Common Ground July 2012

CommonGround New England’s Newspaper for Working Families

JULY 2012

TM

, Inc.

www.ricommongroundnews.com

Casino wars heating up: Massachusetts, R.I. play their hands

By Common Ground staff The casinos wars in New England are heating up as Massachusetts has begun to roll out its new gaming commission while Rhode Island lawmakers have approved key legislation that paves the way for table games at Twin River in Lincoln and Newport Grand, which will allow the facilities to become full-fledged casinos.

Perhaps the biggest development in Massachusetts is the establishment of the new state gaming commission, which will oversee the licensing process for up to three casinos — one for each of three regions: Western Massachusetts, Greater Boston and the southeastern area of the state —

in addition to a slots parlor that could go anywhere.

The gaming commission, which held its first public meeting in early April, expects to hire its first executive director this summer and is bringing on key personnel.

The commission is working with two consultants — Spectrum, headed by former Boston Police Commissioner Kathleen O’Toole, and legal consultants Anderson & Kreiger LLP, according to Elaine Driscoll, gaming commission spokeswoman. The commission has also held a slew of public meetings and forums aimed at including citizens in the process, according to Driscoll.

“I would say that the gaming commission has completed a remarkable amount of work in a short period of time,” Driscoll said. “The commission is focused on the many tasks before it and will continue to be innovative and thoughtful throughout the licensing process.”

See Casino, page 2

Rhode Island’s $100 million mistake After 38 Studios, What’s next for the EDC?

By Common Ground staff

After the 38 Studios debacle, the future of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (EDC), as well as the state’s whole approach to economic development, is very much a question mark.

Some are already calling for the EDC to be disbanded, but University of Rhode Island economist

Camp Director: Frank Luca

SUMMER HOOP CAMPS

for Boys & Girls AGES 5-17 CAMP LOCATIONS • BURRILLVILLE: Burrillville High School: July 23-26

• CUMBERLAND: @ High School July 9-13 and Boys Intensive Camp August 13-17

• CUMBERLAND: Mercymount Country Day School: July 23-27 & August 6-10

• EAST GREENWICH: NEW LOCATION

East Greenwich High School Gym July 30-Aug 3

• EAST PROVIDENCE: Gordon School: July 9-13 • EAST PROVIDENCE: Providence Country Day:

Leonard Lardaro says that won’t accomplish much. “I will say the EDC is not the problem,” Lardaro said.

“They are a symptom of a much larger problem.”

Or perhaps, more to the point, several problems, including the state’s complicated tax and regulatory structure for businesses; its myopic approach to hitting home runs in economic development rather than doing its due diligence over the long run; and the lack of a work force with the skills necessary to attract businesses, according to Lardaro.

Rhode Island: Good beaches, bad budgets?

Lardaro said the state can’t afford to keep sinking to the bottom of national rankings on taxes and business friendliness. “We’re known as much for our unemployment rate as for our beaches,” he says.

But that’s not the only problem. The state can slash

tax rates and streamline its regulatory structure all it wants, but, if it doesn’t address the skills gap in its work force and invest more in higher education, those fiscal reforms won’t amount to much: why would businesses move here for lower taxes if the state does not have the work force it needs? “That to me is clearly the most serious problem,” Lardaro said. “That one definitely spills over to lots of things.”

Everything in the state, at least when it comes to economic development, is “fly blindfolded,” Lardaro See EDC, page 4 R

Primary

United Nurses & Allied Professionals R

BOYS CAMP – July 23-27 GIRLS CAMP – August 13-17 GIRLS INTENSIVE CAMP ALL NEW! August 20-24

• SMITHFIELD AT MASTER’S REGIONAL ACADEMY: Boys and Girls July 16-20 and

R

Alternate Versions

Boys Intensive Camp July 30-August 3

• SMITHFIELD: Sports Camp at St. Philip’s Parish Center July 30-August 3 (ages 5-8)

• SCITUATE: @ High School June 25-29

CAMP HIGHLIGHTS

• Experienced Coaches • Shooting & Offensive Skills For further details please call Frank Luca 401-639-0814 or • Individual Skills Competitions • Advanced Skills Station register on-line www.1on1basketball.com • FREE T-shirt Accepting all major credit • Written Evaluations cards online

Multi Camp & Family Discounts Available

Working to improve the lives of our members... and our patients.

Join Rhode Island’s largest union of health care professionals.

Call 831-3647 email: jjose@unap.org.

Join Rhode Island’s largest or union of health care professionals.

831-3674 or email: jjose@unap.org.

For more info, go toCall www.unap.org.

For more info, go to www.unap.org.

866-53-SOBER (76237) www.TreatmentSolutionsNetwork.com

Page 2

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Casino, from page 1

Massachusetts: Rocky rollout for casinos

Bay State: 3 casinos and $2 billion

One community so far has agreed to be a host for a casino: Taunton.

Another, Palmer, voted in favor of hosting a casino, but that was a nonbinding referendum, meaning that another vote will be necessary before a casino could be located there.

However, casino proposals were met with unreceptive voters in Foxboro, Freetown and Lakeville.

Other bumps in the road have included the appointment of an interim executive director that backfired when past accusations of sexual misconduct were uncovered, and one gaming commissioner getting caught up in an ethics flap over whether he faced a conflict of interest in voting for any casino proposals that could benefit his home community of Springfield.

(Driscoll said the commission will continue to maintain its “open lines of communication” with the ethics commission, which has ruled there is no conflict of interest.)

“I know some people think it’s been a little rocky,” said Clyde Barrow, the director of the Center for Policy Analysis at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.

“My characterization is that it has been a little noisy.”

The process has also been criticized as being too slow, but Barrow said the Massachusetts Gaming Commission could actually go out to bid for casinos next spring, with the first casino potentially ready to open its doors in late fall 2013 — that would be two years after the enabling legislation was passed and is in keeping with the time frame in other states.

“So Massachusetts is pretty much on track,” Barrow said.

One thing the commission has done to speed up the process, Barrow and Driscoll said, is to set up a prequalification process for companies interested in building casinos. The pre-qualifications, Driscoll said, will expedite the licensing of casinos without compromising the thorough process that state lawmakers have established.

It also will weed out the number of proposals, making it easier for officials and residents of potential host communities to decide whether they want to participate, Driscoll said. The commission will be reviewing prequalification applications by the fall.

And the commission in the next few weeks will be releasing its own time frame. Until then, Driscoll said she was not in a position to agree with Barrow’s projections on when a casino might open.

Driscoll said the commissioners do believe that the market will support three casinos.

Barrow said gross gaming revenues could hit $2 billion in Massachusetts, which could translate into 10,000 permanent jobs plus another 10,000 construction jobs. Just how many of those would be local and how many would come from other states? Casino owners will be expected to draw heavily from the local work force, Barrow said. He pointed to casinos in Maine and Cleveland, which hired 95 percent and 92 percent of their work force locally.

However, he expects the proportion in Massachusetts to be more in the ballpark of 80 percent to 85 percent because of its location in New England. He noted that already about 17 percent of the workers at Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun hail from Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

The opening of casinos in the Bay State would allow them to work closer to home, Barrow said.

Rhode Island does damage control One of the big questions in the whole process is what will happen in Rhode Island, where the state depends on a cut of the gambling revenues for roughly $300 million worth of its budget. Casinos in Massachusetts threaten to lure aware patrons, and with them, revenues that the Ocean State can’t afford to lose.

But lawmakers have taken steps to stop the bleeding.

During the legislative session that wrapped up last month, the General Assembly voted in favor of putting a referendum before voters to authorize table games at Newport Grand, and Gov. Lincoln Chafee has signed the measure into law. Voters were already facing the same question for Twin River.

Will it work? “I don’t think that it stems the recapture of the Massachusetts patrons, but it might recapture some Rhode Islanders who are still going to Connecticut,” Barrow said.

But table games may not be enough. Research shows that a number of patrons at places such as Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun go as much for the gambling options as they do for all the other amenities — concerts, hotels, dining and shopping, according to Barrow. And that number is on the rise, going from single digits about eight years ago to a current 20 percent. “These people will still go to Connecticut or they will go to Massachusetts,” Barrow said.

The table-game referenda must not only pass

High quality.

Great value.

Easy decision.

Choosing a health plan can be a daunting task, but Tufts Health Plan makes it simple. Tufts Health Plan has an extensive range of affordable plans, a wide network of doctors and hospitals, and great discounts that help keep members healthy. Visit us at www.tuftshealthplan.com or contact your broker today.

statewide, but the measures must gain majority support in the two host communities of Lincoln and Newport, according to Barrow. “If Rhode Island does nothing, they’re going to lose pretty close to $250 million in gaming revenue,” Barrow warns.

Massachusetts officials don’t seem too worried about what impact the expansion of gambling in Rhode Island would have on their plans. “I can’t speak to that at this point,” Driscoll said. “I don’t believe it would. We’re focused on Massachusetts.”

Table games: How much goes to the state?

In Rhode Island, state lawmakers have also resolved a key question for the public; just how much of a cut of the revenues from the table games would be going to the state coffers? According to a Statehouse news release summarizing the legislation, the state cut of the revenues from the table games at both Twin River and Newport Grand would be 18 percent.

But the legislation goes on to tweak that, depending on circumstances. Specifically it stipulates the following: • Declining revenues in Lincoln: At Twin River, the state share would go down to 16 percent if the casino suffers a decline in revenue. In addition, the town of Lincoln would get 1 percent of the table game revenue for four years to “help the host community transition during a period of revenue decline.”

