Salute to Unions

The King-Lar Company would like to say

“THANK YOU DECATUR AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS!” We appreciate the business you have given us since 1927.

The King-Lar Company employs over 100 union craftsmen.

The King-Lar Company is a full service sheetmetal, roofing, plumbing, piping, heating/cooling and refrigeration contractor.

24 Hour Service 2020 E. Olive Decatur, IL ph: 217-429-2323 www.kinglar.com

Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Institutional

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2 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

On Labor Day, we remain stronger together This Labor Day, as we gather with family, friends and neighbors, we should all take a moment to reflect on the values that make our communities strong. Hard work is certainly one of those values, exemplified by the men and women that go out each day and teach our children, build our bridges, care for our disabled and keep us safe.

Working people have always and will always be the foundation upon which this country, and this state, are built.

But right now, many working families are struggling to see a brighter future because of the constant bickering from the Francisco people they’ve elected to serve as their representatives in government. As America’s economy slowly recovers from a devastating recession, too often compromise and solutions take a back seat to rhetoric and political bomb throwing.

Nowhere is that more true than right here in Illinois. We have a governor who has failed to do what all other governors have managed in Illinois’ nearly 200 years as a state – pass a budget. Bruce Rauner has decided that enacting his extreme, anti-

working families agenda is more important than funding the most basic services in the state.

Rauner’s agenda would drive down wages, destroy worker protections and undermine labor organizations across the state. He is convinced that Illinois should join a race to the bottom with states like Tennessee and South Carolina, where incomes, education levels and health care rates are lower. In short, Governor Rauner wants to transform Illinois into a state where a few wealthy billionaires at the top, like him, have all the power, while the rest of us can barely scrape by.

The governor has shown that he will stop at nothing to get his way. He held the state budget hostage for a year as “leverage” for his agenda, completely unsympathetic to the seniors, students and disabled citizens he has hurt in the process. Now, as his approval rating plummets, he’s pouring millions of dollars into slanted political ads for himself and his allies that fill our television screens and mailboxes.

Unfortunately, Governor Rauner and his “my-way-or-the-highway” attitude are not unique. At the national level, Donald Trump

has made it his personal mission to run the most outrageous, divisive presidential campaign this country has ever seen. Trump doesn’t seem to have any interest in basic American ideals like compromise, fairness and unity. Much like he did with his failed businesses, Trump wants to con the country into thinking he’s got the secret to greatness, only to leave everyday Americans holding the bag once his plans fall apart.

What Rauner and Trump don’t understand is that which makes Illinois strong is not pitting us against each other, but rather bringing people together to confront the challenges we face. We have always been, and will always continue to be, stronger together.

This Labor Day, look around at your family members, friends, coworkers and neighbors. Remember that when things get tough in your life, these are the people you can depend on to give you the support to overcome any obstacle. Governor Rauner and Donald Trump need to understand that if we as a state and a nation are to overcome our collective challenges, we will do so not because of a few wealthy people at the top, but because we are, and remain, stronger together.

Continued from page 10

Thank you to our local unions for your continued support of the Decatur Family YMCA!

Bill Francisco is president of the Decatur Trades and Labor Assembly, AFL-CIO

A SALUTE TO HARDWORKING AMERICANS Remember BUY LOCAL and use LOCAL SERVICES Executive Board Members: John Shores, Jr – Chairman Chris Hays Lynn Richards Mary Sapp Steve Tomer Jeff Westendorf Chad Young

President – John Warner Vice President – Jeff Taylor Treasurer – Myra Walters

YEARS

r te

une 26, ed J 19 12

100

IBEW

Ch ar

Recording Secretary – Steve Tilford

Serving Central Illinois for more than

Local 146 AFL-CIO

www.ibew146.com

and how to transition to becoming union members.

For the union representatives, the program provides a unique chance to connect with the community in new ways.

Traditionally, unions have been a family business, with sons following their father and grandfathers into the group, said Bill Francisco, business representative for the painter’s union. With something like the preapprenticeship training program, Francisco said it allows those not born into unions to become involved.

“We were looking for an avenue to better involve more of the community and those who may not know about organized labor,” Francisco said. “We wanted to open our doors to the community and to getting a living wage job.”

The painters union employs a full-time instructor with the program, who does hands-on teaching with the students. The hope is the program goes will increase the number of people in the workforce who are educated and skilled enough to make a difference, Fracisco said.

While applications are no longer being accepted for classes that start this month, Grebner said those interested in the program should contact Homework hangout at (217) 872-2306 or stop 249 S. Webster St. in Decatur between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to learn about Submitted photo taking part in future classes.

Pictured left to right, Monroe Porter, Singbard Ringang and Shamar Graves prepare hang drywall as part of the Homework rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

Business Manager – Josh Sapp

s De catur, Illinoi

SALUTEtoUNIONS 11

Well Trained and Highly Skilled Professionals Within a Community Minded Organization

Hangout Club's pre-apprenticeship program. The program, in collaboration with three local unions, is designed to give particiapnts an introduction to plumbing, electrical and painter jobs.

UNITED UNION OF ROOFERS LOCAL #92 234 W. Cerro Gordo St., Decatur, IL 62523 AFL/CIO PRESIDENT: Jason York BUSINESS MANAGER: Ted Clark Roofers Local #92, its officers and members would like to wish all working men and women a wonderful Labor Day holiday. Unions are the reason that we enjoy the 8 hour work day, holidays and the time off to spend with our family and friends. Unions continue to work for safer work places, better wages, and health care for our families. Unions continue to fight to increase the minimum wage, protect pensions and to give all workers the right to have a voice in the work place. Roofers Local #92 will continue to be a strong voice, for those who do not.

Enjoy the Day from all of us of Local #92

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

CRAFTMASTERS ROOFING, INC.

TOP QUALITY ROOFING CO.

KING/LAR

1900 N. 22nd St. Decatur, IL 62526 Owner: Michael Randles 217-422-7742; Fax: 217-362-0115

PO Box 193, Mt. Zion, IL 62549 Owner: Bob Benton 217-864-9483; Fax: 217-864-5900

2020 E. Olive St. Decatur, IL 62524 Owner: E. Scott Lamb 217-429-2323; Fax: 217-429-2381

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HEAT AND FROST INSULATORS AND ALLIED WORKERS LOCAL NO. 1

3325 HOLLENBERG DRIVE BRIDGETON, MISSOURI 63044 314-291-7399

JOHN J. STIFFLER Business Manager

GERALD R. DONOVAN, JR. Business Agent and Financial Secretary GARY M. PAYEUR Business Agent GERALD L. McATEE President/Organizer

International Union of Operating Engineers Local 965 3520 E. Cook Street Springfield, IL 62703 217-528-9659 217-528-9060 Fax www.iuoe965.org Dennis R. Minick, Business Manager Bret E. Scaggs, President Kent Campbell Business Representative

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Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Bridging the skills gap Homework Hangout Club offers training to overcome employment barriers RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer DECATUR -- A chance to make a decent wage is a promise too hard to ignore for people, especially those whose education level acts as a barrier to employment.

