Common Ground VOLUME 1, NUMBER 10
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OCTOBER 2010
See Page 11
RHODE ISLAND
In his own words:
Why Frank Caprio wants to be your governor By John Houle
Caprio: It is not fair to employees to keep changing the retirement system year after year. What we need to do is modernize the plan once and for all so that it is similar to other modern plans like the plan in place for federal employees or for employees of R.I.’s quasi-state agencies. To be clear, this new plan will not affect any benefit already earned by employees, and there will be no change to the plan for retirees. CG: One of your opponents says he plans to raise taxes on groceries, clothing and prescriptions, among other things. How do you compare that plan to raise taxes versus your plan to make structural changes?
Common Ground recently interviewed General Treasurer Frank Caprio about his candidacy for governor. There have been many misconceptions about Caprio’s stances on issues affecting unions. Read his own words, unfiltered and free from the spin of those who would want to distort his record for their own personal gain, about those positions. CG: What would you say directly to the teacher, carpenter, firefighter, plumber, laborer, police officer and nurse, as to why you should be our next governor? Caprio: I know what needs to be done to bring this state back. We need to create jobs and generate economic activity in Rhode Island. Over the course of my campaign, I have held over 100 small business meetings with owners and workers to learn how the next governor can put some wind at the back of small businesses and to get the state out of the way of small businesses. If we help every Rhode Island small business create just one job - just one we will cut unemployment in half. CG: There is talk that you plan to dramatically change teachers’ pensions? What exactly is your plan for teachers’ pensions? Primary
Caprio: As governor, I will hold the line on taxes and find ways to eliminate wasteful spending. New sales taxes on daily essentials such as groceries and medication will have the most significant effect on struggling families. During these tough economic times, the last thing they need is higher taxes. To grow our economy, we need to focus on job creation. The next governor must improve the effectiveness of government and find ways to reduce its cost. As treasurer, I have been able to return over a million dollars from my budget back to the treasury through strategic planning decisions. As governor, I will eliminate wasteful spending, hold the line on taxes and serve as an advocate for our state’s small businesses. CG: Putting people back to work is still one of the top issues on people’s minds. What plans do you immediately have to put people back to work? R
Caprio: My small business plan is designed to promote job creation. We need to revamp our small business loan program, offer tax incentives to businesses that settle and create jobs in Rhode Island, ensure that state government is an advocate for small business, eliminate red tape and improve access to health care. My clean energy plan emphasizes the need for energy efficiency, which
can provide many job hours as we realize savings for homes, businesses and public buildings. CG: The 38 studios proposal has been controversial. Why as general treasurer did you attempt to put the brakes on that project? Caprio: The Economic Development Corporation and the governor had not taken the necessary steps to protect Rhode Island’s financial position. The deal creates a risky moral obligation for the state, which could adversely affect the state’s bond rating and make future state debt issuances more expensive. In addition, there are thousands of small businesses in need of better access to capital. CG: It’s probably one of the most difficult times in recent history to become governor. What in your professional background prepares you best for the daunting task of governor? Caprio: In my time serving as general treasurer, I managed to reduce my department’s budget by an average of 10 percent per year while at the same time earning the reputation as having the best customer service in state government. We accomplished that by enacting a strategic plan, negotiating with the union and setting up a system of employee and management reviews where everybody knows what is expected of them and how to succeed. As governor, I would bring that plan to all 42 state entities. In addition, to effectively reform our state, a governor needs to be proactive about communication. The governor and the General Assembly need to work together to achieve a goal, and the key to that is communication. During my eight terms serving in the General Assembly, I learned the value of communication and how to communicate with legislators. As governor, I will keep the lines of communication open not just to General Assembly leadership, but also with rankand-file legislators. See CAPRIO Continued on Page 2
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Common Ground
CAPRIO Continued from Page 1 CG: Who is the most inspirational person in your life? Caprio: The most inspirational person in my life is my grandfather Antonio “Tup” Caprio. He came to the port of Providence from Italy about 85 years ago. He had no money, no education and he couldn’t speak any English. His first job was selling fruit from a pushcart. Later he worked on a WPA crew, and finally he got his dream job as a milkman for Hood’s Milk. My grandfather taught me the value of sacrifice. He lived a life of hard work so that those who came after him could have a better life. Talking with people now, I get more of a sense that people feel that the ladder of success has been pulled up, that it doesn’t matter how hard you work, that you can’t get ahead. I want Rhode Island to be a place where people know that the ladder of success is still there, and that the state is going to get out the way of people trying to succeed. John Houle is the Co-Publisher/Editor of Common Ground News.
