NERCC Blog

This blog has moved!

2011-12-06T12:38:00.000-05:00

The New England Regional Council of Carpenters has launched a brand new website at NERCC.org. All blog posts by NERCC will now be posted and viewable at NERCC.org/blog.

We hope you'll check out the site and some of the exciting new features, including:

· “Meet Our Community”: Union members speak about their experiences in the union. This section will also highlight contractors, developers and others in the construction industry and neighborhoods with whom NERCC works throughout New England.

· “Our Work”: A photo and video portfolio of projects in different geographic markets and industry segments to display the full range of work done by union carpenters with signatory general contractors and subcontractors.

· “Video Gallery”: Check out videos produced by NERCC staff of various union activities including community service projects, training programs, workers’ rights activities, and project profiles.

· Find Your Local Search: Find a Local by entering the Local Union number or searching by zip code. This Local search function is found at the top of every page on the site.

· Our union, our site – there are opportunities throughout the site for members to share information and suggest ideas for new content on the site. Members should look for various forms throughout the site, including:

o Share a Story - read an interesting story on the blog? Why not share it with a friend?

o Submit a Story - have an idea for blog content? Let us know!

o Invite a Friend - let a friend know about an upcoming event you’ll be attending.

o Contact Us - give us your feedback and let us know what you think of the new site.

o Nominate Someone - know a union member with a story to tell? Let us know about him/her!

o Nominate a Project - are you currently (or have you recently finished) working on a project that you think would make a good portfolio piece? Fill us in!

The site features plenty of information about our industry-leading training programs, our efforts to maintain decent standards for the industry and how people can work with us to build a better future.

We hope you will take some time to look around, learn a little more about our union’s efforts, and help us spread the word by sharing NERCC.org.

NERCCs new site is now live!

2011-11-29T14:29:00.000-05:00

http://www.nercc.org

Right to Work is Wrong for New Hampshire!

2011-11-29T10:27:00.001-05:00

Right to work supporters are planning a major event in Concord on Wednesday to coincide with a vote on Right to Work legislation for New Hampshire. There are rumors that Republican Presidential Candidates will attend this rally.

We have beaten back this efforts before and need to do it again. But we need to ensure that our voices are heard and our faces are seen. Please join us Wednesday at 8am in front of the State House for a demonstration in support of workers, in support of unions and against Right to Work.

Again, that’s this Wednesday, November 30 at 8am in front of the State House in Concord. Thank you.

Yale project gets New Haven OK

2011-11-17T13:28:00.000-05:00

Union carpenters in Connecticut will get a boost as New Haven just approved a $600 million project for Yale to build two residential colleges. Construction is set to begin next summer and finish in 2015.

Turner Construction is the Project Manager for Phase One. Demolition on the site was performed by Manafort Brothers. Donaldson and CJ Fucci did piledriving and retainage work. All work will be done by union contractors, with bids for remaining work due in January.

The project will include living spaces, dining halls, libraries and academic and recreational spaces for an additional 800 students, according to a story in the New Haven Register. They will be the 13th and 14th "residential colleges" for Yale.

Carpenters Center to host NEFCA conference

2011-11-17T11:01:00.002-05:00

The NorthEast Flooring Contracting Association is holding its annual Expo at the Carpenters Center in Boston on November 30 from 5:30-8:30 pm. The Expo will feature more than 40 of the top suppliers in the industry and address important topics, including: --New finish products in all flooring surfaces. --Products for preparation, including moisture mitigation leveling and finish installation. --Demonstrations of new innovations and techniques for proper preparation and installation. For more information or to attend the event, contact Jim Spiro at NEFCA by email at jimspiro@nefca.us.

Court: Universal Drywall misclassified, owes $300k to insurance company

2011-11-17T11:01:00.000-05:00

A Massachusetts Superior Court judge has found that Universal Drywall routinely misclassified carpenters as so-called independent contractors and failed to properly purchase workers compensation coverage. The practice meant that its insurance carrier, Travelers Property Casualty Company of America was defrauded out of more than $327,000 in premiums.

The decision brings to an end a case involving work that Universal Drywall performed on some Massachusetts sites, including Brooksby Village in Peabody, Linden Ponds in Hingham, Sherburne Commons in Nantucket and Arbor Point in Burlington. It did not cover work that Universal--an Auburn, New Hampshire-based company--performed in other New England states or at other times in Massachusetts.

Universal Drywall, which is owned and run by Richard Pelletier and Real Tanguay, is well known to the New England Regional Council of Carpenters. The union has spoken to carpenters on many sites in the region who have told they were classified as "1099s." The company attempted to protect itself from misclassification enforcement by having carpenters sign "contracts," but the court found that the company's extensive control and direction of the workers and their work meant they were employees and premiums for workers compensation were owed to Travelers.

Why should the "haves" care about the "have nots"?

2011-11-08T09:14:00.000-05:00

There's plenty of reasons the "haves" should care about the "have nots." They're not all humanitarian, moral or have anything to do with preventing a violent revolution. Richard Wilkinson gives a very informative, but easy to understand 15 minute talk about the increased problems faced by everyone in countries with greater income inequality compared to people living in countries with lower levels of income inequality.

Carpenters demonstrate in the cradle of liberty

2011-11-07T10:41:00.002-05:00

Carpenters have taken to the cobblestones to demonstrate against Dave Matthews Construction twice recently. The company, which is being used to renovate several floors of a building adjacent to historic Faneuil Hall in Quincy Market, does not pay area standard wages and benefits for carpenters. The protest drew the attention of tourists and natives alike, reminding them that the first step toward liberty is exposing injustice.

Bouchard responds to Jay Peak article

2011-11-07T10:38:00.000-05:00

The following Letter to the Editor was submitted by Bryan Bouchard, a Vermonter and a Regional Manager for the New England Regional Council of Carpenters. It is in response to an article published in the Boston Globe on October 25. An edited version was printed in the Globe today.

"There are serious concerns about the short and long term impacts created by the current “greenbacks for green cards” model being used at Jay Peak. The desperate grab for any cash, from anywhere needs to be tempered to make sure the investment actually does lasting good for Vermonters.

"Are we selling citizenship for the promise of more low wage work? Many of the jobs at Jay Peak will be the kind people say “Americans won’t do”. But they are permanent low-wage jobs. For Americans to benefit from permanent jobs at Jay Peak, each single worker will have to take two or three of them; one clearing tables, one handing out towels and one emptying trash cans to make ends meet.

"Program administrators should also be wary of the seedy side of the construction industry. Increasingly, local, skilled trade workers and subcontractors that employ them are being put out of business by contractors who carry a workforce with them across state and national borders or ignore any reasonable standards. This project has utilized carpentry sub-contractors form Maine and New Hampshire that utilize these type of practices.

"This project has failed out of the gate to ensure decent family supporting jobs, it is hard to believe that anyone would claim the long term result would be any different."

LETTER-There's a reason REO was supported by so many

2011-11-02T08:35:00.000-04:00

Despite the legal fist pounding and finger pointing recently, Mayor Flanagan and the City Council should be applauded for their efforts to support a Responsible Employer Ordinance in Fall River.

As a lifelong resident of Fall River, I was raised to believe that if you worked hard in America you could earn a living wage, have health care, own a home, maybe send your kids to college and retire with dignity. Now we are expected to sit idly by while every last part of the American dream is sacrificed on the altar of low prices and high profits?

