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By Common Ground staff
While some corporations have tried to shed union labor, one crane rental company that recently moved to Rhode Island says it prefers to hire among unions because of the skills and training that their members have. Bay Crane Northeast, which is headquartered in New York City, opened an office in Rhode Island in June 2010, initially setting up shop in Cumberland before settling on a five-acre facility in Smithfield. “The main office wanted to branch out over the New England area,” said Josh Wilbur, the general foreman at the Rhode Island office. Wilbur said Smithfield was a preferred location because of the easy access to local highways. Bay Crane, which rents cranes, also opened a location in Boston three years ago and another in New Haven two years before that. As Bay Crane has moved and expanded, it has retained a union-based workforce. “We’re a union company,” Wilbur said. “Always have been.” Wilbur said Bay Crane prefers to hire union labor because of the skills and training their members have over other workers. International Union of Operating Engineers See Crane cont. on page 13
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JUNE 2013
Progress slow on I-195 redevelopment
By Common Ground staff TM
About 20 acres of prime real estate in the heart of Providence remain undeveloped two years after the state established a special commission to spearhead the redevelopment of the land opened up by the relocation of Interstate 195. In late 2011, as the commission was taking shape, the head of the Rhode Island Building and Construction Trades Council expressed hope and optimism that the development would help his member unions address an unemployment rate that stood at a crippling 40 percent. “We need this like a blood transfusion,” Michael Sabitoni, president of the council, told Common Ground at the time. Two years later, the building and construction trades are still waiting for that blood transfusion. “I wish more was going on,” Sabitoni said in a recent interview. “I think people are being as patient as possible. I don’t think anyone had any vision that, even with the creation of that commission, things would happen overnight.” Still, Sabitoni says it’s time to get things going. Redevelopment passes key milestones He sees signs that things could be picking up. Last month, the I-195 commission hired a new executive director, Jan Brodie, a former director at a Boston-based real estate development firm who also has prior experience working for a local developer in Providence. “That’s a big step,” Sabitoni said. Brodie assumed her new position at the end of last month. “The goal of the Commission is to build a world class infrastructure that capitalizes on the assets of the city and the state to create jobs for our residents,” said Commission Chairman Colin Kane in a press statement announcing the hire. “Jan Brodie was the best choice for the position, based on her background and
her ability to envision how best to maximize the positive economic impacts of this land for Rhode Island.” Another important milestone was transfer of the ownership title of the land from the Department of Transportation to the commission. “That was a pivotal event because without ownership of the land they couldn’t do any of the things they were created to do,” Sabitoni said. The proceeds from the sale of the land have also freed the DOT up to finish the final contracts on the I-195 project, which involved work on some street connections and cityscapes, according to Sabitoni. According to one news report, work on one of the contracts, worth $13 million, began in late April. The project focuses on the reconstruction of Friendship Street and also involves sewer and utility work, the report said. Local officials recently broke ground on the infrastructure work on the old I-195 land, the state Economic Development Commission announced in a May 6 news release. That includes initial roadwork, utility work, and development of open space on the western section of the land, according to the EDC. “The groundbreaking marked a significant step forward in the commission’s efforts to realize the highest and best use of the I-195 land parcels,” Kane said. “Things are coming into play. It’s taken a bit of time,” Sabitoni said. Now, the next step, he says, is for the commission to start entertaining proposals for construction on the site. Sabitoni says he is not privy to what internal timetables the commission is working with, but he estimates that the first groundbreaking on the site could take place sometime next year. Already, there are reports that a number of the local colleges and universities are eying one prominent property: the now disused power plant known as “Dynamo House,” located in the Jewelry District. The UniverSee I-195 cont. on page 6
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JUNE 2013
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Teachers overwhelmingly disapprove of Gist in new poll By Common Ground staff
Rhode Island teachers overwhelming disapprove of the job that Education Commissioner Deborah Gist is doing, do not want her contract renewed, and have deep pessimism about the current state of education in local schools, according to a new poll commissioned by the two statewide teacher unions. “For too long Commissioner Gist has spoken of her support among classroom teachers,” said Frank Flynn, president of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, in a press statement at the end of April. “We decided to put that notion to an independent test. This survey found that she is not supported by classroom teachers. In fact, there is overwhelming evidence that her leadership is almost universally rejected.” Notably, 85 percent of teachers sur-
veyed said that Gist’s contract should not be renewed. Just 7 percent thought it should. As of press time, Gist’s contract had not been decided. The poll also found the following, according to a press release: • Respect for teachers: 82 percent of RI’s classroom teachers feel less respected today than they did when Commissioner Gist started a few years ago. • Race to the Top: Commissioner Gist’s highly touted Race To The Top initiative has been nothing short of a disaster for RI education. Classroom teachers, in overwhelming numbers, felt it was somewhat ineffective (22 percent) or a waste of money (60 percent). • Morale: Teacher morale is abysmal
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under Commissioner Gist. Classroom teachers, at the rate of 68 percent, thought morale was poor, and 22 percent just fair. A remarkable 88 percent of teachers feel morale is unacceptable in RI schools today. • Communication: When asked about Commissioner Gist’s communication with teachers, the teachers responded that it was 63 percent poor and 27 percent fair. Only 8 percent thought her communication with teachers was excellent or good. • NECAP and graduation: 72 percent of teachers believe the NECAP test should not be a requirement for graduation from high school. One of the most telling indicators, according to Flynn, was the number of
teachers who said Gist had very little or no understanding of the issues faced by classroom teachers, which was 80 percent. “For someone who was an educator to be judged in that capacity by their fellow educators is alarming,” Flynn said. The poll was based on a survey of 402 respondents, with a margin of error between 4 and 5 percent. It was conducted by Joe Fleming, a noted statewide pollster who is also a commentator on Channel 12. The state NEA shared the cost of the poll. Teachers reject reform agenda The upshot of the poll results is that the rank-and-file teachers have not bought into the ambitious reform agenda that Gist has aggressively pursued since taking over as education commisSee Gist cont. on page 4
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Gist cont. from page 3 sioner four years ago. Flynn said buy-in from workers is essential for any viable labor-management partnership to move forward. “It has to be a truly collaborative, bottom-up process for it to be successful,” Flynn said. He said the poll results clearly indicate that there is a lack of communication between Gist and teachers, who do not share her vision for the future of education. “There seems to be a disconnect between her leadership and the people in the schools,” Flynn said. “They feel frustrated. They feel demoralized,” Flynn said. “They don’t feel valued.” Flynn noted that much of the teacher frustration and discontent is focused on Gist herself, not just the controversial policies she has pushed. “She is clearly the driving force behind all these policies,” Flynn said. “They’re one and the same.” Flynn said this is the first time he recalls a poll of this kind being conducted. That means there is no objective measure of how Gist’s approval rating among teachers compares with any of her predecessors. But, based on his more than
30 years in education, Flynn said he did not ever remember morale being as low as it is today, a sentiment that he said was shared by teachers who responded to the poll. The bottom line: Flynn, along with the rank-and-file, said Gist’s contract should not be renewed. “Or something dramatically changes,” Flynn added. At this point, however, there are no obvious signs that Gist is at risk of losing her job. The decision will be made by the state education board, which is appointed by Governor Lincoln Chafee, meaning it’s ultimately his call. “I don’t have any indication at this point that he’s thinking of not renewing her contract,” Flynn said. Asked how Gist could continue to carry out her agenda, in the face of such widespread teacher opposition, Flynn responded: “That’s a great question.” Gist responds to poll Common Ground offered Gist an opportunity to comment on the poll. Her spokesman forwarded a statement in response.