• State share in Newport: At Newport on the other hand, where there would be fewer table games, the state share would stay at 18 percent even if revenue declines.

• Increased local revenue in Newport: Under the legislation, Newport would see a 1.5 percent increase to its video lottery terminals (VLT), which would come out of the state share of VLT revenue, according to the Statehouse description of the legislation • Drops in video lottery revenues: If VLT revenues drop, Newport also will get 1 percent of the revenues from table games for four years to help it transition.

• Increase in local share of video revenues: The legislation also increases the amount of video See Casino, page 3

Common Ground

R.I. pressing ahead with health care reform

By Elizabeth Roberts Since it became law 18 months ago, President Obama’s Affordable Care Act (ACA) has helped 6.6 million young adults stay on or be added to their parents’ medical insurance plans, according to a survey by the nonprofit Commonwealth Fund.

The ACA requires insurers to allow parents to carry children as old as 26 on health insurance plans. A Gallup survey shows the uninsured rate for people age 18 to 25 continues to decline, dropping from 28 percent when the law took effect to 23 percent. Those statistics indicate that federal health reform is a contributing factor to creating a “culture of coverage,” in which people with health insurance coverage is the norm and not the exception.

The Supreme Court recently upheld the entire ACA, including a critical provision known as the “individual mandate.” The mandate requires most Americans to purchase medical insurance or pay a penalty. In order to make the mandate affordable, the ACA also provides subsidies to help uninsured middle-class households pay premiums and an expansion of Medicaid to cover more people in low-income groups.

If the court had struck down the entire federal health care reform law or ruled the individual mandate was unconstitutional, a number of very positive changes would have been reversed. People under the age of 26 would have not necessarily been able to stay on their parents’ health insurance. In addition, better Medicare prescription benefits offered under the law, which are saving seniors an annual average of $600, would have been suspended. Preventive care available to retirees and working families with no co-payments would also have been discontinued. Incidentally, those benefits have proven to be very popular provisions of the law, despite lower approval ratings of the ACA as a whole.

It’s likely Republicans in Congress will continue to

work to repeal the law, and GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney has promised to wipe the ACA off the books if elected in November. It remains to be seen how Romney the candidate will differ from Romney the president since he defends his Massachusetts law, a prototype for the Affordable Care Act he signed in 2006 when he was governor.

In contrast, Gov. Chafee and I have consistently believed the increasingly unaffordable cost of health coverage for Rhode Island families and businesses must be addressed with or without federal support. We will continue to move forward with key provisions of the law, including the Rhode Island Health Benefits Exchange, designed to link consumers and employees with affordable health insurance coverage. The exchange will function as an easy-to-use online marketplace for individuals, families and small businesses to compare and purchase health insurance.

Rhode Island is leading the nation in implementation of health reform. It was the first state to receive a multiyear Level II funding grant from the federal government to establish a health benefits exchange. In total, Rhode Island has been awarded about $65 million from ACA funds for the exchange, and much of the funding is being used to create the database and Web portal for the health exchange.

Because many Rhode Islanders are not familiar with the concept of a state-based health benefits exchange and need help in understanding the terms of their insurance, the state’s next task will be to reach out to residents.

Under the ACA, the state’s health benefits exchange is required to hold open enrollment starting on Oct. 1, 2013, in time to begin insuring Rhode Islanders by the federally imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2014.

Elizabeth Roberts is the lieutenant governor of Rhode Island.

Casino, from page 2 • terminal revenue that goes to each community to 1.45 percent. Under the current system, Lincoln already gets that amount, but it “sunsets” every year. (The General Assembly has to pass annual legislation renewing it.)

Newport, on the other hand, sees just 1.01 percent of video gambling revenues go to its coffers.

As for the state, it receives slightly more than 60 percent of the video gambling revenues at Twin River and Newport Grand.

Overall, tables games at Newport Grand are expected to yield $5 million in gross annual revenues. At Twin River it

would be much more — $60 million annually — when fully operational.

State Sen. Maryellen Goodwin, D-Providence, a key supporter of both casino bills, said the legislation provides “voters with the information they need as they head to the polls” to consider the referenda. “It is good for taxpayers because it enables the facilities to thrive, which will help protect the revenues and the jobs we count on from the competition across our borders,” Goodwin said in a press statement.

JULY 2012

Page 3

Common Ground

TM

, Inc.

John J. Tassoni, Jr. - Publisher Common Ground, Inc. 111 Wayland Avenue Providence, RI 02906 c. 401.451.1305 f. 401.831.6111 john@commongroundnews.com www.ricommongroundnews.com

The Union Stewards Prayer Grant me, Oh Lord, the genius to explain to my brothers and sisters the policies and plans of our great union even though no one explains them to me.

Give me the understanding that I may forgive the apathetic member, curb the overly ambitious member, and accept the views of the member who does nothing until I have done something... and then tells me what I should have done and how I should have done it.

Oh Lord, make me formidable in debate, logical in argument and fearless in confrontation.

Let me be a lawyer, actor, mathematician, sage, philosopher, sociologist, and economist; pleasing, cajoling, threatening, and belaboring so that I make the best of a good case and a good case from no case at all.

Teach me, Oh Lord, to stand at all times with both feet firmly on the ground ….

Even when I don’t have a leg to stand on.

Page 4

Common Ground

JULY 2012

EDC, from page 1 says. And, every once in a while, those blind flights blow up. Exhibit A: 38 Studios.

One of the big issues is the leadership on Smith Hill. State leaders, Lardaro said, think in linear terms, not realizing that regulatory action in one area affects others. “The problem is our leaders think linearly. In their world, everything is linear,” Lardaro said.

He calls the mentality that governs Smith Hill “paropic”— a combination of parochial and myopic.

Too often, state leaders look at the glass as half full or half empty — in which the glass is an analogy for the state economy — when they miss the real question: “It’s not whether the glass is half full or half empty. That’s irrelevant. It’s the size of the glass,” Lardaro said. “We need to change things so the glass grows.”

Lardaro says the General Assembly also needs to change its whole approach to budgeting, focusing less on consumption-oriented spending and more to investment-oriented spending, which has long-term benefits such as in higher education. The failure of the state to educate its work force has led to a phenomenon that he dubs “endogenous mediocrity.”

Solving the economic development puzzle So what is the solution? “It’s all part of a big puzzle,” Lardaro said in an interview. “We can’t tweak. We need an engine overhaul.”

Specifically, he says the state needs to take a step back and rethink how it does economic development.

Lardaro recommends that the state hire an outside consultant — one without any local political ties or connections — to do a full-scale evaluation of the state’s economic strengths and weaknesses and identify opportunities for economic expansion and growth.

So where does all this leave the EDC? Rather than simply disbanding it, he says the state’s interest may be better served by overhauling it completely — turning it into a research and policy arm that informs the state’s decision makers about economic development, rather than as the deal maker in economic development deals.

“Hit a bunch of singles. Forget the home runs,” Lardaro says.

Tom Sgouros, a progressive commentator, largely agrees. “They should do more thinking and less acting,” Sgouros said. “Why aren’t they a source of useful information about business conditions? What kind of research capacity do they have? They’re supposed to be developing the economy, but how much do they actually know about it?”

Others like URI business professor Ed Mazze would go further with the EDC. “I would just do away with it,” Mazze said. “You would save several million dollars.”

Like Lardaro he is calling for the state to use this crisis as an opportunity to comprehensively review its entire approach to economic development — a review, he says, that should encompass the EDC as well as the departments of business regulation and

labor and training. That review should focus on how those departments are collaborating to spur economic development — creating more jobs and making the state more business friendly, not just for new businesses, but for ones already here that are struggling to survive, Mazze said.

“By doing that, we may be able to come out with a unified approach. …So that the next five years are going to be better than the last five years,” Mazze said.

And, as an alternative to the EDC, he says the governor needs to hire an economic adviser.

‘We can do better’ A key question in the review is what are other states doing that is working and that Rhode Island can adopt.

People often point to Texas as a success model for business growth and economic development, which immediately prompts the retort that it’s not fair to compare Texas with Rhode Island. To which Lardaro responds: “Explain Delaware.”

And Rhode Island doesn’t even have to look that far for ideas: to the north, Massachusetts is widely hailed as an economic development success story. (For more on Delaware and Massachusetts are doing, see sidebar.)

For all their dismal assessments of what the state has done wrong, economists and business experts maintain optimism about the state’s future.

“We can and we should do better,” Lardaro said.

“This is not hopeless. We did this to ourselves.”

Economic development: What are other states doing?

By Common Ground staff If 38 Studios taught Rhode Island anything, it’s that its economic development program isn’t exactly succeeding, to put it charitably. Rhode Island, however, doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel: there is no shortage of other states to which it could look as models of successful economic development.

States such as Texas are sometimes invoked as success stories. But the sheer size of a state like Texas — not to mention its location in an entirely different region and differences in natural resources and other characteristics — tend to spark skepticism among Rhode Islanders as to just how useful a model it can be.

But then there’s Delaware — a state small in population and area that is certainly comparable to Rhode Island. And Massachusetts, while larger, certainly offers some useful lessons as well.

In Rhode Island, much of the focus is on whether the state even needs an economic development corporation.

The experience of the other states suggests that mere institutional structure does not make or break a state’s success or failure in economic development. Delaware does not seem to have a significant statewide economic development corporation. Instead, most of its statewide efforts to that end are run out of two state departments.

Massachusetts, on the other hand, has it both ways. The Bay State has some departments charged with economic development, but it also has delegated some of the work to a number of robust quasi-public agencies.