Regardless of education, Homework Hangout Club is doing its part to make theat promise a reality through its pre-apprenticeship program.

The program, which begins another round of classes this fall, provides hands-on training, education and other skills to help students get into one of three construction trade apprenticeship programs in Decatur: Those apprenticeship programs involve opportunities in the painters, plumbers and electricians unions. Students are able to conduct on-the-job training with many contractors throughout the Decatur area.

Many applicants are those in service and retail jobs who seek an avenue where they can better provide for themselves or their families, said Erik Grebner, executive director of Homework Hangout “They’re tired of fast food, dining… and they’re wanting something to provide a

living wage,” Grebner said. “It’s a different path for people.”

The program, an expansion of the club's training for those over 18, provides about 144 hours of pre-apprenticeship training and another 200 hours of academic training in an effort to develop skills that unions are looking for in their members. The training is provided for free through grants from the U.S. Department of Labor The program began last year as a pilot program with the Painters District Council 58. After 30 people completed the first training program, Grebner said they reached out to other unions in the area to gauge interest in expanding the program, and quickly found partners with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 146 and the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 137.

That resulted in a round of classes that went from January to June, during which 25 students learned the trades and had an opportunity to learn about the local unions

Continued on page 11

SALUTEtoUNIONS 3

Unions stand united to get Illinois back on track With the arrival of Labor Day this year, our state finds itself in the middle of a serious crisis.

After nearly two years in office, Governor Bruce Rauner has failed in his most basic responsibility in office – passing a budget.

He has spent his time holding state government hostage for his extreme agenda that would devastate working families.

Because of Rauner, the people of Illinois have suffered greatly. Social service agencies are closing their doors, cutting off access to vital programs and laying off dedicated workers. Public universities are faced with massive funding cuts that threaten their Carrigan core mission. State government could shut down as the governor tries to force state employees out on strike.

Meanwhile, the state’s debt is piling up, vendors are taking to the courts to secure payments owed, and Illinois has one of the worst unemployment rates in the country.

Governor Rauner doesn’t care about how much damage he inflicts in his quest to ram through his extreme agenda. He doesn’t care

about the hundreds of thousands of people – seniors, students, parents, veterans -- who are struggling as never before because of his destructive policies that focus first and foremost on destroying the labor movement in our state.

Whether it’s getting rid of prevailing wage or cutting assistance for injured workers, trampling on collective bargaining or undermining retirement security, every demand that Rauner has is designed to weaken our rights and drive down our standard of living.

The stopgap budget agreement, itself $8 billion out of balance, is merely a band-aid that does nothing to heal the gaping wound in our state the governor has created. It may take years for Illinois to recover from the Rauner administration.

This Labor Day, with Election Day looming just a few months away, we stand together to say no to Rauner’s failed strategy of destruction.

We say no to paying caregivers poverty wages because we know those receiving care suffer too.

We say no to pitting students and retirees against each other when big corporations aren’t paying their fair share of taxes.

We say no to driving down wages and undermining family economic security.

We say no to demonizing public workers and demeaning the value of the services they provide.

And we say yes to making Illinois work for all through fair revenue options and a responsible budget.

Labor in Illinois is united in sending a

message to Governor Rauner and his allies in the legislature. We’re not going to be bullied. We’re not going to back down. We’re not going to give up.

We will keep on fighting every single day to make sure that Illinois truly is a state that works for all.

Michael T. Carrigan is president of Illinois American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations

Local unions power our business.

E L E C T R I C Since 1918 Anderson Electric • 1921 Oak Ave. • Mattoon, IL 61938 (217) 234-7476 • www.anderson-electric.com

SHEET METAL WORKERS LOCAL UNION #218 BUSINESS MANAGER/FINANCIAL SECRETARY TREASURER Jeff Bort Business Representative

EDMUND ROBISON 2855 VIA VERDE SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703 PHONE: 217-529-0161 FAX: 217-529-6005

Millwright Local Union 1051

BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE BOB CHAMPION 605 S. COUNTRY FAIR DR. CHAMPAIGN, IL 61821 PHONE: 217-356-3653 FAX: 217-356-7661

602 Keokuk Street, Lincoln, Illinois 62656 Ph. 217-735-1051 • Fax 217-732-1051

ORGANIZER MICHAEL GOODE 2855 VIA VERDE SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703 PHONE: 217-529-4501 FAX:217-529-6005

Nathan Hodgson Business Representative

Submitted photo Robert Cobb, left, and Cozette Matthews cut some PVC pipe for a plumbing project.

www.millwrightlocal1051.com

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4 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Eagle Scout, union member enjoys working with youth Highlights importance, benefits of labor movement

Un i on ou Pr

d

Com mit ted

Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 137 2301 West Mound Road Decatur, IL 62524 217-877-3445

ce n e l l e c x E o T

The United Association of Plumber and Pipefitters Local 137 wishes everyone a wonderful and safe Labor Day!

The Signatory Contractors of the United Association Local 137 Salute the hardworking Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC Technicians Members of our Industry in the Decatur Area Mechanical Contractors Association of Central Illinois Industry Fund

Wishing your family a happy and safe Labor Day holiday!

www.mca-cil.org

SALUTEtoUNIONS 9

www.ua137.org

RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer LINCOLN -- Ed Robison has essentially known two things since early childhood: unions and Boy Scouts.

Decades later, Robison has now been nominated for his effort to increase the knowledge of unions to his son’s Boy Scout troop.

Robison, business manager for the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail & Transportation Workers Local 218, was recently nominated for the George Meany Award, a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive Council.

Established in 1974, the award is a way to recognize union members who have made a significant contribution to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the Boy Scouts of America.

“It’s amazing because George Meany fought really hard for American labor,” Robison said. “It’s a hand in hand thing, you don’t see a lot where the youth are taught about labor unions and just how important they are.”

Robison learned the importance of unions and scouts at an early age. Coming from a self-described “family of (United Auto Workers) members,” Robison recalls his father and grandfather working at Caterpillar Inc. While they worked, Robison

worked his way through Boy Scouts before finally earning the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America.

“I’ve been involved with the unions and the Boy Scouts as long as I’ve been able to know what they are,” he said.