In the statement, Gist emphasized the need to “focus on the big issues and on our common goals.” “Receiving feedback from and engaging in dialogue with teachers is an important part of our work at the R.I. Department of Education, and I regularly meet with and communicate with labor leaders and educators at many professional meetings, school visits, workshops, committee meetings, and informal occasions—as well as through e-mail, phone calls, letters, and social media,” the statement read in part. Gist said that she planned to review the information in the survey and use it to “improve communications with and outreach” to teachers and school administrators. But the statement also downplayed the significance of the poll, concluding: “As Commissioner of Education, I am well aware that I must at times advance policies and initiatives that require our professional educators to change current practices—and that these changes can prove to be challenging and uncomfortable, at least initially. While gathering feedback and engaging our educa-
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JUNE 2013 tors is key to ensuring quality decisions, I cannot and do not base my decisions on polls, surveys, and popular opinion. Rather, I base every decision I make on what is in the best interest of our students.” Flynn says teacher opinions matter Flynn took exception to Gist’s apparent dismissal of the poll, with her remark that she does not base decisions on “polls, surveys, and popular opinion.” He said the opinion of teachers should be valued as much or more than anyone else’s. He said it was “almost contemptible” that teacher opinion does not matter, in the eyes of Gist. Her comment recalled a similar incident after a forum was held on a proposal to link teacher certifications to test scores a few years ago. A number of teachers testified at the forum. When Gist was later asked about it at an Oct. 20, 20011 education board meeting, she reportedly dismissed the criticism as “cricket noise,” according to Flynn. “To characterize it as ‘cricket noise’ is really disrespectful,” Flynn said.
Common Ground
JUNE 2013
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Amalgamated Transit Union Local 618 to celebrate 100 years By Paul Harrington
The Amalgamated Transit Union represents the largest number of transit workers in the State of Rhode Island; they have represented the men and women that have worked in the public transit system for over a hundred years. Their union members have provided the citizens of Rhode Island with safe and professional service— whether a horse drawn carriage, a trackless trolley, or one of RIPTA’s new hybrid buses, but their representation does not stop there. This local has reached out in recent years to organize and represent the men and women in the school bus industry. They negotiate on behalf of the employees from the Warwick and Jamestown location and Johnston yard that provide transportation to the state’s most cherished resource: our children. Their most recent organizing effort has resulted in A.T.U Lo-
cal 618 representing the proud members of the Lime Rock Fire Department. This work does not come easy to oversee close to a thousand active members working in the transit industry in Rhode Island—but once again it does not stop there. Local 618 has always been the leader in advocating for the passengers of the state’s public transit system from the current and outgoing President to his predecessors. They have voiced their concerns to state and local politicians to maintain and improve the transportation system to benefit all of Rhode Island. The Union’s Executive Board is made up of the following members: • Paul Harrington: serves as the fulltime President and Business Agent, finishing his second year in office
after nine years as Executive Board member.
as stewards in different departments and classifications: three in transportation, two in the Ride program, two in mainte• Tom Cute: serves as Vice Presi- nance and utility, one in supervisory, six dent, is in his fourth term, and representing the school bus Operators and is entering his twelfth year in of- Aides, and one Executive Board member fice. He is somewhat of a historian representing the Lime Rock Fire memwhen it comes to the transit his- bers. tory in the state, and his knowl- This local is marking its 100th anedge serves his local and board well. niversary this year and is proud of all its accomplishments and success in one • Kevin Millea: serves as Secretary- hundred years of progress representing Treasurer and is in his twenty sixth the hard-working and professional men year of elected office. He is by far and women in the transit industry in the considered the cornerstone of this lo- State of Rhode Island. A gala marking cal—he is presently the longest serv- the local’s centennial will be held June 8 ing Secretary-Treasurer in the inter- at Twin River. Governor Lincoln Chafee national. and members of the state’s Congressional delegation are expected to attend, as well The President oversees an additional as Larry Hanley, the president of the interfifteen Executive Board members, serving national.