Neither state has a silver bullet. If there is any overarching key to their success, it’s having a coordinated and comprehensive plan for doing

Rhode Island Brotherhood of Correctional Officers

economic development, which is another way of saying there are many keys to success in each state.

Delaware: America’s corporate headquarters It seems every corporation is headquartered in some way in Delaware — including, incidentally, 38 Studios.

According to state figures, more than half of all publicly traded companies in the United States — including 63 percent of Fortune 500 giants — call Delaware their legal home. That’s probably has many people outside of the state scratching their heads.

But why corporations flock to Delaware is not really much of a mystery, according to state officials there The state Division of Corporations credits many factors, saying it provides a “complete package of incorporation services.”

See States, page 5

Full Service Jewelers AllFull Work Done On Premises Service Jewelers All Work Done On Premises

“Representing Those Who Work the Toughest Beat in the State” -OFFICERSDave Mellon …….……….………………..President Bob Miller ………….……………1st Vice President Bob Lantagne ..…………………..2nd Vice President Michael Hogan.……………………..…….Treasurer John Meehan………………………………Secretary Mike McKenna...……….……….Financial Secretary -EXECUTIVE BOARD

Ken Rivard

Manny Leander

Bill Bove

Alan Depalo

John Bray

Jeff Golding

Joe Lopes

David Pezza

Mark Vierra

Letizia Signore

Adam Klaus

Carlos Oviedo

Justin Pelissey

Keeping Your Community Safe

Become a fan!

REPAIRS:

Become a fan!

Chain Solder: $10 & up • Ring Sizing: $30 & up REPAIRS: Diamond Setting: $10 & up • Prong Replacement: $15 & up Chain Solder: $10 & up • Ring Sizing: $30 & up Pearl Stringing: $1 per inch • Watch Batteries: $2 installed Diamond Setting: $10 & up • Prong Replacement: $15 & up Engraving: $10 flat fee • Watch Sizing: $5 flat fee Pearl Stringing: $1 per inch • Watch Batteries: $2 installed acjewelersonline.com Engraving: $10 flat fee • Watch Sizing: $5 flat fee Cash for Gold, Silver and Platinum acjewelersonline.com Cash for Gold, Silver and Platinum

A.C. JEWELERS A.C. JEWELERS 180B Pleasant View Avenue, Smithfield Rob Richards 349-4094 • Lic. #200803 180B Pleasant View Avenue, Smithfield Hours: M-F 9am-7pm • SAT: 9am-5pm 180B Pleasant View Ave., Smithfield, Island Rob Richards 349-4094 • Lic. Rhode #200803 Hours: M-F 9am-7pm • SAT: 9am-5pm

Rob Richards 349.4094

Lic. # 200803 M-F 9am to 7pm Sat. 9am to 5pm

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 5

&2,$ /(325( /7' COUNSELORS AT LAW

A Tradition of Client Satisfaction for 40 Years ARTHUR A. COIA ALBERT J. LEPORE (1941-2010)

GEORGE L. SANTOPIETRO

The Law Firm of Coia & Lepore, Ltd. is proud of its tradition of providing outstanding Legal Services to satisfied individuals and families. In addition, Coia & Lepore, Ltd. represents more than twenty union entities including, but not limited to, Laborers, Teamsters and Public Service Employees throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.

ARMAND E. SABITONI

We invite you to browse our new website at www.coialepore.com

JAMES J. LEPORE ALBERT J. LEPORE JR. ALFREDO T. CONTE

OUR AREAS OF PRACTICE:

SHERI M. LEPORE JOHN F. CASCIONE PETER J. COMERFORD MARK SALES LESLIE N. TUCHAPSKY DADRIANA LEPORE EMMA L. HARITOS

• • • • •

Workers’ Compensation Automobile Accidents Slip and Fall Civil Litigation Divorce / Child Custody

• • • • • •

Real Estate Tax and Financial Planning Wills, Trusts and Probate Immigration Traffic Violations Mediation

• • • • •

Consumer Transactions Criminal Litigation Bankruptcy Medical Malpractice Social Security Disability

CONTINUING OUR LONGSTANDING PRACTICE, WE DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR INITIAL CONSULTATIONS

401.751.5522 States, from page 4 The factors include: the corporation law, which the state describes as the “most advanced and flexible business formation statute in the nation;� the 215-yearold Delaware Court of Chancery that has “written most� modern U.S. corporation case law; a generally business-friendly state government; and a Division of Corporations that boasts its “state-of-the-art efficiency.�

Aside from the Division of Corporations, Delaware has a State Economic Development Office charged with “attracting new investors and businesses to the state,� spurring the expansion of industries already in the state, boosting tourism and “creating new and improved employment opportunities� for residents, according to information provided by Karen Smith, the director of strategic communications for the office.

Her office also publishes a roughly 100-page guide to the state’s offerings for businesses known as the “Delaware Databook.�

Asked why Delaware has done so well, University of Rhode Island economist Leonard Lardaro says it’s simple: The state has just “always sustained� its pro-business climate.

Massachusetts: More than just Harvard In Massachusetts, there are several key agencies, quasipublics and other organizations involved in economic development efforts.

Within state government, the Office of Business Development oversees the Economic Development Incentive Program, which involves tax credits for

businesses. The office also “facilitates access to resources and incentive programs that help businesses thrive,� said Jason Lefferts, spokesman for the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, which oversees all state activities in the area of economic development.

Also key to state efforts is MassDevelopment, a quasipublic agency that focuses on providing finance and real estate development services. In addition, a nonprofit agency, the Massachusetts Alliance for Economic Development, runs a site selection service that helps businesses identify locations for setting up shop in the Bay State.

Plus, a number of other quasi-public agencies back up the state’s efforts. “Two are the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, which supports Gov. Patrick’s $1 billion 10-year commitment to the life sciences sectors and is playing a significant role this week at the BIO Conference in Boston; and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, which is leading our MassBroadband123 initiative that will connect the entire state to broadband technology by June 2013,� Lefferts said. ‘Choosing to compete’ That small army of economic development agencies is operating according to a coordinated plan, known as Choosing to Compete. (For more information, visit www.mass.gov/compete.) “At the heart of our long-term economic development plan is the need to have government, private business and academia all working together on the issues of economic

development and job creation,� Lefferts said. “Choosing to Compete was put together with significant input from the private sector, and we continue to meet and reach out with its creators for feedback and ideas on how to achieve the 55 goals in the document.�

And it is the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development that coordinates all the efforts.

The secretary of the office is the chairman of the board of the various quasi-publics involved — something that was done as part of Gov. Deval Patrick’s reform of the quasi-public agencies. “This structure puts all of our organizations under the same umbrella and on the same page, but also allows the agencies to focus on their areas of expertise,� Lefferts said.

Another key element of success is efforts to boost the state’s tourism industry, which is the third largest in the state. Those efforts are maintained through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. Another key tourism-booster is the Mass Film Office, which works to draw television and film productions to the Bay State. “Listening to businesses is key,� Lefferts added. “In 2008 and 2009, the governor heard from small business owners about the rising costs of health insurance, and the administration has put the brakes on rapidly escalating increases in response.�

He said the state is in the middle of its “largest regulatory review in state government� since the 1990s, examining over 1,000 rules. Regulations deemed to be hindering businesses are being amended or eliminated as part of that process, according to Lefferts.

Homeless Bill of Rights Signed The Homeless Bill of Rights was signed into law last month protecting the homeless from discrimination from government, police, healthcare workers, landlords or employers.

Pictured here are, from left, Jim Ryczek of the Rhode Island Coalition for the Homeless, State Sen. John J. Tassoni, Jr. and John Joyce, co-founder of the Rhode Island Homeless Advocacy Project.

John J. Tassoni, Jr., President

john@jtsentinelgroup.com p. 401.451.1305 l f. 401.831.6111 111 Wayland Ave. l Providence, RI 02906

Page 6

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Municipal bankruptcy: What really happens to labor contracts?

By Common Ground Staff Bankruptcy may grant broad powers to city administrations, but unions are not as powerless in the process as assumed by some fiscal conservatives, who see in a bankruptcy their last, best hope for torpedoing labor contracts that they view as unduly burdensome and unsustainable.

Of course, all that comes with a caveat: There are so few cases of municipal bankruptcy that it is hard to predict exactly what could happen. “The question — What normal procedure is? — There really isn’t an answer on that,” Moringiello said.

The reality is much more complicated

Rhode Island has at least one test case: Central Falls.

And, depending on who you talk to, the unions either scored key wins or took an unprecedented beating in pay and benefits. Technically, none of the three unions in the city ever saw their contracts formally rejected or terminated, according to Carly Iafrate, the attorney for Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge No. 2.

On the same day that the city filed for bankruptcy, Aug. 1, 2011, it also filed motions to reject all three collective bargaining agreements but did not wait for the court to act. It immediately treated the three labor contracts on the city side as if they were inoperable even though they were not automatically voided.

The city nonetheless unilaterally imposed a series of changes to the terms and conditions of the pacts covering police, fire and municipal employees, and they were done with very little input from labor, Iafrate said.

All three unions filed objections to the rejection motion, but they held off on submitting the court documents that backed up their objections. Instead, both sides pressed forward with negotiations, culminating in new labor agreements that were reached and immediately took effect right before Thanksgiving, according to Iafrate. As part of their new deals, the police and municipal workers either withdrew or waived their objections to the city motion to reject their contracts, which was a moot issue at that point.

It may sound like a lopsided process, but the police union did have a few bargaining chips, according to Iafrate. Beside its objection to the city motion on its contract, the union considered mounting a legal challenge to the city’s eligibility to even file for bankruptcy on the basis that it had negotiated beforehand. The union also could have contested a new state law that stipulates bondholders have to be paid back before obligations to employees and retirees have to be honored.