REOs can and do play an important role in screening bidders seeking to build with taxpayer dollars. They allow cities and towns to pre-empt embarrassing investigations and slap on the wrist sanctions against bad actors after the damage has already been done to the industry. It was passed after construction at four schools in the city were the subject of complaints, investigations and violations by contractors.

As a union, we believe our training programs create a skilled workforce that builds higher quality projects. We believe health care is an important benefit for workers, and also reduces a future financial burden of all taxpayers. We believe these factors, combined with the relationships and mutual understanding developed between our union and union contradictors through collective bargaining, provide a better value for the construction dollar.

To the extent that municipalities believe in craft training, health care and other values, they may set certain standards for those who want to bid on work. Unfortunately, that effort was challenged and thrown out by people who do not live in Fall River, do not invest in Fall River’s future and have not experienced the steady decline of opportunity for Fall River natives.

Make no mistake; the REO did not prohibit nonunion contractors from bidding on or performing work. Simply reading the ordinance makes it clear that the intent was to protect standards for construction workers and Fall River taxpayers. That’s why it received such widespread support from both Mayor Flanagan and Ms. Viveiros, when it was proposed.

As a Fall River native and someone who has make his living in the construction industry, I thank Mayor Flanagan and others for continuing their support for decent standards in our city.

Ron Rheaume
Business manager, New England Regional Council of Carpenters
Local Union 1305
Fall River

This letter was published in the Fall River Herald News on November 1 and is open for comments.

CTA gets more bad press

2011-10-31T02:56:00.004-04:00

After the Billerica Minuteman's piece on problems at the Parker School, the Lowell Sun has now published a piece on the controversy surrounding the use of a debarred contractors and the owner of a debarred contractor working on site for a new company apparently started by his wife.

CTA's supervision of the project and the poor work done as a result was the subject of a scathing letter by the principal of an engineering firm hired to work on the project.

The lack of oversight and avoidance of accountability is hard to accept in the current economy. How many honest contractors who employ local workers are pushed aside and struggle to keep their doors open when owners and general contractors allow these practices to occur?

Earlier post on this project.

Short film "The Carpenter"

2011-10-26T11:18:00.001-04:00

A Greek artists group named Deep Green Sea produced and posted this short film titled "The Carpenter." It was directed by Dimitris Ladopoulos and Spiros Rasidakis and features carpenter Vironas Papadakis.

The opening sequence features the following text:
A carpenter is a skilled craftsperson who works with timber to construct, install and maintain buildings, furniture and other objects. The work, known as carpentry, may involve manual labor and work outdoors. A cabinetmaker is a carpenter who does fine and detailed work specializing in the making of cabinets made from wood, wardrobes, dressers, storage chests and other furniture designed for storage."

The Carpenter from Dimitris Ladopoulos on Vimeo.

Billerica's issues with CTA publicized

2011-10-21T15:58:00.000-04:00

The Billerica Minuteman has published a story today detailing some serious issues experienced during construction of the Parker Elementary School currently being built by CTA Construction.

The paper today published details of a letter sent by an engineering firm on the project regarding shoddy work, poor management and apparent disregard for inspections and corrective suggestions made by those overseeing the project.

Mehul Dhruv, the Principal of Engineers Design Group wrote to the project's architect that they were "extremely concerned with the performance of the General Contractor, their sub-contractors and the quality of their work."

At issue at that time was largely foundation work that was done in cold weather without proper protections which EDG described as "blatant disregard to various requirements and details on the contract documents" and failure "to correct the deficiencies brought to their attention."

Dhruv wrote that CTA "failed to provide any protection against cold weather to the green concrete and subgrade for foundations." The work the contractor did do Dhruv described as "absolutely not acceptable, it violates all the requirements of ACI Cold Weather Protection requirements, violates the contractor's submitted plan for cold weather protection and is totally inadequate in protecting the concrete against cold weather."

Members of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters have been asking questions in town with a 20-foot banner asking "Is the Paker School Safe?" It's a question that concerned Dhruv, as well who wrote that his company was "extremely concerned with the quality of the work performed by the contractor."

Dhruv noted that in addition to shoddy work, the contractor may have been trying to avoid or ignore suggestions that there were problems. "The contractor has not provided adequate time or notice for inspections, leaving insufficient time for correcting the deficiencies noted by the inspector."

It's hard to imagine the very strongly worded letter from the Principal of the engineering company to the Senior Vice President of the Architectural firm was the first attempt to address the issues with CTA and the shoddy work.

Not included in the story is the fact that one of the companies CTA hired to work on the project is prohibited from doing public work. Action Floors was debarred from bidding on or performing any public work for a period of three years in 2009 by the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents. (see line 3607 of linked spreadsheet)

Billerica Town Manager John Curran issued a statement claiming that any and all deficiencies found by the engineering firm were addressed before construction continued. The question remains how fully they were resolved and at what cost to Billerica taxpayers. And given CTA's apparent blatant disregard for oversight, project quality and acceptance of oversight, it remains to be seen if other letters will come out detailing similar problems with later stages of the project.

Carpenters will also be watching to see how Billerica treats CTA when it comes to grading them on the project. Only two years ago, Fox25 ran an investigative piece about contractors who do shoddy work but get passing grades by essentially blackmailing cities and towns.

Story link: MyFoxBOSTON.com

Wentworth Info session to be held in Millbury

2011-10-21T11:29:00.001-04:00

On Saturday, November 5, 2011, representatives from Wentworth Institute of Technology will be hosting an informational session at the New England Carpenters Training Center (NECTC) located at 13 Holman Road, Millbury, MA. Representatives from Wentworth will be discussing their associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs for Construction Management. The program is now being offered at the NECTC and the Boston Training Center, 750 Dorchester Ave, Boston.

The information session will cover registration, fees, and the various courses offered. Members will have the opportunity to ask questions. Representatives will be on hand to assist any member interested in registering for the program that day.

This specially tailored program allows members to transfer up to 22 credits from apprenticeship training and journeyman upgrade courses that have been accredited by Wentworth. Members also receive a 33% discount off the normal tuition rates. To learn more about the program click here.

The session will begin at 9:00 am. Meals will be served.

Please contact the NECTC at 508-792-5443 if you are planning to attend.

Occupy is calling out three card monty

2011-10-20T14:32:00.000-04:00

What does Occupy want?

2011-10-20T08:55:00.002-04:00

Mainebiz Momentum Convention

2011-10-18T13:10:00.000-04:00

NERCC and the New England Carpenters Labor Management Program will be at the Mainebiz Momentum Convention in Augusta, Maine this Thursday, October 20, to talk about how union carpenters and contractors are the best joint venture in the construction industry.

If you're in the area, stop by the Augusta Civic Center and visit us in the exhibit hall between 8:30-5:00 pm.

Congress passes three more trade agreements

2011-10-14T12:48:00.001-04:00

Three trade agreements opposed by the United Brotherhood of Carpenters were passed by the United States House of Representatives this week without sufficient protections for workers in the US and abroad. The passage of the three agreements--with South Korea, Panama and Columbia--continues a two-decade trend of trade agreements that have each cost American workers hundreds of thousands of jobs, increased our trade deficit and made it easier and more profitable for corporations to abuse workers in low-wage, regulation-free countries.

UBC General President Doug McCarron urged Congress not to pass the three pending agreements, detailing specific problems that would result from each of them.