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I-195 cont. from page 2 sity of Rhode Island and Rhode Island College are both considering the site as a possible location for their new joint nursing school. And, Brown University is reportedly interested in sharing some of the space in the building as well, according to Sabitoni. `That project, Sabitoni said, could be a “big catalyst” for the redevelopment of the entire old I-195 land. Project will be biggest in state Once it does get underway, the I-195
redevelopment will easily be the single largest construction project in Rhode Island, according to Sabitoni, who compared it to the development of the Civic Center, also in downtown Providence. Were all of that to happen all at once, it would mean thousands of jobs for the building and construction trades—although most likely the redevelopment would happen in stages as it did with the civic center, Sabitoni said. Although the unemployment rate has eased from a one-time high of 45 per-
cent, Sabitoni said the council is still combatting a significantly high rate of joblessness. Currently, he estimates that the rate is at about 30 percent, a figure he described as still s”taggering.” He says those of his members involved in “horizontal construction” work will be able to recover faster. Those involved in vertical, building construction, have a longer wait. “We’re always frustrated with the time it takes,” Sabitoni concluded. Now, with the new steps taken this
year, he’s expecting an expedited process for redevelopment. “If we don’t, then I’ll be really frustrated,” Sabitoni said.
Rhode Island has one of the country’s lowest workplace fatality rates Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect, New AFL-CIO report details 2011 workplace fatality figures PROVIDENCE – According to a new AFL-CIO report, Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect, seven workers were killed in Rhode Island in 2011. Rhode Island had one of the lowest worker fatality rates in the country, 1.5 workers per 100,000 workers. Nationally, 4,693 workers died on the job in 2011, a rate of 3.5 deaths per 100,000 workers, down from the previous year’s figures of 3.6. North Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska were among the states with the highest workplace fatality rates. This year’s report comes on the heels of a horrific explosion at a fertilizer plant in West, Texas, which killed 15 people, injured hundreds more, and caused widespread destruction, as well as the tragic collapse of a building that housed garment factories in Bangladesh, which led to the death of over six hundred workers. The AFL-CIO report features profiles
of workers’ safety and health in each state and includes national information on workplace illnesses, injuries and fatalities as well as the number and frequency of workplace inspections, penalties, funding, staffing, and public employee coverage under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act). The report also addresses delays in the rule-making process and emerging hazards such as pandemic flu and other infectious diseases. “In 2013, it is unacceptable that so many hardworking men and women continue to die on the job,” said AFL-CIO President and third-generation coal miner Richard Trumka. “No one should have to sacrifice his or her life or health and safety in order to earn a decent living. Yet, elected leaders, business groups, and employers have failed to provide adequate health and safety protections for working families.” “At the same time, too many politicians and business leaders are actively
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working to dismantle working people’s right to collectively bargain on the job and speak out against unsafe, unjust working conditions. This is a disgrace to all those who have died. America’s workers deserve better,” Trumka added. The report also examines the role of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 43 years after its creation. It finds that OSHA remains underfunded and understaffed, and that penalties are too low to deter violations. Because of the underfunding, federal OSHA inspectors can only inspect workplaces once every 131 years on average, and state OSHA inspectors would take 76 years to inspect all workplaces. OSHA penalties are too low to be taken seriously, let alone provide deterrence. The average penalty is only $2,156 for a serious federal health and safety violation, and only $974 for a state violation. Even in cases involving worker fatalities, the
median total penalty was a paltry $5,175 for federal OSHA and $4,200 for the OSHA state plans. By contrast, property damage valued between $300 and $10,000 in the state of Illinois is considered a Class 4 felony and can carry a prison sentence of one to three years and a fine of up to $25,000. Criminal penalties under OSHA are also weak. While there were 320 criminal enforcement cases initiated under federal environmental laws and 231 defendants charged in fiscal year 2012, only 84 cases related to worker deaths have been prosecuted since 1970. Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect was released after vigils, rallies, and actions were held across the country to commemorate all those workers who died and were injured on the job for Workers Memorial Day on April 28. The report can be viewed online at: www.aflcio.org/death-on-the-job
Common Ground
JUNE 2013
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Seniors join pro-retiree members of congress to protest benefit cuts By John A. Pernorio, President, Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans
Hands off our Social Security and Medicare On May 8, over a hundred Alliance activists joined with several leading members of the U.S. Senate and House for an energetic press event on Capitol Hill to protest possible cuts to Social Security and Medicare. The event was headlined by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT). Senators Jack Reed and Congressman David N. Cicilline also addressed the Alliance for Retired Americans, the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, and the Strengthen Social Security Campaign at the event. (Note: Senator Whitehouse and Congressman Langevin were unable to make this event; however, they both have co-sponsored and strongly support this position on Social Security and Medicare.) ‘Observational’ hospital stays continue to leave seniors with big bills Medicare recipients who need more time to recuperate after a hospital visit are entitled to a 20-day stay in
a nursing home, as long as their hospitalization lasted them about,” the Alliance for Retired Americans said in at least three days. However, many seniors in this situ- a statement. ation are being forced to pay for their own nursing home care because one or more days of their hospital Senate Passes Older Americans Month resolution stay were classified as “observational.” The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution to designate Medicare officials say that recipients must be “ad- May 2013 as Older Americans Month. mitted patients” at the hospital for at least three days to The resolution, which was sponsored by Sen. Bill qualify for nursing home care. Since hospitals are not Nelson (D-FL) and co-sponsored by Sen. Susan Colrequired to tell patients when they are classified as “un- lins (R-ME), Sen. Christopher Coons (D-MA), and der observation,” seniors and their families often have Sen. Sanders, passed by unanimous consent on May no idea that Medicare will not be covering their nursing 9. The resolution points out that seniors rely on Social home costs. Since USA Today wrote about the issue Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for financial security in February, 14 seniors represented by the Center for and high quality health care. It also stresses the imporMedicare Advocacy have filed a lawsuit for Medicare to tant role that seniors play within their communities by being sources of experience and knowledge. The resoeliminate the “observational” label. “Medicare must swiftly end this unfair practice, Se- lution encourages the people of the United States to the City of since emphasize theProvidence importance of 1854 seniors and provide them niors and their families, who are already under a lotServing of emotional and financial stress, should not be faced with opportunities to share their wisdom and skills with crippling nursing home bills because of a tech- with the community. FIGHTERS LOCAL 799 more information visit www.ri-ara.org. nicality that hospitals are not even required to PROVIDENCE inform For FIRE