As he got older and started his own family, he’s taken on the role of scout master

for his son’s troop. Part of his role as scout master was to teach a class on American labor, teaching the scouts about the history of labor unions.

“A lot of youths don’t understand that kids in the past didn’t get to go to school, or to Boy Scout meetings,” Robison said. “A lot of that has happened because the middle class became so strong through the labor movement.”

Scouts and the American labor movement have long been intertwined, sharing a goal to prepare young men and women for careers in in-demand fields.

Robison was nominated for the award by his co-worker, Michael Goode.

Goode, recording secretary organizer with the union, said he has impressed with Robison’s commitment to not only the scouts, but to his union, family and faith.

And when he heard that Robison had put together a class for an American labor merit badge and later learned about the award, Goode knew it was a no-brainer to nominate his coworker.

“His life has been about service, whether through the scouts, the church and his union,” Goode said.

Decatur Education Association and Decatur Educational Support Personnel Association Representing the

Teachers and Office Personnel of Decatur Public Schools and Macon-Piatt Special Education

DECATUR TRADES & LABOR ASSEMBLY rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

THE VOICE OF LABOR IN DECATUR, IL

Happy Labor Day From the Working Men & Women of Decatur/ Macon County The mission of the central labor council is to improve the lives of working families to bring economic justice to the workplace & social justice to our state & the nation.

This Labor Day, take the time to thank unions - the people who brought you the weekend. Even if you don’t belong to a union, their efforts have provided better working conditions through safer workplaces, 8-hour workdays, child labor laws, equal pay, minimum wage, unemployment insurance, vacation, worker compensation laws, overtime, sick leave and much more.

WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

REPRESENTING 13,000 UNION MEMBERS IN MACON COUNTY, IL / WWW.IL.AFLCIO.ORG/DECATUR

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Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Community groups benefit from We Are One campaign RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer DECATUR -- Nearly 30 people have gone through the Good Samaritan Inn’s culinary skills and a food production apprenticeships.

But without the financial support from the community, Rev. Stacey Brohard said the program and the inn would be on the chopping block.

“It’s how we stay in business. We couldn’t do it any other way,” said Brohard, executive director of the inn.

The Good Samaritan Inn, along with 12 other agencies, are tabbed to receive a bit of help from We Are One Community Fund. The $22,000 in grants will be award during a presentation at 1 p.m. today at the large pavilion in Fairview Park.

Recipients include the Decatur Family YMCA, Old Kings Orchard Community Playground Project, Meals on Wheels, Homework Hangout Pre-Apprentice Program, Boy Scouts, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Child First Center-Advocacy, Court Appointed Special Advocates, DMCOC Senior Services, Independence Point Parents Night Out, Special Olympics and Webster Cantrell Hall.

On top of the grants, an additional $2,500 will be mailed to the Boys & Girls Club, American Cancer Society, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Hospice, DOVE, Eddie Eagle Foundation, Catholic Charities, Shriners Hospital, Heritage House Visiting Nurses and the Macon County Animal Control and Care Center.

The award amount reflects a 20 percent increase over last year.

Fund chairwoman Amy Rueff said the committee looks to assist specific programs that provide services for the community when determining who will get funding.

“We want to provide services, not just give money to the agencies,” she said. “We rather it goes back into the community to pay for salaries and that sort of thing.”

Among those projects is one operated by the Boy Scouts, who will use the money to provide scouting programs with students in inner-city schools and teach them scouting values such as self-reliance, sportsmanship and manners.

But most of all, it is about providing a place where kids can enjoy themselves, said scout executive Chris Long.

“We want to provide them an environment where they have fun while learning,” he said.

We Are One, a charitable giving fund created in 2011 by the Decatur Trades & Labor Assembly and Decatur Building & Construction Trades Council, has awarded $78,500 to local charity since its inception.

The distribution of grants kicks off a new year of giving to the We Are One Community fund. Local unions are encouraged to host fundraising campaigns and promote payroll deduction with employers.

To give a donation, mail to: We Are One Community, c/o The Community Foundation, 125 N. Water, Suite 200, Decatur, IL 62523.

JIM BOWLING PHOTOS, Herald & Review Apprentice Patrick Slater harvests cherry tomatoes at the Crossing Healthcare Gardens while working in the Mercy Gardens training program.

Etchason selected Labor Day Parade grand marshal LABORERS’ CHRIS LUSVARDI H&R Staff Writer The grand marshal for the Decatur Labor Day Parade is familiar to many involved with organized labor in the area.

Shad Etchason grew up in an organized labor family and has been a union member since 1993, starting as an apprentice journey wireman. He is being recognized for his years of service as business manager with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 146 and past president of the Etchason Decatur Building & Construction Trades Council.

Etchason last year took a job as an international representative for the IBEW District 6, which extends his duties beyond the Decatur area. District 6 represents Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan with 118 local unions and about 111,000 members.

Etchason focuses much of his efforts on Southern Illinois and Southwestern Indiana.

Decatur continues to be of importance to

Etchason, which makes the honor to lead the annual parade he has regularly attended all the more significant.

“It's very important that all organized labor comes together as one,” Etchason said. “It's a great honor. I didn't expect it.”

Some of the goals in the new role continue to be the same, representing the interests of members as issues arise and maintaining a positive working relationship with employers.

“We want to make sure to look out for members,” Etchason said.

Etchason said he's learned from a great group of mentors as his leadership role has expanded over time.

The possible closure by Exelon Corp. of its Clinton Nuclear Power Station is a top concern, Etchason said. He said union members work at the plant in the type of good-paying jobs that can benefit the area.

Etchason remain optimistic a deal can still be reached to keep the plant and one slated for closure a year later in the Quad Cities open and, in turn, protect the jobs.

Giving back to the community is an emphasis of the union Etchason believes in

and leads by example, whether it's hanging Christmas lights in downtown Decatur or building an osprey tower along Lake Shelbyville.

The list of ways union members are involved with the community is lengthy, Etchason said.

“Ultimately it makes the union stronger,” Etchason said. “It's something we've always done and something I enjoy doing.”

Etchason has served on several boards of organizations in the community, including the United Way of Decatur and Mid Illinois, Decatur Family YMCA and Decatur Housing Authority. clusvardi@herald-review.com|(217) 421-7972

The Labor Day Parade is set to kick off at 10 a.m. today in downtown Decatur and follow the traditional route.