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OCTOBER 2010
Labor volunteers must keep campaigning to ensure victories on November 2nd By John F. Killoy III The victories of labor supported candidates in the recent General Assembly primary elections have been called a “big day for organized labor in Rhode Island.” The truth of the matter is that the victories did not materialize out of thin air, nor were they handed to labor supported candidates because they are nice people. But rather they were tirelessly worked for by many people who will never get any recognition or accolades, save for the fact that they know what they did to help good candidates, candidates who will stand up and be a voice for the working men SPUMONI’S and women of Rhode Island, get elected. Elections are not won on the second Tuesday in September or the first Tuesday in November, elections are won in the days, weeks, and months leading up toFRI. those Tuesdays. AUGUST 27 to MON. Elections AUGUST 30 are won when people see something special in a candidate and are drawn to helping that person achieve victory. Elections are won when people sacrifice to help others, taking time away from family, friends EXTENDED HOURS: SUN.-THURS. 11 knocking PM and their day-to-day lives or spending time on one more door, making one more phone FRI.-SAT. MIDNIGHT call or licking one more stamp. BAR & LOUNGE SPECIALS This summer there were dozens of union volunteers across the state walking door-to-door talking to other union members about the importance of supporting candidates who will stand up for the interests of union members in the General Assembly. While most Rhode Islanders were sitting at SINGLE 8-11 Sun.-Wed. • 9-12 Fri. & Sat. the beach or watching the Red Sox on TV, there were dedicated union volunteers who only felt the ocean breeze if they were canvassing in Bristol or caught a glimpse of David Ortiz through the front door of a fellow union member’s house in Buttonwoods. People coming out and exercising their right to vote for who they think best represents their interests and concerns is democracy working at its most fundamental level. The success of the Rhode Island labor movement on primary day is the result of union members educating other union members about where certain individuals stood on issues that they felt were important to them, THURSDAY - LADIES NIGHT and people responded. When the General Assembly reconvenes in January, there will be a few more 8 PM - 11 PM people who believe that it is better to bring everyone up together than knock someone down so a few can prosper. While the primary victories are something we can all be proud of, it is not a time to sit back. W/BEVERAGE PURCHASE There are important elections still to come that will shape the direction of our state for years to come. So as we approach November 2, once again there will be union volunteers spread out across the state going door-to-door talking about issues that are important to them, such as preserving pension rights, protecting collective bargaining, holding businesses accountable for wage and hours EVERY SUNDAY 9:30-1:30 laws, and ensuring labor $ agreements enforced.✭ All dinners served with $ that 99 project 99 areFrench Children Fries, Spaghetti or Ziti & Soup or Salad ✭ yrs)those few minutes at your front door. Adults Elections will be won or (3-12 lost in
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Common Ground
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Woonsocket Fire Department Local 732 raises $9,600 to benefit MDA
WOONSOCKET – The city’s firefighters volunteered their time late this summer to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) by hitting the streets and “filling their boots”. Fire Department Local 732 is a part of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). It was the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating its time and efforts to the MDA, according to Jane Young, the MDA’s executive director. Since 1954, firefighters have raised nearly $275 million for the MDA. IAFF is the largest national sponsor of MDA, and firefighters pride themselves on their devotion to the cause. Last year, firefighters here raised an astounding $11,100 from their annual boot drive and various other fund-raisers. Local 732 President Christopher Oakland said, “If it weren’t for our off-duty firefighters in heavily traveled intersections, we would not be able to raise this much needed money to help the kids that can’t even play ball, Jerry’s kids!” All proceeds of the fund-raisers go toward MDA services, research programs and support groups that benefit local individuals and families affected by neuromuscular disease, according to Young.
Woonsocket firefighters raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. They are, front to back, Lt. Daryl Paux, Pvt. Sean Hoyle and Lt. Mike Morin.
Move people not cars By Margherita Pryor What do the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the White House We expect to be the and the Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition have in common? Simple: They first state to complete all want us to get out of our cars and on our feet, our bikes, our skates, its portion of the East anything, in fact, that moves under human muscle power. Coast Greenway, a The reason is equally simple. Numerous studies, including very recent magnificent route ones by the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity and the CDC, that will run from report that we are literally driving ourselves to the poorhouse and ill health. Calais, Maine, to Key They warn that our sedentary, badly fed lifestyle has become more costly, West, Florida. Our citizens routinely support bond issues for greenway more time-consuming and more damaging to our health than ever before. development, and we devote 5.4 percent of our federal transportation And while the factors underlying that situation are complex, we know those dollars to bike and pedestrian programs — the highest allocation in the gloomy outcomes share at least one common source — our love affair with country. But that number can be misleading. Any map will show that our our cars. bike paths are viewed by users and transportation officials as primarily Today’s transportation system is extremely expensive. Data from 2005 recreational. The Blackstone, East Bay and Washington Secondary routes all shows that nationally we spent more than $900 billion on vehicles and come to the edge of Providence and disappear. related needs, accounting for 17 percent of total household expenditures — Although the newly opened Woonasquatucket Greenway is a welcome See PEOPLE Continued on Page 6 more than households spent on food and clothing combined. That date predates the recent frequent fluctuations in oil prices. Those costs do not factor in the billions more spent by businesses and public agencies on the care and feeding of cars, as well as coping with the impacts of cars. For not only are we pouring money into our cars, we’re also throwing away time. Again from 2005, studies showed that the average rush hour traveler in an urban area spends 38 hours in traffic delays, imposing large economic costs to the tune of 4.2 billion lost hours and 2.9 billion gallons of wasted fuel. That is an estimated $78 billion drain on the economy. In little Rhode Island, our share of that drain was $343 million in congestion costs. And of course that estimate doesn’t account for the reduced quality of life, or the moments we could have spent with our families and friends. Nor does it account for the environmental costs. The carbon dioxide we produce in the Northeast, primarily by driving and by burning Introductory Fixed Rate Thereafter, remaining fossil fuels, makes us the seventh highest contributor of greenhouse gas for First 12 Billing Cycles term will automatically in the world. In Rhode Island, a quarter of the state’s emissions come convert to a variable rate of interest as low as from vehicle use alone. prime minus 0.50% Finally, it’s not only municipal and household costs and greenhouse APR* gases that are up. So are rates of asthma, obesity and diabetes. In Rhode Island, 57 percent of adults are overweight or obese, an increase of 66 APR* percent since 1990. Worse, our kids are following the same alarming trajectory — one in five children entering kindergarten in our state are obese, facing a life-long impact on their physical and mental health. No Title Fee • No Application Fee • No Closing Costs Those effects are happening now -- 60 percent of obese Rhode Island children ages 5 to 10 already have at least one cardiovascular Only your imagination stands in your way now. This special introductory disease risk factor. Medical experts relate these effects directly to the rate on a Home Equity Line of Credit won’t last long. Come in today and increasing lack of exercise in our lives, some of which is due to our take advantage of this extraordinary low rate. And Journey on. car-dominated communities and landscapes. The CDC found that Call 401.233.4700, or visit navigantcu.org relationship so compelling that it has created an entire program to encourage built environments that encourage regular physical activity. The Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition wants to reverse the impact of Enjoy Life’s Journey our car-dominated society by advocating for bicycling as cost-effective, healthy, enjoyable and environmentally friendly. Advertised Introductory *Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 1.75% is the lowest available and is fixed for the first 12 months. Offer applicable for applicants with a credit score of 680 or higher. After initial 12 monthly billing cycles, rate automatically reverts to a variable rate of interest as low as Prime minus 0.50% as published Rhode Island has an immediate advantage because of the miles in The Wall Street Journal 30 days before the date of any rate adjustment. As of 9/1/2010 Prime Rate was 3.25%. Interest rate and line amount determined by individual creditworthiness and subject to loan-to-value ratio of 80%. Offer limited to 1-4 family owner-occupied primary residence properties only. Property insurance of paved bike paths in the state. 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Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
Protecting Rhode Islanders and Their Homes By Gina Raimondo A voter recently asked how I plan to ensure safe, affordable housing for all Rhode Islanders. It’s an extremely important question and one that’s important to me personally, as I serve as vice chair of the Board of Crossroads Rhode Island, the state’s largest homeless organization. I played a role in launching Crossroads’ women’s shelter, designed to give women a safe place to stay while they get back on their feet. Through my work with Crossroads, I’ve seen first-hand just how devastating homelessness — and a lack of affordable housing — can be. As General Treasurer, I will be a member of the R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation board, and I’ll be able to offer the
incentive of increased opportunities to do business with the state to encourage local banks to boost their investments in their communities — particularly in non-profit housing groups such as SWAP (Stop Wasting Abandoned Properties) and the Women’s Development Corporation, which work to create and maintain access to affordable housing for all. But protecting Rhode Islanders from foreclosure and mortgages they can’t afford starts with financial literacy education for our citizens and that’s something I’m really excited about offering through the General Treasurer’s office. Helping people understand how to make their money work for them and grow the resources they have is something I’m passionate about, and I plan to use my role as General Treasurer to empower Rhode Islanders to take charge of their financial lives. Gina Raimondo is a Democratic candidate for Rhode Island general treasurer. She is co-founder of Point Judith Capital, a Providence-based firm that invests in startup companies and creates jobs in high growth industries.