All those were arrows the police union had in its quiver, incentives for the city to bargain with them.

“It was going to make this thing drag out, and it was going to cost a lot of money,” Iafrate said.

What really happened in Central Falls?

“Just because you’re in bankruptcy does not mean your contracts are null and void,” said Mike Andrews, president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1485 in Central Falls. “It means they have the ability to go to the court and request they be null and void.”

On paper, cities indeed do have more power under federal statute than do corporations when it comes to labor agreements. Under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, businesses must present a proposal for new labor agreements during the bankruptcy process, according to bankruptcy expert James Spiotto, an attorney in Chicago. On the other hand, in Chapter 9 bankruptcy, which applies to cities, towns, and counties, municipalities have the power to ignore contracts from the get-go.

Negotiations never really stop The practical reality, experts say, is that negotiating between municipal labor unions and management continues during the bankruptcy process. Ultimately, the city needs its workers to buy into the changes.

“You need workers and staff to continue,” Spiotto said.

“Who’s going to collect the garbage? Who’s going to tend to the police and fire? Who is going to teach in the schools?”

Cities indeed can reject municipal labor agreements, but case law says three criteria must be met before a bankruptcy judge will approve such a move, according to Juliet M. Moringiello, a professor at the Widener University School of Law in Harrisburg, Pa. A city must demonstrate that contracts impede its ability to reorganize and that it has already made a reasonable effort to make the necessary changes through negotiating. The judge also takes into account the equity position of the city.

The conservative dream scenario, in which a judge throws out a labor contract and imposes a contract written from scratch has never happened. That is because municipalities are viewed as subdivisions of states, which are co-sovereign with the federal government for the purposes of constitutional law. All judges can do is act as umpires in what is surely a highrisk game for both sides, not just labor.

“It’s clearly intended to be the last resort,” Spiotto said. “It’s no panacea. It is expensive, time-consuming, complicated and uncertain. For all these reasons it is not the solution.”

Plus, bankruptcy also carries political risks for mayors and other public officials, according to Moringiello.

C.F. firefighters: Raises amid bankruptcy Central Falls firefighters say they notched some key victories in the whole process.

For one thing, none of the union members so far have lost their jobs through the bankruptcy process.

Under minimum manning changes, the department now only needs 37 firefighters with a bare minimum

of seven per shift in contrast to a former force of 41 firefighters with a minimum of nine firemen. But that reduction was achieved through attrition, not layoffs.

Another key win was that benefits such as longevity and holiday pay, which go into pension calculations, stayed in the contact. So even though benefits across the board were whittled down, the fact that the benefits were left in the contract was itself a victory of sorts. “It’s much easier to build up what’s there than … try to get it back in the whole,” Andrews said.

He said he had consulted with his counterparts in Vallejo, Calif., — a city that famously became the first major municipality to go belly up in the recession in May 2008 — and was advised to seek negotiation.

(It was at Vallejo that a federal bankruptcy court ruled that the contracts could be voided in spite of restrictions set forth by the state.)

Moreover, in Central Falls, the IAFF local did not come away empty-handed. With all that is going on, the union actually won wage increases for the next five years. Police got those raises, too. However, members of both unions saw a net reduction to their overall compensation packages. “I don’t think that it’s a victory anytime public employees have to be in the position they were in in Central Falls,” Iafrate said.

Although union members should be satisfied that agreements were ultimately reached, she said it’s nothing to celebrate.

“It never should have happened in the first place,” Iafrate said.

Labor contracts not first things to go There’s something else to keep in mind: The issue of what can be done to labor contracts is, in some ways, superseded by the broader question of where the cutting will begin. Paul Doughty, the head of the Providence firefighters’ union, says other assets and departments in cities will feel the ax before fire and police unions do.

“My contention was that if you looked at quality of life versus public safety, that I think most people would say that you need to start cutting quality of life before cutting public safety,” Doughty said.

In other words, a city in bankruptcy is more likely to close parks and shut down libraries, which are important for the quality of life, but not essential to public safety, before it turns the lights out in police or fire stations. “You can’t have the city burn down, and you can’t have crime running rampant,” Doughty said. “Do you need a library? I don’t know if you need one.”

Bankruptcy is now looking less likely for Providence, but it’s a reality to keep in mind as other cities such as Woonsocket prepare to follow Central Falls into bankruptcy.

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers - LOCAL UNION 99 22 Amflex Drive Cranston, R.I. 02921

Michael K. Daley Business Manager/Financial Secretary

PH. 401.946.9900

IBEW99.ORG

James Jackson President/Business Agent

FAX 401.946.9907

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 7

Central Falls: Did fire contract go up in smoke?

By Common Ground Staff

requirement, and receive a pension equal to 50 percent of their pay. After 25 years, they could get 60 percent of their salary, and following 30 years, it was 65 percent of salary. Now, employees must work 25 years and retire at age of 57 or older to receive 50 percent of their pay. In addition, the maximum allowable retirement income has dropped from 65 percent to 55 percent of what was made during employment.

Firefighters, like other labor union members, took a bit of a hit in the Central Falls’ bankruptcy. But it’s a myth that it was an unmitigated financial disaster for rank-and-file members, or that they had zero say in the new contract that they received from the city. True, the city may have had the upper hand in the process, but the firefighters’ union did not walk away emptyhanded. Perhaps no clearer indication that it is possible to win something for your members — even in the dire straits of bankruptcy — is the fact that firefighters walked away with pay raises.

Here’s a breakdown of the big changes in the new contract, which took effect last November and will be in place for five years:

• Health insurance: The city also doubled deductibles from $2,000 to $4,000 for a family and $1,000 to $2,000 for individuals. Copayments went from 12 percent to 20 percent, but the city has softened the blow a bit, offsetting the deductibles with deposits of $2,000 for families and $1,000 for individuals in health savings accounts.

The bad • Minimum manning: Under the old contract, the department had to have 41 firefighters, with 10 firemen per shift and an understanding that the department could run with nine employees.

Those figures have been shifted to a force of 37 firefighters, with shifts of nine firemen and an acceptable minimum of seven people. The reduction in manpower is being achieved through attrition rather than layoffs. “It’s certainly not good for us,” said Mike Andrews, president of International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1485. “For a small city, a small department, we’re very busy.” The department conducts just fewer than 5,000 runs annually, he said.

The good • Annual raises: With all that is going on, the union actually won wage increases for the next five years — between 2.3 percent and 2.9 percent annually.

It’s still a net loss in their total compensation package, but the raises certainly are another way to soften the blow, especially for a department that has been at or close to the bottom of the pay scale for municipal departments around the state. The first raise is effective on July 1.

• Structure of contract maintained: Another key priority that was achieved was maintaining other benefits that go into their pension calculation,

• Pensions: Beforehand it was simple. Employees could retire after 20 years of service, with no age

including longevity and holiday pay. Keeping those intact makes it easier to increase the benefits in the future.

• Death benefit section updated: In addition, the union used the negotiation process to update and expand some of the language in the contract, Andrews added, pointing to outdated language about death benefits being limited only to firerelated fatalities. That doesn’t even begin to describe all the on-the-job dangers that firefighters face, everything from perilous rescues to hazmat cleanups.

The bottom line • Comparing the cuts to the gains, Central Falls firefighters took big, unprecedented hits in the bankruptcy process. However, that all has to be viewed in context, not in a vacuum. Given all that was going on, it certainly could have been worse, perhaps much worse. If you don’t think so, just ask yourself, how many employees you know who got raises after their employers went bankrupt?

The lesson: Bankruptcy is something that labor certainly wants to avoid, but labor should not fear that it has absolutely no voice in the process, or that it won’t be able to negotiate anything beneficial for its members. In addition, fiscal conservatives who actually celebrate bankruptcy as a way to circumvent the hard work of negotiating reductions and cost savings should think twice as well.

Find us on facebook Rhode Island Common Ground News DISTRICT 4 LOCAL 12431 Joseph A. Montanaro, President Gary Glittone, Vice President Steven Kirby, Financial Secretary Gordon Huffman, Treasurer Mark Boyajian, Recording Secretary

For more information contact us today at

172 Longfellow Sreet, Providence, Rhode Island 02907 p. 401.527.6792 f. 401.284.3677

413.572.1300

A UNION REPRESENTING PROUD UNION PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1918

LOCAL 400

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers 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

DISCOUNT OIL BROKERS A Discount Oil Seller

AFL • CIO

We’re pumping the exact same oil as the other guys...

$$ SAVE $$ Best Prices Available

401.438-5450 www.ifpte400.org

Rhode IslandFEDERATION Federation of Teache RHODE ISLAND Health Professionals OFand TEACHERS AND HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

Why Pay More?

• Licensed & Experienced.