LOCAL #159

Proudly Serving 8 Counties Since 1934 Clark - Coles - Cumberland Douglas - Edgar Macon - Moultrie - Shelby • Josh McElravy President • Joseph Riley Business Manager • Matthew E. Dial Secretary - Treasurer

Phone: 217-422-3078

Painters-District Council 58 940 California Ave, Collinsville, IL 62234 Phone: 618-345-6646 IL Phone: 314-647-3327 MO Fax: 618-345-5962 IL Fax: 314-647-3350 MO

rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

Gregg Smith, Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Bill Francisco

Carl Farrell

Ted Helfrich

Asst. Business Manager (217) 428-3013

Asst. Business Manager (314) 647-3327

Director of Servicing (618) 345-6646

Rich Lucks

Steve Wayland

Director of Organizing (314) 647-3327

Chad Anderson LU 363 Champaign (217) 356-9114

Bryan Feller Glaziers LU 1168 (217) 422-5791

Bill Boevingloh

Apprentice Bertha Nance prepares to water plants.

Bruce Holt

Dir. of Bus. Development (314) 647-3327

Governmental Affairs (636) 373-3331

Allen Marley

LU 32 Carterville (618) 932-8003

Metro East (618) 345-6646

Nick Mettemeyer LU 90 Springfield (217)529-6976

Curt Koelling

LU 115 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

LU 1185 Holts Summit (573) 896-0206

Rich Duecker

Joe Mueller

LU 774 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

Students Andrew Leinard, left, and Kent Jones arrange hydroponic tables at the Good Samaritan.

SALUTEtoUNIONS 5

LU 1156 St Charles, MO (636)946-4580

Chris Ragan

Curt Kimbrell Glaziers LU 513 (314)647-3327

Dave Doerr LU 1199 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

Art Hurlburt Training Director (618) 345-6646/ (636) 733-2325

Field Representatives/ Organizers: Dan Melchior, Wendell Harris, Gary Otten, Donny Anderson, John Deeken Apprenticeship Instructors: Brandon Johnson, Chris Herthel, Kevin Harned, Will Meyers, Tim Deeves, Tim Largent

Plumbing - Heating / Air Conditioning Refrigeration - Sheet Metal

• Residential / Commercial / Industrial Plumbing & Piping • Sewer Cleaning • HVAC Piping • Backflow Prevention Testing Installation • Service and Installation • Boilers, Chillers & IT Room Cooling

A DIVISION OF KING-LAR COMPANY 2020 E. OLIVE ST. • DECATUR, IL

217-429-2323

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6 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

The Locals of the Decatur Building and Construction TTrades Council wish EVERY WORKER a safe and happy Labor Day.

Local #363

Local #8

Local #18 & #143

President Joseph Riley, Laborers Local 159 Vice President Josh Sapp, IBEW Local 146

Local #159

Local #1051

Local #288 & #1168

Local #270

Local #146

Local #279

Secretary/Treasurer Mark Greenawalt, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 137 Sergeant-At-Arms Shane Austin, Iron Workers Local 46

Local #137

Local #92

Local #1

Local #46

Trustees Pete Spence, Bricklayers Local 8 Bill Francisco, Painters Local 288, D.C. 58 Scott Nimmo, Cement Masons Local 18

Local #669

Local #218

Local #965

The Building Trades Council represents 2000 skilled tradesmen in Decatur and Macon County.

IRON WORKERS LOCAL 46

Getting students off to a good start Painters, Allied Trades team up with Lockhart's for free haircuts THERESA CHURCHILL H&R Senior Writer DECATUR – As a teacher, Scott Godfrey probably would have taken his 5-year-old son with him to Lockhart's Barber College the week before school started as a matter of course.

Brother-in-law Brandon Kraus is a student there, so “this is the only place we go for haircuts,” Godfrey said.

That Nate's $7 haircut turned out to be free was simply a nice surprise that let the Warrensburg man give Kraus a bigger tip.

Both customers were grateful for the lowmaintenance cuts their barber bestowed in time for father to resume teaching physical education at Warrensburg-Latham High School and Middle School and son to start kindergarten at Warrensburg-Latham Elementary.

“We sure appreciate it,” Godfrey said.

This is the second year the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Locals 288 and 1168, have partnered with the college to provide free haircuts before the start of school to any student going into grades K-8.

Bill Francisco, business representative for Decatur Local 288, said the idea came up in conversation with Bryan Feller, business rep for Springfield Local 1168, and Brandon Lockhart, owner of the college.

Last year the unions gave $1,000 for the initiative, and this year, they upped their contribution to $1,250.

“The intent is to give students a fresh look and a positive attitude to start the school

year,” Francisco said. “We also think it helps parents who are facing a money crunch between buying school supplies, lunches and maybe uniforms, too.”

Last month's free haircuts were given from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 10-13, with most area schools starting the following week.

Lockhart said his college students give free haircuts to as many walk-ins as they can over those four days and that he pays the cost for any that exceed the number the unions are paying for. He estimates that the college gave more than 200 free haircuts last year and did a similar number this year.

“Their donation covers the bulk of it,” he said. “We are extremely appreciative of the unions because we know this cooperative arrangement is making a huge impact on young people getting ready to start school.

“Looking good helps them start off on the right foot and with the right mindset.”

Lockhart added that his students could trim bangs or do shorter cuts for girls but nothing more than that.

Francisco said the locals are so pleased with how the partnership is working out, they not only plan to continue offering free back-to-school haircuts at Lockhart's Barber College on an annual basis, they'd also like to partner with another local business to offer a similar service for girls.

Anyone interested is encouraged to call Local 288 at (217) 428-3013. churchill@herald-review.com|(217) 421-7978

2888 E. COOK STREET SPRINGFIELD, IL 217-528-4041 BUSINESS MANAGER - SHANE AUSTIN PRESIDENT - BRIAN BASKETT RECORDING SECRETARY- Dennis Sheedy VICE PRESIDENT - JOSHUA LEACH

INTEGRITY

CRAFTSMANSHIP

EFFICIENCY

JIM BOWLING PHOTOS, Herald & Review Student barber Amos Berryman gives Aiden Stoutenborough, 7, a haircut during the backto-school haircut event at Lockhartʼs Barber College.

CARPENTERS LOCAL #270 WISHES YOUR FAMILY A Happy and Safe

Labor Day! 211 W. Lawrence Ave. Springfield, IL 62704

SAFETY!

SERVING CENTRAL ILLINOIS SINCE 1908

SALUTEtoUNIONS 7

Instructor George Burrell helps give Elijah Thomas,7, a haircut during the back-toschool hair cut event at Lockhartʼs Barber College.

217-528-7571

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6 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

The Locals of the Decatur Building and Construction TTrades Council wish EVERY WORKER a safe and happy Labor Day.

