Common Ground VOLUME 1, NUMBER 8
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AUGUST 2010
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RHODE ISLAND
New contract with Stop & Shop is just dessert for UFCW members By James P. Riley
On March 7 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston, the membership of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) Local 328, joined their brothers and sisters of Local 1445 and Local 1459 of Massachusetts and Local 371 and Local 919 of Connecticut and unanimously ratified a new three-year agreement with their employer -- Stop & Shop. The meeting ended months of contentious bargaining as the company attempted to slash and burn the collective bargaining agreement while enjoying their highest sales and profit margins in decades. While the officers of the various local unions utilized their extensive collective bargaining skills at the table, their most powerful bargaining chip was their membership. Stop & Shop hiring halls across New England meant to intimidate and confuse the membership, which was met with scorn. Their
efforts completely backfired as the members mobilized and hand billed the halls to turn away anyone who would take their jobs. The members also hand billed the public on their breaks and days off to educate their friends – the customers. The customers sent the message to the store managers “If they (employees) are on the sidewalk, we won’t shop Stop & Shop.” The officers and staff of all the New England UFCW locals representing Stop & Shop employees owe a great debt of gratitude to all the labor organizations and union members across New England for their support and to the customers, the labor movement and most of all, the members, who brought the negotiations to a successful conclusion. James P. Riley is Secretary/Treasurer for Untied Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 328.
A real life example of wasteful spending in Ocean State By George Nee
I was greatly dismayed by comments made by Steve Kass, former talkradio host and current high profile example of unnecessary and wasteful state spending, in a recent “Providence Journal” article on his “career” in state government. Kass, an appointee of Gov. Don Carcieri to multiple highlypaid positions within state government, claimed that he is “not looking to be a political hack or a union do-nothing worried about my pension.” By looking at Mr. Kass’ record of state service, it appears that he has become exactly what he claimed
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not to be -- a political hack who is biding time in a do-nothing job while waiting for his pension to kick in so he can retire. Kass was originally tapped as the governor’s $126,000+ director of communications in 2005. His only qualifications for the job appear to be knowing the governor and supporting his policies and campaigns. Kass admittedly never even saw the governor very much while he was supposedly serving as his communications director. After several high profile communications missteps involving racist remarks to a GOP town chairman, state privatization issues and failure to communicate with the public during the December 2007 snowstorm, during which Kass went home early, he was transferred from the governor’s office to the
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Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) with his $126,000 a year salary intact. Even after a pay and title cut, Kass still makes $75,000 a year as the spokesperson for the RIEMA, making him the highest paid spokesperson of any emergency management agency in New England and higher paid than spokespeople in the larger state Departments of Health, Corrections, and Labor and Training. What exactly does Rhode Island get in return from someone who is paid 1.5 times the salary and benefits of the previous spokesperson? According to the “Providence Journal” article, Rhode Island gets plagiarized press releases copied from other states, programs for schoolchildren Continued on Page 2
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Common Ground Continued from Page 1 developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and an idea to give whistles to college students. That is not the record of achievement one would expect from such a highly paid administration official, especially considering that the RIEMA has had to turn off the lights in offices, cut back on cell phone use, and defer maintenance and upkeep plans in order to afford Kass’ job. This spring when floods devastated Rhode Island, a situation that desperately cried out for someone to communicate with the public the vital information necessary to stay safe and secure, it is telling that the governor’s office from which Steve Kass was previously reassigned and not the RIEMA was coordinating communications with Rhode Island residents. While Steve Kass did nothing during the floods, there were thousands of union workers out day and night working to protect, clean up and repair our beautiful state. The effort Rhode Island union members put forth during this time of crisis for our state was immeasurable: from the firefighters and police officers that protected residents and property, to the sewage treatment
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Thomas Grant, a resident of Swansea and a member of United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters’ Local 51, is on a mission to supply troops serving in Afghanistan with items the brave men and women there have requested. Tom, who served in the United States Navy, is third vice commander of American Legion Post No. 314 in Fall River in charge of fundraising and organizing events. Grant’s efforts have earned the praise of union officers and fellow members. Thomas A. Handfield, business manager of Local 51, issued a statement praising Grant, saying: “Tom’s allegiance to our troops is commendable. His commitment, passion and the work dedicated to fund-raising for the United States armed services is without doubt nothing less than praiseworthy.” Tom was contacted by a friend whose
WARWICK – A forum at which gubernatorial candidates will address public health and health care issues is slated for Sept. 1 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 801 Greenwich Ave. The Rhode Island Public Health Association (RIPHA) is sponsoring the forum. According to a release from RIPHA, gubernatorial candidates Frank Caprio, a Democrat and the state’s general treasurer; Lincoln Chafee, an independent and former U.S. senator; Victor Moffitt, a Repubican
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and a businessman; and John Robitaille, a Republican, business owner and former senior adviser for communications to Gov. Carcieri, will be participating in the forum. The cost to attend is $25, which includes breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Attendees must register by Aug. 27 at www.ripha.org or mail cash or a check made out to RIPHA to the Rhode Island Public Health Association, P.O. Box 6215, Warwick, RI, 02887. For more information, contact Renée Bucklin at info@ripha.org or (401) 884-1117.
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son, Richard Messier Jr., was wounded in Afghanistan while serving with the military police. After returning to the states, Richard was contacted by his military brothers and sisters who are in need of supplies unattainable in Afghanistan. Tom mentioned the predicament at Post 314’s March meeting, and the mission to meet the troops’ needs was started. He went into automatic pilot and started a movement to gather the necessary items and has shipped several packages to date. He has also started a crusade for troops from Fall River and Bristol County who are on active duty in Afghanistan. Items needed include baby wipes, soap, Q-tips, toothpaste and toothbrushes, beef jerky, flavored water packs, magazines, cookies, candy and instant noodle soup cups.
Gubernatorial forum on health issues slated for Sept.1
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workers who tirelessly worked to restore the plants in Warwick and Cranston, to the municipal employees who cleaned our cities and towns when the waters subsided, to the highway workers who repaired the damaged roadways, to the wastewater management workers who protected our drinking water supplies. With many of their families and homes threatened by the flood waters, Rhode Island’s rank-and-file union do-something workers did everything in their power to protect, clean and repair our state. It is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our state and municipal workers that the effects of the flood were minimized and most cities and towns were able to get back to normal. Steve Kass can hand out backpacks and whistles to schoolchildren all he wants while he waits for another pay raise, but when the real work needs to be done in Rhode Island, it will be our municipal and state “get the job done employees” who will be out there day and night making sure that Rhode Island is the best it can possibly be. George Nee is president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO.
Union member comes to aid of troops serving in Afghanistan
DEFENDERS OF ANIMALS
Ground
AUGUST 2010
Page 1
New contract with Stop & Shop is just dessert for UFCW members
Page 10
UFCW Local 328 tees up thanks for successful fund-raisers
A real life example of wasteful spending in the Ocean State
Page 11
Archambault proposes adopting Massachusetts model to strengthen consumer protections
Page 2
Union member comes to aid of troops serving in Afghanistan
Page 12
Pam Powell leads walk aimed at giving diabetes the boot
Page 3
Lincoln High business students’ investment yields valuable lesson
Page 13
Eye On RI Opinion Candidate for general treasurer promotes financial independence
Page 4
Nationwide Homeless Animals’ Day event to be held in Rhode Island
Page 14
MAPs assist union members with navigating road to recovery
Page 5
The power to grow and achieve more
Page 6
A clean diesel future for state construction projects
Page 15
Aid sought to find cure for devastating form of cancer
Page 16
Directory of Union Services
Page 7
DetermiNation runners needed for Cranberry Trifest Triathlon
Some worry about scams related to Medicare Part D rebates
Page 9
Do everything possible to develop and execute a retirement plan
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Gubernatorial forum on health issues slated for September 1
Do you really need flood insurance?