Rowley has it all wrong about Tassoni By Helen O’Connor Travis Rowley’s insults, recently hurled at Senator John J. Tassoni, Jr., apparently are what Republican politics have stooped to in our state. It’s not a surprise that the philosophy of the Republican Party is to throw all the mud you can, hoping it sticks. They’ve been doing that for years. But to resort to the type of name-calling usually reserved for schoolyard bullies, as Rhode Island Young Republicans Chairman Travis Rowley did towards Senator Tassoni, takes the campaign rhetoric to a sad new low. [Valley Breeze, Young Republicans chairman hurls insults at Tassoni, September 30, 2010.] Is it any wonder voters are disenchanted? Is it any wonder it is so difficult to get good people to step up and run for office? Mr. Rowley – who resides in Providence, not Smithfield or North Smithfield, which comprise the district Sen. Tassoni represents, Senate District 22 – has never put himself out there and run for office. He prefers to sit on the sidelines and call those who do choose public service vile names. What those of us who live in the district know is how hard Sen. Tassoni has worked
for us. Any time we have a problem, we know that we can turn to Senator Tassoni, and he won’t rest until it is addressed. To borrow the phrase from Smithfield Democratic Chairman Lawrence Mancini, Senator Tassoni is the “top banana” when it comes to serving the needs of his constituents. Senator Tassoni has led the effort to bring lights to the fields of Smithfield and North Smithfield so that football and soccer games can be played there at night, “under the lights.” He has spearheaded the effort to curb bullying in schools, passing legislation and helping to bring the successful TalkWorks antibullying program to the schools. (Perhaps Mr. Rowley should attend a session!) The bullying commission he currently chairs is looking for further ways to reduce bullying in the schools. Senator Tassoni authored the affordable housing law which balances a community’s need for responsible growth with the continued need for affordable housing, and he championed the successful affordable housing bond issue. He has hosted fundraisers to raise money
to combat cancer in children, and provided support for countless local civic organizations. He continuously advocates for lower utility rates and opposes increases in health care premiums. He is an outspoken opponent of bloat and waste in government – in fact, it was a criticism Senator Tassoni made about government waste which prompted Mr. Rowley’s derision. His accomplishments on behalf of the communities he represents are too numerous to list in this space. Suffice to say that he is extremely responsive to the needs of his constituents, and tireless in his efforts to improve Smithfield, North Smithfield and the state of Rhode Island. Wouldn’t we all be better served to focus on issues such as these, and each candidate’s vision for the future, rather than childish namecalling that serves no one and does nothing to further the discussion about who would best represent our community? Helen O’Connor is a resident of Smithfield and voter.
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American Cancer Society prepares to Make Strides on October 24th Close to 12,000 walkers ready to participate PROVIDENCE — Nearly 12,000 breast cancer survivors, their families, and volunteers from around the state will converge at Roger Williams Park on October 24, hoping to raise about $1 million for the 15th Annual American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 3.2 mile walk. Registration and a rolling start are set for 8:30 to 10 a.m. Since its inception in 1993, nearly 6 million walkers nationwide have raised more than $400 million. In 2009 alone, nearly 700,000 walkers across the country collected $60 million. Participants will have the opportunity to help the American Cancer Society create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays by participating in this year’s walk. This is one of 22 Making Strides’ walks being held in October around New England and one of more than 160 such events that will be held throughout the nation. According to American Cancer Society statistics, every three minutes a woman in the United States learns she has breast cancer. In addition: • Breast cancer accounts for nearly one out of three cancer diagnoses among women in the U.S. • An estimated 207,090 U.S. women will develop breast cancer this year, and 40,230 will die. • In Rhode Island, 790 women will develop breast cancer this year, and 130 will die. • Progress in both early detection and treatment of breast cancer has resulted in decreasing mortality rates since 1990. Patients with breast cancer that is diagnosed before it has spread have a 98 percent five-year relative survival rate, and 61 percent of breast cancers are found at that early stage. “As the official Sponsor of Birthdays, the American Cancer Society wants women to see the real tangible benefits of taking care of
themselves,â€? said Nicole Gotthold, manager of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks. “Women can take charge of their breast health, fight breast cancer and save lives. More than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors will celebrate a birthday this year thanks to early detection and improved treatment.â€? Making Strides Against Breast Cancer supports the American Cancer Society’s unique mission to save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or finding it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking research; by fighting back by encouraging lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer; and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. Funds raised through Making Strides are critical in meeting the needs of breast cancer in the community through: • Stay well: The American Cancer Society provides answers to questions day and night through (800) 227-2345 and cancer.org. Breast cancer is the number-one reason people call us. • Get well: Because breast cancer patients, survivors and their families need emotional and physical support, the American Cancer Society offers Reach to Recovery, a one- on-one program that pairs patients with trained survivors for support and advice. The society’s Look Good‌Feel Better workshops teach ways to help with appearance-related side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. • Finding cures: The American Cancer Society has invested more than $388 million in breast cancer grants since 1971, more than any other voluntary health organization. As a result, more than
2.5 million breast cancer survivors will celebrate a birthday this year. In Rhode Island, the society has a current investment of $4.7 million in cancer research grants. • Fighting back: American Cancer Society advocacy efforts have played a key role in fighting to keep the breast and cervical cancer early detection program funded; ensuring that women across Rhode Island are able to receive lifesaving mammograms. “The volunteers who join us in Making Strides help save the lives of many mothers, daughters and sisters,â€? said Gotthold. Media sponsors for the 2010 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Providence are Cat Country 98.1, GladWorks and WPRI Fox Providence. Other partners are Kent Hospital and University Surgical Associates. Additionally, hundreds of teams from businesses, schools and community groups will participate. For more information or to sign up for the Making Strides’ event in Providence, call (401) 243-2604 or visit cancer.org/stridesonline. The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer, with a global grassroots force of more than 3 million volunteers. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, the society turns what it knows about cancer into what it does. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer, and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year.