Local #363

Local #8

Local #18 & #143

President Joseph Riley, Laborers Local 159 Vice President Josh Sapp, IBEW Local 146

Local #159

Local #1051

Local #288 & #1168

Local #270

Local #146

Local #279

Secretary/Treasurer Mark Greenawalt, Plumbers & Steamfitters Local 137 Sergeant-At-Arms Shane Austin, Iron Workers Local 46

Local #137

Local #92

Local #1

Local #46

Trustees Pete Spence, Bricklayers Local 8 Bill Francisco, Painters Local 288, D.C. 58 Scott Nimmo, Cement Masons Local 18

Local #669

Local #218

Local #965

The Building Trades Council represents 2000 skilled tradesmen in Decatur and Macon County.

IRON WORKERS LOCAL 46

Getting students off to a good start Painters, Allied Trades team up with Lockhart's for free haircuts THERESA CHURCHILL H&R Senior Writer DECATUR – As a teacher, Scott Godfrey probably would have taken his 5-year-old son with him to Lockhart's Barber College the week before school started as a matter of course.

Brother-in-law Brandon Kraus is a student there, so “this is the only place we go for haircuts,” Godfrey said.

That Nate's $7 haircut turned out to be free was simply a nice surprise that let the Warrensburg man give Kraus a bigger tip.

Both customers were grateful for the lowmaintenance cuts their barber bestowed in time for father to resume teaching physical education at Warrensburg-Latham High School and Middle School and son to start kindergarten at Warrensburg-Latham Elementary.

“We sure appreciate it,” Godfrey said.

This is the second year the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, Locals 288 and 1168, have partnered with the college to provide free haircuts before the start of school to any student going into grades K-8.

Bill Francisco, business representative for Decatur Local 288, said the idea came up in conversation with Bryan Feller, business rep for Springfield Local 1168, and Brandon Lockhart, owner of the college.

Last year the unions gave $1,000 for the initiative, and this year, they upped their contribution to $1,250.

“The intent is to give students a fresh look and a positive attitude to start the school

year,” Francisco said. “We also think it helps parents who are facing a money crunch between buying school supplies, lunches and maybe uniforms, too.”

Last month's free haircuts were given from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 10-13, with most area schools starting the following week.

Lockhart said his college students give free haircuts to as many walk-ins as they can over those four days and that he pays the cost for any that exceed the number the unions are paying for. He estimates that the college gave more than 200 free haircuts last year and did a similar number this year.

“Their donation covers the bulk of it,” he said. “We are extremely appreciative of the unions because we know this cooperative arrangement is making a huge impact on young people getting ready to start school.

“Looking good helps them start off on the right foot and with the right mindset.”

Lockhart added that his students could trim bangs or do shorter cuts for girls but nothing more than that.

Francisco said the locals are so pleased with how the partnership is working out, they not only plan to continue offering free back-to-school haircuts at Lockhart's Barber College on an annual basis, they'd also like to partner with another local business to offer a similar service for girls.

Anyone interested is encouraged to call Local 288 at (217) 428-3013. churchill@herald-review.com|(217) 421-7978

2888 E. COOK STREET SPRINGFIELD, IL 217-528-4041 BUSINESS MANAGER - SHANE AUSTIN PRESIDENT - BRIAN BASKETT RECORDING SECRETARY- Dennis Sheedy VICE PRESIDENT - JOSHUA LEACH

INTEGRITY

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JIM BOWLING PHOTOS, Herald & Review Student barber Amos Berryman gives Aiden Stoutenborough, 7, a haircut during the backto-school haircut event at Lockhartʼs Barber College.

CARPENTERS LOCAL #270 WISHES YOUR FAMILY A Happy and Safe

Labor Day! 211 W. Lawrence Ave. Springfield, IL 62704

SAFETY!

SERVING CENTRAL ILLINOIS SINCE 1908

SALUTEtoUNIONS 7

Instructor George Burrell helps give Elijah Thomas,7, a haircut during the back-toschool hair cut event at Lockhartʼs Barber College.

217-528-7571

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8 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Community groups benefit from We Are One campaign RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer DECATUR -- Nearly 30 people have gone through the Good Samaritan Inn’s culinary skills and a food production apprenticeships.

But without the financial support from the community, Rev. Stacey Brohard said the program and the inn would be on the chopping block.

“It’s how we stay in business. We couldn’t do it any other way,” said Brohard, executive director of the inn.

The Good Samaritan Inn, along with 12 other agencies, are tabbed to receive a bit of help from We Are One Community Fund. The $22,000 in grants will be award during a presentation at 1 p.m. today at the large pavilion in Fairview Park.

Recipients include the Decatur Family YMCA, Old Kings Orchard Community Playground Project, Meals on Wheels, Homework Hangout Pre-Apprentice Program, Boy Scouts, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Child First Center-Advocacy, Court Appointed Special Advocates, DMCOC Senior Services, Independence Point Parents Night Out, Special Olympics and Webster Cantrell Hall.

On top of the grants, an additional $2,500 will be mailed to the Boys & Girls Club, American Cancer Society, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Hospice, DOVE, Eddie Eagle Foundation, Catholic Charities, Shriners Hospital, Heritage House Visiting Nurses and the Macon County Animal Control and Care Center.

The award amount reflects a 20 percent increase over last year.

Fund chairwoman Amy Rueff said the committee looks to assist specific programs that provide services for the community when determining who will get funding.

“We want to provide services, not just give money to the agencies,” she said. “We rather it goes back into the community to pay for salaries and that sort of thing.”

Among those projects is one operated by the Boy Scouts, who will use the money to provide scouting programs with students in inner-city schools and teach them scouting values such as self-reliance, sportsmanship and manners.

But most of all, it is about providing a place where kids can enjoy themselves, said scout executive Chris Long.

“We want to provide them an environment where they have fun while learning,” he said.

We Are One, a charitable giving fund created in 2011 by the Decatur Trades & Labor Assembly and Decatur Building & Construction Trades Council, has awarded $78,500 to local charity since its inception.

The distribution of grants kicks off a new year of giving to the We Are One Community fund. Local unions are encouraged to host fundraising campaigns and promote payroll deduction with employers.

To give a donation, mail to: We Are One Community, c/o The Community Foundation, 125 N. Water, Suite 200, Decatur, IL 62523.

JIM BOWLING PHOTOS, Herald & Review Apprentice Patrick Slater harvests cherry tomatoes at the Crossing Healthcare Gardens while working in the Mercy Gardens training program.

Etchason selected Labor Day Parade grand marshal LABORERS’ CHRIS LUSVARDI H&R Staff Writer The grand marshal for the Decatur Labor Day Parade is familiar to many involved with organized labor in the area.