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AUGUST 2010
Common Ground
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Lincoln High business students’ investment yields valuable lesson By Paul V. Palange LINCOLN – Students in an entrepreneurship class at Lincoln High School scored a huge profit during the last school year, and the return on their investment could pay dividends well into the future. Under the direction of Maryann Mitchell, teacher of the class and adviser for the LHS Future Business Leaders Association (FBLA), the students profited by learning that business stakeholders have a responsibility to give back to the community in which they work. The lesson came in the form of developing Dereka’s Delight, the business of Dereka Crosby, a student with Down syndrome. Mitchell said the students in her class, many of whom belong to the FBLA, adopted Dereka’s Delight, designing a logo, writing a business plan and mission statement and developing a Web site for Crosby’s line of handmade jewelry and other items such as headbands, makeup bags, dish towels, pillows, Christmas stockings and totes. The students embraced the project, according to Mitchell. “I wasn’t surprised. Once they recognized the importance and significance of the project, they all did a great job,” she said. The students also impressed Ned Blais, coowner of Blais Insurance and father of one of the teens that designed Dereka’s Web site. “Dereka’s Delight is a living, thriving and breathing enterprise,” Blais said. “It’s such a great thing … a great team effort. … If you had five of them together, they could run IBM.” “These are future business leaders,” he
Dereka Crosby, left, receives a hug from her godmother, Victoria Fonseca. She is the owner of Revival, a store in Bristol, R.I., where some of Dereka’s products are sold.
continued, “and the name of the Future Business Leaders Association fits.” Town Administrator Joseph Almond called the project “a great collaboration” that gave the students an understanding of obstacles that some people have to overcome.” “Working with Dereka,” he continued, “gives the students an appreciation of something they only saw from a distance. They learned that children with developmental disabilities are no different than any other children. The only difference is that they have a challenge,” Almond said. Superintendent of Schools Georgia Fortunato said the work students did for Dereka was wonderful and heartwarming, and that it was a “true partnership and collaboration.” According to Fortunato, the teens had an experience that will influence their lives and
careers forever, adding that tolerance and acceptance are “two of the most important gifts educators can give students.” In addition, the superintendent praised Mitchell, calling her an “exemplary teacher” that the town is “truly fortunate to have in the school system.” Maxwell Blais, who developed the Web site with Sagar Shah, said involvement with the project changed his outlook concerning people with developmental challenges, and that he now wants to do more work with such individuals. Blais knew Dereka prior to their business relationship, but he spent more time with her because of the class project. As a result, Blais learned Crosby is a “really cool person who is really fun to be with,” he said. “My favorite aspect of the project,” Blais said, “is that Dereka came up with most of the content of the Web site herself.” Profits generated by the business will flow to the nonprofit Dereka Crosby Foundation that the girl’s mother, Barbara, wants to use to repay education by funding opportunities for individuals with intellectual or physical challenges and by providing scholarships to students who want to work with people with special needs. Mitchell said she would like to see Dereka’s Delight occupy retail space some day, with product in the front of a store and a studio in the back. Considering the caliber of students Mitchell has in her business class and the FBLA, there is a strong possibility her vision will become a reality.
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Common Ground
AUGUST 2010
Nationwide Homeless Animals’ Day event to be held in Rhode Island By Dennis Tabella
Providence’s Bravest
In 1992, The International Society for Animal Rights (ISAR) singer, songwriter and recording artist. He was the winner of the 2008 introduced National Homeless Animals’ Day and Candlelight Vigils as GigMasters Rising Star Award for top folk singer and has played venues an innovative educational vehicle, with a purpose of informing society throughout the United States and in Ireland. Serving the City of Providence since 1854 of an American tragedy that overwhelms animal shelters each year – pet For more information, call Defenders of Animals at (401) 461-1922. overpopulation. Dennis Tabella is executive director of Defenders of Animals of Rhode Since the conception of Animals’ Day, ISAR has reserved the third Island. He can be reached at (401) 461-1922 or e-mail him at dennis@ PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799 Saturday of August to annually commemorate the day and promote new defendersofanimals.org. INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS campaigns, programs and ideas on the solution to the pet overpopulation epidemic: namely, spay/neuter initiatives. Because of the ever growing, successful international participation in National Homeless Animals’ Day by foreign animal protection organizations, ISAR formally acknowledges that global participation by officially calling the crusade “International Homeless Animals’ Day.” Organizations around the world come together on the third Saturday Rhode Island State Association of Fire Fighters of August to raise awareness about the pet overpopulation epidemic. Affiliated with the AFL-CIO Activities often include candlelight vigils, adopt-a-thons, microchip Paul A. Doughty, President clinics, blessings of the animals and heartfelt speeches given by council Philip F.PAUL Fiore, Vice President C. REED members, local veterinarians, humane officers and shelter personnel. President Other activities include slideshows, rallies, dog walks, open houses, award Scott G. Mello, Secretary ceremonies, live music, raffles and games. JOSEPH A. ANDRIOLE John F. Woodard, Treasurer You can support the Rhode Island organization that is the host for Vice President this event, Defenders of Animals of Rhode Island, and you can let people PAUL A. DOUGHTY Executive Board Representatives know that we will not tolerate the senseless killing that continues to take Secretary Treasurer the lives of innocent dogs, cats, puppies and kittens simply because there Christopher J. Jannitto MARCEL E. FONTENAULT, are not enough good homes for them. Joseph P. Moreino JR. Exec. Bd. Chairman The Rhode Island event includes awards given to individuals that Hans Ramsden have helped animals. State Sen. John J. Tassoni (D-Smithfield, North Wayne C.V.P. Oliveira 1ST DISTRICT John Silva Smithfield) is a past honoree. He was cited for introducing legislation that Zachariah Kenyon 2ND DISTRICT V.P.Toro Steve Rodrigues Anthony resulted in the end of the carbon monoxide gas chamber as a method of euthanizing cats and dogs. The law now requires animal shelters to have 3RD DISTRICT V.P. Michael Stevens animals humanely euthanized by a veterinarian. 92 Printery Street Paul A. Doughty Robert K. Neill, Jr. Sen. Tassoni also had legislation introduced that is now law in Staff Representative 401-569-4444 Rhode Island that made cat spaying/neutering mandatory. As a result, Providence, RI 02904 thousands of cats have been fixed since passage of the legislation, which401-272-7999 (O) PAUL L. VALLETTA, JR. 401-274-7999 (F) local799.com has dramatically reduced the number of cats destroyed in our state. Rhode Legislative Agent Island’s law is the nationwide model for such legislation, and the Ocean REBECCA D. FISHER State remains the only state that has such a law. Many cities and towns Legislative Agent have adopted the measure based on Sen. Tassoni’s legislation. Please join Defenders of Animals of Rhode Island at the Homeless Animals’ Day event on Aug. 21 at the Governor Sprague Mansion, 356 Smith Street • Providence, Rhode Island 02908 • (401) 272-6870 1351 Cranston St., Cranston, from 6 to 9 p.m. Musical entertainment risaff.org for the event, which is free, will be Wayne Morrison, an award-winning
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Common Ground
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The power to grow and achieve more By Gregory A. Mancini, Michael F. Sabitoni & Laurie White For many years the public has noted the lack of economic development/business friendly environment that has engulfed our state, with much of the criticism for that situation specifically directed at our General Assembly. The end result is an incessant low-pitched hue and cry about our perceived inability to pass legislation that will induce economic development and generate jobs at all levels. The citizens of our state should know that the actions of the General Assembly and governor this past legislative session demonstrate that our elected officials recognize that economic development initiatives are paramount. And as such, their collective accomplishments along with the soon to be completion of the I-Way 195, intermodal public works projects and several high profile private projects positions our state to have a bright economic development future. The I-Way dramatically improved traffic flow as well as opened up more than 20 acres of prime land for development in Providence. The intermodal will enhance airport amenities as well as expand commuter rail within our state, making T.F. Green more competitive with airports in neighboring states. As for the legislation, the economic development legislation that was passed is not only substantive but also numerous. Those important accomplishments include the much needed tax reform that allows our state to be competitive with contiguous states in attracting new businesses and retaining existing ones. New legislation also authorized the construction and operation of a new gas fueled electric generation facility at the central landfill in Johnston that will create more than 100 construction jobs as well as increase the future capacity of the landfill. The General Assembly approved legislation creating the Job Creation Guaranty Program,
a program that authorizes the establishment of a $125 million dollar loan guarantee program to help businesses with primarily “soft assets� such as patents and intellectual properties. The legislature also approved increasing the Rhode Island Industrial Recreational Building Authority (IRBA) from $20 million to $60 million, which will help supply lenders with the credit enhancement they need to provide long-term financing for growing companies with “hard assets� such as buildings and machinery. The General Assembly enacted several pieces of legislation that codified the recommendations of the Governor’s Regulatory Review Task Force, which expedites and tracks the permitting process for new projects and creates a business friendly ombudsman. It codified legislation that amended the competitive sealed bidding process so that it appears more transparent, which will make businesses, both small and large, that participate in the bidding process have more confidence. And of course, the General Assembly passed the landmark legislation authorizing the Narragansett Electric Company to enter an agreement with the developer of the wind project off the coast of New Shoreham (Block Island) for the purchase of energy. Subject to approval from the state Public Utilities Commission, Deepwater will commence construction of that project with an all-union work force, and Rhode Island will be the first state to construct an offshore wind project that will produce energy. While that project is in itself relatively modest, there is a much bigger utility scale project on the horizon, which will also be constructed by an all-union work force. Being the first in the water will give our state a significant advantage in competing for industry related jobs in turbine and blade manufacturing as well as other component
manufacturers needed to construct wind turbines in this up-and-coming industry. Those jobs will have salaries on which a person can raise a family, and the positions may be union. Investors, manufacturers and developers already are circling Quonset, hoping to be among the first involved in a budding industry that could conceivably grow its roots in Rhode Island. Lastly, the General Assembly recognized the value of educating our children for our economic future by having the courage to develop a statewide education aid formula. Our elected officials made their mark this past legislative session with bold, aggressive public policy initiatives that demonstrate their concern for economic development. That focus and concern will increase opportunities for business, which will induce new construction activity; all of which will create new good paying (both union and nonunion) job and career opportunities. Just as the natural resources of our rivers allowed our state to lead the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century and lead our nation in economic prosperity, another natural resource in the wind off our coast will allow us to once again lead in the 21st century. So Rhode Island, you have turned the corner, the wind is at your back, there are sharpened business opportunities coming for our companies along with advantageous work opportunities for our citizens that will return our state to the forefront of economic prosperity, So be positive. What a refreshing change of a statewide mindset that would be. Gregory A. Mancini is executive director and general counsel of BuildRI; Michael F. Sabitoni is president of the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council; and Laurie White is president of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at (401) 5215000 or lwhite@provchamber.com.