Lic. #419

349-4485 • 349-4358 •866-737-9662

SCREEN-WORKS

(401) 273-9800 CELL (401) 529-2106 FAX (401) 331-8815 www.rifthp.org (401) 273-9800

356 SMITH STREET PROVIDENCE, RI 02908-3761 RIFTFrank@aol.com 356 Smith Street

Providence, RI 02908-3761 FAX (401) 331-88 marciarift@aol.com www.rifthp.org (401) 946-9940/946-3710

EMBROIDERY-SCREEN PRINTING SIGNS-PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS UNION LOGO WEAR & U NIFORMS

I

Local 310 Brotherhood of Utility Workers Council

Marcia Frank FlynnB. Reback President President

I I

affiliated with the Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO

Mark Montecalvo (401) 692 -0304 Mark @Montees.net

AMST ERS TE

CO

Office: (401) 738-8007 Cell: (401) 932-3642 Fax: (401) 738-1180

GRAPHIC

1300 Jefferson Blvd.

Warwick, RI 02886 E-mail: local310@buwc.necoxmail.com

Fund Raising Athletics

M

NF ERE CE N

President

MU

O

Promote Morale

Phil Fogarty

NICATIONS

C

5.11 Tactical Organizational

events

LOCAL 12N BUY LO CAL

Made in the USA available

Fax: (401) 946-5060 E-mail: bac1ri@verizon.net

PAUL R. ENOS Vice President

INTERNATIONAL UNION OF

BRICKLAYERS & ALLIED CRAFTWORKERS LOCAL # 3 R.I.

POST OFFICE PLAZA 150 MIDWAY ROAD SUITE 153 CRANSTON, RI 02920-5743

Page 8

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Working class hero Mazzocchi inducted into U.S. Department of Labor’s Hall of Honor

By James Celenza The U.S. Department of Labor recently inducted the late Tony Mazzocchi, a longtime union health and safety pioneer, into its Labor Hall of Honor.

“The labor department is pleased to recognize Tony Mazzocchi for his tireless commitment to the safety, health and welfare of America’s workers,” said David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

“Tony’s extraordinary efforts and leadership helped pave the way for vital reforms like the OSHA Act and it’s time he takes his rightful place in the Labor Hall of Honor,” Michaels said.

As a chemical worker at the Helena Rubinstein cosmetics plant on Long Island, Mazzocchi experienced firsthand unsafe and unhealthy conditions that cause needless and preventable pain and suffering. As president of the Oil, Chemical and Atomic Workers (OCAW) Local 8-149, Mazzocchi organized a series of conferences giving workers the opportunity to testify about their deplorable working conditions. He then

brought those workers to Washington, D.C., to testify about their experiences and lobby for protection. That work laid the foundation and ensured passage of the OSHA Act of 1970.

In the decades following OSHA’s passage, Mazzocchi rose to leadership positions in the OCAW and spearheaded the Right to Know campaign that granted workers permission to learn what toxic substances they are exposed to on the job. That was followed by efforts to give workers the Right to Act. Mazzocchi understood that worker exposure information was essential, but without the right to act on that knowledge, conditions would not appreciably change.

Mazzocchi’s ability to connect the scientific and public health communities with workers and their unions was essential in the development of today’s worker safety and health movement. Over time, Mazzocchi became increasingly focused on creating a political arm to support workers’ rights. In 1996, Mazzocchi co-founded the short-lived Labor Party.

At the same time, he remained active in the OCAW,

even when it merged with the United Paperworkers’ International Union and became PACE. He fought companies’ efforts to exclude and in some cases to sterilize women workers exposed to toxins known to cause birth defects. He advocated for chemical, oil and nuclear workers working in some of our nation’s most dangerous industries.

Tony was involved in the famous case that later became the basis of Silkwood, a movie starring Meryl Streep. Karen Silkwood was a nuclear worker and OCAW member who was exposing the dangerous working conditions at the nuclear power plant where she worked. She was killed mysteriously while on her way to a meeting with a reporter for the “New York Times.”

The induction ceremony was held at the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health’s 33rd Anniversary Awards celebration in New York City.

James Celenza is director of the Rhode Island Committee on Occupational Safety and Health. Contact him at jascelenza@gmail.com or (401) 751-2015.

IN PROVIDENCE:

111 Wayland Avenue Providence, Rhode Island 02902 401•331•1300

IN WASHINGTON:

601 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. Suite 900, South Building Washington, DC 20004 202•220•3013 ADVOCAC Y H r e p r e s e ntatio n H r e s u lt s

Russell Lachance President

Common Ground

Page 9

JULY 2012

Since 1971 208 Laurel Hill Avenue, Providence, RI 02909 www.regineprinting.com p. 401.943.3404 f. 401.944.1228

College

PREP COLLABORATIVE Complete College Application Process Early! 3-Day College Admissions Boot Camp Dates and Locations

Coventry

COMPLETE YOUR BLUE PRINT FOR COLLEGE IN 3 DAYS!

8:30 – 4:30 July 13, 14, 15 65 Sandy Bottom Rd

Take the stress out of your fall schedule by completing your college searches, applications, and much more!

Barrington

Less Stress which will = More Success for College Opportunities & Money

8:30- 4:30 August 10, 11, 12 334 County Road

Cumberland 8:30 – 4:30 July 24, 25, 26 1725 Mendon Rd

North Dartmouth 8:30 – 4:30 August 14, 15, 16 331 D State Road

Learn more or Register at www.CollegePREPCollaborative.com

Call or email: 401-203-3204 or sheri@collegeprepcollaborative.com

“

“

CPC gave me the tools to be confident and successful!

Our Boot Camp Will GUARANTEE that you will be able to complete: ✦Explore Careers & Research Best Colleges ✦College Searching & Selection: Refine Your List to 10 ✦College Essay: Strategies, Topics, Construction, Editing ✦Strategize & Organize your College Applications ✦SAT/ACT Diagnostic Test , Tips, and Strategies ✦Find Scholarships, Financial Aid & Grants that Fit you ✦Create your Blue Print Early & get a Jump on your Senior year

BONUS:

College Tour e-Book, Myers Briggs Personality Assessment, and an Individual Wrap-up Session to help you to finish the process Tuition for this valuable program:

2195

$

Save up to $400 on your tuition with early registration and other discounts!

Whether you are a union member or not, the Massachusetts AFL-CIO is committed to preserving the rights of all workers and advocating for decent wages, health and retirement benefits, safer workplaces, and a dignified quality of life for all working families.

During these difficult times, now more than ever, workers need a strong, unified voice speaking out on each other’s behalf. By advocating for all workers, the Massachusetts AFL-CIO is working to preserve the middle class, and protect you and your family.

Steven Tolman President

For more information call

Louis A. Mandarini, Jr. Secretary-Treasurer

(781) 324-8230 or visit www.massaflcio.org

Page 10

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Compliments of

International Union of Operating Engineers LOCAL UNION 57

Providence, Rhode Island

Looking to SAVE MONEY on your Electric Bill?

RESIDENTIAL and COMMERCIAL Electric Customers

Start SAVING up to 15% on the supply portion of your electric bill today!

The only change is you save money: Take Advantage of Deregulation TODAY and choose to get YOUR electric supply from First Point Power.

· Your utility, billing, repair and meter reading remain the same.

Deregulation of Electricity: Simply put, you have a choice of where you buy your electricity. Your local utility will continue to provide service, reliability, meter reading and you will still only get one bill from the utility.

Enrolling online is easy: Just have a copy of your bill handy. Visit the website below, click “Sign Up” and complete the short form. If needed, we can talk you through the form; just call the Consultant below.

John J. Tassoni, Jr. john@jtsentinelgroup.com 401.451.1305

· You continue to receive ONE BILL from your current utility.

James J. White Business Manager and President

· NO service interruptions · NO fees · NO deposit · Month to month so no penalty

www.FirstPointPower.com/sentinelelectric Our Mission: To provide low-cost energy by procuring electricity at wholesale rates and pass the savings on to our customers.

if you decide to leave us.

Timothy E. Quillen Vice President and Bus. Agent

First Point Power is a licensed competitive energy supplier located in Rhode Island. We serve residential, commercial, and municipal electricity supply markets across multiple states. As a member of Regional Power Pools, we are able to procure electricity at wholesale rates and pass on the savings to our customers.

Gregory E. Olson Treasurer and Bus. Agent

By working with the local utilty, we have created a service that includes a simple sign up process and easy bill pay by consolidating our charges on your utility bill so you still receive one bill from your utility.

Take Advantage of Deregulation TODAY & Choose to get YOUR Electric Supply From First Point Power.

First Point Power, LLC is a licensed energy supplier located in North Kingstown, RI serving residential & commercial customers across multiple states. ver.2.24.12

AFSCME Local 2881

Cancer is not contagious.

Unfortunately, the damage done by chemotherapy is.

Representing RIDEM and CRMC

www.local2881.org

The Pharma-Cycle Family Safe System can help prevent miscarriages, birth defects and cancer in family members and caretakers. t 1SFHOBOU XPNBO CBCJFT and children are at huge risk t 1SPQFSUZ DPOUBNJOBUJPO DBO MBTU GPS ZFBST Pharma-Cycle will give your family members the same level of protection hospitals give their employees.

To purchase go to:

www.pharma-cycle.com

For a limited time receive a $200.00 discount with your first purchase.

Pharma-Cycle_CGNewspaper.indd 1

4/25/12 12:33 PM

www.lifetimesafemoney.com Claim Your Completely Free Book…

“The Secret To Growing Wealthy Without Losing Your Money In The Wall Street Roller Coaster” Call now to claim a free copy of the best-selling book “Safe Money Millionaire”!

This free book will show you how to: • Enjoy the upside growth of the market without ever risking your money to market losses • Protect against the ravages of increasing taxes.

• Reduce or Eliminate interest paid to banks and credit card companies Text, call, email or visit today to claim your copy while this offer lasts. www.lifetimesafemoney.com 401-829-9502 (call or text) sheri@lifetimeadvisorsgroup.com Completely FREE: There is NO COST - NO Shipping - NO Fees (Why Free? We’ve been commissioned by the author to give away a limited number of books and consultations to help residents grow their money safely and securely). *Under Current IRS Tax Code

GOV FORM: ASI8542-5773

Gayle Jendzejec, CLU, CFS, CEP, RFC, CCPS, CTS Sheri Hendricks, Director of Business Development 875 Centerville Road Building 1B, Warwick, RI phone (401) 829-9502 e-mail gayle@lifetimeadvisorsgroup.com

web

sheri@lifetimeadvisorsgroup.com www.lifetimeadvisorsgroup.com

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 11

Frenzied lifestyle is putting our health in jeopardy

By Joy Feldman

The fast paced rhythm of everyday life is startling.