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JUNE 2013
The ‘why’ of better health
Page 9
By Joy Feldman, JD, NC
Health advice doesn’t stick, if you don’t realize the “why” of what you are doing to your body. In my practice, I have found that when my clients understand the underlying processes of how their bodies work—for example, how sleep deprivation affects their overall well-being—they are more willing to choose the option that best serves their health. In this article, I am going to share with you, some of the aha moment’s I have observed with my clients when I share certain tidbits of information about achieving optimal wellness. I hope you will be inspired, especially with the summer months approaching, to make small changes for improved health. Do you know that you are made up of over hundred trillion cells? That every second your body makes 2.5 million red blood cells? Think about that for a minute. Everything you put in your mouth literally builds your body. If you eat donuts and ice cream, that will comprise the cells of your body. (For example, eyes, heart, muscles, skin, and hair) Everything you put in you mouth should nourish your
body, build it, and strengthen it. Remember, you are what you eat. Were you tossing and turning last night? Do you have nights where you do not get enough sleep? Do you wake up feeling cranky and down? As a result, you might not be able to process complex information and you might even find yourself taking a bite out of a few too many cupcakes and donuts. Missing out on sleep makes you crave sugar because it provides quick fuel to the body. Remember though, that this quick pick-up will also provide you with a quick drop as well. When you don’t have a good night’s sleep to help stabilize your energy, make sure to load up on a nutrient-rich diet, complete with healthy proteins, mineral-rich vegetables, and healthy fats. Do you start your day with a cup or two of morning joe? Few of us who do stop to think how this jitter juice affects our bodies and our health. Whether you drink one cup or four cups, coffee consumption causes the body to pump out stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine which increase the heart rate, tighten
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muscles, and push blood pressure higher. Instead of drinking coffee, try switching to herbal teas. There are many wonderful varieties available today—try some. Has your mouth ever felt like sandpaper? When you do not get enough fluids, your body becomes dehydrated. Waste products and toxins can build up, you might even feel sluggish, have headaches, and be constipated. Here’s another important point: not drinking enough water can trick you into thinking you are hungry, because the brain cannot differentiate between thirst and hunger. I recommend drinking three quarts of spring water a day. If you get tired of plain water, try infusing, lavender, lemon, lime, or cucumber. Ugh, Stress. Everyone’s got it. Does this sound familiar to you? Your boss has given you an unrealistic deadline. Suddenly, you feel your heart beginning to pound. Your body’s stress response kicks in and before you know it, cortisol and epinephrine flow, making your mind race, and raising your blood pressure. You enter fight or flight mode as your body now perceives that you
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are facing danger. Occasional stress is not a terrible thing. However, when your stress becomes chronic, say when you are forced to work late every day, or experience constant familial stress, your cortisol level gets stuck on high and your body has difficulty relaxing. Consequently, you increase your risk of depressing your immune system, increase your risk of heart disease and may even wind up with headaches, back pain, breakouts, and weight gain (often in the belly region). To combat stress, try yoga, Pilates, walking, and deep breathing. Take some time to be mindful of the choices you make for your health. Reconnect with your body, listen to what it tells you, and start reading and learning more so that you become empowered and better understand the “why” of what affects your body. Your body will thank you. Here’s to your health! Joy Feldman is a writer, author and lecturer. She is the author of Joyful Cooking in the Pursuit of Good Health and Is Your Hair Made of Donuts? Learn more about her by visiting www.joyfeldman.com and www.isyourhairmadeofdonuts.com
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‘Back to Work Rhode Island’ measure clears senate STATEHOUSE – Legislation to allow job-seekers to collect unemployment while participating in job training at companies looking to hire has been approved by the Rhode Island Senate. Sponsored by Sen. Erin Lynch (DWarwick, Cranston), the workforce development legislation creates what is known as the Back to Work Rhode Island Program. It is a key component of the Senate’s “Moving the Needle” initiative to address Rhode Island’s business rankings. The bill, (2013-S0402A), establishes the “Back to Work Rhode Island” program within the Department of Labor and Training. Modeled after popular and successful programs in Georgia and New Hampshire, the initiative enables individuals receiving unemployment benefits to volunteer to be matched with businesses seeking employees. The businesses would agree to provide up to six weeks of quality training through “trial” employment at no cost to the employer.
Workers would continue to receive their unemployment benefits as employers assess and train the job candidates, at no cost and no risk. After six weeks, the employer can decide whether to hire the employee. “This legislation provides valuable on-the-job training for unemployed workers who need new skills and a chance to prove themselves,” said Lynch. “Job seekers get a chance to assess the company, gain valuable skills, fill in gaps of inactivity in their work history, and demonstrate what they can do for prospective employers. Ideally, they are a good match and they find long-term employment. In any event, they gain valuable skills training which will help them in their job search.” Lynch noted that the program encourages employers to invest in job training for these potential new workers and, if they choose, to hire individuals who have received the kind of job training they need to make them well-skilled
and valuable employees. The program proposed in the bill would be overseen by the Department of Labor and Training. Individuals receiving unemployment compensation would be matched with an employer that has applied to DLT and met certain requirements. The bill makes the program voluntary, and encourages individuals seeking work to find employment opportunities that align with their current job skills and knowledge. “In this difficult economy, this bill is good for both job seekers and employers because it encourages employers to provide training and helps job seekers gain the skills necessary for success,” Lynch said. “Even as employers are urgently seeking to find qualified workers, companies still face real concerns about the time and money it takes to recruit, hire, and train potential employees. If employers know they can prepare an individual to do a skilled job without the upfront cost of training that worker, the
decision to add to staff may be easier to make.” Co-sponsors of the bill include Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed (DNewport, Jamestown), Senate Minority Leader Dennis Algiere (R-Westerly, Charlestown, South Kingstown), Senate Majority Leader Dominick Ruggerio (D-Providence, North Providence) and Sen. Paul Fogarty (D-Glocester, Burrillville, North Smithfield). A similar House bill, (2013-H5033), has been introduced by Rep. Joseph McNamara (D-Warwick, Cranston) and is currently before the House Committee on Finance. The “Back to Work Rhode Island” program bill is one of several pieces of legislation introduced earlier this year in the Senate. Known as “Moving the Needle,” the legislative package is designed to improve the state’s business climate and its position on national businessfriendliness surveys.