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Common Ground
A clean diesel future for state construction projects By Nicole Poepping Diesel pollution is one of the greatest public health risks Rhode Island residents face. Diesel exhaust contains more than 40 toxic air contaminants, carcinogens, ozoneforming elements and fine particulate matter or soot. Those ingredients form a dangerous cocktail that can be inhaled deep into the lungs while the finest particles can enter the bloodstream and affect the organs. If that isn’t frightening enough, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) cites diesel soot as more carcinogenic than all other 181 tracked air toxics combined, the effects of which can be seen across Rhode Island in rapidly rising asthma rates and health care costs. Recognizing how deadly diesel pollution is for Rhode Islanders, the General Assembly has been working with environmentalists, construction companies, labor unions and state agencies for more than three years to find a way to reduce diesel emissions from the biggest emitters in the state, diesel construction fleets. The most recent negotiations took place in a Senate study commission convened this past winter during which a clean construction law was drafted. Chaired by Sen. Josh Miller (D-District 28, Cranston), the commission reviewed the health, environmental and economic impacts of implementing a clean construction program, giving participants the background needed to create effective, yet fair, legislation. That process was acknowledged and praised by the General Assembly, which showed unanimous, bipartisan support in passing the law in June. So, what does this law do? The Clean
Construction Law (S2440Aaa), part of the state’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act, aims to reduce emissions from construction vehicles used on state projects in three ways. They are: • An anti-idling program that will limit vehicle idling to five minutes and will reduce overall fuel usage. • Requiring contractors to use ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD), the cleanest diesel fuel on the market. • Reimbursing contractors for installing filters that reduce emissions up to 90 percent. The law also outlines a plan for cleaning up school buses, which will ensure all buses in Rhode Island run cleaner by 2012. Sponsored by Miller and state Rep. Raymond J. Sullivan Jr. (D-District 29, Coventry, West Greenwich), the law is one of first of its kind to be found in a state’s general laws. Although Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York all have clean diesel programs, none are as comprehensive and streamlined as in Rhode Island. Not stopping at a state law, similar clean construction legislation has moved through cities and towns as well, with Providence and Cranston passing clean construction ordinances and Newport and Warwick negotiating ordinance language. That comprehensive approach to reducing diesel emissions has established Rhode Island as a national leader in clean construction policy. More importantly, it ensures that our air is cleaner, and easier, to breathe. Nicole Poepping is a lobbyist for Clean Water Action in Providence. Contact the organization by calling (401) 331-6972.
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DetermiNation runners needed for Cranberry Trifest Triathlon LAKEVILLE, Mass. -- Athletes participating in the Cranberry Trifest Triathlon at 9 a.m. on Aug. 28 and 8 a.m. on Aug. 29 at the Ted Williams Camp will have the opportunity to make their miles more meaningful by participating in the American Cancer Society’s DetermiNation program. That powerful and inspiring movement saves lives by enabling athletes to dedicate their training and participation in marathons, triathlons, cycling races and other endurance events in honor or in memory of a loved one with cancer while raising thousands of dollars for the fight against this devastating disease. Although entries for the race are sold out, people still wishing to participate can do so through the society’s DetermiNation program. Participants of the triathlon on Aug. 28 swim a half mile, bike 12 miles and run 3.1 miles. On Aug. 29, participants will swim nine tenths of a mile; bike 24.9 miles and run 6.2 miles. “When we heard the American Cancer Society’s DetermiNation program had partnered with the Cranberry Trifest Triathlon, helping to do our part was one of our easiest decisions,” says Keith Sacco of Westerly, R.I. “Cancer has touched everyone in one way or another and thanks to organizations such as the American
Cancer Society, we are seeing continuous breakthroughs and more and more stories with happy endings. “However, the stories are not all happy, and that is why this is such an important cause that myself and the rest of team Tri’umph are proud and excited to be supporting,” said Sacco. “DetermiNation represents the hard work, strength and commitment needed to compete in an endurance race, and those are the same qualities the American Cancer Society calls on every day in the race to save lives,” said Holly Randall, American Cancer Society project manager of endurance events. Through the commitment of the athletes, alongside the efforts of those who support them, their endurance training will become more personally significant as they make an impact in Lakeville. While Cranberry Triathlon DetermiNation team members commit to raising a minimum of $500 to support the American Cancer Society’s efforts to fight cancer and save lives, the participants receive numerous benefits to help them achieve their personal victories, including: • Race weekend VIP amenities. • Waived race registration fee. • A personalized Web page to assist in fund-raising efforts.
• Fund-raising incentive prizes. • Free local group training with access to coaches. • An exclusive American Cancer Society racing shirt. • The opportunity to dedicate participation in memory or in honor of a loved one touched by cancer. DetermiNation was born out of a program called Charity Runner, which was started in 1996 by an individual in the American Cancer Society’s Illinois division who wanted to run a marathon in memory of a friend he had recently lost to cancer. Because of the program’s rapid growth, the society decided to expand the initiative nationwide to include all types of endurance events. In the years prior to advancing the program to a national platform, thousands of athletes made their miles more meaningful by raising millions to fight cancer. There are several upcoming DetermiNation events around New England, including the ING Hartford Marathon in Connecticut and the 2011 Hyannis, Mass., Marathon. The society has a select number of entries to each event. For more information, call (800) 227-2345 or visit cancer.org/meaningfulmiles.
Affiliated with the INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS 121 BRIGHTRIDGE AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 02914 www.teamsterslocal251.org EXECUTIVE BOARD Joseph J. Bairos Secretary-Treasurer Principal Executive Officer Kevin Reddy President James Croce Vice President David Demuth Recording Secretary Dennis Mello Trustee Susan Folan Trustee Janet O’Grady Trustee
BUSINESS AGENTS Brian Carroll Kevin Reddy Steven Labrie Joseph Boyajian Douglas Teoli Daniel Manocchio Asst. Business Agents Linda Russolino
Homeowners Welcome!