The alarm clock beeps, but you just fell asleep not more than two hours ago. Your cell phone rings, your e-mails buzz, text messages ping. You open your swollen eyes and stare disbelievingly at the two small children crouched over your bed waiting for breakfast.

It’s only 7 a.m. and you are frazzled – out of sync and the day has just begun, insisting that you become alert, concentrating on the challenges of the day.

You have meetings to attend, appointments to make, and deadlines to meet. Tethered to technology, you keep track of all worldwide news events, take pictures, play games, download music and update your status on your favorite social network. You have more responsibilities, more stress and more things going on than ever before; the pace at which we live is dizzyingly discombobulating. Honestly, it is insane.

As a result of this hectic lifestyle, many people are sick, stressed, and exhausted, and to compensate for how they are feeling, some pop pills to keep their edge. The hyper-vigilant and manic lifestyle that many Americans are leading is exhausting and all too familiar.

Constantly stimulated by stress, many people are living in a state of hyper-arousal, depleting the body’s nutritional status, wearing out the body’s adrenal glands. If you are looking for improved health, it is time to change the way you live. Put on the brakes and stop loading up your life with too much stuff.

Simplifying can be accomplished, but forget the magic wand. Sorry Tinkerbell.

Give yourself permission to rest and step out of the perpetual frenzied whirlwind and into the peace, where you set boundaries and begin to have control

over your life. To fully thrive and feel well, it is not only necessary to eliminate your stressors but to also pursue loving and joyful lives. Making new life choices for your vitality are important, and here are some important suggestions to consider.

Sleep and rest Sleep and rest are the most significant aspects of balancing one’s lifestyle because they promote regeneration, healing and development of the mind and body. However, most people do not get enough sleep and rest. If you need coffee, soda, chocolate, anger, worry or other stimulants to get you moving in the morning or keep you perked up throughout the day, you are not sleeping enough.

Try sleeping eight to 10 hours each night and even attempt to nap during the day. Catching those ZZZs are essential to your well-being.

Eating habits Eat at least three regular meals every day or five smaller meals to balance blood sugar and prevent stress on the adrenal glands. Have sit down meals, and do your best to avoid snacking while working, driving or standing around. Rest at least several minutes before and after eating to optimize digestion, and drink three quarts or more of spring water daily as a means to hydrate the body.

Choose a diet rich in lightly cooked vegetables, healthy proteins, healthy fats (flax oil, olive oil and butter) and gluten free grains such as quinoa and

brown rice. Mealtime should be enjoyable social times of conversation and togetherness. Do not let soccer time take precedence over family meals. Instead, try restructuring mealtime or skip the lessons at that time of day. You can make meals special by dimming the lights and lighting a candle, enabling you to set the tone for a peaceful enjoyable meal.

Habits of thought Take full responsibility for your life. When you take responsibility for everything in your life, you will begin to feel empowered. It might take some time to explore your new choices, but you have the ability to make them.

Think in a positive direction. Look on the bright side of things as much as possible. It does not mean to ignore the obvious or to believe things will work out when all the facts argue against it. It just means to avoid inferring and implying negative outcomes when you really don’t know the truth.

Exercise Mild and gentle exercise is a wonderful way to improve your health. Depending on your health and age, 10 to 30 minutes of walking several times a week is a great way to begin your healthy lifestyle.

Joy Feldman is a nutritional consultant, writer and lecturer. She is the author of “Joyful Cooking in the Pursuit of Good Health” and “Is Your Hair Made of Donuts?” Learn more at www.joyfeldman.com and www. isyourhairmadeofdonuts.com.

Page 12

Common Ground

cough cough cough cough cough cough cough cough doctor co-pay deductible out-of-pocket

JULY 2012

Rhode Island’s largest Union printing company!

Commercial and Political Printing

Group Medical Bridge 1.0 can help close the gap between their medical insurance coverage and today’s higher deductibles, coSM

Offset and Digital

coloniallife.com

One Front Street, Woonsocket, RI 02895 Tel: 401.769.9200 I Fax: 401.769.9206 kevin@sheahanprinting.com www.sheahanprinting.com © 2011 Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company. Colonial Life products are underwritten by Colonial Life & Accident Insurance Company, for which Colonial Life is the marketing

So Mike, how did you get involved in the EAP and addiction treatment business?

Michael J. Blackburn

CEAP, LADC-1, SAP, LAP-C, BRI-II

Retired Battalion Chief Providence Fire Department Local 799 Vice President Treatment Solutions Network

I became involved in the EAP/MAP programs because of my own struggles with addiction, as I have been in recovery for many years. Twenty-five years ago, I was asked by my Union President to start a committee to assist our members and their families who needed help with addiction and mental health issues, because of my own experiences, I was excited to help. We started a silent committee to offer confidential help to Firefighters and their families who were struggling with these issues. I spent several years obtaining certifications in the field and have been helping members and their families ever since!

How has this program benefited firefighters and their loved ones?

Firefighters often experience things in the line of duty that cause mental and emotional stress that can lead to substance abuse. Once we built the EAP/MAP program we were amazed at how many people came forward to get the help they needed. Part of the rehabilitation process is learning how to deal with these stresses so they don’t negatively affect the rest of their lives and their families.

Where has life taken you since retirement?

Well before I retired, I worked closely with Treatment Solutions Network to place my members, providing the care that they needed. I was so impressed with the company that I started working with them more and have now become a Vice President and shareholder in the company. We have expanded the network to include top rated treatment centers, not just in Florida, but across the nation as well. Our network is set up to accept most insurances, self-pay and contracted rates with health & welfare funds to make treatment affordable to everyone.

What is next for you and Treatment Solutions Network?

We are working with a committee focus group comprised of leadership from Boston Fire, Boston Police, Providence Fire, MA Department of Corrections and MA Sheriff’s Department. This group is being directed by a highly accomplished therapist to design programs specifically geared toward Unions, Public Safety Officers and to help us better serve the Employee Assistance Professionals we work with. Our programs are designed to find the best possible solution to Dual Diagnosis problems. Solutions that combine, long term success, financial flexibility, and clinical practice into effective services.

To learn more about how we help professionals visit, www.TreatmentSolutionsNetwork.com/professionals, call toll free, 1-877-417-6237, or contact your local Treatment Consultant.

making connections for recovery

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 13

Changing position of global warming skeptics is challenging

By Barry Schiller When New Englanders hear “global warming,” we might think of our heating bills and say “bring it on.” And if the Earth were to warm uniformly a bit, the same everywhere, it would likely be more benign. But the planet’s uneven surface with land, sea and mountains, climate models predict climate destabilization of existing patterns.

Indeed, we are already seeing not just rising temperatures but record floods, droughts, heat waves and storms with serious economic cost. Though predictions are difficult, climate change can also threaten public health, safe sea levels and food security.

It might have been better if the environmental movement had called the issue “global climate destabilization” instead of global warming, but the term “global climate change” now seems to be the preferred more neutral term.

Since the industrial revolution, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has risen from about 280 parts per million to 393 parts per million, with consequences already noted. Worldwide, despite all the talk, 2011 saw the highest greenhouse gas emissions ever.

Transportation emissions are one of the major factors, discharging about one-third of the total greenhouse gases, and is also the sector, until recently at least, growing most rapidly in our region. And the need for oil to fuel transportation is promoting exploitation of the dirtiest, riskiest sources such as the tar sands, which a New York Times’ story indicated alone could add another 120 parts per million of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere, and in the Arctic, where the industry has little idea how to clean up any

major spills even if they wanted to.

We know how to reduce such transportation related emissions to help head off possible disasters. For example, more efficient cars, less carbon-intensive energy sources, more freight on the rails instead of trucks, more emphasis on pedestrian friendly neighborhoods that reduce the need to drive a lot of miles, more use of public transit and carpools and perhaps, with aviation being one of the fastest growing pollution sources, more conference calls instead of business trips. It would also help to cut tax subsidies to fossil fuel industries that the Friends of the Earth estimates to be worth about $113 billion over 10 years.

But it won’t be easy. There is a human tendency to resist changes, even if needed. Despite all the weather related news, media coverage of global climate change

has been reported to have dropped by a third. The fossil fuel industry’s success in funding politicians and climate change deniers has resulted in public confusion, and talking about climate change has become unfashionable. The deniers have pretty much succeeded in taking over the national Republican Party and are rejecting science to the point where they are trying in some states to pass laws to prohibit studying sea level issues (shades of King Canute) as well as disparaging conservation, renewable energy and pollution control regulations. For those of us who remember the party of John Chafee, Frank Sargent Claudine Schneider and such, this is a sad state of affairs for the Grand Old Party.

But we can find common ground with many business groups such as those interested in alternative energy or in building railroad equipment or transit vehicles. The insurance industry, worried about claims, can also be a partner in addressing climate change.

Even conservative governments overseas such as in Germany understand the need to act, and that country now gets about one-fifth of its electricity from solar energy. France has invested in electric trams in almost all its cities and has dropped oil consumption by about 11 percent.

We can do that, too. As consumers, voters and opinion makers, we can work for solutions to climate change issues. And face it, walking more and driving less will also be good for our health and our pocketbooks.