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Common Ground
PEOPLE Continued from Page 3 change in that it actually enters Providence and proceeds to the heart of downtown, it too is mostly on streets without marked bike lanes or adequate buffers from adjacent traffic. Poor or missing signage and routes along bikeunfriendly streets confuse cyclists and discourage routine commuting. The absence of secure hitches — only a few bikes can be locked to a parking sign — and facilities for changing also are barriers to more bicycle uses. So it’s no surprise that bikes make up a mere two-tenths of 1 percent of all modes for trips to work. Even compared to the not-so-good national news — nine-tenths of 1 percent of trips to work are on bikes — that is an astonishingly low percentage. Given the high correlation between compact development, which we have in Rhode Island’s cities and towns, and opportunities for biking and walking, we should do much, much better. The average automobile trip in Rhode Island is 8.37 miles, takes 24.03 minutes; and, in 80 percent of cases, is in a single-occupancy vehicle. On a bicycle at 12 mph, those trips would take just 40 minutes. That’s door to door without the hassle and cost of parking and the thousands of dollars annually to operate and maintain a car. In 2009, only 13 percent of students rode a bike or walked to school, and a stunning 44 percent went by car. Parents cite many barriers to putting their children on bicycles, including distance, traffic-related danger, weather, fear of crime and prohibitive school policies.
OCTOBER 2010
The solution is in our own hands — or more accurately, on our own feet! Pedal on Rhode Island! Margherita Pryor is a founding member of the Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition, an organization established to promote and enable bicycling as a healthy, enjoyable, efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation in Rhode Island. Its Web site is www.ribike.org.
So what can be done to increase bicycle (and pedestrian) commuting? •
Ensure that the state Department of Transportation (DOT) takes advantage of federal support for active transportation when setting long-range transportation goals. That means identifying how much it wants bicycle riding to increase and the steps it will take to generate that increase, including implementing safety programs and enforcing traffic rules that protect cyclists and pedestrians. That is a key early step. In 2007 alone, 14,000 children were injured and 300 killed by cars. There is a “safety in numbers” trend in which roadways generally become safer for everyone when more people are out walking and biking.
•
Make the true costs of our transportation policies transparent so that we recognize how much the different modes cost. Factors such as pollution, disease and the physical dismemberment of our neighborhoods must be considered along with the tradeoffs and consequences among them.
•
Advocate for a transportation system focused on moving people not cars. Every year, the third Friday of May is designated Bike to Work Day. Between now and May 20 we have eight months to bring hundreds of like-minded commuters and advocates into our cities and towns and to let our elected officials know that we want a better way to get from here to there.
Learn more about bicycling Need more incentives to try biking? There are two nifty calculators that estimate how much you can save on gas, maintenance, tires and the depreciation of your car. The calculators also show the reduction of CO2 emissions, how many hours of exercise you can accumulate and how many calories you can burn. To use the calculators, go online to www.freedombicycle.com/content/ view/24/21/ or www.youcanbikethere.com/content/bike-commutecalculator. For recommendations from the White House obesity report and CDC studies, go to www.letsmove.gov/taskforce_childhoodobesityrpt.html, www.activelivingbydesign.org and www.cdc.gov/healthyplaces. Web sites of other cycling and pedestrian advocacy organizations include www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site, www.bikewalk.org, www.bikesatwork.com/carfree.
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Common Ground
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Common Ground
Page 9
Post traumatic stress disorder: A hidden threat to our troops coming home By Steve Miranda As we all sit back and watch the various layers of the painful U.S. war effort disassemble, it is nearly impossible for most of us to conceptually grasp the level of loss and violent despair unfolding each minute for our troops in the Middle East and the soldiers who have already returned. Family members of soldiers who risk their lives daily may have a different perspective on the madness, but nothing can or will ever compare to the horror each soldier experiences in his or her own individual way. The reason I bring this up is to shed a little light on a situation we are all facing that is set to explode like a hidden improvised explosive device (IED) tripped by an unsuspecting soldier. It is called post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it’s about to change the world in which we live. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents or military combat. In connection with troops who have served in the Middle East, PTSD is a ticking bomb that has been constructed in the region since day one of our occupation. The fuse on that particular PTSD bomb has been burning for quite some time and is set to explode gradually over the next 20 years. Believe me, if you think I’m being dramatic, watch the approaching explosion and think back to this article if you survive it.
Visit www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/fslistptsd-overview.asp for a peek at what we all face. When you’re reading the material remember that only recently have the U.S. military’s powers that be begun to recognize that PTSD exists. While it is wonderful that it is finally being given credibility, the resources set aside for treatment is a pittance compared to what will be needed. Ironically, there will be a ticking PTSD IED that could go off at any second inside each returning veteran. Whether an acute PTSD reaction occurs on the street, at work, at school, at
church or at home, you can bet that virtually none of us are equipped with even a basic understanding of how to deal with it; we will be suffering as a society for generations to come. Sadly, PTSD cannot be treated like other behavioral disorders. We hear reports daily of treatment facilities failing patients and their families by attempting to treat PTSD along with other behaviorally impaired patients. That is not possible. PTSD patients and their families need specialized treatment. With the number of veterans returning from the Middle East, we are in for our own desert storm if we don’t get a handle on the problem. The government has its hands full, so the private sector absolutely has to pick up the slack. The military and government preparation for dealing with returning veterans and families is painfully substandard so we all must support our troops. That doesn’t mean putting stickers on our cars; it means professionals must donate time, facilities must donate beds and citizens must go out of their way to learn how best to treat our returning heroes. Steve Miranda is a treatment consultant for Treatment Solutions Network’s Northeast region. If you have any questions or know someone who may need his services, contact him at stevem@ tsnemail.com or (508) 525-5974. Treatment Solutions Network is proudly supporting the observance of September as Recovery Month. It will be participating in many events to help spread the good news of recovery. Visit http:// www.treatmentsolutionsnetwork.com for more information.