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Common Ground
AUGUST 2010
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Do everything possible to develop and execute a retirement plan By William J. Hawkins III Will I have enough money in retirement? It’s a question more and more Americans are asking. Baby boomers in particular wonder if they’ll be able to live comfortably and securely when they leave the workaday world. The good news is that you may be able to retire with confidence and enough assets if you get organized. That means thinking about what you want retirement to be, reviewing your current investments and benefits and taking maximum advantage of some investment vehicles designed to provide retirement income. As with so many things, the key is to set clear goals and then pursue them. “People who are getting ready for retirement are more financially responsible than their counterparts who are not planning for retirement,” says David Karr, a certified public accountant with David E. Karr and Associates in Rockville, Md. “People who spend less than they make and take maximum advantage of the opportunities presented them to save for retirement, those people understand that life is not all about today. If you want a nice retirement life, you need to start planning as early as possible.” Setting retirement goals is not just about money. It’s also about drawing on your values and hopes to create a satisfying life. For some people, that may mean continuing to work past age 65 or even starting a new career. Others, of course, may be ready to stop laboring and start relaxing, volunteering, traveling or pursuing a pastime. Because each individual’s idea of the perfect retirement is different, everybody will have different financial needs. Try to determine what yours will be based on your vision of being retired. Don’t accept the conventional wisdom that says all of us will require 60 percent to 80 percent of our income when we stop working. Instead, try to estimate a budget for your specific vision of retirement. Start by noting how much money you spend on the basics -- food, shelter, clothing, health care and transportation. Include expenses for raising children and the mortgage, if it still needs to be paid off. Also, if you keep working, account for any income you anticipate. Add costs for travel,
hobbies, entertaining, donations and a second home, if that’s something you’ve worked toward attaining. Think about what might happen to your taxes and apply that information accordingly. While admittedly imprecise, the estimate should be a fair starting place for creating a retirement budget. As you look ahead, be sure to consider that, realistically, you may be retired for a long time, and your finances need to reflect that fact. “If you retire at 65, you have a life expectancy of another 20 to 25 years. That’s a long, long time not to have a regular check coming in,” Karr says. Once you have a sense of your financial needs, look at the benefits you’re confident you’ll receive. Make sure you know what you’ll get from your employer, which you can usually find with a quick visit to the human resources department. Also, review your savings and investments. Then check on your Social Security benefits. Once a year, Social Security sends a statement of those. If you don’t have one, then use the benefit calculators at the Social Security Web site — www.ssa.gov. When you know your goals and estimated expenses and income, you can create a written retirement plan that covers investments held in retirement and non-retirement accounts. As you do, it’s a good idea to look at several sources of income that you can use to save and invest. Begin by considering using an individual retirement account (IRA). Two types particularly deserve attention — traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs. Traditional IRAs tend to work best for people who believe they’ll be in a lower tax bracket during retirement and meet the criteria for making tax-deductible contributions. Earnings and contributions are taxable as ordinary income when withdrawn, and withdrawals prior to age 59½ may trigger a federal 10 percent penalty. Payments from the account must begin when the investor reaches age 70½. The Roth IRA generally appeals to people who want tax-deferred earnings; are OK with the idea of making after-tax contributions now in exchange for tax-free distributions in retirement; and expect to be in the same or a higher tax bracket when
they retire. Holders of Roth IRAs often use them because they also may need access to their savings. The Roth IRA requires no minimum distribution during the investor’s lifetime. With both IRAs, investors make periodic contributions and direct how the money will be invested. For Roth IRAs, qualified distributions are federally tax-free provided the account has been open for at least five tax years and the owner has reached age 59½ or meets other requirements. Qualified Roth IRA distributions are not subject to state and local taxation in most states. Besides IRAs, annuities also may have a place in your portfolio. An annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company in which the insurer agrees to make periodic payments to you, beginning either immediately or at some future date. Annuities are designed to be long-term investments used for retirement. They have contract limitations, fees and charges that include, but are not limited to, mortality and expense risk charges, sales and surrender charges, administrative fees and charges for optional benefits. There are limitations on the amount of funds that may be withdrawn without a charge, and withdrawals reduce annuity contract benefits and values. Additionally, withdrawals of earnings are subject to ordinary income tax, and a federal 10 percent penalty may apply to withdrawals taken prior to age 59½. Annuities have two basic forms — fixed and variable. Fixed annuities appeal to conservative investors because they deliver a fixed payment at a regular interval. On the other hand, variable annuities generally offer a range of investment options, and the value of your investment will vary depending on the performance of the investment options you choose, which may directly impact the payments you are able to receive. Ultimately, proper planning may help you get the retirement you desire, if you know what you want and what your options are and pursue both with resolve and clarity. This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of William J. Hawkins III, a chartered retirement planning counselor and financial adviser in Providence. He can be reached at (401) 459-6824.
Do you really need flood insurance? By Brian Hunter According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding can cause several billion dollars of property damage in the United States each year. Many of us witnessed this first hand last Spring. If you are like many homeowners, however, you may be unaware that the standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover flood losses. You may believe that you have a low risk to this peril, but FEMA reports that approximately 25 percent of all flood claims occur in communities in which flooding is deemed to be a low to moderate risk. So do you really need a separate flood policy? The following tips and ideas may prove helpful in answering this question. You should contact your insurance agent to see if you live in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a prerequisite in order to qualify for flood insurance. Participating communities must agree to adopt and enforce certain floodplain management regulations, including building construction and zoning laws that minimize the risks of flood damage. Do you live in a floodplain? You should ask your agent, or you can go to www.floodsmart.gov and select “What’s Your Flood Risk?” which will ask you to enter your home address. This Web site will then specify whether you are in a low, moderate, or high risk area.
We advise that you consider purchasing flood insurance even if you are in a low-to moderate-risk community. In these areas, you may be eligible for the Preferred Risk Policy, with premiums as low as $112 per year including coverage for your personal property. It is important to note that a flood policy does not take effect until 30 days after you purchase the coverage. So, if the local meteorologist announces a flood alert for your community and you try to purchase coverage, it is already too late. This is why it is important to start planning now. The maximum limit of insurance in the NFIP for your home itself is $250,000. If your residence’s value exceeds this amount, ask your insurance agent about excess insurance for losses above the federal policy’s maximum limits. Don’t assume that the government will bail you out if you suffer a flood loss and don’t have a flood insurance policy. That decision is a gamble you may not win. Remember that federal disaster assistance, if available, is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest. I recommend that you discuss all the pros and cons of flood insurance with your agent before making your final decision. Brian Hunter is the owner of Hunter Insurance, an independent Trusted Choice insurance agency in Lincoln, and can be reached at 401.769.9500
David P. Fleming President James P. Riley Secretary-Treasurer
Southern New Englands Neighborhood Union United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 328 278 Silver Spring Street • Providence, RI 02904-2593 • 401.861.0300 • 800.624.7776 • www.ufcw328.org
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Local 328 anticipates breaking the $1 million mark next year and is planning a spectacular event with the generous cooperation of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Swansea Country Club. The successful tournaments could not take place without the generous contribution of time and the committed involvement of our membership at all of the locals’ locations in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut. One half of the field is made up of Local 328 members, who hold own fund-raisers in their stores to pay their entry fees. While the entire day is an enjoyable respite for attendees, the main goal is to seek a cure. Each year a Leukemia survivor and the person’s family attend the dinner and relate their journey to the gathering. Those heartfelt testimonials truly put a face on the tournament and remind all of us why we are there. Many thanks to all of you in the Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts labor community as well as the membership for helping to make the tournament the great success that it has become.
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LOCAL UNION 808 Frank A. Ciccone Business Manager
Pasquale Zompa Norma M. Sousa President Vice President
Claudia Porrazzo Recording Secretary
David Garzone Executive Board Member
Dominick J. Ruggerio Secretary-Treasurer
Gina M. Sabitoni-Arakelian Executive Board Member
AUGUST 2010
Common Ground
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Archambault proposes adopting Massachusetts model to strengthen consumer protections Steve Archambault, Democratic candidate for attorney general, has proposed strengthening Rhode Island’s weak consumer protections by adopting a law based on Massachusetts’ strong deceptive trade practices statute. Archambault said, “It is time to put real teeth in our consumer protection laws. And all we have to do is look just across our border to see how to do it.” The law in Massachusetts gives consumers the ability to collect double and triple damages when businesses knowingly violate the law and deceive or trick consumers or fail to correct a problem once
informed of it. The attorney general is also given the right to put in place regulations to enforce the statute and the broad authority to seek civil penalties. In addition, the attorney general has the authority to seek assurances that unlawful practices will stop. Archambault noted it is critical that a new law apply broadly, and that the many exceptions for classes of businesses that exist in Rhode Island be severely limited. “In these tough economic times, we must redouble our efforts to protect all of our residents
from fraud and bad business practices. Truth in advertising needs to be more than a slogan. As attorney general, I would make it the Rhode Island way,” he added. Archambault, who serves as a councilman in Smithfield, would bring a broad legal background to the attorney general’s office. His experience as a police officer, prosecutor and defense attorney gives him a first-hand understanding of all the elements of the criminal justice system. To learn more about the candidate, go online to www.archambaultforattorneygeneral.com.
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Common Ground
AUGUST 2010
Pam Powell leads walk aimed at giving diabetes the boot “We are small but mighty,” says American Diabetes Association (ADA) Step-Out Walk Chair Pam Powell. A volunteer for the past two years, Powell works as a service account manager at United Health Care. It was through United that Pam became involved with the ADA. “United really focuses on community involvement” she said in a recent interview. In 2008, Powell served on a statewide task force that networked with the ADA. “I would volunteer in a lot of one-shot deals, but I had been looking for something more long term. Given my family history, it seemed like a good fit,” she said. Her mother, father and grandfather all lived with diabetes. Powell herself was diagnosed in 2007. “I was angry,” she states, recalling the diagnosis. “I thought the condition might go away by itself, and I focused on my daughters more than myself. I suppose I was in denial.” That focus took on a new perspective last summer as Powell visited with a friend also living with diabetes. “She is 65 to 70 years old, about 25 years older than I. We were talking, comparing our medications and it struck me: In 10 to 20 years, I could be talking to my daughters about the same thing.” Through that realization,
Powell has become the name and face of the Rhode Island walk. For the second straight year, she is chairing the event. Since assuming that role, walk revenues have increased by more than 60 percent. While Powell applauds the donations, it is the presence of walkers that matters most. “Going to the walk is so important. Walkers have the chance to physically demonstrate how important their cause is,” Powell said. “I look at it like a rock concert. You go to the event to validate the issue. People walk to validate how widespread diabetes is and why we address it.” Like revenues, the number of walkers has also increased, going from 40 in 2008 to more than 130 in 2009. Powell’s leadership is based in both personal and professional experience. “Diabetes is such a hot topic in health care. Coming from a health insurer, it is one of the top five diagnoses that people have. I have the opportunity to talk about diabetes often. It is something I regularly talk about with my friends,” she said. The Rhode Island American Diabetes Association is among those friends, supporters and fans of Pam Powell. “We literally would be not where we are without Pam here,” says
ADA Associate Manager Nora Marzocchi. “Her tireless smile and energy are infectious.” Modestly, Powell quickly deflects any praise pointed her way. “The Rhode Island ADA is awesome. It is a very special, incredibly dedicated group of people. Concrete things get done at a local and global level,” she said. She cites the ADA Lunch
& Learn Program along with supermarket tours sponsored by Whole Foods. She is quick to add the importance of the ADA Tour de Cure as well as the Step-Out Walk. Revenues generated by those programs fund research and awareness. The mission of the ADA is: care, cure and commitment. “It is real time impact,” notes Powell.