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Fox legislation could be harmful to workers By the Rhode Island AFL-CIO After reviewing the economic development legislative package proposed by Speaker Fox and House leadership at the end of April, leaders of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO said they were “extremely disappointed” to see that there were three specific proposals that are “very detrimental to working families.” They outlined the following areas of concerns in a message to the board for the state AFL-CIO: • A bill to eliminate our present state law that requires weekly pay in the private sector. This bill goes beyond the bills already introduced this year
which we have testified against. Some unions have this requirement in their contracts, but if repealed, unions would need to negotiate to retain it or gain it. • House Bill 5425, sponsored by Representative Patricia Serpa, to make Victory Day and perhaps some other holidays a floating holiday. This would allow the decision to do so solely at the employer’s discretion. In addition to being bad for working families, we find this bill insensitive and insulting to our veterans (many of which are our own members).
• A bill to require the DLT to provide alternatives to the current unemployment benefit structure related to seasonal employment. This could result in thousands of Rhode Island workers being denied unemployment benefits when they are laid off. Please make an effort to talk to the members of the House and let them know that these bills are irrelevant to productive and effective economic development.
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Common Ground Crane cont. from page 1 Local 57 represents workers at the Rhode Island office. Local 4 is in Boston and Local 478 is in New Haven. Each of the other two New England locations has about 20 to 30 employees, while the Rhode Island office has brought about 25 to 35 jobs to the Ocean State, according to Wilbur. With unemployment among its approximately 900 members still at an uncomfortably high 8 percent, an additional 25 to 35 jobs may not be enough to end persistently high joblessness, but every bit helps, said Jim White, the business manager and president of Local 57. White praised the relationship the union has with Bay Crane. “They’re one of our good contractors,” he said. “We have no problem with them. They hire our people. They’re getting more and more market share.” “It’s a win-win with us,” White added.
Union offers intensive training for crane operators Crane operators receive the most training of any operating engineers at Local 57, according to White. “As the cranes evolve, so do the operators have to upgrade,” he said. “They are constantly updating.” Becoming a crane operator is an intensive hands-on and classroom training process that can take at least three years. During that time, apprentices typically attend two night classes, in addition to an eight-hour session of hands-on training on Saturdays at the union training site in Johnston. Trainees usually work on other equipment, moving on to cranes themselves in their third year. Apprentices are given every opportunity to hone their skills, from studying theoretical matters in the classroom, to practicing their craft in a crane stimulator, according to White.
During those three years, apprentices also receive on-the-job training during regular work hours, Monday through Friday. An apprentice must spend 6,000 hours on the job before becoming a journeyperson—a figure that does not include class time or hands-on training at the union facility, White noted. Even then, the training doesn’t really end. “They’re always going back for upgrading,” White said. Company says Rhode Island was right move So far, Wilbur says the company has had a positive reception in Rhode Island. Residents may have recently seen their cranes at work helping in the construction of the new Johnson & Wales parking garage in downtown Providence. And, anyone who has driven along Interstate 93 may have also seen the finished product of Bay
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Crane’s work: last year, to meet a tight schedule, Bay Crane helped in the rebuilding of fourteen bridges in just fourteen weekends, Wilbur said. So far, he says business is going well in the Ocean State. He says the company has “almost tripled in size” since coming here in 2010. As a token of its appreciation to the community, Bay Crane recently held a large open house which drew more than one thousand attendees. The event featured demonstrations with the company’s cranes, including one dramatic display in which one crane was used to hoist three others in the air, weighing a total of nearly 300,000 pounds. The open house also raised more than $50,000 for The One Fund Boston, which was created to assist the victims of the Boston Marathon bombing.
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Governor’s Workforce Board awarded more than $60,000 in grants PROVIDENCE – Governor Lincoln Chafee announced last month that the Governor’s Workforce Board (GWB) Rhode Island awarded more than $60,000 in Express Grants to 20 local companies seeking to improve the skills of their existing workers. The awards were made in March and April. Express Grants offer businesses up to $5,000 in matching training dollars and are awarded on a rolling basis. They serve as a more frequent alternative to the board’s annual Incumbent Worker Training grants, which offer up to $40,000 in matching grants. “These grants are ideal for small businesses that can benefit from worker training but need financial assistance,” Chafee said. Companies may reduce their matching contribution by up to $2,500 if they offer an approved school-year internship program. “The internship incentive is valuable on two fronts: it provides additional financial support to Rhode Island businesses, and it creates opportunities for the next generation of workers to learn on the job,” Chafee said. The Express Grant program runs through June 2013. Those companies interested in applying may download an application at www.gwb.ri.gov. Below is a list of awardees by community: Cranston • Family Health Care Ltd, received $2,051 to train three employees in urgent medical care billing and coding.
East Greenwich • Bardon Industries received $445 to train two employees through the Association of Water Technologies. Glocester • Resnevic Dental LLC received $1,266 to train nine employees in insurance billing, continuing care and/ or treatment planning. Because the company has agreed to offer an internship, its matching contribution was covered by the Governor’s Workforce Board. Middletown • BankNewport received $5,000 to train 64 employees in customer referral skills. Newport • Island Moving Company received $1,290 to train four employers in dance company best practices. Because the company has agreed to offer an internship, its matching contribution was covered by the Governor’s Workforce Board. • Village House received $2,500 to train two employees in dementia education. North Kingstown • Dominion Diagnostics LLC received $2,693 to train three employees in Lean Six Sigma techniques. • Senesco Marine LLC received $3,303 to train four employees in OSHA standards and related testing. Because the company has agreed to offer an intern-
ship, $2,500 of its matching contribution was covered by the Governor’s Workforce Board. North Smithfield • MWV Slatersville LLC received $5,000 to train 12 employees in electronic troubleshooting and manufacturing software troubleshooting. Providence • Coastal Medical received $3,680 to train 80 employees in medication reconciliation. • Durkee Brown Viveiros & Werenfels Architects, Inc., received $2,840 to train six employees in design and modeling software. • Mt. Pleasant Hardware received $2,500 to train 10 employees in sales and purchasing software. Because the company has agreed to offer an internship, its matching contribution was covered by the Governor’s Workforce Board. • Mojo Tech received $5,000 to train 15 employees in web development tools. Smithfield • Precision Turned Components received $5,000 to train 15 employees in management and project leader training. Tiverton • Sixteen on Center received $1,440 to train five employees in advanced cabinetry and AutoCAD draftSee Grants cont. on page 16
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Grants cont from page 15 ing skills. Because the company has agreed to offer an internship, its matching contribution was covered by the Governor’s Workforce Board. Warwick • In-Sight received $2,000 to train five employees on client interviewing techniques. • SyNet, Inc., received $269 to train three employees in OSHA compliance procedures.