Shad Etchason grew up in an organized labor family and has been a union member since 1993, starting as an apprentice journey wireman. He is being recognized for his years of service as business manager with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 146 and past president of the Etchason Decatur Building & Construction Trades Council.

Etchason last year took a job as an international representative for the IBEW District 6, which extends his duties beyond the Decatur area. District 6 represents Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan with 118 local unions and about 111,000 members.

Etchason focuses much of his efforts on Southern Illinois and Southwestern Indiana.

Decatur continues to be of importance to

Etchason, which makes the honor to lead the annual parade he has regularly attended all the more significant.

“It's very important that all organized labor comes together as one,” Etchason said. “It's a great honor. I didn't expect it.”

Some of the goals in the new role continue to be the same, representing the interests of members as issues arise and maintaining a positive working relationship with employers.

“We want to make sure to look out for members,” Etchason said.

Etchason said he's learned from a great group of mentors as his leadership role has expanded over time.

The possible closure by Exelon Corp. of its Clinton Nuclear Power Station is a top concern, Etchason said. He said union members work at the plant in the type of good-paying jobs that can benefit the area.

Etchason remain optimistic a deal can still be reached to keep the plant and one slated for closure a year later in the Quad Cities open and, in turn, protect the jobs.

Giving back to the community is an emphasis of the union Etchason believes in

and leads by example, whether it's hanging Christmas lights in downtown Decatur or building an osprey tower along Lake Shelbyville.

The list of ways union members are involved with the community is lengthy, Etchason said.

“Ultimately it makes the union stronger,” Etchason said. “It's something we've always done and something I enjoy doing.”

Etchason has served on several boards of organizations in the community, including the United Way of Decatur and Mid Illinois, Decatur Family YMCA and Decatur Housing Authority. clusvardi@herald-review.com|(217) 421-7972

The Labor Day Parade is set to kick off at 10 a.m. today in downtown Decatur and follow the traditional route.

LOCAL #159

Proudly Serving 8 Counties Since 1934 Clark - Coles - Cumberland Douglas - Edgar Macon - Moultrie - Shelby • Josh McElravy President • Joseph Riley Business Manager • Matthew E. Dial Secretary - Treasurer

Phone: 217-422-3078

Painters-District Council 58 940 California Ave, Collinsville, IL 62234 Phone: 618-345-6646 IL Phone: 314-647-3327 MO Fax: 618-345-5962 IL Fax: 314-647-3350 MO

rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

Gregg Smith, Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Bill Francisco

Carl Farrell

Ted Helfrich

Asst. Business Manager (217) 428-3013

Asst. Business Manager (314) 647-3327

Director of Servicing (618) 345-6646

Rich Lucks

Steve Wayland

Director of Organizing (314) 647-3327

Chad Anderson LU 363 Champaign (217) 356-9114

Bryan Feller Glaziers LU 1168 (217) 422-5791

Bill Boevingloh

Apprentice Bertha Nance prepares to water plants.

Bruce Holt

Dir. of Bus. Development (314) 647-3327

Governmental Affairs (636) 373-3331

Allen Marley

LU 32 Carterville (618) 932-8003

Metro East (618) 345-6646

Nick Mettemeyer LU 90 Springfield (217)529-6976

Curt Koelling

LU 115 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

LU 1185 Holts Summit (573) 896-0206

Rich Duecker

Joe Mueller

LU 774 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

Students Andrew Leinard, left, and Kent Jones arrange hydroponic tables at the Good Samaritan.

SALUTEtoUNIONS 5

LU 1156 St Charles, MO (636)946-4580

Chris Ragan

Curt Kimbrell Glaziers LU 513 (314)647-3327

Dave Doerr LU 1199 St. Louis Metro (314) 647-3327

Art Hurlburt Training Director (618) 345-6646/ (636) 733-2325

Field Representatives/ Organizers: Dan Melchior, Wendell Harris, Gary Otten, Donny Anderson, John Deeken Apprenticeship Instructors: Brandon Johnson, Chris Herthel, Kevin Harned, Will Meyers, Tim Deeves, Tim Largent

Plumbing - Heating / Air Conditioning Refrigeration - Sheet Metal

• Residential / Commercial / Industrial Plumbing & Piping • Sewer Cleaning • HVAC Piping • Backflow Prevention Testing Installation • Service and Installation • Boilers, Chillers & IT Room Cooling

A DIVISION OF KING-LAR COMPANY 2020 E. OLIVE ST. • DECATUR, IL

217-429-2323

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4 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Eagle Scout, union member enjoys working with youth Highlights importance, benefits of labor movement

Un i on ou Pr

d

Com mit ted

Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 137 2301 West Mound Road Decatur, IL 62524 217-877-3445

ce n e l l e c x E o T

The United Association of Plumber and Pipefitters Local 137 wishes everyone a wonderful and safe Labor Day!

The Signatory Contractors of the United Association Local 137 Salute the hardworking Plumbers, Pipefitters and HVAC Technicians Members of our Industry in the Decatur Area Mechanical Contractors Association of Central Illinois Industry Fund

Wishing your family a happy and safe Labor Day holiday!

www.mca-cil.org

SALUTEtoUNIONS 9

www.ua137.org

RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer LINCOLN -- Ed Robison has essentially known two things since early childhood: unions and Boy Scouts.

Decades later, Robison has now been nominated for his effort to increase the knowledge of unions to his son’s Boy Scout troop.

Robison, business manager for the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail & Transportation Workers Local 218, was recently nominated for the George Meany Award, a national recognition approved by the AFL-CIO Executive Council.

Established in 1974, the award is a way to recognize union members who have made a significant contribution to the youth of their communities by volunteering in the programs of the Boy Scouts of America.

“It’s amazing because George Meany fought really hard for American labor,” Robison said. “It’s a hand in hand thing, you don’t see a lot where the youth are taught about labor unions and just how important they are.”

Robison learned the importance of unions and scouts at an early age. Coming from a self-described “family of (United Auto Workers) members,” Robison recalls his father and grandfather working at Caterpillar Inc. While they worked, Robison

worked his way through Boy Scouts before finally earning the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest rank attainable in the scouting program of the Boy Scouts of America.

“I’ve been involved with the unions and the Boy Scouts as long as I’ve been able to know what they are,” he said.

As he got older and started his own family, he’s taken on the role of scout master

for his son’s troop. Part of his role as scout master was to teach a class on American labor, teaching the scouts about the history of labor unions.

“A lot of youths don’t understand that kids in the past didn’t get to go to school, or to Boy Scout meetings,” Robison said. “A lot of that has happened because the middle class became so strong through the labor movement.”

Scouts and the American labor movement have long been intertwined, sharing a goal to prepare young men and women for careers in in-demand fields.