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Eye On Rhode Island
AUGUST 2010
Page 13
OPINION
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Candidate for general treasurer promotes financial independence By Gina Raimondo
As we celebrated Independence Day, I was reminded of the role that financial literacy and empowerment play in personal freedom and independence. Simply put, money is power, and knowing how to manage your money, no matter what your resources, is the first step in achieving personal independence. Think for a moment about all the ways that a lack of financial know-how can hold a person back. There’s the worker in a low-wage job whose inability to manage his money leads to a downward cycle of predatory pay day loans and a virtual guarantee that he’ll never escape that dead-end job. There’s the young mother in a relationship in which her spouse controls the family’s finances and leaves her in the dark about money management. And there’s the generation of children being raised by adults who’ve never learned
how to avoid bad debt and risky credit products, save for a rainy day or invest for the future. Education can play an important role in changing that. The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools has created a collection of model financial literacy curriculums for girls from across the country. The California-based Earned Asset Resource Network (EARN) has helped low-wage families save for the future, with a host of financial products and financial education. Clearly, there’s a hunger for financial knowledge, and with it, individuals are learning to embrace their financial independence. As part of my campaign to become Rhode Island’s next general treasurer, I’ll be holding a series of “money school” events designed to give people the financial tools and knowledge they need to better manage their resources. My goal is to hold several money school events in the coming months. Financial literacy programs work because they teach all people, regardless of what they earn, that they have the power to put their money to work. With money comes the power to change lives, whether it’s owning a first home, starting a new business or sending
a child to college. We Rhode Islanders value our independence. Let’s not forget that while money isn’t everything, it is a seed from which personal power and independence can grow. It’s up to us to plant and nurture that seed so that all Rhode Islanders can better enjoy the fruits of their labor. For more information about the money school or to register to attend, call Gina Raimondo for General Treasurer at (401) 921-5748. Raimondo, a Democrat, co-founded Point Judith Capital, a Providence-based firm that invests in start-up companies and creates jobs in high-growth industries. Raimondo serves as vice chair of the board of directors of Crossroads Rhode Island, where she played a key role in launching a new shelter for women. She is also a trustee at Women and Infants Hospital and has served on the boards of Family Service Rhode Island and La Salle Academy. Born and raised in Smithfield, Raimondo is the daughter of Joseph and Josephine Raimondo. She and her husband, Andy Moffit, have two children, ages 5 and 3, and live in Providence. Visit www.ginaraimondo.com.
A 10-point plan to save RIPTA By Barry Schiller There are many reports, for example the official State Guide Plan, that note the importance of a good transit system for our economy, environment and quality of life. Yet, you may have heard that Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA), our public transit system, recently held hearings on a fare increase and service cuts. RIPTA’s board approved the fare increase but put off dealing with proposed service cuts that would have reduced or eliminated weekend service on some lines in response to appeals from elderly and disabled riders with few transportation choices. However, RIPTA officials indicated that unless something is done over the next few years to avoid deficits, the authority will have to eliminate some routes, shut down the entire system at 9 p.m., reduce frequency of service and eliminate park and rides, all holiday service and another 10 routes. What’s to be done to save RIPTA and prevent such drastic cuts? There is no magic bullet, but at the hearings I made these 10 points: 1. No further fare hikes. Fares are already up at least 60 percent since 2003 and are already relatively high and a burden on the mainly lowincome working people. Also, transit industry guidelines suggest the latest fare increase will lead to the loss of about 500,000 paying passengers. 2. More funding. RIPTA’s deficits relate to both relatively inadequate funding (a legislative commission noted state and local operating assistance is 10 percent below the national average) and a funding source, the gas tax, that is fixed and doesn’t grow with inflation as do sales and income taxes. So we need to work on a long-term sustainable funding stream, and indeed the state Senate has formed a new commission to study that. But short-term, gas tax adjustments will be needed. For example, the proposed service cuts being discussed could be funded by an additional 1/6 cent added to the gas tax. Indeed the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission of movers and shakers recommended a gas tax increase (also to give needed help to Rhode Island
Department of Transportation), but political leadership is needed to get that implemented. 3. Generate more revenue from more paying passengers. To do that, RIPTA needs a real marketing department to work on schedule distribution, image and public relations, media outreach, even to use the buses to advertise the buses. RIPTA must develop a culture of building ridership. Perhaps pay for a marketing department and raises or bonuses for all employees would have some link to ridership. 4. Involve the drivers. Bus and van drivers can help improve the system as they know the riders, the bus stops and where there are problems and opportunities. But too often, they say, nobody listens to them. 5. Have transit workers help get riders. Another way transit unions can help is to encourage other unions to ask for transit incentives for their employers. RIPTA has an “Ecopass” program modeled on its successful UPass under which some college student identifications are valid for bus trips. Colleges pay at a discount rate only for trips actually taken. 6. Employers can help get riders. Major employers should be called on to join Ecopass or an equivalent program. Employers such as Providence Place Mall that receive a significant tax break have some responsibility to help fight pollution and congestion. Ecopass only pays for rides taken so if companies don’t use it, they pay nothing, and perhaps transit incentives can help them save some of the cost of providing “free” parking. 7. State government should help get riders. The governor should phase in Ecopass for state workers. The General Assembly passed several bills to encourage state workers to use public transportation, but so far there has been little implementation. Nobody is trying to take away state employees’ “free” parking, but there are four bus lines that go by the Statehouse so some state employees, and thus the rest of us, can benefit from the transit system. Also, there is a need for visible shelters and schedule distribution to
accommodate the many visitors to Smith Hill. 8. Re-establish the short zone. In the 1990s, RIPTA had five fare zones, depending on distance traveled. Now it is one rate for all trips. This is a social justice and land use issue, but it also hurts RIPTA ridership because it is not competitive on short trips. For example, with reasonable assumptions ($2.80 per gallon for gas and a 20 mile per gallon car) a four-mile round-trip commute would cost $4 by bus, but only 56 cents for gas. On the other hand, a 50 mile round-trip would cost $7 for gas, so the bus is a bargain at $4. While RIPTA could charge more for their express buses (as almost all bus systems do,) it should also reinstitute a shortzone fare of $1. The trolleys, originally conceived of as a low-cost alternative way to get around in central Providence, should be in the short-zone, especially if the redeveloping jewelry district is to have any transit orientation. 9. Economize. Service can be eliminated on certain low ridership holidays when the state shuts down. Reports indicated some RIde passengers were “gaming” the system, getting expensive door-to-door van rides when they could use the fixed route buses. There needs to be a real re-evaluation process to both save money and protect those who really need the vans. 10. RIPTA deserves respect. Stakeholders, including employees, passengers and advocates, need to counter unfounded negative comments from anti-tax or anti-government zealots. All investigations have found RIPTA to be a reasonably well-run agency, ahead of its peers on many measures. While it can’t work for all trips, RIPTA provides better service than most nonusers think it does. So those that see the value of transit should talk up RIPTA and help it build ridership, which I think is essential for getting the political support needed for keeping it going strong. Barry Schiller is a member of the Transit 2020 Action Committee and the State Planning Council’s Transportation Advisory Committee.