West Warwick • Amtrol Inc. received $5,000 to train two employees in welding technology. • Cox Communications received $5,000 to train 96 employees in leadership training. • Lincoln Energy Mechanical Services received $4,250 to train four employees in HVAC estimation software. Established in 2005, the 17-member Governor’s Work-
force Board has supported strategies to improve the existing skill base of the Rhode Island workforce and to anticipate the future needs of growing and emerging businesses. Since its inception, the Governor’s Workforce Board has made more than $63-million worth of strategic investments in Rhode Island that reward collaboration among the state’s employment, education, and economic development entities.
Bill boosts penalties for wage law violations STATEHOUSE – The Rhode Island House of Representatives has approved legislation that will increase penalties for companies violating the state’s wage laws and will ensure that all such violations are prosecuted by the Office of the Attorney General. Sponsored by Rep. K. Joseph Shekarchi (D-Warwick), the bill, (2013-H6010A), now goes to the Senate for consideration. While the legislation changes the schedule of penalties for anyone prosecuted for violating the wage laws, Shekarchi said the equally important aspect of the bill is that “it eliminates the ambiguity that exists now in terms of pur-
suing legal action against these violators by ensuring that all violations will be handled by the Attorney General’s office.” Currently, because violations of the law, even repeat violations, are treated as misdemeanors, the responsibility for prosecuting was not readily taken on by the Attorney General and instead fell to the municipality in which the offense occurred, Shekarchi said. “While some Attorneys General in the past might have preferred not to take on these matters because of their misdemeanor status, the current Attorney General is committed to taking on these cases,” Shekarchi said. “It was with the
full cooperation of that office that this legislation was prepared, and I believe this change in procedure will ensure that these infractions are pursued and prosecuted aggressively and appropriately.” Currently, all violations are considered misdemeanors. Under the Shekarchi bill, the charge of misdemeanor would apply to a first violation, which also carries a penalty of one year in prison and/or a fine of $1,000. A second or subsequent violation, under the bill, would be considered a felony, punishable with imprisonment of up to three years and/or a fine of $3,000. “Violators of the law dealing with payment of wages leave a number of vic-
tims—not only the individuals working for these companies or contractors, but also the state in regard to the appropriate collection of taxes,” Shekarchi said. “It is too important a matter to let it be a toss-up whether the Attorney General or the municipality prosecutes. This bill will ensure that it is always the Attorney General’s responsibility to pursue these violators.” Attorney General Peter Kilmartin has expressed his support for the bill. “The amendments contemplated in this act will help deter those employers who seek to defraud their employees and the State of Rhode Island,” Kilmartin said.
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Auditor General: state should disclose hedge fund fees STATEHOUSE – The Board of the Employees’ Retirement System of Rhode Island (ERSRI) should formalize its policy regarding administrative expenses charged to the plans within the system and the board should receive enhanced budgetary information including a personnel supplement detailing direct and allocated positions. ERSRI should also attempt to separately identify investment expenses for hedge funds and certain private equity and real estate investments for enhanced transparency and consistency in financial statement presentation. These recommendations resulted from an audit of the Employees’ Retirement System of Rhode Island for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012, and are included in a report prepared by Auditor General Dennis Hoyle and released last month by the Joint Committee on
Legislative Services. A report including ERSRI’s audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2012, was released in December 2012. The auditors reported no deficiencies in internal control that are considered significant deficiencies or material weaknesses which are required to be reported by Government Auditing Standards but did report 15 management comments, which are intended to enhance controls or result in operational efficiencies. During fiscal 2012, two employer units (a fire district and a municipality) were significantly delinquent in remitting required contributions. The auditors recommended that the system initiate appropriate and timely collection action for employer units which are delinquent in remitting contributions. The auditors recommended a number of functionalities to be included in the development and imple-
mentation of the system’s new computer system. These include ensuring that all member accounts have accurate service credit data, logging changes to critical data elements within the system, remitting contributions electronically, implementing online membership applications, and instituting electronic bank reconciliations. The auditors also recommended that the system ascertain the appropriate financial reporting for the new defined contribution plan implemented as a result of the Retirement Security Act and resolve the tax withholding, accounting, and financial reporting issues associated with the employee contributions now required of active non-member judges. The report includes ERSRI’s comments and planned corrective actions related to the Auditor General’s recommendations.
Senate approves minimum wage increase to $8 STATEHOUSE – The Senate late last month approved legislation that will raise Rhode Island’s minimum wage to $8 per hour, beginning next January 1. The bill, (2013-S0256Aaa), provides a 25-cent per hour increase over the state’s current minimum wage of $7.75. “Individuals working minimum wage jobs in the state, jobs that are absolutely vital to keep our economy running and many businesses functioning, need to earn
a fair, living wage,” said Sen. Erin Lynch (D-Warwick, Cranston), the bill’s sponsor. “Despite the increase proposed in this bill, it will still be difficult for someone working full-time to support a family on $8 an hour. What this increase is intended to do is make it just a little easier for these folks to make ends meet in a state and a region of the country that we all know has a high cost of living.”