Robison was nominated for the award by his co-worker, Michael Goode.

Goode, recording secretary organizer with the union, said he has impressed with Robison’s commitment to not only the scouts, but to his union, family and faith.

And when he heard that Robison had put together a class for an American labor merit badge and later learned about the award, Goode knew it was a no-brainer to nominate his coworker.

“His life has been about service, whether through the scouts, the church and his union,” Goode said.

Decatur Education Association and Decatur Educational Support Personnel Association Representing the

Teachers and Office Personnel of Decatur Public Schools and Macon-Piatt Special Education

DECATUR TRADES & LABOR ASSEMBLY rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

THE VOICE OF LABOR IN DECATUR, IL

Happy Labor Day From the Working Men & Women of Decatur/ Macon County The mission of the central labor council is to improve the lives of working families to bring economic justice to the workplace & social justice to our state & the nation.

This Labor Day, take the time to thank unions - the people who brought you the weekend. Even if you don’t belong to a union, their efforts have provided better working conditions through safer workplaces, 8-hour workdays, child labor laws, equal pay, minimum wage, unemployment insurance, vacation, worker compensation laws, overtime, sick leave and much more.

WE’RE STRONGER TOGETHER

REPRESENTING 13,000 UNION MEMBERS IN MACON COUNTY, IL / WWW.IL.AFLCIO.ORG/DECATUR

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10 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

Bridging the skills gap Homework Hangout Club offers training to overcome employment barriers RYAN VOYLES H&R Staff Writer DECATUR -- A chance to make a decent wage is a promise too hard to ignore for people, especially those whose education level acts as a barrier to employment.

Regardless of education, Homework Hangout Club is doing its part to make theat promise a reality through its pre-apprenticeship program.

The program, which begins another round of classes this fall, provides hands-on training, education and other skills to help students get into one of three construction trade apprenticeship programs in Decatur: Those apprenticeship programs involve opportunities in the painters, plumbers and electricians unions. Students are able to conduct on-the-job training with many contractors throughout the Decatur area.

Many applicants are those in service and retail jobs who seek an avenue where they can better provide for themselves or their families, said Erik Grebner, executive director of Homework Hangout “They’re tired of fast food, dining… and they’re wanting something to provide a

living wage,” Grebner said. “It’s a different path for people.”

The program, an expansion of the club's training for those over 18, provides about 144 hours of pre-apprenticeship training and another 200 hours of academic training in an effort to develop skills that unions are looking for in their members. The training is provided for free through grants from the U.S. Department of Labor The program began last year as a pilot program with the Painters District Council 58. After 30 people completed the first training program, Grebner said they reached out to other unions in the area to gauge interest in expanding the program, and quickly found partners with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 146 and the Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 137.

That resulted in a round of classes that went from January to June, during which 25 students learned the trades and had an opportunity to learn about the local unions

Continued on page 11

SALUTEtoUNIONS 3

Unions stand united to get Illinois back on track With the arrival of Labor Day this year, our state finds itself in the middle of a serious crisis.

After nearly two years in office, Governor Bruce Rauner has failed in his most basic responsibility in office – passing a budget.

He has spent his time holding state government hostage for his extreme agenda that would devastate working families.

Because of Rauner, the people of Illinois have suffered greatly. Social service agencies are closing their doors, cutting off access to vital programs and laying off dedicated workers. Public universities are faced with massive funding cuts that threaten their Carrigan core mission. State government could shut down as the governor tries to force state employees out on strike.

Meanwhile, the state’s debt is piling up, vendors are taking to the courts to secure payments owed, and Illinois has one of the worst unemployment rates in the country.

Governor Rauner doesn’t care about how much damage he inflicts in his quest to ram through his extreme agenda. He doesn’t care

about the hundreds of thousands of people – seniors, students, parents, veterans -- who are struggling as never before because of his destructive policies that focus first and foremost on destroying the labor movement in our state.

Whether it’s getting rid of prevailing wage or cutting assistance for injured workers, trampling on collective bargaining or undermining retirement security, every demand that Rauner has is designed to weaken our rights and drive down our standard of living.

The stopgap budget agreement, itself $8 billion out of balance, is merely a band-aid that does nothing to heal the gaping wound in our state the governor has created. It may take years for Illinois to recover from the Rauner administration.

This Labor Day, with Election Day looming just a few months away, we stand together to say no to Rauner’s failed strategy of destruction.

We say no to paying caregivers poverty wages because we know those receiving care suffer too.

We say no to pitting students and retirees against each other when big corporations aren’t paying their fair share of taxes.

We say no to driving down wages and undermining family economic security.

We say no to demonizing public workers and demeaning the value of the services they provide.

And we say yes to making Illinois work for all through fair revenue options and a responsible budget.

Labor in Illinois is united in sending a

message to Governor Rauner and his allies in the legislature. We’re not going to be bullied. We’re not going to back down. We’re not going to give up.

We will keep on fighting every single day to make sure that Illinois truly is a state that works for all.

Michael T. Carrigan is president of Illinois American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations

Local unions power our business.

E L E C T R I C Since 1918 Anderson Electric • 1921 Oak Ave. • Mattoon, IL 61938 (217) 234-7476 • www.anderson-electric.com

SHEET METAL WORKERS LOCAL UNION #218 BUSINESS MANAGER/FINANCIAL SECRETARY TREASURER Jeff Bort Business Representative

EDMUND ROBISON 2855 VIA VERDE SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703 PHONE: 217-529-0161 FAX: 217-529-6005

Millwright Local Union 1051

BUSINESS REPRESENTATIVE BOB CHAMPION 605 S. COUNTRY FAIR DR. CHAMPAIGN, IL 61821 PHONE: 217-356-3653 FAX: 217-356-7661

602 Keokuk Street, Lincoln, Illinois 62656 Ph. 217-735-1051 • Fax 217-732-1051

ORGANIZER MICHAEL GOODE 2855 VIA VERDE SPRINGFIELD, IL 62703 PHONE: 217-529-4501 FAX:217-529-6005

Nathan Hodgson Business Representative

Submitted photo Robert Cobb, left, and Cozette Matthews cut some PVC pipe for a plumbing project.

www.millwrightlocal1051.com

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2 SALUTE UNIONS September 5, 2016 • www.herald-review.com • Herald & Review

Herald & Review • www.herald-review.com • September 5, 2016

On Labor Day, we remain stronger together This Labor Day, as we gather with family, friends and neighbors, we should all take a moment to reflect on the values that make our communities strong. Hard work is certainly one of those values, exemplified by the men and women that go out each day and teach our children, build our bridges, care for our disabled and keep us safe.