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Common Ground
OPINION CONTINUED
AUGUST 2010
MAPs assist union members with navigating road to recovery By Mike Blackburn Nearly 65 percent of all unions have a member assistance program, or MAP. Generally considered part of a union benefits package, your MAP is a powerful resource to help the union save money for your employer while protecting and preserving members’ positions. Consider the following: • Workers under stress are more likely to become ill or injured. Counseling can help members deal with stress. • Drug and alcohol abuse contribute to many work-related accidents. By providing confidential access to drug and alcohol treatment programs, your MAP makes access to treatment programs easier. • A MAP can provide referrals to licensed psychologists or psychiatrists. • MAPs can offer behavioral health treatments to those undergoing treatment for workplace illness or injury, possibly helping to shorten the returnto-work process by alleviating depression and stress related to the physical condition. A MAP offers members confidential short-term counseling with a counselor specially trained to identify the underlying problem. When appropriate, the MAP counselor will make referrals to specialists or other providers. Some MAPs have a network of specialists such as addiction specialists, mental health specialists, family counseling specialists and legal advisers. Other MAPs work on the basis of referring members to outside providers and programs when necessary. The member has the responsibility of following through with any referral appointments and making financial arrangements for any services that fall outside the scope of the benefit program. MAPs can also help unions deal with personnel problems in a sensitive manner, without violating a member’s right to privacy. For example, a supervisor who sees a member’s work suffering due to a personal problem or possible drug or alcohol abuse can refer that member to the MAP without having to inquire about the nature of the problem.
A MAP can help you get the most out of your benefit plan. A good MAP will promote its services with communications to union members. When a member turns to the MAP for assistance, the MAP counselor can help the member identify resources covered by your benefit program. For example, a member facing addiction might be referred to a program covered by your health benefits. A member with mental health problems might be referred to a provider in your group health insurance plan’s network. MAPs may also inform members of their rights under government-mandated benefit programs such as workers’ compensation, the Family and Medical Leave Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and federal and state mental health parity mandates. In short, your MAP will not only save an employer excessive revenue in the present, but proper use of your MAP is one of the most effective tools for preventing lost revenue and preserving your business’ integrity long into the future. Your MAP is the ultimate solution facilitator when used effectively and can become the key to saving lives and money -two things nobody can afford to lose. Here is a look at how the five most expensive addictions impact a business and beyond: • Alcohol -- Estimated annual cost: $166 billion. Binge drinking hits the unemployed harder on a per capita basis -- 10.4 percent of the unemployed vs. 8.4 percent of employed people. It is most prevalent in small metropolitan locales rather than big cities or rural areas. The $18 billion spent on alcohol and drug treatment last year represented 1.3 percent of all health care spending. • Smoking -- Estimated annual cost: $157 billion. The tab includes $75 billion in direct medical expenses, with the rest in lost productivity from people missing work due to smoking-related illnesses. Given the low-tax (or no-tax) underground cigarette economy on the Web and on Indian reservations,
it’s unlikely that sales and usage have dropped much over the past decade, official government statistics notwithstanding. • Drugs -- Estimated annual cost: $110 billion. Like alcohol, illicit drug use is more prevalent among the unemployed. Most addicts are also heavy drinkers, but very few alcoholics are drug abusers. Crystal methamphetamine has followed marijuana, cocaine and heroin as the drug of choice among the young set. • Overeating -- Estimated annual cost: $107 billion. Overeating increases the risk of many health problems, including heart attacks. Obesity causes 14 percent of heart attacks suffered by males and 20 percent of those suffered by females, according to the National Institutes for Health, and less than a third of adults get regular exercise. The bulk of the $107 billion is the direct cost to treat heart disease, osteoarthritis, hypertension, gall bladder disease and cancer. • Gambling -- Estimated annual cost: $40 billion. Addicted gamblers often feel compelled to chase after bad bets with more money in the hope of winning back their losses. Some who catch the fever develop the need to periodically raise the betting stakes to keep the same thrill. Also, addicts often face job loss, bankruptcy and forced home sales, and they are at greater risk to commit crimes such as forgery and embezzlement. As members in downsized workforces deal with increased workloads and increased demands at home, you will find that an MAP is a powerful training tool and well-trained members speak to the investment the employer has made. For more information on MAPs and the significant role they play in the addiction community, contact Treatment Solutions Network. Mike Blackburn is vice president of Treatment Solutions Network.
UA Local Union 51 Plumbers • Pipefitters • Refrigeration Thomas A. Handfield Business Manager Robert Walker Financial Secretary
Timothy L. Byrne Business Agent
Frederick Foeri Organizer/Agent
William D. Mello Business Agent
Done Once. Done Right Serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts
II Hemingway Drive, East Providence, Rhode Island 02915 Telephone: 401-943-3033. Fax: 401-943-8027
www.ualocal51.com
AUGUST 2010
Common Ground
Page 15
Aid sought to find cure for devastating form of cancer Have you ever heard the term cholangiocarcinoma? If you have not, you are not alone. I had never heard of cholangiocarcinoma in my 63 years on this earth. That all changed for me and my family in February 2009, and the term has been a daily part of our lives ever since. Our son, Tom, and his wife, Kim, live in Macon, Ga. They have two beautiful and wonderful children: Tommy, 11; and Kailey, 9. Together, they were living the so-called “perfect life” – a lovely home, successful careers and many wonderful friends. Then in
February 2009 after a couple of months of experiencing general malaise, Kim paid a visit to her physician. After a series of tests, Kim and Tom were presented with devastating, life-altering news: Kim was afflicted with cholangiocarcinoma, a form of cancer that always carries with it an unfavorable prognosis. Kim has a form of cholangiocarcinoma that is referred to as intra-hepatic cholangiocarcinoma. After informing loved ones about the situation, Kim and Tom visited and consulted with a number of leading cancer treatment facilities throughout the country. Those facilities
tested and retested, but in each instance the response was the same; the primary tumor mass on Kim’s liver was too large to make her an acceptable candidate for liver surgery. The consistent advice was to begin a regimen of chemotherapy and then retest to determine if the treatment had shrunk the tumors to the point where a resection (surgery) of the liver could be done. So that is what she did. Following two months of chemotherapy, a new scan revealed significant tumor shrinkage. Continued on Page 17
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Joseph M. O’Connor
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GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS CONFERENCE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS 25 Louisiana Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001 A UNION REPRESENTING PROUD UNION PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1918
LOCAL 400
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers
PLACE YOUR AD HERE Call 451.1305
A progressive labor union representing more than 80,000 men and women in professional, technical, administrative and associated occupations.
685 Warren Avenue East Providence, RI 02914
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Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals
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Joseph A. Montanaro President Gary Glittone Vice President DISTRICT 4 - LOCAL 12431 172 Longfellow Sreet Providence, Rhode Island 02907 p. 401.527.6792 f. 401.284.3677
Steven Kirby Financial Secretary Gordon Huffman Treasurer Mark Boyajian Recording Secretary
(401) 273-9800 FAX (401) 331-8815 www.rifthp.org
PAUL R. ENOS Vice President INTERNATIONAL UNION OF
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Page 16
Common Ground
AUGUST 2010
DIRECTORY OF UNION SERVICES BARBERS & HAIRDRESSERS Some barbers and hairdressers are organized by UFCW Local 328. For a list of union barber shops and hairdressers, please contact Local 328 at (401) 861-0300 or www.ufcw328.org
BUILDING TRADES For home and business construction, repairs, or additions please contact one of the following unions for a reputable contractor in your area. For general questions or help please call Build RI at (401) 553-2100 or www.BuildRI.org Boilermakers Local No. 29 (617) 328-8400 Bricklayers Local No.1 (401) 946-9940 Carpenters Local No. 94 (401) 467-7070 Elevator Constructors Local No. 39 (401) 423-2293 Glaziers Local No. 1333 (401) 781-4736 Heat and Frost Insulators Local No. 6 (617) 436-4666 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local No. 99 (401) 946-9900 International Union of Operating Engineers Local No. 57 (401) 421-6678 Iron Workers Local Local No. 37 (401) 438-1111 Laborers Local No. 271 (401) 331-9682 Painters & Allied Trades District Council 11 (401) 467-7010 Plaster & Masons Local No. 40 (401) 943-1185 Plumbers & Pipefitters Local No. 51 (401) 943-3033 Rhode Island Building Trades (401) 438-1111 Roofers & Waterproofers Local No. 33 (781) 341-9192 Sheet Metal Workers Local No. 17 (401) 831-7150 Sprinkler Fitters Local No. 676 (860) 666-4447 Teamsters Local No. 251 (401) 434-0454