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Page 10
Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
McElroy to become member of the La Salle Hall of Fame Edward J. McElroy, lifelong educator and labor leader, is being inducted into the La Salle Academy Hall of Fame on November 4 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston. A 1958 graduate of La Salle, McElroy is chief executive officer of the Union Labor Life Insurance Company Inc. (ULLICO), an insurance and financial services holding company serving the American labor movement. McElroy is also president emeritus of the more than 1.4 million-member American Federation of Teachers (AFT), having served as its president from 2004 to 2008. Prior to his election as president, McElroy served 12 years as AFT secretarytreasurer. McElroy also served on the executive council of the AFLCIO, to which he was elected in December 2001. During McElroy’s tenure as a national officer, the AFT added more than 500,000 new members. McElroy began his career as a social studies and English teacher in Warwick, and was elected president of the Warwick Teachers Union, Local 915, in 1967. At age 30, he became president of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers, a position he held until he was elected AFT secretary-treasurer. McElroy served as president of the Rhode Island AFLCIO from 1977 to 1992, and
earned a reputation as a unifier and effective representative of public and private sector unions. Throughout his years at the national union, McElroy led efforts to strengthen and uphold financial accountability requirements at every level of the union. He was at the forefront of the AFT’s initiatives to harness technology to support, inform and mobilize union members. While serving on the AFT executive council, McElroy was instrumental in launching the Futures Committee, a panel of AFT vice presidents who spent two years consulting with federation leaders and members to shape a new direction for the union in its governance and structure. McElroy also serves on the board of directors of Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, Education International, the Debt Reduction Task Force and the Council on Competitiveness. McElroy is a graduate of Providence College. He resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Edwina B. (Ricci). They have four children — Kathy, Mary, Steven and Elizabeth — and four grandchildren — Kyle, Evan, Chloe and the late Noah Jordan. The induction starts at 6 p.m. For tickets or to be included in the program book, contact Tim Welsh at twelsh@lasalle-academy.org or (401) 351-7750, extension 135.
La Salle Academy
congratulates Edward McElroy Class of 1958
on his induc on into the La Salle Academy Hall of Fame
e Induction ceremony to be held Thursday, November 4, 2010, at 6 p.m. Rhodes-on-the-Pawtuxet Cranston, Rhode Island $50 per person • $500 per table For more information call (401) 351-7750, ext. 135
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Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
529 plan benefits: An education for your student, tax breaks for you By William J. Hawkins III With higher education costs rising faster than the general Consumer Price Index (CPI), it’s easy to understand why saving enough money to fund a child’s college education has become a financial challenge for many parents and grandparents. The numbers tell the story: The first-year college tuition bill in 2020 is projected to be $32,803 for an average public institution and $66,036 for an average private institution. So whether college for your child or grandchild is years away or right around the corner put time on your side by considering the benefits of contributing to a 529 plan. Made possible by federal legislation, 529 plans are implemented at the state or institution level. Nearly all states have approved and adopted those qualified tuition assistance programs. Most states let nonresidents participate in their plans, although the tax benefits may be greater for residents than for nonresidents. The student can use 529 plan account balances at any participating accredited postsecondary school in the United States or certain schools abroad for tuition, room and board, books, equipment and supplies. For 2010, qualified expenses also include computer technology, and Internet-access costs. As the owner, you retain control of the assets and can change beneficiaries within the designated student’s family at any time without penalty. A qualified family member generally includes siblings, descendants, ancestors, aunts, uncles and first cousins. Other key advantages of the plans include: • Federal income tax free qualified distributions to students. • No income limitations for participation. • Contribution limits are significantly higher than those allowed for other education savings plans. • Significant estate-planning benefits. A single
person can contribute up to $65,000 and a married couple up to $130,000 in one year per beneficiary with no gift-tax
consequences. Such a contribution will be considered a five-year accelerated annual exclusion gift, so no additional gifts can be made for that beneficiary for the next four years without incurring gift-tax implications unless the annual exclusion gift increases. The gift amount and subsequent appreciation, however, are removed from your taxable estate.
•
No burden of investment decisions. The plan’s chosen investment manager will be responsible for portfolio management. Initially, some plans may let you select from several asset allocation model alternatives, which generally may be changed once every calendar year and/or with a beneficiary change.
If for some reason the account balance is not used for qualified higher education expenses, every withdrawal from a 529 plan is separated into two components: an earnings portion and a return of your investment portion. The earnings portion of the withdrawal is subject to federal income tax and potentially a 10 percent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) penalty. The return of your investment portion plan is never subject to federal income tax or IRS penalty. If the beneficiary dies, becomes disabled or receives a tax-free scholarship, you may take penalty free withdrawals from the 529 balance within that same calendar year. Keep in mind that 529 plan investment balances may affect eligibility for financial aid. •
If a parent owns the 529 account, up to 5.64% of the value is included in expected family contribution (EFC) as a parental asset. Any 529 accounts owned by a dependent student or by a custodian for the student are reported on the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) as a parental asset. Any qualified withdrawals from those accounts are not included as income to the student.
someone other than a parent or the student, the value of the 529 plan is not reportable as an asset on the FAFSA. However, any distributions from third-party accounts are considered financial support to the student and are reportable on the following year’s FAFSA as student income. Student income is assessed at the student’s rate of 50 percent.
There are many 529 plan choices. Discuss college-funding alternatives with your financial adviser and choose the one that best fits your needs. William J. Hawkins III is a chartered retirement planning counselor for Wells Fargo, which supplies agents with columns. His office is in Providence. Contact him at (401) 459-6824.