Working people have always and will always be the foundation upon which this country, and this state, are built.

But right now, many working families are struggling to see a brighter future because of the constant bickering from the Francisco people they’ve elected to serve as their representatives in government. As America’s economy slowly recovers from a devastating recession, too often compromise and solutions take a back seat to rhetoric and political bomb throwing.

Nowhere is that more true than right here in Illinois. We have a governor who has failed to do what all other governors have managed in Illinois’ nearly 200 years as a state – pass a budget. Bruce Rauner has decided that enacting his extreme, anti-

working families agenda is more important than funding the most basic services in the state.

Rauner’s agenda would drive down wages, destroy worker protections and undermine labor organizations across the state. He is convinced that Illinois should join a race to the bottom with states like Tennessee and South Carolina, where incomes, education levels and health care rates are lower. In short, Governor Rauner wants to transform Illinois into a state where a few wealthy billionaires at the top, like him, have all the power, while the rest of us can barely scrape by.

The governor has shown that he will stop at nothing to get his way. He held the state budget hostage for a year as “leverage” for his agenda, completely unsympathetic to the seniors, students and disabled citizens he has hurt in the process. Now, as his approval rating plummets, he’s pouring millions of dollars into slanted political ads for himself and his allies that fill our television screens and mailboxes.

Unfortunately, Governor Rauner and his “my-way-or-the-highway” attitude are not unique. At the national level, Donald Trump

has made it his personal mission to run the most outrageous, divisive presidential campaign this country has ever seen. Trump doesn’t seem to have any interest in basic American ideals like compromise, fairness and unity. Much like he did with his failed businesses, Trump wants to con the country into thinking he’s got the secret to greatness, only to leave everyday Americans holding the bag once his plans fall apart.

What Rauner and Trump don’t understand is that which makes Illinois strong is not pitting us against each other, but rather bringing people together to confront the challenges we face. We have always been, and will always continue to be, stronger together.

This Labor Day, look around at your family members, friends, coworkers and neighbors. Remember that when things get tough in your life, these are the people you can depend on to give you the support to overcome any obstacle. Governor Rauner and Donald Trump need to understand that if we as a state and a nation are to overcome our collective challenges, we will do so not because of a few wealthy people at the top, but because we are, and remain, stronger together.

Continued from page 10

Thank you to our local unions for your continued support of the Decatur Family YMCA!

Bill Francisco is president of the Decatur Trades and Labor Assembly, AFL-CIO

A SALUTE TO HARDWORKING AMERICANS Remember BUY LOCAL and use LOCAL SERVICES Executive Board Members: John Shores, Jr – Chairman Chris Hays Lynn Richards Mary Sapp Steve Tomer Jeff Westendorf Chad Young

President – John Warner Vice President – Jeff Taylor Treasurer – Myra Walters

YEARS

r te

une 26, ed J 19 12

100

IBEW

Ch ar

Recording Secretary – Steve Tilford

Serving Central Illinois for more than

Local 146 AFL-CIO

www.ibew146.com

and how to transition to becoming union members.

For the union representatives, the program provides a unique chance to connect with the community in new ways.

Traditionally, unions have been a family business, with sons following their father and grandfathers into the group, said Bill Francisco, business representative for the painter’s union. With something like the preapprenticeship training program, Francisco said it allows those not born into unions to become involved.

“We were looking for an avenue to better involve more of the community and those who may not know about organized labor,” Francisco said. “We wanted to open our doors to the community and to getting a living wage job.”

The painters union employs a full-time instructor with the program, who does hands-on teaching with the students. The hope is the program goes will increase the number of people in the workforce who are educated and skilled enough to make a difference, Fracisco said.

While applications are no longer being accepted for classes that start this month, Grebner said those interested in the program should contact Homework hangout at (217) 872-2306 or stop 249 S. Webster St. in Decatur between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to learn about Submitted photo taking part in future classes.

Pictured left to right, Monroe Porter, Singbard Ringang and Shamar Graves prepare hang drywall as part of the Homework rvoyles@herald-review.com|(217)421-7985

Business Manager – Josh Sapp

s De catur, Illinoi

SALUTEtoUNIONS 11

Well Trained and Highly Skilled Professionals Within a Community Minded Organization

Hangout Club's pre-apprenticeship program. The program, in collaboration with three local unions, is designed to give particiapnts an introduction to plumbing, electrical and painter jobs.

UNITED UNION OF ROOFERS LOCAL #92 234 W. Cerro Gordo St., Decatur, IL 62523 AFL/CIO PRESIDENT: Jason York BUSINESS MANAGER: Ted Clark Roofers Local #92, its officers and members would like to wish all working men and women a wonderful Labor Day holiday. Unions are the reason that we enjoy the 8 hour work day, holidays and the time off to spend with our family and friends. Unions continue to work for safer work places, better wages, and health care for our families. Unions continue to fight to increase the minimum wage, protect pensions and to give all workers the right to have a voice in the work place. Roofers Local #92 will continue to be a strong voice, for those who do not.

Enjoy the Day from all of us of Local #92

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

CRAFTMASTERS ROOFING, INC.

TOP QUALITY ROOFING CO.

KING/LAR

1900 N. 22nd St. Decatur, IL 62526 Owner: Michael Randles 217-422-7742; Fax: 217-362-0115

PO Box 193, Mt. Zion, IL 62549 Owner: Bob Benton 217-864-9483; Fax: 217-864-5900

2020 E. Olive St. Decatur, IL 62524 Owner: E. Scott Lamb 217-429-2323; Fax: 217-429-2381

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HEAT AND FROST INSULATORS AND ALLIED WORKERS LOCAL NO. 1

3325 HOLLENBERG DRIVE BRIDGETON, MISSOURI 63044 314-291-7399

JOHN J. STIFFLER Business Manager

GERALD R. DONOVAN, JR. Business Agent and Financial Secretary GARY M. PAYEUR Business Agent GERALD L. McATEE President/Organizer

International Union of Operating Engineers Local 965 3520 E. Cook Street Springfield, IL 62703 217-528-9659 217-528-9060 Fax www.iuoe965.org Dennis R. Minick, Business Manager Bret E. Scaggs, President Kent Campbell Business Representative

The King-Lar Company would like to say

“THANK YOU DECATUR AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS!” We appreciate the business you have given us since 1927.

The King-Lar Company employs over 100 union craftsmen.

The King-Lar Company is a full service sheetmetal, roofing, plumbing, piping, heating/cooling and refrigeration contractor.

24 Hour Service 2020 E. Olive Decatur, IL ph: 217-429-2323 www.kinglar.com

Residential • Commercial • Industrial • Institutional