The New England delegation to Congress, dominated by Democrats, voted largely against the agreements, though not unanimously. Representatives Jim McGovern, Barney Frank, John Tierney, Ed Markey, Mike Capuano, Stephen Lynch and Bill Keating from Massachusetts voted no on all three proposed agreements. Both Representatives David Cicilline and Jim Langevin from Rhode Island voted no on all three, as did Maine's delegation of Chellie Pingree and Mike Michaud. Representatives Joe Courtney, Rosa DeLauro and Chris Murphy also voted against passage of the three agreements.

Representatives John Olver, Richie Neal and Niki Tsongas of Massachusetts, Representative Peter Welch from Vermont and Representative John Larson from Connecticut all voted to pass the proposed agreement with Panama. Neal and Larson also supported the South Korean agreement.

The only Republican Representatives from New England--Representatives Frank Guinta and Charlie Bass from New Hampshire voted in support of all three agreements. Democratic Representative Jim Himes from Connecticut also voted in favor of all three agreements.

Maine Carpenters help expand travel options

2011-10-04T10:29:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to union carpenters who recently completed construction on the expanded Portland Jetport. The building, which is receiving rave reviews, opened this weekend. It will greatly expand the capacity for travel to and from Maine. New England Cable News reported on the project.

Watch this at NECN

IRS, US DOL to cooperate with state enforcement on misclassification

2011-09-20T12:51:00.003-04:00

The United States Department of Labor and the Internal Revenue Service yesterday signed Memorandums of Understanding with seven states to increase compliance with laws governing how workers should be classified and paid. Massachusetts and Connecticut were among the states participating. The efforts will focus on both education of employees and increased efficiency of enforcement through information-sharing between state and federal agencies, according to a DOL press release.

Wage theft and the misclassification of workers at so-called independent contractors has been a growing problem in the construction industry and others. Employers use the tactic to avoid proper payment of payroll taxes, unemployment and workers' compensation insurance. The practice is particularly troubling in the construction industry, where companies that play by the rules are put at a significant advantage during competitive bidding.

The effort expands the model used in numerous states, including five of the six New England states, where multiple agencies work together on a task force to ensure violations of some laws aren't allowed to pass because they do not fall under the jurisdiction of the agency that happens to be investigating.

News coverage
Associated Press
Bloomberg

Resources on the issue of misclassification and wage theft:
Wage theft stories on NERCCBlog.
1099 and Misclassification stories on NERCCBlog.
National comprehensive resource page.

Local 218's Frost again featured on NPR

2011-09-14T21:12:00.001-04:00

Last year Local 218 Carpenter Bill Frost became quite a visible supporter of the legalization and construction of resort casinos in Massachusetts. He spoke at hearing and rallies, eventually writing and reading a commentary in support of casinos at the request of WBUR, a Boston National Public Radio affiliate. Frost's commentary was honored with a national award from Public Radio News Directors Incorporated.

With the casino debate being taken up by the Massachusetts legislature today, Frost was once again asked by WBUR to write and read a new commentary piece on the issue. It aired today and can be read and listened to on their website.

Donahue appointed to NH Commission

2011-09-14T21:09:00.003-04:00

A New Hampshire commission established to consider and make recommendations on existing and potential new business regulations will include the voice of union carpenters. Joe Donahue, a member of Local 118 and employee of the New England Carpenters Labor Management Program was appointed by New Hampshire Governor John Lynch to the "Commission to Study Business Regulations in New Hampshire," a body established by legislative action earlier this year.

The commission will "study business regulations in New Hampshire, the impact they have on employment growth and business profitability, and the costs and benefits associated with the current regulatory environment. The goals of the commission shall be to:

(a) Review New Hampshire’s business oversights that fall under the umbrella of labor and workforce regulations.

(b) Review New Hampshire’s business oversights that fall under the umbrella of environmental and construction/permitting regulations.

(c) Identify potential reforms that could be made to regulations cited above, and develop legislation for the 2012 session to accomplish those reforms."

Donahue has extensive experience in political and legislative issues relating to the construction industry in New Hampshire and has been a key player in the efforts to improve enforcement, particularly relating to the issue of the misclassificaiton of workers.

Local 1305's Rego wins primary

2011-09-14T21:08:00.001-04:00

Dan Rego, a member of Carpenters Local 1305 and a full-time Representative working for the New England Regional Council of Carpenters, has qualified for the general election for Fall River City Council after results were announced for the preliminary election last night.

The election was contested by 22 candidates, vying for 18 general election positions on the ballot that will elect nine members to the Council. Rego finished eighth, defeating two incumbent Councilors, including the Council President and a 28-year member of the Council.

Rego is seeking public office for the first time and was encouraged by the results, but said a seat on the Council will still require a fight.

"The results were very close and there are a few candidates who have been around a long time and may be able to pull some votes for the general election," he said. "But I'm very excited about the results and plan to work really hard to do even better in November."

To say every vote will count in the general election is not an exaggeration. With just over 10,000 ballots cast, Rego earned 3,039 votes, only 400 votes from finishing second, but also less than 50 votes from tenth.

Members that would like to help Rego's campaign by volunteering or making a donation, may contact him through Local 1305.

Obama bringing construction industry good news tonight?

2011-09-08T14:08:00.000-04:00

The Boston Globe on Obama's speech tonight.

"Obama is likely to offer a package of ideas that would affect people in their daily lives -- tax relief, unemployment insurance, spending to support construction jobs, aid to states to keep people in their jobs."
.....
"White House officials said Obama would formally send his plan -- coined by the administration as the American Jobs Act -- to Congress next week."
.....
"In one upbeat sign for those looking for a Washington compromise, Boehner and House Majority Leader Eric Cantor have told Obama they see potential areas of agreement on jobs -- for example, infrastructure, which Obama has pushed repeatedly. Cantor also signaled to reporters Wednesday that he might support a payroll tax cut."

Congratulations new signatory contractors

2011-08-24T14:48:00.000-04:00

Three contractors have recently signed collective bargaining agreements with the New England Regional Council of Carpenters.

KAN Contracting of Enfield, New Hampshire bids windows and translucent panel work in New Hampshire and Massachusetts with a value of $1,000-500,000.

Joseph Cohn and Son is based in North Haven, Connecticut and bids flooring and tile work throughout New England.

Tri-State Construction is a drywall and metal stud subcontractor based in Manchester, New Hampshire that bids work in New Hampshire and Massachusetts valued from $1,000-250,000.

For information about using these or any high quality union carpentry contractors, contact the Contractor Relations Department at the New England Regional Council of Carpenters.

The Contractor Relations Department can help you build the right team for your building project. We identify general contractors and subcontractors that are qualified, competent and available for the scope of work and in the area where they're needed.

Stand Up, Fight Back!

2011-08-24T14:04:00.000-04:00

A very powerful piece shown at this month's national convention of the United Steelworkers.

Fall training classes posted

2011-08-24T09:17:00.000-04:00

The New England Carpenters Union Apprenticeship & Training Funds have announced the Fall Semester 2011 Training Schedule. Class listings have been posted on the training website at necarpenterstraining.org. Members can easily log in to register for classes using only their member U number (on their union card) and the day, month, and year (e.g. 01 02 1960) of their birthday.

Sign up now to sharpen your skills or develop new ones that will expand your work opportunities. Adn sign up online to ensure your place in upcoming classes.

Union carpenters earn Wentworth degrees

2011-08-24T09:16:00.000-04:00

Ten members of NERCC-affiliated Local Unions were among the honorees at graduation ceremonies held at the Wentworth Institute of Technology this past weekend. The members received their Associates Degree in Building Construction Management through a program developed and specially tailored for union carpenters a few years ago.