Barry Schiller is a member of the State Planning Council’s Transportation Advisory Committee and can be reached at bschiller@localnet.com.

www.ricommongroundnews.com Mt. Washington Bank offers aggressive solutions to help your business grow.

Totally FREE Business Checking | FREE ATM/VISA® Business Check Card Business Loans | Competitive Rates | FREE Online Banking with BillPay

Donna Finnerty, Vice President of Institutional Banking • (857) 524-1177 • dfinnerty@MtWashingtonBank.com Offices conveniently located in South Boston, Dorchester, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury and the South End.

Member FDIC/Member DIF

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

Page 14

Common Ground

JULY 2012

DLT decreases call center hours: SEIU Local 401 criticizes cutbacks Because of recent layoffs, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training prepares to decrease the operating hours for its call center, according to the Providence Journal.

However, the hours on Mondays and Tuesdays, the center’s busiest days, will remain the same: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Department of Labor and Training spokeswoman Laura Hart told the Providence Journal that early estimates

say wait times on Mondays for callers could increase by 10 to 20 minutes, bringing the current average wait time of 30 minutes to as long as 50 minutes.

Tuesday wait times of 28 minutes could increase by 3 to 15 minutes, to a total of 43 minutes, Hart said.

Wednesday call center hours will also remain the same, from 8 a.m. to noon, however, Thursday hours from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday hours from

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. will be reduced. Start times remain the same, but the call center will close at noon both of those days.

According to a statement released by Local 401 of SEIU and Technical Support Specialists II, the union representing workers at the Department of Labor and Training, eliminating some of the frontline workers who help the unemployed

access their benefits will worsen these workers already high workplace stress levels. Furthermore, according to the statement, SEIU Local 401 believes “Rhode Island’s unemployment picture is not improving,” and “the state should step up and maintain adequate staffing levels in the Unemployment Insurance and Workforce Development units until the situation actually improves.”

Radio Show

Common Ground Listen live anywhere at www.790business.com

Hosted by John J. Tassoni, Jr. Tuesday Afternoons 4pm – 5pm on AM 790

Stimulus Package ★ Reduce your Deductible

Providence’s Bravest 105 Railroad Avenue, Johnston, Rhode Island

★ Free Recondition with Every Serving Repairthe City401-232-1660 l 800-427-1660 of Providence since 1854 ★ Complete Service Check

To See How This Stimulus Package Works Visit

www.hillviewautobody.com

PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS You have the legal right to choose your repair facility in RI, so don’t let the insurance industry direct you to theirLOCAL preferred799 shop.

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS

When it comes to everything you value, who you call matters "If you're going to spend 15 minutes on

Rhode Island State Association of Fire Fighters Affiliated with the AFL-CIO Paul A. Doughty, President

your insurance, why not spend it with a

Philip F. Fiore, Vice President PAUL C. REED, President

Trusted Choice agency that can shop 15 insurance companies for you."

Brian Hunter, CPCU, CIC, President

For better coverage at a better price, Call 769-9500.

Scott G. Mello, Secretary JOSEPH A. ANDRIOLE, Vice President John HANOS, F. Woodard, Treasurer DAVID Secretary Treasurer MARCEL E. FONTENAULT, JR., Exec. Bd. Chairman

Executive Board Representatives 1ST DISTRICT V.P. John Silva

Christopher J. Jannitto Joseph P. Moreino Hans Ramsden V.P. Michael Stevens 3RD DISTRICT Wayne C. Oliveira Robert K. Neill, Jr., Staff Representative Zachariah Kenyon Anthony PAUL L. VALLETTA, JR.,Toro Legislative Agent 2ND DISTRICT V.P. Steve Rodrigues

REBECCA D. FISHER, Legislative Agent

92 Printery Street Paul A. Doughty 356 Smith Street • Providence, Rhode Island 02908 • (401) 272-6870 Providence, RI 02904 401-569-4444 risaff.org 401-272-7999 (O) 401-274-7999 (F) local799.com

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 15

Amend workers’ compensation regulations for PTSD

By Steve Miranda Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental illness and internal plague. Its damages don’t necessarily appear on the surface of the skin. Physical illnesses often leave marks or scars so health care legislation, which varies state-by-state, often favors the concept of that which can be seen can be proven, making it notoriously difficult for PTSDsuffering firefighters to claim workers’ compensation benefits.

Firefighters who struggle with PTSD may be unable to work and function normally, yet PTSD’s physical ambiguousness — and the stigma attached to the condition — makes it harder for victims to prove they are suffering with the disorder and to receive the compensation they need to provide for themselves and their families.

Many firefighters don’t admit to having PTSD because they’re too ashamed. Firefighters are generally perceived to be brave and strong, yet the daily trauma associated with the job makes them more susceptible to stress disorders than the general public.

In the past, that stigma has created a no-win situation because the firefighter with PTSD may have been too ashamed to even acknowledge the condition, and the service agency may have failed to report the firefighter with PTSD to avoid any financial responsibility or reported the disorder as another kind of injury, which did nothing for the employee or the condition and overall cause.

In 2009, Wyoming firefighters and other first responders suffering from PTSD were often denied workers’ compensation. Under the Wyoming Worker Safety and Compensation Division, firefighters could only receive coverage for workplace mental injuries if they proved to be direct results of self-inflicted physical injuries.

According to Wyoming’s trib.com news Web site, “Former Evanston volunteer firefighter Abe Wheeler has testified in favor of expanding workers’ compensation to at least cover PTSD for first responders.

Wheeler was denied such coverage after witnessing two fellow firefighters perish in an apartment fire in April

2005. He said his department was ‘really good’ to him, but he still needed professional help and medication.”

Just as the possible name change from post-traumatic stress disorder to post-traumatic stress injury (PTS) has been proposed in hopes of reducing the stigma attached to the condition, health care legislation is changing to help public safety workers and first responders with PTSD more easily receive their benefits.

In May, the Connecticut House of Representatives made headlines when it passed a bill that grants compensation to firefighters who witnessed the death of a colleague on the job and are suffering from PTSD. The bill is on its way to the secretary of state.

Also in May, government officials in Alberta, Canada, announced that firefighters, police officers and paramedics suffering with PTSD will receive presumptive coverage, meaning they will not have to prove their illness, a move intended to help reduce PTSD stigma and bring more victims out from the woodwork.

According to OHSCanada, the country’s occupational safety magazine Web site, “Sgt. Tony Simioni, who speaks for rank-and- file officers with the Edmonton police force, said they have been pushing for the change for a long time. … ‘Not only do claimants have to prove they have PTSD, they have to prove it happened on the job, and then they have to prove it’s so extreme they can’t do their jobs,’ he said.”

Those in opposition to the bill as well as workers’ compensation reformers in general, feel the amendments to Alberta’s regulations discriminate against others such as nurses and social workers who face the same threats of PTSD and argue that the government is “picking and choosing” the employees who should receive benefits more quickly and easily.

Steve Miranda is a director of special projects for Treatment Solutions.

If you have any questions or know someone who may need his services, contact him at stevem@tsnemail.com or (508) 525-5974.

PROVIDENCE AUTO BODY, INC.

Auto Body Work - Estimates - Unconditional 100% Lifetime Guarantee “Rhode Island’s Largest Volume Auto Body Repair Facility”

Unibody Specialists • Environmentally Safe Spray Booths • State of the Art Equipment • Substitute Vehicles Available - 24 Hour Towing service 350 Silver Spring Street, Providence, R.I. 02904 phone: 401.861.2211 fax: 401.421.3160

John & Sandra Petrarca and the staff of Providence Auto Body

Page 16

Common Ground

JULY 2012

College admissions get even more competitive

By Shelley Honeycutt Although experts had predicted college acceptance rates to plateau with the class of 2016, it seems that college admissions this academic season will be even more competitive than before.

As colleges across the nation begin to self-report their acceptance rates, we are finding that 2012 has been another year of stark competition at the most prestigious colleges. At the top of the list, Harvard University accepted only 5.9% of their applicants— in contrast to 6.2% last year. Trailing right behind them are Stanford, Yale, Columbia, and Princeton.

This trend is a signal to the class of 2017 to prepare for even more competition on a global scale next year. Students can prepare for this level of competition in a number of ways. Below are five solid ideas from the College PREP Collaborative professionals on how to help your student strategize, get organized and feel confident during the college application process this fall.

Strengthen your transcript The best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, hence admissions relies on your transcript to help them determine your academic strength.

Students can show their academic commitment through the pursuit of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Honors courses and even dual enrollment courses through their local college. Math and

Science majors should complete at least three AP courses in their chosen field at a minimum.

Think outside the brand name colleges With almost 4,000 colleges nationwide, there is a well-suited college out there for any student.

“College Matching” is not just an over-used term, it is a method to help students select a college that will allow them to excel. The professionals at the College Prep Collaborative help students narrow in on colleges that fit them academically, socially and financially. “This proven formula allows students to select colleges based on personalized criteria which results in above average college success,” says, Gayle Jenzejec of the College PREP Collaborative.

Know your test score ahead of time Being able to take one test to determine if you will do better on the SAT or ACT is invaluable.

Higher test scores can pay-off in both the admissions and scholarship columns! This test is available to students that take the 3-day College Admissions Boot Camp through the College PREP Collaborative this summer.

Write a stellar college essay One way to stand out among other admissions candidates is your essays. Students typically have

more than one opportunity to show off their writing skills. Most colleges request an essay, as well as responses to questions. Topic selection, essay tone, and a well thought-out essay strategy can help candidates shine.