• If a 529 account is owned by a grandparent or
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Eye On Rhode Island
Page 13
OPINION
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Congressional Democrats take aim at defeating proposals to cut retirees’ benefits By John A. Pernorio House Democrats say no to Social Security cuts According to the “Talking Points Memo” blog, House Democrats, led by Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) Co-chairman Raul Grijalva of Arizona, are drawing a line in the sand before the White House’s fiscal commission: If your report recommends cuts or other changes to Social Security, you’ll lose our support. In a letter they are drafting to President Obama, House Democrats will pledge to vote against any legislation based on the commission’s report unless Social Security is taken off the table. “We oppose any cuts to Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age,” the letter reads. “We also oppose any effort to privatize Social Security, in whole or in part. ... If any of the commission’s recommendations cut or diminish Social Security in any way, we will stand firmly against them.” The effort is intended to tie the commission’s hands, at least on this issue. Grijalva’s effort is a response to signals and reports suggesting that the commission is reaching common ground on Social Security cuts. Democrats and advocates are rounding up signers, and will deliver the letter to Obama once the numbers climb. Besides Grijalva, the original cosigners are John Conyers (D-MI), Dan Maffei (D-NY), Mary Jo Kilroy (D-OH), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and CPC Co-chair Lynn Woolsey (D-CA). They issued a “Dear Colleague” letter to House members and have identified dozens of potential signatories based on pledges and past statements. “Alliance members will have the opportunity to take part in a movement to
increase the number of co-sponsors in an upcoming Friday Alert,” said Barbara J. Easterling, president of the alliance. According to the AFL-CIO blog, phasing out, privatizing or otherwise eliminating Social Security does not sit well with the vast majority of the voting public: The latest NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll finds that 68 percent of voters are “uncomfortable” with candidates who support such ideas.
Tell Congress not to raise the retirement age U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) plans to introduce a resolution expressing the sense of Congress against raising the retirement age. “This resolution, especially with a large number of co-sponsors, can be a good counterweight to proposals from the fiscal commission to raise the retirement age,” said Edward F. Coyle, executive director of the alliance. In a “Dear Colleague” letter recently sent to House members, Giffords said that an increase in the retirement age is simply a cut in benefits. Co-sponsors include: Reps. Travis Childers (D-MS), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Laura Richardson (D-CA), Diane Watson (D-Calif.), Joseph Crowley (D-NY), Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) and Joe Courtney (D-CT).
Ask your congressional representative to co-sponsor the resolution. John A. Pernorio is president of the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans.
Letter to the editor: New health care law and cancer patients As an advocate, I’m aware of the pitfalls of our nation’s health care system. People with cancer can fall through the cracks at the moment they need care the most. It can take a cancer diagnosis to realize how quickly medical bills can add up. All of a sudden you realize that your health plan may not provide the care you need at a cost you can afford. For example, some plans have monetary caps on coverage. If the cost of your care exceeds those limits, you must pay for additional care out of your own pocket. The high costs of cancer care can cause patients to bump up against coverage caps, forcing them to go tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt to pay for lifesaving treatment and follow-up care.
But thanks to the new health care law, cancer patients and their families no longer have to fear monetary lifetime coverage limits. On September 23, six months after the law was signed, new patient protections took effect that prohibit lifetime limits on the dollar value of coverage and significantly restrict annual limits for most plans. Those are just a few of the several provisions of the new law that will benefit patients. Joyce J. Dolbec, Slatersville Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Advocates: Put Providence animal shelter under civilian control By Dennis Tabella Some of our municipal animal control officers have made tremendous gains regarding their expertise and care of animals. Unfortunately, some animal shelter operations have continued to have serious problems in spite of changes in management. Those issues are not related to budget problems. An example of a municipal shelter that has made no progress is the municipal shelter in Providence. It has been riddled by numerous problems for the last 30 years, which can be attributed to employees that are not properly trained and lack the sensitivity to both animals and customers. As reported recently by WJAR NBC 10, a dog named Tyson was euthanized under suspicious circumstances. That action by a Providence animal control officer has led to a suit by the owner of Tyson, Defenders of Animals, and a Providence resident. Tyson was not the first dog to be destroyed needlessly, and scores of dogs have been destroyed without having a veterinarian examine them while animal control officers continue to
ignore information on lost animals. In addition, there have been documented cases of owned dogs being injured while at the Providence animal shelter. Two of those cases resulted in recent litigation. Problems have been constant. Several years ago, Providence Animal Control was found in violation of the city’s ordinance. Judge Stephen Fortunato granted Defenders of Animals a restraining order to prevent Providence Animal Control from taking dogs and cats to other shelters that had the gas chamber even though the City of Providence had banned the use of the gas chamber. The gas chamber is now banned statewide; however, the Providence animal shelter’s rate of destroying animals continues to be the highest among municipal shelters. To add insult to injury, a Providence councilman wanted to give an award to a convicted rapist. That person was working at the Providence Animal Shelter at the time. After protest from residents and community leaders,
the award was withdrawn. This year, a nine-member commission to investigate and make recommendations regarding the operation of that shelter was put together by Councilman John Lombardi. As a member of that commission, I can tell you that none of those recommendations have been put in place by the mayor or the chief of police in Providence. Furthermore, Providence has had all sorts of opportunities to make necessary changes, including looking at other systems such as Warwick. The city changed its system by putting its animal shelter operation under civilian control, which has worked very well. In the case of Providence, privatizing that shelter or at least turning it over to civilian control is something that the new mayor should consider. Dennis Tabella is director of Defenders of Animals Inc. (www.defendersofanimals.org).
Page 14
Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
Getting national health reform right for Rhode Island Lt. Gov. Elizabeth H. Roberts and the Healthy Rhode Island Task Force released the report, “Healthy R.I. Task Force: Getting National Health Reform Right for Rhode Island,” on September 23, exactly six months from the signing date of the national health reform law at the Providence Community Health Center. The report outlines the state level policy decisions that need to be made with related recommendations. The aim is to ensure that Rhode Island provides high quality, affordable, sustainable health care for families and businesses. The task force was formed by Lt. Gov. Roberts in June to make sure Rhode Island is at the forefront in implementing the federal health reform law. She pointed out that Rhode Island must be ready to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to the state, as well as anticipate and address any challenges that will face the state as the law takes effect. More than 150 dedicated Rhode Islanders generously gave their time and talent of the task force throughout the summer. The panel integrated partners from a cross section of Rhode Island’s health care community, and members served in one of seven work groups, including insurance market reform and coverage expansion; developing a health insurance exchange for more affordable health insurance; making payment and delivery system reforms; and accessing federal funding for reforms. Despite the wide and often disparate array of professional perspectives and
interests in the group, task force members worked collaboratively throughout the process. At the public release of the report, the lieutenant governor thanked
the task force members for their ongoing commitment to making sure that all Rhode Islanders have access to high-quality, affordable health care.