The union carpenter graduates were: Nathan James Aldrich (Local 33), Bryan K. Bartlett (Local 218), George F. Daou (Local 107), Edward Farrell (Local 67), Katie Jenkins (Local 33),Daniel Kuja (Local 33), William John Lynch (Local 67), Michael Morton (Local 40), Evan Payne (Local 33), James Michael Souther Jr. (Local 40). Brothers Aldrich, Lynch and Souther graduated "cum laude," an honor bestowed on those graduating with a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.74 on the 4.0 scale.

NERCCBlog.com has articles and videos on the program for those interested in learning more.

OSHA Certification Updates you should know about

2011-08-22T16:05:00.002-04:00

• OSHA no longer issues replacement cards for training that occurred more than three (3) years ago. Also there is a
$25.00 fee for replacing lost/misplaced OSHA cards.
• Some governmental jurisdictions are now requiring that workers renew their OSHA training every four (4) years in
order to work in that jurisdiction (e.g. State of Connecticut).
• OSHA 30 Certification is required for foremen and stewards performing work under the Boston and Eastern Area of
Massachusetts CBA. It is also a graduation requirement for apprentices in the Massachusetts and Boston
Apprenticeship programs.
• OSHA 10 Certification is required for apprentices and journeymen performing work under the Boston and Eastern Area
of Massachusetts CBA.
• OSHA 10 Certification is required by Massachusetts General Law for all who work on public construction sites.
• OSHA 10 is a stand-alone course and cannot be applied to OSHA 30 Certification.

Members organizing motorcycle ride

2011-08-22T11:01:00.003-04:00

A group of union carpenters are organizing a motorcycle ride to benefit lung cancer research. The "New England Carpenters Ride For Research" will take place October 2, rain or shine.

Registration will take place from 9-11am at Slaters in Bolton, Massachusetts. The ride will start promptly at 11:30. The cost is only $15 for riders and $10 for passengers.

For more information email necarpentersmcride at gmail dot com or contact the American Lung Association at 781-314-9005 or via ehicky at lungne dot org.

Globe goes beyond construction employment numbers

2011-08-17T08:07:00.001-04:00

The Boston Globe this weekend ran a piece that scratched just a bit beyond the surface of unemployment in the construction industry. Local 56 Pile Driver Barry Beaudoin and Local 40 Carpenter Vionet Montano were interviewed for the article, as was NERCC Executive Secretary-Treasurer Mark Erlich.

Labor Guild releases fall schedule

2011-08-17T08:01:00.000-04:00

The Labor Guild's School of Labor Relations has released its schedule of classes for the fall semester. Classes begin September 12 and run through November 14. All classes are held in one of two periods between 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. at the Guild's Weymouth office. A full class list is available at laborguild.com.

Award winning construction: the Carpenters Center

2011-08-11T12:30:00.003-04:00

The Carpenters Center was recently recognized by Metal Architecture magazine as part of their 2011 Design Awards. The Carpenters Center was selected as the winner of the Renovations and Retrofit category. The award recognized the Carpenters Center as “a renovation [that] salutes a legacy of craftsmanship and looks to the future.”

From Metal Architecture:
The New England Council of Carpenters in Boston required an update to a tired brick building and the project got the recognition of our judges. Mark Dewalt says, "This was a stunning rescue of an aging building." Andrew Cottrell adds, "Through the use of metal, the form, the colors and pattern create a symbol and statement for carpenters everything about what can be done with basic elements in unique ways."

One side of the building fronts a fastpaced highway, while the other side faces a community. Boston-based architects ADD Inc. used that duality to capture the history and the future of the carpenters union. Principal in charge Jeff Wade, AIA, explains on the more people-oriented side, "We used warmer colors, using the pewter finish on the Alucobond. We brought in cedar and glass and made it feel more neighborly, warm and traditional-kind of like carpenters are."

But on the highway side, the firm designed an elevation that represents the carpenters looking ahead and being more modern. "Long panels of different colors show that off and give a sleeker, more horizontal structure. That's what gave a shape to the building. We actually played with the shape, making it higher on one end to accentuate the length and even made it look like it was moving."

Mooresville, N.C.-based 3A Composites USA Inc. supplied 43,000 square feet of 4-mm Alucobond aluminum composite panels for the project. Of that, 22,000 square feet was finished in Pewter Creek, while Copper Metallic and Carpenter Mica each comprised 10,500 square feet.
The building also includes a huge media screen, showcasing the carpenters as modern and vital. The installation of the screen required flashing, of course, as the structure penetrated the skin of the building. "That was tricky," says Wade, "but metal panel is pretty easy to work with. It's very forgiving and very easy to make it do what you want.”

"We're a traditional organization that has been around for over a hundred years, but we are also a modern, innovative organization," says Mark Erlich, NERCC executive secretary-treasurer. “We're a group with an enormous sense of pride and we want people to see what we do."

The use of glass along the bottom of the building on the highway side was done to allow outsiders to see into the building, to show there are no secrets, and to show the members going through training and keeping current. The renovation-which Cottrell says "surpasses the idea of renovation"-took an aging building and made it essential and modern, while offering the carpenters a stage to showcase their own consequence and substance.

You can also view this story on the Metal Architecture website.

More construction jobs coming to Boston

2011-08-05T09:38:00.001-04:00

Construction will begin next week on "The Victor" an 11-story residential building near the Boston Garden that is being developed by the Simpson Housing, a Denver-based company. Suffolk Construction is the Construction Manager on the project.

Scheduled for occupancy in early 2013, the $140 million project will be home to 286 luxury apartments, 138 parking spaces and 17,000 square feet of retail space on the first floor. The project has been "on the books" for four years, according to a story by Brendan Lynch in the Boston Herald. Casey Ross, of the Boston Globe, also has details on The Victor and other potential developments in the neighborhood.

The Globe also features an array of projects in and around Boston that could be starting soon, though some are in the very early stages of planning or seeking funding.

Study confirms what many suspected

2011-08-02T11:56:00.001-04:00

The decline in union membership in America accounts for a lot of the rise in income inequality, according to a new study by Harvard sociology professor Bruce Western.

“Our study underscores the role of unions as an equalizing force in the labor market,” said study author Bruce Western, a professor of sociology at Harvard University. “Most researchers studying wage inequality have focused on the effects of educational stratification—pay differences based on level of education—and have generally under-emphasized the impact of unions.”

From 1973 to 2007, wage inequality in the private sector increased by more than 40 percent among men, and by about 50 percent among women. In their study, Western and co-author Jake Rosenfeld, a professor of sociology at the University of Washington, examine the effects of union decline on both between-group inequality and within-group inequality. Between-group compares people from different demographics and industries, while within-group looks at people from the same demographics and industries.

Focusing on full-time, private sector workers, Western and Rosenfeld find that deunionization—the decline in the percentage of the labor force that is unionized—and educational stratification each explain about 33 percent of the rise in within-group wage inequality among men. Among women, deunionization explains about 20 percent of the increase in wage inequality, whereas education explains more than 40 percent.

Best practices program highlighted in HBJ

2011-08-01T12:20:00.001-04:00

The Hartford Business Journal this week showcased the union's use of the UBC's "Best Practices in Health Care Construction" program to train carpenters. The specialized training emphasizes the special conditions and concerns that exist while building in active health care facilities and techniques and behaviors that limit the dangers construction brings to a healing environment.

To learn more about the program, visit NERCC's "Health in Building" site or UBCTraining.com.