BUS SERVICES RIPTA Rhode Island Public Transit Authority 265 Melrose Street Providence, RI 02907 (401) 781-9400 www.ripta.com Peter Pan Bus Lines Corporate Headquarters P.O. Box 1776 Springfield, MA 01102-1776 1-800-237-8747 ext. 1209 www.peterpanbus.com
CHILD CARE PROVIDERS To arrange on-site child care coverage for your meetings or conferences, or to locate a DCYF-licensed home-based child care provider in your neighborhood or near your workplace, contact the union of home-based child care providers, District 1199 SEIU, at (401) 457-5099 or www. seiu1199ne.org
DELIVERY SERVICES United Parcel Service The Teamsters Local 251 represent Rhode Island’s UPS workers. For the outlet nearest you, or to schedule a home pick up, please contact UPS at www.ups.com or 1-800-PICK-UPS. United States Postal Service Your local post office is represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers, the American Postal Workers Union and the National Postal Mail Handlers Union (a division of the Laborers Union.) www.usps.com
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Credit union employees are organized by UFCW Local 328. Rhode Island Credit Union www.ricreditunion.org Providence Branch 160 Francis Street Providence, RI 02903 (401) 751-7440 Cranston Branch 570 Pontiac Avenue Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 941-8770 Bristol Branch 390 Metacom Avenue Bristol, RI 02809 (401) 253-1313
Rhode Island College 600 Mount Pleasant Avenue Providence, RI 02908 (401)456-8022 Kathy Sasso RI Convention Center 1 Sabin Street Providence, RI 02903 (401)-458-6002 Antonia Anthony, Director of Event Services Roger Williams Park Casino 1000 Elmwood Avenue Providence, RI 02905 (401) 785-9450 ext. 240 Lisa Gonzales, Casino Event Planner Roger Williams University 1 Old Ferry Road Bristol, RI 02809 (401) 253-1040 ext. 3793 Allison Chase-Padula Twin River 1600 Louisquisset Pike Lincoln, RI 02865 (401) 723-3200 ext. 8497 Alana Barts University of Rhode Island Kingston, Alton Jones Campus Providence Campus (401) 874-2214 Sherry Davis The Westin Providence 1 Exchange Street Providence, RI 02903 (401) 598-8245 Alan Swerdolff, Director of Sales and Marketing
HOSPITALS
The Carpenters’ Union represents:
UNAP members work at the following locations: • Fatima Hospital • Greater RI Visiting Nurse Service • Homestead Group • Kent Hospital • Landmark Medical Center • Memorial Hospital • Rehabilitation Hospital of RI • Rhode Island Hospital • RI Community Living & Support Services • RI Dept of Human Services • RI Veterans’ Home • URI, CCRI, RIC Health Services • Westerly Hospital (Professional & Technical) • Westerly Hospital (Service & Maintenance) • Zambarano Hospital
First Trade Union Bank www.ftubhb.com 14 Jefferson Park Road Warwick, RI 02888 1-800-242-0272
SEIU 1199 members work at the following locations: • Butler Hospital • Women & Infants Hospital
URI Branch URI Memorial Union Kingston, RI 02881 (401) 789-0253 Dexter Credit Union www.dextercu.org 1 Village Plaza Way North Scituate, RI 02857 (401) 934-7600 934 Dexter Street Central Falls, RI 02863 (401) 724-6200 Woodlawn Federal Credit Union 744 Main Street Pawtucket, RI 02860 (401) 728-8300
FUNCTION FACILITIES Biltmore Hotel 11 Dorrance Street Providence, RI 02903 (401) 455-3027 Scott Connery, Director of Catering Brown University 45 Prospect St. Providence, RI 02912 (401) 863-1075 Cynthia Schwartz, Director of University Event Bryant University 1150 Douglas Pike Smithfield, RI 02917 (401) 232-6921 Sheila Guay, Director of Events Community College of Rhode Island Knight Campus, Warwick Flanagan Campus, Lincoln Liston Campus, Providence Newport Campus CCRI Downcity (401) 825-2015 Edna Mattson Dunkin Donuts Center 1 LaSalle Square Providence, RI 02903 (401) 331-0700 ext. 150 Robert Sturm, Event Manager Newport Grand 150 Admiral Kalbfus Road Newport, RI 02840 (401) 849-5000 ext. 157 David Rollin Providence College 549 River Avenue Providence, RI 02918 (401) 865-1000 ext. 2070 Victoria Mocshu
JANITORIAL SERVICES Some janitorial companies are organized by SEIU Local 615. For a list of unionized janitorial services, contact the Local 615 office at (401) 521-6150 or visit their website at www.seiu615.org.
NEWSPAPERS Common Ground News www.commongroundnews.net Subscribe 401.451.1305 Providence Journal www.projo.com Subscribe (401) 277-7600 Pawtucket Times www.pawtuckettimes.com Subscribe (401) 722-4000 Woonsocket Call www.woonsocketcall.com Subscribe (401) 767-8522
NURSING HOMES SEIU 1199 members work at the following locations: • Bannister House • Charlesgate Nursing Center • Country Gardens Skilled Nursing • Crawford Skilled Nursing • Greenville Skilled Nursing • Hopkins Manor • Pawtucket Skilled Nursing • Parkview Associates • United Methodist Health Care Center
PRINTERS, BANNERS & SIGNS
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
American Speedy Printing 635 Arnold Road Coventry, RI 02816 Phone: (401) 823-0090 Fax: (401) 823-0092
All public school employees are organized by the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals or the National Education Association of Rhode Island.
B Sign Graphics 27 Libera Street Cranston, RI 02920 Phone: (401) 943-6941 Fax: (401) 943-2287
The following Charter Schools are also unionized: • Laborers Charter School • Textron Charter School • Times 2 Charter School
Checkmate Consulting Group & Printing 461 Main Street East Greenwich, RI 02818 Phone: (401) 885-0666 Fax: (401) 885-0775 Cogens, Inc. 1 Virginia Avenue Providence, RI 02905 Phone: (401) 421-4436 Fax: (401) 331-9032 Crownmark 109 Fletcher Avenue Cranston, RI 02920 Phone: (401) 943-1112 Fax: (401) 943-1113 Dorrance Engraving 635 Prospect Street Pawtucket, RI 02860 Phone: (401) 725-0504 Fax: (401) 725-0504 East Coast Screen Printing 22 Partridge Street Providence, RI 02908 Phone: (401) 272-1166 Fax: (401) 272-1167 Federal Signs 135 Dean Street Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 421-3400 Fax: (401) 351-2233 Financial Innovations 1 Weingeroff Blvd. Cranston, RI 02919 Phone: (401) 467-3170 Fax: (401) 467-3570 JB Foley Printing 1469 Broad Street Providence, RI 02905 Phone: (401) 467-3616 Fax: (401) 467-8309 Lamar Outdoor Advertising 360 Warren Avenue E. Providence, RI 02914 Phone: (401) 421-4504, Fax: (401) 421-4757 Mandeville Sign Co. 676 George Wash. Hwy. Lincoln, RI 02865 Phone: (401) 334-9100 Fax: (401) 334-7799 Regine Printing Co., Inc. 208 Laurel Hill Avenue Providence, RI 02909 Phone: (401) 943-3404 Fax (401) 944-1228
RECYCLING AND TRASH REMOVAL SERVICES Waste Management of Rhode Island (800) 972-4545
SUPERMARKETS Supermarket employees at the stores listed below are members of UFCW Local 328 or UFCW Local 791. Super Stop and Shop • Bristol • Coventry • Cumberland • Johnston • Lincoln • Middletown • Narragansett • Newport • North Kingstown • North Providence • North Smithfield • Pawtucket • Providence • Richmond • Smithfield • Warwick • Westerly Shaw’s Supermarket • Barrington • Garden City • Cranston • East Providence • Riverside • Johnston • Middletown • North Providence • Pawtucket • Providence • Wakefield • Warwick • Lakewood • Westerly • Woonsocket Eastside Marketplace • Providence Brigidos IGA • Pascoag • North Scituate
Don’t Miss Grand Union Family Markets • South Yarmouth • Provincetown • Buzzards Bay • South Yarmouth C-Town Supermarket • Pawtucket
R.I. Litho Printing, Inc. 1395 Atwood Avenue Johnston, RI 02919 Phone: (401) 275-0760 Fax: (401) 464-6002
Don’t Miss TELEPHONE, INTERNET
Screen Works, LLC 62 South Main Street Woonsocket, RI 02895 Phone: (401) 692-0304
weekly show highlighting 1 (800) 897-7046
Sheahan Printing Corp. 1 Front Street Woonsocket, RI 02895 Phone: (401) 273-7272 Fax: (401) 769-9206 Sign Lite, Inc. 6 Corporate Drive N. Haven, CT 06473 Phone: 1-800-544-0854 Fax: (203) 234-8344 The Sign Shoppe P.O. Box 2296 Westerly, RI 02891 Phone: (401) 364-7442 Tarvis Graphics Inc. 21 Sabin Street Pawtucket, RI 02860 Phone: (401) 726-5530 Fax: (401) 723-6420
PUBLIC RELATIONS Checkmate Consulting Group & Printing 461 Main Street East Greenwich, RI 02818 Phone: (401) 885-0666
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AUGUST 2010
Common Ground
Page 17
Continued from Page 15 To the great joy of her family and friends, Kim underwent a successful liver resection at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta. Next came a recovery period followed by the commencement of chemotherapy to prevent a recurrence. Our joy was short lived because the next scan revealed that new tumors had grown in her liver. Those small tumors were dealt with via a process known as radiofrequency ablation followed by more chemo. Subsequent scanning once again showed new tumors – the original chemo regimen was no longer effective. Over the following months, Kim has received other chemotherapy drugs and has most recently undergone radioembolization therapy (the insertion of radiation emitting beads into the cancerous area). Throughout the ordeal, her indomitable spirit has never wavered and has been continuously apparent. During the past 18 months, Kim’s and Tom’s family and friends in Rhode Island, Connecticut, Georgia and Michigan have remained consistently upbeat and committed to helping them achieve a successful and positive outcome. Collectively, we have devoted countless hours learning about this disease and searching the Internet for any new