2010/11 PROVIDENCE BRUINS HOME SCHEDULE FEBRUARY
OCTOBER Fri.
8
Springfield Falcons
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Fri.
4
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7:05 p.m.
Fri.
15
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7:05 p.m.
Fri.
11
Hershey Bears
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Sun. 17
Hartford Wolf Pack
4:05 p.m.
Sun. 13
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4:05 p.m.
Fri.
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7:05 p.m.
Fri.
Portland Pirates
7:05 p.m.
Worcester Sharks
1:05 p.m.
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Charlotte Checkers
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29
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Fri.
26
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Portland Pirates
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Common Ground
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Joseph M. O’Connor
Vice President
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 310 Brotherhood of Utility Workers Council
LOCAL 400
affiliated with the Utility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO
International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers
Phil Fogarty
A progressive labor union representing more than 80,000 men and women in professional, technical, administrative and associated occupations.
President
1300 Jefferson Blvd. Warwick, RI 02886 E-mail: local310@buwc.necoxmail.com
Office: (401) 738-8007 Cell: (401) 932-3642 Fax: (401) 738-1180
685 Warren Avenue East Providence, RI 02914
SCREEN-WORKS
Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals
I I
I
EMBROIDERY-SCREEN PRINTING SIGNS-PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS UNION LOGO WEAR & U NIFORMS
401.438-5450 www.ifpte400.org
Mark @Montees.net
M
NF ERE CE N
(401) 692 -0304
AMST ERS TE
CO
Mark Montecalvo
GRAPHIC
Fund Raising Athletics
MU
O
Promote Morale
NICATIONS
C
5.11 Tactical Organizational
events
LOCAL 12N LOCAL 12N BUY BUY LOCAL LO CAL
Made in the USA available
Marcia B. Reback President
356 Smith Street Providence, RI 02908-3761 marciarift@aol.com
(401) 946-9940/946-3710 Fax: (401) 946-5060 E-mail: bac1ri@verizon.net
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
BRICKLAYERS & ALLIED CRAFTWORKERS LOCAL # 3 R.I.
POST OFFICE PLAZA 150 MIDWAY ROAD SUITE 153 CRANSTON, RI 02920-5743
Page 16
Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
What political campaigns tell us about running your marketing campaign By John Houle
It’s that time of year again, when political ads bombard us on TV, radio, the Internet and in the mail. But what we can learn from political campaigns — messaging, targeting, timing, and asking — should be applied to how you organize and run your marketing campaign. The pundits will tell you that you must have three of four key elements to win an election: the candidate, the organization, the funding, and the message. When you have all four, you usually win. Three of the four puts you in a winning position, while anything less makes victory difficult. In terms of business, when you have the right product or service, a solid organization with a dedicated staff, the necessary resources to run a proper campaign and a targeted message, then you give your company a better chance to succeed in marketing. With this understanding, your company is positioned to fight for new customers. At the same time, cannot neglect your current clients. This is not unlike the candidate who needs to appeal to new voters while remaining true to existing supporters. All voters or customers are bombarded with “vote for me” and “buy me” messages, so the clear, concise message always wins out. Do you remember Clinton’s “It’s the economy, stupid,” and have you heard Chevrolet’s new battle cry, “Let the best car win?” Both are compelling messages. They get
right down to what is important to the voter or consumer. Do you have a message that will resonate with your customers? Are you showing your customers how your product will benefit them, or are you still just bragging about your product’s features? Remember that the true benefit to customers always wins over the laundry list of what your product does. Successful campaigners know that they do not have the financial resources to reach every voter, so they target their message to “likely voters.” The same principle should be applied to marketing. So, when a marketing professional asks you, “Who is your customer,” the answer is not, “everyone.” The marketing professional is looking for the person most likely to buy your product. Is it women who are 45-64 years old or men, 25-54? Maybe it’s both, but it cannot be the entire population. Political campaigns do not have unlimited budgets, so they often back-load their spending in campaigns. The rule-of-thumb for a candidate is to spend the most in the last two weeks of a race, when people are making their decision. The lesson you can take is that you should spend your marketing dollars when your customer is most likely to buy. For example, even if a hardware store is selling snow shovels for half-price in August, no one is really looking for a new one until
mid-December or January. Therefore, if I’m the owner of a hardware store, I’m not promoting shovels until I check in with the weatherman about the first snowfall. When are your customers most likely to buy your product? Don’t tell me all-year-round. Like any candidate or business, the reality is that you probably do not have the resources to reach all people, all the time. So do your research and market to new prospects at the right time. “All politics is local,” Tip O’Neill told us, and in many respects the same is true with small business. Most small businesses are integral parts of their communities. So, yes, the sponsorship of the Little League, the support of the local parade, and the other things you do in your home town is money well spent. People like to deal with people they know, who they see at the soccer field or in the coffee shop. But, the best “Tip” still rings true: make sure you ask for their vote. Tip O’Neill famously explained how in his first campaign he discovered that his long-time neighbor had not voted for him. He asked her why, and she politely responded, “You never asked.” If you’re wondering why some of your friends, family and neighbors have not bought your products…well, have you asked? John Houle is the Co-Publisher/Editor of Common Ground News.