Fall River carpenters get kudos

2011-07-28T12:45:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to members of Local 1305, who are getting a well deserved pat on the back from the Fall River Herald News for their volunteer work to build a concession stand and restrooms for Durfee High School. The paper featured the union's work in a front page story and praised them in an editorial piece.

Boston neighborhood celebrates success

2011-07-28T11:44:00.002-04:00

A Boston neighborhood struggling to fight off longstanding problems with crime, exacerbated in recent years by foreclosure, may be starting to make lasting change thanks to coordinated neighbor activity and housing improvements fueled in part by union carpenters.

Two years ago union contractor Bilt Rite renovated four buildings on Hendry Street in Dorchester, largely with the help of union carpenter apprentices as part of city program to initiate change. More on those efforts here.

This weekend, the Hendry Street Neighborhood Watch will celebrate efforts to improve the neighborhood and seek greater resident involvement. The Dorchester Reporter published a story on the event, putting it into proper context regarding work in the neighborhood.

This event follows the neighborhood watch group’s June 6 meeting, which attracted 47 new Hendry Street resident members. Saturday’s block party will be a way to gather even more members and commemorate the club’s work since its inception last summer, said organizer Beto Rosa, community organizer at the Dorchester Bay EDC.

In many ways, Saturday’s event will act as a backdrop to the work done by the Dorchester Bay EDC in relieving foreclosure pressure in the area. The area around Coppens Square had been known as the “hotbed of the foreclosure crisis,” says Jeanne DuBois, executive director of the Dorchester Bay EDC.
DuBois says that a key part of neighborhood stability is to ensure that invested residents own and occupy houses. This, combined with the community organizing efforts of the Hendry Street Neighborhood Watch, can improve the neighborhood.

“This area had a history of crime and lawlessness,” DuBois said. “Little by little, the Hendry Street Neighborhood Watch is taking it back.”

Congratulations to the residents of the Hendry Street neighborhood and union carpenters who played a part.

UBC launches enhanced Carpenters.org website

2011-07-26T17:14:00.002-04:00

The United Brotherhood of Carpenters has enhanced carpenters.org "to include more timely news along with expanded information, images and video content for UBC members," according to a memo from General Secretary-Treasurer Andris Silins.

"It also showcases UBC training and productivity for visitors from the construction industry and the general public," the memo said.

The site now includes members-only pages to support members and get them more active in UBC legislative and political action efforts. Members who sign up as "e-activists" will be able to easily keep up to date on relevant issues and add their voices to those of fellow members speaking to elected representatives in Washington.

Soon, members will receive an e-news alert about pending federal trade legislation, encouraging them to contact their Senate and Congressional representatives to discuss the issue. Information about the legislation has previously been posted on NERCCBlog.com and carpenters.org. The UBC e-news alerts will be similar to NERCC's Council Update, which is regularly emailed to members of NERCC affiliated locals.

"Online communication is an essential tool for the UBC, and I trust you will find that this improved Internet presence serves our members, our trade, and our Brotherhood well," Silins wrote.

All members are encouraged to visit carpenters.org, share information with fellow UBC Brothers and Sisters and sign up to become "e-activists" in the members-only section of the site.

Governing via CTRL+C, CTRL+V

2011-07-26T10:35:00.001-04:00

The Portland Phoenix continues to confirm what most suspect: Maine Governor Paul LePage isn't really a policy wonk who pours over issue papers and carefully crafts his own legislation and plans of action. Trouble is, they've confirmed that his staff doesn't really work their fingers to the bone with those messy details, either. Turns out what they're really good at is CTRL+C, CTRL+V (copy and paste).

"In most cases, language from the industry and lobbyist's memos was copied word-for-word into LePage's reform proposal, suggesting the governor and his staff made little effort to analyze or shape policies themselves."

The article reveals that legislation LePage ended up submitting didn't even match up with his own positions. The investigation of how LePage does his job is troubling, according to some.

"Directly photocopying from lobbyist's wish lists is problematic in the message it sends on how seriously he takes his job and how much he is weighing different interests," says Ron Schmidt, head of the political science department at the University of Southern Maine. "I would think that would make a lot of citizens uncomfortable."

Laura Clawson, from Daily Kos Labor put it a little more bluntly in her piece on the story:

In contrast to the likes of Scott Walker, John Kasich and Rick Scott—Republican governors who have clear personal engagement with their extremist agendas—LePage is almost buffoonish, a weapon rather than a warrior in the corporate war on the environment and workers. But the damage to a state is the same, regardless of whether the governor came up with the ideas himself or just cut and pasted them as directed by his corporate masters.

Cambridge losing Vertex, winning back Biogen

2011-07-21T08:49:00.001-04:00

When Vertex finalized a deal to move 1,300 employees from Cambridge locations to a massive new development in Boston's Fan Pier, it was considered a significant hit for Cambridge. But now another biotech giant is easing that pain considerably. Biogen Idec, which moved from its Cambridge location for a new facility in Weston last year, is planning a return to Cambridge.

The Boston Globe reports that the company is planning to move more than 500 employees to two new buildings in Kendall Square.

The company wants to break ground on its new office buildings there later this year. One will be a 190,000-square-foot building with an address of 17 Cambridge Center; it will be developed by Boston Properties. The other will contain about 305,000 square feet across Binney Street and will be developed by Alexandria Real Estate Equities Inc., which is planning to construct five new buildings in the area in coming years.

...

“East Cambridge will see 1.5 million square foot of construction get underway in the next six to seven months,’’ said Steve Purpura, a partner with the real estate firm Richards Barry Joyce & Partners. “In any other market, you lose a tenant like Vertex, and everyone is running for cover, but Cambridge didn’t miss a beat.’’

Dems win first Wisconsin recall

2011-07-20T15:09:00.001-04:00

In a fight picked by Republicans in retaliation for Democratic recall efforts, State Senator Dave Hansen of Green Bay walloped Republican David VanderLeest in what the GOP had considered a very winnable seat.

EJ Dionne, Jr., writing for the Washington Post said it could be the beginning of an interesting end to the summer in Wisconsin,as six Republicans and two more Democrats face on in recall battles in August.

Hansen read the results as the first step in a Democratic comeback. “It’s only the beginning,” he declared at a victory celebration.

Of course Hansen would say this, but Contorno pointed to the Democrats’ impressive ground operation in the race. One senses that the energy in these recalls will be on the Democrats’ side, a bigger than usual advantage in mid-summer contests where turnout will be key. And there is normally no better time than August to get attention. If Democrats manage to take over Wisconsin’s State Senate in reaction to the actions of a very ideological conservative governor and legislature, the event will have reverberations far beyond Madison.

Cape Cod Times reports on Carpenter demonstration

2011-07-14T12:08:00.003-04:00

The Cape Cod Times posted this article about carpenters demonstrating yesterday, including quotes from NERCC Representative Brian Richardson. The target of the demonstration was Advantage Construction, which is undermining the standard for carpenters' wages and benefits while building at Balise Ford in Hyannis. The project is one of several where carpenters have demonstrated in the last few weeks about Advantage Construction.

"We know what they're getting paid and it's significantly less than area standard," said Brian Richardson, a protest participant and the director of organizing for the New England Regional Council of Carpenters.
Related Stories

In Wednesday's demonstration, about 40 carpenters chanted, waved signs and blew whistles in front of the new Balise Ford location on High School Road, where the dealership is being renovated. Last Friday, about 50 protesters marched outside the recently constructed showroom at Hyannis Toyota on Route 132.