treatment approaches that may help. We have also spent countless hours in prayer. What has become painfully apparent from our efforts is that there is a dearth of medical research devoted to finding a cure for this horrible disease. There is a dire need for an immediate intensification of research aimed at the development of the drug or drugs that will provide a cure for this “orphan” disease. Research will only flow from increased funding, and increased funding will only flow from enhanced public awareness of the illness. Cholangiocarcinoma, which is cancer of the bile duct, arises from the tissues in the bile duct, the four to five inch tube that connects the liver and the gallbladder to the small intestine. Bile helps the body rid itself of waste material filtered out of the bloodstream by the liver. The bile duct originates in the liver, and the end of the duct empties into the small intestine. Cancer can occur in any part of the bile duct. When the malignant tumor forms in the portion of the bile duct inside the liver, it is known as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Between 5 and 10 percent of cholangiocarcinomas are intrahepatic. All cholangiocarcinomas grow slowly, infiltrate locally and metastasize late in the course of the disease. Among the symptoms of intrahepatic tumors are abdominal pain, palpable masses, weight loss and jaundice. Abdominal pain is the most common symptom. Generally, those symptoms do not present in any significant way until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. Primary cholangiocarcinoma is an extraordinarily rare disease. It is estimated that 2,500 to 3,500 new cases are diagnosed each year in the United States. By way of comparison, a rare disease has been defined as one that has an incidence rate of fewer than 200,000. Typically, the prognosis is grim. Cholangiocarcinoma is considered to be an incurable and rapidly lethal disease. Unless its tumors can be surgically removed, there is no curative treatment, and patients are usually managed with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. The five-year relative survival rate for people diagnosed with early-stage cholangiocarcinoma is about 30 percent. However, only about 20 percent of cholangiocarcinoma cases are diagnosed at an early stage. The five-year relative survival rate decreases if cancer has spread at the time of diagnosis, and most patients die within one year of diagnosis. Our efforts over the past months to increase our understanding of this disease have led us to a wonderful organization known as The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. The organization, established only a few years ago by a small group of loved ones of people afflicted with cholangiocarcinoma, has made great strides in a relatively brief period. The foundation has launched an expanded, state-of-the-art Web site to serve as a useful and informative resource for patients, friends, caregivers, and loved ones. The vision of the foundation is to bring about a cure by: • Improving collaboration among researchers, clinicians, public institutions and nonprofit organizations. • Providing resources to assist in the challenges the patient, caregiver, and extended community experience. • Supporting research through investigative grants to researchers involved in bile-duct cancer studies. • Educating the public with the most current information on the disease through the foundation’s Web site, newsletters, support of medical conferences and community outreach. It is our intention to work with The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation to find the cure for Kim and all others contending with this form of cancer. We urge you to learn more by visiting www.cholangiocarcinoma.org and to consider what you can do to help.
Put John’s 25 years of experience along with Maffe’s Tax, Estate & Retirement Planning services to work for you today. John C. Edes, LUTCF
Maffe Financial Group Inc 875 Centerville Road Warwick, Rhode Island Office: 401-828-2090x305 Cell: 401-529-5110 www.maffefinancialgroup.com
Page 18
Common Ground
CommonGround
AUGUST 2010
TM
Eye On Rhode Island HAVE AN OPINION TO SHARE? e-mail john@commongroundnews.net or call 451.1305
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James J. White Business Manager and President
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Gregory E. Olson Treasurer and Bus. Agent
• Family consultation services • Pet care savings program For more information, call 888-311-4120
or 401-257-6131 or go to www.thehealthybenefits.com.
This is not health insurance.
AUGUST 2010
Common Ground
Page 19
Some worry about scams related to Medicare Part D rebates By John A. Pernorio One of the most immediate benefits from the health care reform law is the $250 rebate that Part D Medicare beneficiaries will receive if they fall into the so-called doughnut hole in 2010. The feared gap opens when Medicare reimburses a recipient $2,830 for prescriptions. Then, the recipient must pay for medications until reaching a $4,500 out of pocket limit, after which Medicare coverage resumes. More than 3 million seniors will receive a onetime check for $250 if they reach the doughnut hole this year and are not eligible for low-income assistance. The rebate, which the government started to mail June 10 to seniors already in the doughnut hole, is another piece of the overall plan to close the prescription drug coverage gap. Some policy experts worry that seniors will be targeted by scam artists looking to cash in on the lack of information about how to receive the rebates.
Advocates warn that scammers are likely to call seniors, pretending to be part of an organization tasked with helping them register to get their rebates. The scammer may say things such as: “With the health care reform, you’ll need a new Medicare card, so I’m going to need some information from you.” Many seniors who are unaware about the specifics of the rebate program could become victims of identity theft, or be asked to pay money in return for help with processing their checks. In reality, those qualifying for the $250 rebate do not have to do anything in order to receive their check. Unlike most parts of Medicare, there is no third party involvement with the program; the federal government is mailing the rebate checks to qualifying recipients without requiring registration. In a related matter, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued new guidelines for
Medicare Part D prescription drug plan sponsors to guarantee that starting in 2011, Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in Part D will qualify for a 50 percent savings on their prescription drugs and some authorized generic drugs. When they hit the doughnut hole, eligible seniors will see the discount when they buy their drugs at their local pharmacy. Additional savings on prescription drugs for seniors will take effect over time, until the doughnut hole is closed by 2020. Addressing the coverage gap is an important part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, the health care law signed by the president. John A. Pernorio is president of the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans, which is on Facebook. The organization’s Web site is www.newenglandsenior. com. You can reach John at 401) 722-2770.
Would you drive a mile to save a life? WARWICK -- The American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program is in great need of volunteers to drive local cancer patients to and from their life-saving chemotherapy and/or radiation treatments. An integral part of treating cancer successfully is making sure cancer patients receive their treatments, but many find making transportation arrangements is a challenge. The American
Cancer Society provided more than 800 rides to cancer patients in Rhode Island last year, but needs new volunteer drivers to keep up with the demand for transportation. “This is a very worthwhile program. I am not sure who gains more from this program, the driver or the patient. This program is needed because there are many people who do not have family or friends who can take them to their
treatment” said Terry Heath a Road to Recovery driver from West Greenwich. You too can make a difference in the fight against cancer by becoming a driver for Road to Recovery. Drivers use their own vehicles. The schedule for volunteers is flexible, and appointments are on weekdays, primarily during business hours. To volunteer, call (401) 243-2653 or go online to www.cancer.org/driveamile.
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John Meehan………………………………Secretary
F. Fiore, President Scott Philip G. Mello, Secretary ScottVice G. Mello, Secretary
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Ken Rivard
Manny Leander
Bill Bove
Alan Depalo
John Bray
Jeff Golding
Joe Lopes
David Pezza
Mark Vierra
Letizia Signore
Adam Klaus
Carlos Oviedo
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Page 20
Common Ground
AUGUST 2010
“In these tough economic times, we must re-double our
Affordable Hearing Solution
efforts to protect all of our residents from fraud and bad business practices. Truth in Advertising needs to be more than just a slogan. As Attorney General, I will work to make it the Rhode Island way.”
On Our Side
Paid For By Friends of Stephen R. Archambault.
Paid For By Friends of Stephen R. Archambault.
Learn more about Steve Archambault:
www.archambaultforattorneygeneral.com
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES’ LOCAL UNION 1033
Representing the Public Servants who make government work!
Partnering with Rhode Island’s Municipalities to Provide the Most Effective and Cost-efficient Public Employee Benefits
The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Health Services Fund
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PUBLIC EMPLOYEES = PUBLIC SERVICE Cranston Crossing Guards
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Town of North Kingstown Providence Community Action Program Lincoln Public Library Town of North Providence Narragansett Town Hall Lincoln Water Commission R.I. Department of Transportation North Providence School Department
DONALD S. IANNAZZI, ESQ. Business Manager
VICKI A. VIRGILIO President
The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Education, Training and Apprenticeship Fund
Donald S. Iannazzi, Esq., Chairman Vicki A. Virgilio Trustee
Pasquale T. D’Amico Trustee
Sharen Gleckman Trustee
Joseph F. Kenney Trustee
Betty Jackson Liaison
Chris Lombardi Coordinator
Rhode Island’s Union Built, Operated and Staffed Facilities city center skating rink accommodating groups from 10 - 400 (401) 331-5544 ext. 5