Rhode Island’s current minimum wage of $7.75 went into effect this January, as a result of legislation enacted by the General Assembly last session that was also sponsored by Lynch. See Wage Increase cont. on page 23
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State economic outlook: manufacturing holding RI back By Dr. Edward M. Mazze and Dr. Edinaldo Tebaldi Rhode Island still lags behind the other states in New England when looking at major economic indicators such as gross state product and the unemployment rate. However, the state gained some strength in 2013. Seven of the state’s thirteen employment sectors experienced growth in 2013 including manufacturing which has 400 new jobs. The long-term outlook for Rhode Island is good. The state has an aging workforce with an increasing number of baby-boomers retiring or leaving the workforce. This will create job opportunities in every employment sector for high school and college graduates. The aging of the population also puts significant strain on services to senior citizens and the state budget to support these services. The state’s investment in vocational and higher education will have to increase to provide the skilled workers needed for manufacturing jobs. The state’s unemployment rate is higher than the U.S. average and greater than the other New England
states. The state is currently considering a number of new economic development initiatives as well as legislation to make the state more business-friendly. These initiatives will have little impact if the state does not increase its investment in promoting Rhode Island as a place to do business. The challenge is to take advantage of Rhode Island’s sustainable competitive advantages and make things happen that support and create high paying jobs. Snapshot of the manufacturing sector Manufacturing represents about 9 percent of all jobs in the state and about 8 percent of the total output of the state. The average wage of a job in manufacturing was $66,629 in 2011 as compared to the average wage with all other jobs at $46,375. Manufacturing jobs provided higher pay than jobs in construction, transportation and warehousing, retail trade, real estate, professional and technical services, educational services, health care and social assistance, arts, entertainment and recre-
ation, hospitality and food services. In 2013 there are 40,100 people employed in manufacturing. By 2017, it is forecasted that there will be 40,800 people working in manufacturing. There are 1,554 manufacturing companies in Rhode Island with 373 of these companies employing 20 to 249 workers and 25 companies employing more than 250 workers and over 1,000 companies employing less than 20 workers. The major manufacturing sectors include food, printing, chemical, plastics and rubber products, fabricated metal products, machinery and computer, textile, and electronic products and equipment. In shipments in dollars, the two largest manufacturing sectors are fabricated metal products and chemicals. Chemical and primary metal manufacturing were the two largest exporters in dollars in exports in 2011. Manufacturing’s importance to economic development Manufacturing was one of the major economic sectors that played an important part in the growth of the See Manufacturing cont. on page 21
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Manufacturing cont. from page 19 U.S. economy after the 2007 recession. This did not happen in Rhode Island. From 2008 to 2012, manufacturing jobs in Rhode Island decreased from 41,700 to 39,700. The decline in jobs was due to a number of factors including the lack of skilled workers, companies leaving the state, and poor business conditions. During this same time period, manufacturing employment increased in the United States by more than 500,000 jobs with manufacturing employing over 12 million workers in 2012. Some of this increase was due to higher labor costs in countries like China making it less competitive to manufacture in these countries and making it easier to return manufacturing to the United States. In China, from 2008 to 2012, labor costs rose over 80 percent and are expected to continue growing. Factors such as transportation and energy costs, currency fluctuations, and being close to major customers also brought back manufacturers to the United States. There is a manufacturing skills gap, or a shortage of 80,000 to 100,000 skilled manufacturing workers in the United States. A gap also exists in Rhode Island. The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the percentage of manufacturing workers aged 55 to 64 years and the share of workers older than 65 years have both significantly increased since 2000. The median age of the manufacturing workforce rose from 40.5 years in 2000 to 44.1 years in 2011. In Rhode Island, there has been little population growth since 2007, with the fastest growing age cohort
in 2013 being age 65 and up. This means that there will be a smaller workforce available for manufacturing. This will affect those companies wanting to grow and companies looking to relocate. With over 1,000 manufacturing companies in Rhode Island with less than 20 employees, some of these firms may close once owners retire since they may have no buyers or successors. The state legislature is considering a number of initiatives to support manufacturing. They include Innovate RI—to provide technical assistance to small companies to compete for federal grants and matching grants and loans; manufacturing internships and apprentices—to allow students to train during school hours in approved programs; and Capital Expansion Manufacturing Jobs Credits—to allow companies that make major capital investments to be paid back a portion through credits on new jobs. These initiatives may not be enough to create the manufacturing jobs needed to revitalize manufacturing. States with a focused approach to revitalizing manufacturing, and who are willing to make the investment in leadership, time, and financial resources have been able to retain and grow their manufacturing businesses. They also have been able to attract foreign manufacturers and American companies who are re-shoring their manufacturing and bringing it back to the United States by offering incentives. There are advantages and opposition of using public funds as incentives to attract and retain businesses.
The advantage is that the incentives add jobs for specific industries; the opposition is that the funds may be used to better the economic situation for everyone in a state. For each incentive offered, there needs to be a cost/benefit analysis, transparency, and accountability. Unfriendly business states with higher tax rates and more cumbersome rules and regulations are unable to compete with states providing incentives such as lowtax rates, building-ready land, job-creation tax credits, workforce training programs, local tax abatements, tax credits for machinery purchases, and grants for site development. These states often have the infrastructure to support manufacturing such as deep-water ports, good interstate highways systems, strong community colleges and universities, lower energy costs, and good airports. The geographic location of Rhode Island places the state in a strong position to grow its manufacturing sector. To make Rhode Island a center for manufacturing will require raising the skill level of the work age population as well as have a more business-friendly entrepreneurial environment. Edward M. Mazze is Distinguished University Professor of Business Administration at the University of Rhode Island and Edinaldo Tebaldi is Associate Professor of Economics at Bryant University. The above is excerpted from the annual state economic outlook and forecast Mazze and Tebaldi presented at the Spring 2013 Economic Outlook Conference of the New England Economic Partnership, held on May 23.