Balise Ford manager Mark Caliri declined to comment on the protest, saying that the issue is between the union and the construction company.

The target of the demonstrations has been Quincy-based Advantage Construction, the construction management company overseeing the work at the two dealerships. Advantage Construction pays workers $20 to $25 per hour, Richardson said — far less than the $50 that he said is the standard hourly rate on Cape Cod.

Read the full story here.

Appleton Mills holds ribbon cutting

2011-07-14T10:52:00.001-04:00

Mark Erlich, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters joined Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick, Congresswoman Nikki Tsongas and other dignitaries at a ribbon cutting last week for the Appleton Mills project in Lowell. Erlich's comments at the event can be read here.

The project involved the conversion of an old textile mill into 130 units of housing. Space within the units and in common areas was designed to attract artists. The NERCC Communications Department visited the site last summer and produced this video of the project in progress.

Photos of the finished project and the event were posted by MassHousing on flikr.

NERCC demonstrating against Advantage Construction in Hyannis

2011-07-14T09:17:00.002-04:00

Union carpenters yesterday demonstrated in Hyannis where Advantage Construction is undermining area standards for carpenters' wages and benefits while building for Belise Ford.

AvalonBay construction called into question after Quincy fire

2011-07-13T08:39:00.002-04:00

A fire at a Quincy, Mass. apartment complex built by Avalon Bay has spurred an investigation into whether inadequate fire stopping in the attic caused the total loss of the building. The Quincy Patriot-Ledger reported that investigators found draft stopping in the attic at the Faxon Park Apartments was not continuous, as required, undermining its ability to limit the spread of a fire started on a top floor balcony. Investigators believe that with proper fire stopping, the fire would not have spread so quickly and engulfed the building so completely.

All 24 units in the building were destroyed in the fire. It was one of five buildings AvalonBay built and later sold. Inspectors are now looking into the remaining buildings to check on the construction of firestopping in those attics.

UBC calls for defeat of trade agreements

2011-07-12T14:44:00.001-04:00

As Congress considers "free" trade agreements with South Korea, Columbia and Panama, UBC General President Doug McCarron has written to members of the House and Senate, with a detailed argument for why they should be defeated. McCarron cites the history of increased trade deficits, borrowing by the government and a loss of jobs in the United States.

Please read the letter by McCarron to House and Senate members and consider calling or writing your Representatives to weigh in on the issue.

NERCC in the news

2011-07-12T09:52:00.000-04:00

The Daily Hampshire Gazette published a story today about the rennovation of the historic James House in Northampton into space for two community groups; The Literacy Project (TLP) and the Center for New Americans (CNA). The rennovation was done with the help of union carpenters.

Brother Jon Avery was on hand and quoted in the story:
"We're part of this community," said John Avery, a representative from the local carpenters union, explaining why Local 108 got involved. "We believe in all of the things that government does."

Read the entire story here.

~~~~~~~~~~

The MetroWest Daily News published a story on a public meeting held in Framingham by Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray. Brother Steve Joyce was on hand and quoted asking a question about construction jobs.

Read the story here.

Encouraging signs in Boston

2011-07-11T08:59:00.001-04:00

The Boston Globe reports that construction could be experiencing a slight bounce.

Developers across the Boston area are moving forward with a number of large construction projects that were stalled by the recession, creating thousands of jobs and ending one of the state’s most prolonged building slumps.
~~~~
But the impact on jobs will not be immediate, as many developers still must clear other obstacles before starting construction. And while some projects are moving forward, many others remain stalled or are barely inching forward, leaving union leaders skeptical that the recovery will proceed fast enough to help the long-term unemployed.

“I’ve been at a number of groundbreakings where pictures are taken and the right things get said, but then nothing happens,’’ said Mark Erlich, executive secretary of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters. “The iceberg is melting, but icebergs melt slowly.’’

NH fends off RTW: Wall St Journal takes notice

2011-06-24T14:22:00.001-04:00

Still unable to muster the votes to override a veto by Governor John Lynch, New Hampshire Speaker of the House William O'Brien has put off until a special session after the summer any effort to pass so-called "Right to Work" legislation.

O'Brien, a Republican, had promised a swift override, but did not deliver scheduled votes on several occasions. He may struggle to find the votes in the fall, as well, according to one Republican quoted in a Wall Street Journal article today:

"Lee Quandt, a GOP House member from Exeter, N.H., voted against the bill. "New Hampshire is doing very well without it," he said, noting the state unemployment rate is 4.8%. He said many of the state's 63,000 union members, including many police and firemen, vote Republican.

"You don't pick up money and support by sticking it to thousands and thousands of Republicans," Mr. Quandt said. "There's a pretty strong group of Republicans that are not budging."

Carabetta raided, latest problem for CT developer

2011-06-21T09:57:00.000-04:00

The Carabetta companies have been raided by the FBI and the IRS. It is the latest in a series of problems for Carabetta and their projects.

In April, nine Stop Work orders were issued against nine Carabetta subcontractors on a New London housing project only months after three Stop Work orders were issued against Carabetta subcontractors for similar offenses on a different NEw London housing project.

Both the Meriden Record-Journal and the Hartford Courant had coverage, including details of Carabetta's troubled financial and legal past.

Congratulations Bruins!

2011-06-16T06:21:00.000-04:00

A special image was placed on the Carpenters Center today to greet commuters and offer a tip of the cap to Boston's latest championship team.

Replacement OSHA cards

2011-06-09T09:17:00.000-04:00

Members who have lost their OSHA certification cards should contact their local training program to obtain replacements. Members who are not able to produce their OSHA card could be prevented you from working.

OSHA has guidelines for obtaining replacement cards that members should be aware of." From page 15 of the linked document:

"Replacement student course completion cards will not be issued if the training took place more than three years ago. Trainers must provide their name, the student’s name, the training date, and the type of class to receive a replacement. Only one replacement may be issued per student. A fee may be charged by the Authorizing Training Organization to replace a course completion card."

Become a Union Carpenters’ Apprentice

2011-06-09T08:49:00.001-04:00

Become skilled in a trade, and get paid to do it.
Benefits of Apprenticeship:

Paid "scholarship" - no or low-cost supervised training
Progressively increasing wage with excellent benefits
Nationally recognized credential - completion of Apprenticeship Certificate
Improved job security and standard of living
Opportunity for college credit
Pride and Dignity

Who: Anyone age 17 or older who is a High School graduate or has a GED, or has completed of a prejob preparatory course in Carpentry of at least six (6) months, such as United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC), Job Corps, or other approved carpentry apprentice preparatory course, or on-the-job training of six (6) months or 1500 hours experience in the construction field that would qualify an applicant as having met the minimum educational requirements. Women, minorities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

How do I apply?
Applicants must attend an informational session at 6:00 PM on any one of the following Wednesday evenings:
June 22, 2011
July 27, 2011
August 24, 2011
September 28, 2011
October 26, 2011
November 30, 2011
January 25, 2012
at the New England Carpenters Training Center, 13 Holman Rd, Millbury, MA 01527

What is a Carpenters’ Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a training program where you earn wages while you learn to become a skilled carpenter. Apprenticeship combines classroom studies with on-the-job training supervised by a trade professional. Much like a college education, it takes several years to become fully trained in the trade that you choose. Unlike college, though, as an apprentice you’ll earn while you learn. At first, you’ll make less money than skilled workers; but as you progress, you’ll get regular raises. Once you have mastered the craft, you will receive professional wages.