Providence’s Bravest Providence’s Bravest Providence’s Bravest Serving the City of Serving Providence sinceof1854 the City Providence since 1854
Rhode Island Brotherhood of Correctional Officers
Serving the City of Providence since 1854
PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799 PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799 INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS OF FIRE FIGHTERS INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION
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-OFFICERSDave Mellon …….……….………………..President Bob Miller ………….……………1st Vice President Bob Lantagne ..…………………..2nd Vice President
Paul A. Doughty,Paul President A. Doughty, President
Michael Hogan.……………………..…….Treasurer
Doughty, President Philip F. Paul Fiore,A.Vice President Philip F. Fiore, Vice President
John Meehan………………………………Secretary
F. Fiore, President Scott Philip G. Mello, Secretary ScottVice G. Mello, 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
Scott G.John Mello, Secretary Treasurer John F. Woodard, Treasurer F. Woodard, John F. Woodard, Treasurer Executive Board Executive Representatives Board Representatives ExecutiveJ.Board Representatives Christopher Jannitto Christopher J. Jannitto Joseph P. Moreino P. Moreino ChristopherJoseph J. Jannitto Hans Ramsden Hans Ramsden Joseph P. Moreino Wayne C. Oliveira Wayne C. Oliveira Hans Ramsden Zachariah Kenyon Wayne C.Zachariah Oliveira Kenyon Anthony Toro Anthony Toro Zachariah Kenyon Anthony Toro
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You have the legal right to choose your repair facility in RI, so don’t let the insurance industry direct you to their preferred shop.
OCTOBER 2010
Common Ground
Page 17
As Secretary of State, Mollis brings a Vision for Rhode Island Since taking office three years ago, Secretary of State Ralph Mollis has achieved many of the goals he set when he was first elected in 2006. From making it easier to do business in Rhode Island to cleaning up the voter rolls and opening the doors of government, he is proud of his record. Among his office’s highlights, he points to the following key accomplishments: A record 700,000 voters were registered. Record-setting elections were effectively managed with more Rhode Islanders turning out
to vote than at any other time in state history. More information about government is available to the public today than ever before. At any time of the day or night, Rhode Islanders can find the agenda for their town council meeting, see how much companies are spending to lobby at the State House, monitor the General Assembly’s compliance with the state’s Open Meetings law and review proposed state rules and regulations before they become law. The Secretary of State is particularly pleased with how his office helped 6,900 new businesses
get started last year — more than 21,800 since taking office. His office helped introduce new technology to help businesses grow and launched an initiative that helps start-ups get fast answers from government agencies. “It has been an honor to serve as Secretary of State, but this is only the beginning,” Mollis says. “With the challenges facing our state, it is more important than ever to continue our work. With your support, the coming years will be even more successful.”
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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
OCTOBER 2010
Gina Raimondo Democratic Candidate for General Treasurer
“As Treasurer, I’ll set high standards, call for accountability
and get things done based on what is best for Rhode Islanders.
Taxpayers should be treated as customers.”
New Leadership, A Fresh Approach
Do you own a vehicle with a model year of 2006 to the present?
Rhode Island Carpenters Local Union 94
• Was the vehicle involved in an accident caused by someone else? • Was the vehicle repaired?
Then you may be entitled to money for diminished value to your vehicle. If we agree to handle your matter
we guarantee you will receive at least $500.00. Call Us Now! 401.273.1111
David F. Palmisciano President Thomas J. Savoie Vice President William F. Holmes Financial Secretary W. Paul Lander trustee 14 Jefferson Park Road
Petrarca & Petrarca Compliments of
International Union of Operating Engineers LOCAL UNION 57 Providence, Rhode Island
Warwick, RI 02888 401.467.7070
Is your life WORKING for you? Looking for a new career or just needing to supplement your income? We can help. We’re looking for a few good people who aren’t earning what their WORTH, that just need the right OPPORTUNITY, and know that TIMING can mean everything.
James J. White Business Manager and President
Timothy E. Quillen Vice President and Bus. Agent
Gregory E. Olson Treasurer and Bus. Agent
LIVE YOUR LIFE Call 401.385.9670 Finally, a business opportunity that feels like home
OCTOBER 2010
Common Ground
Page 19
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 R.I. Litho Printing, Inc. 1395 Atwood Avenue Johnston, RI 02919 Phone: (401) 275-0760 Fax: (401) 464-6002 Screen Works, LLC 62 South Main Street Woonsocket, RI 02895 Phone: (401) 692-0304 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 Fax: (401) 885-0775 The Sentinel Group, LLC 111 Wayland Avenue Providence, RI 02906 Phone: (401) 451-1308 Fax: (401) 831.6111
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
Don’t Miss TELEPHONE, INTERNET & CABLE SERVICES
An informative, one-hour AT&T Wireless
weekly show highlighting 1 (800) 897-7046 www.wireless.att.com
issues and events affecting Union members recieve special discounts on AT&T wireless working families. service plans. For more infomation to to www.unionplus.org
An informative, TUESDAY 7one-hour P.M. Verizon
weekly show Verizon, whosehighlighting employees THURSDAY 8 P.M.are members of the International
issues and events SATURDAY 5affecting P.M. Brotherhood of Electrical
Workers Local 2323, can working provide for all families. of your home and office internet, telephone 14 and COX cable CHANNEL TV needs through Verizon’s new FiOS (Fiber Optic TUESDAY P.M. VERIZON FIOS 7 CHANNEL 33 Service) network.
THURSDAY 8 P.M.
Simply call 1-888-Get FiOS or SATURDAY 1-888-591-6076. 5 P.M. Or contact IBEW 2323 at (401) 732-IBEW (4239).
COX CHANNEL 14
IBEW 2323 VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 1150 New London Avenue 33 Cranston, RI 02920
P.O. Box 7613 Warwick, RI 02887 (401) 751-7100
P.O. Box 7613 Warwick, RI 02887 (401) 751-7100
BUY Union Products. USE Union Services. Use your hard earned money to support hard working union members!
BUY Union Products. USE Union Services. Use your hard earned money to support hard working union members!
Page 20
Common Ground
OCTOBER 2010
“We've listened to you and we've redefined the way
Affordable Hearing Solution
this office serves the public. That is why it is more important than ever to continue our work.”
I ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 2nd www.mollis2010.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
The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Legal Services Fund
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES = PUBLIC SERVICE Cranston Crossing Guards
Lincoln Highway Department Providence School Department Narragansett Bay Commission City of Providence North Providence Crossing Guards Providence Civic Center Authority Warwick Crossing Guards Lincoln Town Hall
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 Roger Williams Park Casino accommodating 50 - 300 (401) 941-5640 (401) 785-9450
city center skating rink accommodating groups from 10 - 400 (401) 331-5544 ext. 5