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Common Ground
JUNE 2013
Phoenix House: providing a full continuum of care for Rhode Islanders with substance use disorders As the drug crisis in Rhode Island—as throughout the nation—increases in magnitude and complexity, Phoenix Houses of New England has responded by enhancing both the number and scope of its services. With a continuum of care that ranges from medical detoxification, for individuals in the critical stages of withdrawal from alcohol and other substances, through comprehensive residential treatment for adults and adolescents at three separate campuses around the state, to recovery housing for those who have completed treatment, but require the support of a sober living environment before facing the challenges of independent living, Phoenix House leads the way in providing a comprehensive spectrum of care, geared to addressing each individual’s needs. Detoxification Services Located on peaceful, secluded grounds in rural Southeastern Rhode Island, the Phoenix House Detoxification Center in Exeter is a 40-bed, two-unit program committed to offering safe withdrawal from alcohol, opiates, and other substances. The Walsh Unit, named in memory of David Walsh, a long-time recovery advocate and friend of Phoenix House, accepts most insurance plans as well as self-paying clients. Payment options include all major credit cards. The Walsh Unit’s services are complemented
by RESPECT, a 20-bed, state-funded program. At the Phoenix House Detoxification Center, clients are admitted by registered nurses 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and each client is seen by a licensed physician. A doctor is on duty daily. The program is staffed at all times with a team of licensed counselors who work closely with each client to develop an appropriate treatment plan focusing on individual medical needs, detoxification issues, and aftercare following discharge. In addition, for those with co-occurring mental health issues, psychiatric services are available with services provided by independently licensed mental health professionals. The average length of stay for medically monitored detoxification is up to seven days. This may extend to several weeks of continuing recovery and rehabilitative care. During their stay, all clients participate in an individualized treatment planning process that identifies their strengths, needs, and preferences, while establishing goals with specific and measurable objectives.
sive Outpatient, or Partial Hospitalization Program for up to 30 additional days. Extended stay clients enjoy our peaceful country setting and have access to our fully equipped gym. Clients in all programs participate in one-on-one counseling sessions and group meetings as well as on-site AA and NA meetings to help them acclimate to sobriety.
Residential Treatment But detoxification is just the first step in what is usually a long—indeed a lifelong—journey to sustained sobriety. Troubled adults and adolescents can both benefit from a longer period of time spent in the supportive atExtended Stay Options mosphere of a residential treatment setting, where they Phoenix House Detoxification programs offer an ex- receive daily counseling in both individual and group tended stay option for those who have completed treat- settings, along with academic tutoring for teens, to help ment, but are not yet ready to face the stress of daily life. them reclaim educational opportunities lost to drugs, This may include Acute Residential, a sleep-over Inten- See Phoenix House cont. on page 23
Common Ground Phoenix House cont. from page 22 and work preparedness for adults. Phoenix House Exeter Center in Exeter and Phoenix House Ottmar Center in Providence provide gender-specific residential treatment to adult men and women respectively, while Phoenix House Academy at Wallum Lake provides treatment and education to teens in a peaceful rural setting on the shores of Pascoag’s beautiful Wallum Lake.
Rhode Island Adolescent Treatment Initiative, underwritten by a Federal grant, aims to identify, assess, and engage young people with substance use disorders in the appropriate treatment for their individual needs, with special emphasis on family involvement in the recovery process.
Outpatient Treatment For those requiring a less intensive treatment, Phoenix House offers outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment at three separate locations, in Providence, Wakefield and Westerly. Through individual and group counseling sessions for both adults and teens, outpatient treatment addresses a number of needs, including substance abuse and co-occurring mental health issues. Clients regain control of their lives by establishing sobriety, acquiring relapse prevention skills, and creating sober support networks to sustain ongoing recovery. A separate continuing care program for teens, the
Recovery Housing To complement the above services and round out the continuum of care provided for Rhode Islanders in recovery, Phoenix Houses of New England and the Rhode Island Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependence recently merged operations. The addition of RICAODD’s recovery housing program to Phoenix House’s wide range of comprehensive substance abuse treatment programs significantly expands Rhode Island’s available recovery services. RICAODD’s recovery residences provide sober, supportive, and affordable living environments - single-family dwellings located in safe residential neighborhoods within walking distance of public transportation. Statewide bed capacity mirrors commu-
Wage Increase cont. from page 17 Until the increase was put into place this year, according to Lynch, Rhode Island had gone the longest of the New England states without a minimum wage increase, in the face of growing inflation over the previous five years. The last increase, prior to 2013, was in 2007. Not only will the increase to $8 help those at the bottom of the pay scale make a little more, the timing of the increase—at the beginning of the calendar year— will ensure that businesses have ample time between
now and then to prepare to implement the new rate, she said. The $8 minimum wage will make Rhode Island’s wage the third-highest in New England, tied with Massachusetts at $8 and behind Vermont at $8.60 and Connecticut at $8.25. The minimum wage is $7.50 in Maine and $7.25 in New Hampshire. The federal minimum wage, which has not changed since 2009, is $7.25. The bill is co-sponsored by Sen. Hanna Gallo (D-
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nity needs for transitional services and continually fluctuates to meet those needs. RICAODD annually serves 80 to 100 people throughout the state. Family Support Successful, sustained recovery from substance abuse requires family involvement, support, and encouragement. Families, too, need to reverse the damage caused by drugs and alcohol. Phoenix House works closely with family members to help them understand the role they play in supporting their loved one’s recovery. Family members are urged to attend and participate in group sessions on a variety of recovery-related topics. The majority of Phoenix House’s Rhode Island programs are accredited by CARF, a nationally recognized standard of excellence. For additional information on Phoenix House’s services for Rhode Islanders, please call 1 800 DRUG HELP (1 800 378 4435), or go to www.phoenixhouse.org/rhode-island.
Cranston, West Warwick), Sen. Frank Lombardi (D-26, Cranston), Sen. Maryellen Goodwin (D-Providence) and Sen. Susan Sosnowski (D-37, New Shoreham, South Kingstown). The bill now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. Similar legislation, (2013-H5079), has been introduced in that chamber by Rep. David Bennett (D-Warwick, Cranston).
Common Ground
Youth Sports Consulting Since youth sports are integral to our community, the Sentinel Group provides: • Coaching Professional Development, including Conflict Resolution (State of RI Mediator) • Child Abuse Prevention • Programs for Children with Disabilities • Anti-Bullying Programs • Fundraising
For more information, contact John Tassoni at 401.451.1305 or john@jtsentinelgroup.com
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