Families in our region that want help with completing the college application process and financial aid will now have the College PREP Collaborative to rely on. They will be offering several 3-Day College Admissions Boot Camps at Sylvan Learning Center locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts this summer. For more information about the Camps visit www.

CollegePREPCollaborative.com.

The College PREP Collaborative was founded by a small group of higher education professionals.

These professionals bring over 50 years of experience, a proven track record and a passion for helping youth succeed. Each member brings their individualized specialties and industry knowledge to the collaborative, which has evolved into an unmatched resource for college-bound families.

For more information on the admissions process call Gayle at 401-821-0080. All Union members and their families will receive a $400 discount!

Shelley Honeycutt is the Managing Partner for the College PREP Collaborative.

Affiliated with the INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS 121 BRIGHTRIDGE AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 02914 www.teamsterslocal251.org

Executive Board

Business Agents

Joseph J. Bairos Kevin Reddy Secretary-Treasurer Principal Executive Officer Steven Labrie

Kevin Reddy Daniel Manocchio President

Douglas Teoli Steven Capobianco Asst. Business Agent Vice President

David Demuth Michael Nunes Organizer & Recording Secretary Asst. Business Agent

Dennis Mello Linda Russolino Trustee Asst. Business Agent Susan Folan Trustee James Croce Anthony Scivola Asst. Business Agent Trustee

www.ricommongroundnews.com

Common Ground

JULY 2012

Page 17

PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799

Providence’s Bravest Saving Lives and Property Since 1854 Paul A. Doughty, President Philip F. Fiore, Vice President Derek M. Silva, Secretary Christopher J. Stoney, Treasurer Anthony P. Lancellotti, EAP Chairman

Executive Board Representatives: Christopher J. Jannitto Joseph P. Moreino Hans Ramsden Wayne C. Oliveira Zachariah Kenyon Anthony Toro

Homeowners Welcome!

Rhode Island Judicial, Professional and Technical Employees’

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

Page 18

Common Ground

JULY 2012

UA Local Union 51

Plumbers • Pipefitters • Refrigeration Tim Byrne Business Manager SPUMONI’S

Grand Opening R

Walker Frederick Foeri FRI. AUGUST 27 to MON.Organizer/Agent AUGUST 30 Financial Secretary

Paul Alvarez Business Agent

obert

OUR NEW BAR & LOUNGE

Done Once. Done Right

EXTENDED HOURS: SUN.-THURS. 11 PM FRI.-SAT. MIDNIGHT

BAR & LOUNGE SPECIALS

Serving and Southeastern Massachusetts FRI. THROUGH WED. Rhode IslandSINGLE

8-11 Sun.-Wed. • 9-12 II Fri. Hemingway & Sat. Drive, East Providence, Rhode Island 02915

1/2 PRICE

LOBSTER

11

Telephone: 401-943-3033. Fax: 401-943-8027

$

APPETIZERS IN OUR LOUNGE THURSDAY - LADIES NIGHT 8 PM - 11 PM

forLOBSTER sale TWIN

TIMESHARE FREE BAR APPETIZERS

FOR THE LADIES

99

www.ualocal51.com BAKEDSTUFFED

LOBSTER

22 18

$

W/BEVERAGE PURCHASE

Sunday

BEE GREEN!!

24 Hour Service!!

99 $ 99 Wesco Oil Company Now Is The Time To Fill Your Tank!!

Lic.# 343

RI 401-231-3681

MA 508-883-9100

www.beewarm.com

FULL TIME SERVICE DEPARTMENT EVERY SUNDAY 9:30-1:30 ✭ All dinners served with • Service Contracts Available! $ Beach 99 Children $ 99 St. Flamingo Villas, Maarten French Fries, Spaghetti or Ziti & Soup or Salad ✭ • Competitive Pricing

9

5

(3-12 yrs) Adults 2 Bedroom • Lock-Out • 15th Week

1537 NEWPORT AVE. / obo PAWTUCKET,$20,000 RI

SpumonisRestaurant.com Cannot be combined with any other promotion or coupon.

726-4449 CALL 451.1305

TWELVE ACRES

Sunday BOOK YOUR BookNOW PARTY

• Birthdays • Anniversary • Private Functions

Your Party Now! GROUPS WELCOME AT OUR BRUNCH

• Budgets • Assistance Programs

EVERY SUNDAY 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

WORKERS’ COMP Injured at Work?

Learn the 3 Major Tricks played on Injured Workers!

Brunch includes:

Carving Station • Omelet Station Scrambled Eggs • Home Fries • French Toast • Bacon Breakfast Pastries • Fresh Fruit Display • Breakfast Sausage Baked Scrod • Chicken Entrée • Vegetable • Pasta with Sauce Dessert Station • Coffee, Tea

Clambakes Pig Roast Outings

Adults

1299

$

Call for Your FREE Book on R.I. Comp.

699

Children $ (2-10 years) COUPON

Complimentary MIMOSA

BLOODY MARY With Brunch & Coupon. Must be 21 or older. Exp. September 26, 2010. or

With Brunch & Coupon. Must be 21 or older. Expires August 30, 2011.

20% service charge withuse useof of coupon.

20% service chargewillwillbebeadded added with coupon.

445 DOUGLAS PIKE, SMITHFIELD, RI (From I-295 North or South, Exit 8-A) www.twelveacresbanquet.com • 401-231-7799

Attorney at Law

STEPHEN J. DENNIS OFFICE

453-1355

HOME

245-0676

CELL

595-4571

www.stephenjdennis.com

Common Ground

Page 19

Tony’s OK Kustom’s Custom / Insurance Work

• • • • • •

Auto Body Repairs by

Stephen Roy Power Equipment, Inc.

Gary DiLorenzo

146 Putnam Ave. (Rt. 44) • Johnston, RI 02919 (401) 231-8210

Quality Repairs on All Vehicles Factory Frame & Spray Booth Motorcycle Body, Repair & Painting Restorations/Custom Painting Rental Cars Available Full Service Facility

296 George Washington Hwy., Smithfield, RI

401.484.4462 • 401.232.2801 Body Shop Lic. #927

RI’S FIRST AND LARGEST WALKER DEALER

Rhode Island Carpenters Local Union 94

Walker & Wright Stander Loaner Machine Available to Walker & Wright Stander Owners.

Exclusive to customers of Stephen Roy Power Equipment.

JULY 2012

WHERE THE PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPERS SHOP!!

See our website for details. WWW.STEPHENROYPOWER.COM

David F. Palmisciano President Thomas J. Savoie Vice President William F. Holmes Financial Secretary W. Paul Lander trustee 14 Jefferson Park Road, Warwick, RI 02888 401.467.7070

Best of Luck and Continued Success from the Drivers, Maintenance and Supervisory Personnel of ATU Local 618 & 618A in Providence & Newport

Paul Harrington President – Business Agent

Thomas Cute Vice President

Kevin M. Millea Secretary-Treasurer

Executive Board Kevin Cole • Nick DeCristofaro • Brian Farrell • Christopher Lemire Virginia Moffitt • Atthur Olink • Frank Plutzner School Bus Divisions Warwick-Jamestown Dave Kilduff • Brenda Paine • Mary Tarbox Johnston Harold Krause • Wendy LaCombe

Page 20

Common Ground

Do you own a vehicle with a model year of 2006 to the present?

Lousy food, a total lack of sleep, and used plastic milk crates for a bookcase.

• Was the vehicle involved in an accident caused by someone else?

• Was the vehicle repaired?

Isn’t life’s journey awesome?

Then you may be entitled to money for diminished value to your vehicle.

If we agree to handle your matter

E-Access Student Checking

we guarantee you will receive at least $500.00.

It’s the free checking account designed specifically for the student in your family.* • ATM fees refunded (up to $25.00 per month)

• Free Bill Payment**

• Personalized debit cards available

• One non-sufficient funds fee refund • per calendar year

• Free E-Statements

• Free Mobile and Text Banking • Free Online Banking

Call Us Now! 401.273.1111

Stop by any branch, call 401.233.4700, or open an account online at navigantcu.org.

Federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

JULY 2012

Enjoy Life’s Journey

Petrarca & Petrarca

*$10 minimum opening balance. Students 16 and 17 years old require a parent or guardian as a joint owner on the account. When a student turns 25 years old, the account will automatically switch to a free Journe Rewards Checking account. **Must be at least 18 years old.

PUBLIC EMPLOYEES’ LOCAL UNION 1033

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

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Legal Services Fund

Representing the Public Servants who make government work!

PUBLIC EMPLOYEES = PUBLIC SERVICE DONALD S. IANNAZZI, ESQ, Business Manager

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Education, Training and Apprenticeship Fund

VICKI A. VIRGILIO, President

Donald S. Iannazzi, Esq., Chairman

Cranston Crossing Guards Narragansett Town Hall Town of North Kingstown North Providence Crossing Guards Lincoln Highway Department Lincoln Water Commission Providence Community Action Program Providence Civic Center Authority Providence School Department R.I. Department of Transportation Lincoln Public Library Warwick Crossing Guards Narragansett Bay Commission North Providence School Department Town of North Providence Lincoln Town Hall City of Providence

Vicki A. Virgilio Trustee Sharen Gleckman Trustee Betty Jackson

Liaison

Pasquale T. D’Amico Trustee Joseph F. Kenney Trustee Chris Lombardi Coordinator

Rhode Island’s Union Built, Operated and Staffed Facilities

Roger Williams Park Casino

city center skating rink

Accommodating 50 - 300

Accommodating groups from 10 - 400

(401) 941-5640 • (401) 785-9450

(401) 331-5544 ext. 5