the newspaper and mail it to us Review, 312 Central Ave., Suite 542 (Fifth Floor), Minneapolis, MN 55414. NEXT DEADLINE: MARCH 10. with your instructions: For Sale: Lamps, $25; Book- Wanted: Gold and silver Attn: mailing list NOTICE shelf, $25; Coffee tables, coins, paper money, jewelry, Coming Minneapolis Labor Review $75; Nightstands, $10; Queen bullion. Diamonds and other 312 Central Ave. Suite 542 NEXT EDITION OF bed, $50, Kitchen table, $100; gems. Collection of all kinds. Sell, Buy, Rent Minneapolis, MN 55414 LABOR REVIEW: Dining room table and six Watches et al… Top prices Deadlines March 24 chairs, $700; Patio table and paid. Call Steven, 651-206- for 2017 No phone calls, please, to report address changes, Next Ad Deadline is March 10 two chairs, $50; Picture, $10. 8373. stop duplicates, or cancel your subscription. Thanks! 763-537-4327. March 10 For Sale: 2008 Avalanche Wanted: Old and broken LTZ, $14,500, 180,000 miles, For Sale: Snow blower, Toro outboard motors, old gas April 14 all-wheel drive, leather seats, 824 with electric start, $250 engines and chainsaws, also May 12 heated seats, remote start, or trade; Portable generator, engine-related items like old like-new condition, must 5,000 watt, 10-h.p., $200 or spark plugs, tools, gas and oil June 9 see! 952-356-6689 or 952-926- trade. Wally, 612-599-3103 or cans, etc. Tom, 763-785-4031. July 14 2541. 612-529-8786. Wanted: Guitars and amplifi- August 11 For Sale: 1-year-old, hard- ers made in the USA pre-1980. Be sure to list a price September 15 ly-used DeWalt DW 734 plan- for your ‘For Sale’ items! Also interested in drums and er with DeWalt mobile stand, some other instruments. Bob, October 13 Wanted: Old coins, collections, 612-521-4596. $350, new $475-plus. Call November 3 763-755-2633. bullion, paper money, gold coins, proof sets, mint sets, NO TELEPHONE ORDERS December 8 Don’t forget to cut out etc. Anything from pennies to FOR SELL, BUY, RENT Advertise in the Business Directory and reach your mailing label and paper. Best of all, I’ll pay cash (Sell, Buy Rent deadline send it in with your and come to you. Please call DEPARTMENT ADS comes two days after main nearly 60,000 union households monthly! Sell, Buy, Rent ad! Dick at 612-986-2566. WILL BE ACCEPTED. Labor Review deadline) Call 612-379-4725 Minneapolis Labor Review 2017 Publication Schedule The Labor Review will publish 12 issues in 2017. The publication date normally will be the last Friday or second to last Friday of each month.

March 24 June 23 September 29 Deadline: March 8 Deadline: June 7 Deadline: September 13 Precinct Caucus Issue

April 28 July 28 October 27 Deadline: April 12 Deadline: July 12 Deadline: October 11 Primary Election Issue General Election Issue