Carpenters Union:
The United Brotherhood of Carpenters is North America’s largest building-trades union, with more than a half-million members in the construction and wood-products industries. We recognize that for the union to remain strong, our signatory contractors need to succeed in today’s highly competitive marketplace – and our signatory contractors do that with workers committed to safety, productivity, and the proud legacy of our Brotherhood. Skills, safety, and productivity have brought our members fair wages, good benefits, and dignity in work and retirement since the Brotherhood was founded in 1881.

Equal Opportunity:
The Massachusetts Carpenters Apprenticeship and Training Fund (MCATF) is committed to equal opportunity for applicants. The recruitment, selection and training of apprentices during their apprenticeship shall be without discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, creed, handicap, marital status, ancestry, sexual orientation, arrest record, conviction record, or membership in the military forces of the United States. MCATF will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunity in apprenticeship, and we will operate the apprenticeship program as required under Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 30 and all other applicable laws.

For more information about Apprenticeship, contact:
MA Carpenters Apprenticeship and Training Fund
13 Holman Rd, STE 100
Millbury, MA 01527
(978) 752-1197
info@macarpenters.org
www.macarpenters.org

Mortgage help becoming available to unemployed/underemployed

2011-06-09T08:28:00.000-04:00

About a year ago, Congress passed the Emergency Homeowners' Loan Program (EHLP) to provide no interest, forgivable loans to unemployed/underemployed homeowners to prevent foreclosures. Initiated by the Massachusetts Communities Action Network (MCAN) and the Brockton Interfaith Community and championed by Congressman Barney Frank, the program has $1 billion in funding which will be spent this year.

Applications for the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) program will begin to be accepted later this month through the HUD website.These pre-applications will be due around July 22. Then a lottery will be held to choose homeowners who can get loans program. Homeowners chosen will have to submit certain named documents to show that they meet program qualifications.

More information is available here for those interested.

Attacks on Davis-Bacon, PLAs fail in US House

2011-06-09T08:26:00.004-04:00

Last week, the United States House of Representatives considered and defeated two amendments to the Homeland Security Appropriations Bill that would have weakened or eliminated prevailing wage protections or the use of Project Labor Agreements on federal construction projects.

Democrats were joined by a significant number of Republicans in defeating the two amendments. The vote on the Davis Bacon amendment was 183-234, with 52 Republicans joining all but one Democrat to prevent passage. The PLA language lost by a smaller, but still significant 207-213 vote. Twenty-eight Republicans joined Democrats on that vote.

Neither Republican Congressmen from New Hampshire--Charlie Bass or Frank Guinta--joined the side of union members to defeat the amendments. They are the only two Republican members of the House from New England.

RI members approve new contract

2011-06-09T08:22:00.002-04:00

Members of Carpenters Local 94 in Rhode Island unanimously ratified a new, two-year collective bargaining agreement at a meeting last Saturday. The contract was negotiated with the Associated General Contractors of Rhode Island and includes increases of $1.50 each year.

Seventy-five cents is being added to wages this month. The remaining seventy-five cents for the first year will be added to benefit contributions in January. The allocation for those increases will be determined in December by member vote.

The second year of the agreement is also schedule to include a wage increase of seventy-five cents in June and an increase to benefit contributions of seventy-five cents in January of 2013.

Language changes made to the agreement included mostly housekeeping issues such as a change from benefit stamps to electronic receipts for employer contributions to benefit funds.

The collective bargaining agreement with the Construction Industries of Rhode Island included a wage reopener, only. Wage and benefit changes negotiated as part of the AGC agreement will be applicable to the CCRI contract, but language changes will not.

Both the AGC and CCRI agreements will expire on June 2, 2013.

Appleby retires

2011-06-06T08:24:00.000-04:00

Brother Chuck Appleby has retired from the Brotherhood and his position as Business Manager of Carpenters Local 24 in Connecticut, effective June 1. A 31-year member of the UBC, Appleby was hired as an organizer in 1998 after participating in one of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters first three day evaluation and training sessions. He worked on the Connecticut Drywall Campaign as an organizer before becoming a Business Agent.

Appleby was the President of Carpenters Local 24 and was elected to the Executive Committee of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters' Executive Board in 1999, a position he has also resigned. He was also a Trustee on the Connecticut Carpenters Benefit Funds as well as a member of the negotiating committees for collective bargaining agreements in Connecticut.

Mark Erlich, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of NERCC has appointed Bob Beauregard to serve as Business Manager for Local 24 and Bruce Lydem to fill Appleby's seat of trustee on the Connecticut Combined Board.

More on Mayo

2011-06-02T13:16:00.001-04:00

The Mayo Group and owner John McGrail came under public scrutiny again in downtown Worcester when a group of nonunion carpenters set up a strike line outside the Bancroft Commons property at the end of last week and continued it earlier this week. Today, the carpenters demonstrated in front of Mayo's corporate headquarters in Dorchester.

The carpenters are owed $55,000 for work they did on the project for Ramirez Drywall. The subcontractor has not been paid for the work and so he has been unable to pay the workers.

Ramirez and the carpenters contacted NERCC Organizer Manny Gines for assistance, after seeing that the union had helped other workers receive owed wages recently.

Bancroft Commons is a major residential renovation project covering several blocks downtown, bordering Worcester Common and the Worcester Telegram and Gazette. The project has been the site of consistent problems.

Late in 2007, NERCC Organizers talked to nonunion carpenters on the site who were having issues with the way they were being paid. One carpenter told a reporter from the Worcester Telegram that "sometimes" taxes were taken out of his check. The story was given prominent coverage in the paper and Mayo began its strategy of portraying the union as the boogeyman to explain away issues on the job.

Several months later Clive McFarlane, a columnist for the Worcester Telegram, wrote a second piece in the paper, detailing allegations by more nonunion immigrant carpenters employed on the Bancroft Commons project. This time the story got worse. Three of them told McFarlane that they had not been paid wages owed for work they did for Mayo. They were each owed more than $1,700 and had filed complaints with the Attorney General's Office.

Things got worse in January of 2009, when the Mayo Group were indicted by a Worcester Grand Jury for improper handling and disposal of asbestos removed from the property. Investigators alleged that the company:
--failed to conduct a survey to determine whether asbestos was in the building
--threw demolition debris, which turned out to include asbestos, out of second story windows into an open dumpster
--scheduled asbestos to be disposed of at a landfill not approved for asbestos
--did not notify state authorities, as required by law, of asbestos demolition.
--ignored a stop work order from the state and continued to remove asbestos from areas of the building where residents were living.

McGrail and one of the Mayo Group Companies, JMRealty eventually pleaded guilty to several of the counts related to improper handling of asbestos, evasion of unemployment insurance, failure to provide pay records, and failure to withhold income tax. McGrail narrowly escaped jail time. He and JMRealty were fined $100,000 each and sentenced to three years of probation.

After the strike line was established last week in Worcester, representatives of the Mayo Group spoke to Ramirez and the carpenters, but did not pay them. When contacted by the Telegram and Worcester Magazine, Mayo suddenly claimed there were quality issues with the work produced and the issue was the result of the Carpenters union trying to exploit the situation.

More carpenters strike for owed wages

2011-05-24T14:31:00.002-04:00

A group of nonunion carpenters went on strike at two projects yesterday, seeking close to $100,000 in wages owed to them. The carpenters approached the union for help after their employer--New Haven Drywall--refused to pay them and bounced checks for their drywall and taping work.