May 26 August 25 November 17 IBEW Local Union 292 Deadline: May 10 Deadline: August 9 Deadline: November 1 Minneapolis Electrical Workers 110th Anniversary Issue Labor Day Issue Holiday Shopping Guide Day on the Hill: February 28 9:00 a.m. Program starts December 22 Save the date: February 28, 2017, IBEW Day on the Hill. 11:00 a.m. To the Minnesota State Capitol to Deadline: December 6 Our lobbying efforts are in conjunction with the Minnesota legislator appointment meetings Holiday Issue State Building & Construction Trades Council. Lunch — voucher provided All Local 292 members will receive a red IBEW Day on the 3:30 p.m. Rally on the Hill. Location TBD Next Special Issue: Hill polo. Please RSVP to [email protected] or call the office. Condolences May 26, 2017 — 110th Anniversary Issue! Do your duty, show up and let our legislators know what’s Brother Gilbert Barnhill Jr.; Brother Theodore Platz’s wife, Discounted ad rates available important to working families. Patricia Platz. Reconstruction of the State Capitol is substantially complete For more information, to suggest a story idea, See you at the General Membership Meeting, — come and see this spectacular building. or to advertise, contact the editor at 612-379-4725 Schedule: 7:00 p.m. on the Second Tuesday 8:00 a.m. Check-in at the IBEW Local 110 Hall Paid for by IBEW Local 292 • www.ibew292.org or [email protected] www.minneapolisunions.org February 24, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 11 ‘Taste of Justice’ highlights cause of Franklin St. Bakery workers By Steve Share, Labor Review editor MINNEAPOLIS — On the night before the Super- bowl, the annual “Taste of the NFL” charity fundraiser in Houston promoted itself as “the hottest Super Bowl party in town and proceeds benefit hunger relief in ev- ery NFL city!” One problem: event organizers Wayne Kostroski and Mark Haugen operate Franklin Street Bakery in Minne- apolis, where they pay their workers so poorly that many need to use food shelves themselves. To highlight this injustice, the workers and commu- nity supporters organized the “Taste of Justice” at Phil- lips Community Center in Minneapolis February 4 — taking place at the same time as the “Taste of the NFL” event in Houston. “We’re fighting for better working conditions and respect on the job,” said Franklin Street Bakery worker Ned Neterval, addressing a crowd of about 75 bakery workers and supporters from the local community and the labor community. “We feel the best way we can do that is to form a union.” Franklin Street Bakery workers have been attempt- ing to organize a union with the support of Local 22 of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Union. In response, bakery owners Kostroski and Haugen have waged a campaign of retaliation and intimidation Workers told the crowd about their experiences and why a union is needed at Franklin Street Bakery. “I’m here in support of all my co-workers,” said Ma- ria Ortiz, who has worked at the bakery just over one year. “Because I’ve seen a lot of things at the bakery that don’t look right to me…” “I love my job … but I want to support many work- ers who have been treated badly,” she said. “All I ask is that they pay us a fair wage and treat us equally and justly.” Maria Lopez shared how she had worked at Franklin Street Bakery for more than two years “until I was in- jured.” She was run into by a cart carrying 500 pounds of dough. “I told my supervisor that I had been knocked over and my low back was hurting.” The supervisor told her: “Stand up and get back to work. You’re not here to take it easy.” After another accident on the job, “I finished my shift and I never went back,” she said. “I still have to go Bakery worker Ned Neterval: “We’re fighting for better working condi- In tears, Maria Lopez shared how she to therapy and I might need to have surgery on my tions and respect on the job, We feel the best way we can do that is to had worked at Franklin Street Bakery spine.” In tears as she told her story, Lopez said, “to this form a union.” for more than two years “until I was day it’s difficult for me to open a jar or cut open a wa- injured.” termelon.” “When you hear something like this, it makes your blood boil,” said Rosa Baires, a former bakery worker. “We need someone to put a stop to this. We need a union.” The crowd included several Franklin Street Bakery workers who were attending a first meeting organized by fellow workers and the union. “What’s going on is an effort to try to improve your lives,” said Bruce Peglow, president of BCTGM Local 22. “Local 22 is very proud to assist you in the process.” “When you win your union, you’re going to show other workers and other employees that another way is possible,” said Julie Blaha, secretary treasurer of the Minnesota AFL-CIO, who also addressed the gathering. “When working people form a union, you can negotiate Bakery worker Marcos Vinicio Tacuri de- better pay and safer working conditions.” scribed abuse that he and his wife, who Elected officials also expressed support for the also works there, experienced. “We workers effort to form a union. struggle to have something better.” Valentine’s Day card workers planned to present to the management. Page 12 • Minneapolis Labor Review • February 24, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org