Carpenters first demonstrated yesterday morning outside of Cohasset AvalonBay, a project that has been slowed for years by permitting and economic reasons. Construction finally began last year and the company hopes it will open early this summer, according to media reports.

After securing more than $17,000 owed to 11 of the carpenters on the Cohasset site, the group traveled to Norwood, where they planned to demonstrate seeking close to $80,000 15 workers claim to be owed there. New Haven Drywall was also the subcontractor there, hired by developer Chestnut Hill Realty, which is acting as the general contractor, developer and owner.

The strike continued there today.

.

Bad press for AvalonBay

2011-05-24T09:22:00.002-04:00

The Somerville Journal reported on AvalonBay's troubles in Woburn, where the Attorney General forced them to settle claims of housing discrimination.

The story also discusses the death of Oscar Pintado, a carpenter who was killed during construction of the project when he fell 48 feet through a hole that was improperly covered with unmarked particle board.

The Woburn site was one of several AvalonBay sites that were the subject of an Attorney General's Office investigation into misclassification of workers and wage and hour complaints by workers employed by AvalonBay subcontractors.

MetroWest Daily News reports on Pulte, unpaid carpenters

2011-05-20T12:16:00.001-04:00

The MetroWest Daily News today ran a front page, above the fold piece about carpenters that have gone unpaid for work they did on multiple Pulte sites in Massachusetts. The issue was the topic of a story in the Quincy Patriot Ledger last Saturday.

A group of more than 30 nonunion carpenters have filed wage complaint forms with the Massachusetts Attorney General's office seeking to recover months of wages they are owed for work they did on Pulte sites in Braintree, Natick, Northbridge and Plymouth. They may also be owed wages for work done on a Pulte site in Wakefield, Rhode Island.

Despite protests at the Braintree and Natick sites and last week's column in the Patriot Ledger, the company continues to claim in today's story that they are "unaware of any complaints filed with any state or federal agencies."

As one of the largest home-builders in the United States, with developments in 28 states, it's hard to believe Pulte doesn't know what's happening on their own sites. The company acts as a general contractor on many of their projects, directly hiring subcontractors.

A company spin-meister told the MetroWest Daily News that "PulteGroup considers a number of factors when selecting subcontractors to build its homes. Each project is unique and contracts are awarded on merit to the companies that are the best fit for the job."

Unfortunately, workers going unpaid on Pulte jobs does not appear to be a "unique" condition. It looks more like something the company has decided is the "best fit" for their current projects in New England.

Carpenters in New England aren't the only ones unhappy with Pulte. Last week eight people were arrested during a peaceful demonstration at Pulte's annual shareholders meeting in Detroit. They were there to question the job creation and economic benefit to the community of $900 million in tax benefits Pulte earned last year when a tax law was changed largely benefiting a small number of large, national home builders.

Here in New England, Pulte is the latest in a series of contractors whose projects have become the subject of protests and wage claims as a result of nonunion workers not being paid and going on strike. The following is a video chronicling some of NERCCs activity regarding the issue.

Malloy unveils new plan for UConn Health Center

2011-05-18T13:21:00.001-04:00

Connecticut Governor Dannel Malloy this week unveiled and new and much larger development plan for the UConn Health Center. The $864 million renovation and expansion will move forward the state's bioscience industry, creating lots of short-term and long term jobs in the process.

Connecticut Regional Manager Bruce Lydem was part of the announcement, covered by the Connecticut Mirror.

Haiti Hospital project seeks carpenters, volunteers

2011-05-18T13:07:00.002-04:00

Partners in Health is looking for volunteer union carpenters and other trades workers to assist in the construction of a badly needed hospital in Haiti, which was devastated by an earthquake last year. Background information about the project, which is being spearheaded by Jim Ansara from Shawmut Design and Construction, is available in an article published in the New England Carpenter magazine last winter. All travel and in-country expenses would be covered by the program and power tools would be provided. They are asking volunteers to commit to only 8-14 day trips between September and February and to bring their own hand tools.

For details about the current status of the project, please download and view this Powerpoint presentation by Partners in Health. To contact Partners in Health about becoming a volunteer, visit this page.

Congress hears about hard work

2011-05-16T12:18:00.004-04:00

Mike Rowe, host of the popular TV show "Dirty Jobs," testified before Congress last week. He spoke about the declining respect for hard work and skilled trades in the United States and why that's a bad thing for all of us.

For the last few years, Rowe has been championing the cause of craft training and encouraging young people to pursue a career of hard work in a skilled trade. Visit mikeroweworkers.com for more information on his efforts.

Carpenters unpaid for months on Pulte jobs

2011-05-14T11:54:00.002-04:00

NERCC Organizers are putting the heat on Pulte Homes, one of the nation's largest home builders, after more than 30 nonunion carpenters came forward reporting they hadn't been paid their for months worth of work.

Demonstrations have been held at Jonathan's Landing in Braintree and South Natick Hills in Natick and the workers have filed wage complaint forms with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office. Most of the workers are owed nine week of wages and overtime, totaling $3,500-$4,000 each, from work they did in Braintree, Natick and another site in Wakefield, Rhode Island.

Multiple subcontractors have worked and been dismissed from the Pulte sites, each employing the same group of carpenters. Pulte acts as the general contractor on many of their projects, directly hiring and paying subcontractors.

It is unclear whether Pulte paid the subcontractors who did not pay the carpenters. But what is clear is that these are projects being built and sold by Pulte, who boasts "Pulte Homes' culture is wrapped around a strong sense of family and a small company atmosphere."

The Quincy Patriot-Ledger ran a story on the issue today.

AG hits Hampton Building for violations on three sites

2011-05-13T13:43:00.002-04:00

The Massachusetts Attorney General has ordered Hampton Building to pay $100,000 in fines and restitution for wage violations related to nonunion carpenters at multiple sites. Carpenters will finally be paid more than $19,000 in wages owed to them from work dating back to December 2009 at Westford Town Hall, Molly's Lane in Chilmark and the Whitman Police Station.

The company will pay an additional $81,000 in penalties for:
--failing to pay prevailing wages
--failing to maintain true and accurate payroll records
--failing to submit true and accurate certified payroll records
--failing to pay employees in a timely manner
--intentionally failing to submit certified payroll records and general payroll records to the Attorney General's Office for inspection.

Bad behavior by AvalonBay doesn't end with construction

2011-05-13T13:38:00.004-04:00

AvalonBay, which has been the target of numerous protests by the Carpenters Union in New England for dangerous working conditions and mistreatment of workers during the construction of large, multi-unit housing developments, has been forced to reach a settlement with the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office to resolve a housing discrimination lawsuit.

The company has agreed to make payments to the victim and "institute a broad range of preventive measures to ensure future compliance with the law" according to a press release from the AGs office. The suit was filed after AvalonBay attempted to evict a woman and her two small children, ages two and four, from their AvalonBay apartment in Woburn based on "unreasonable and unsubstantiated" noise complaints by a neighbor, which AvalonBay never investigated.

Protest schedule for temp agency

2011-05-13T13:37:00.000-04:00

A group of community and labor activists is planning to picket a Chelsea temp agency for abusive treatment of workers it has placed. Workers report being owed thousands of dollars in overtime, refusal by the company to provide workers compensation for injuries and widespread harassment.

The company, EDA Temp Agency, employs hundreds of workers in Chelsea, Boston and the Massachusetts North Shore.
The demonstration is planned for Thursday, May 19 from 9-11am at 248 Broadway Street in Chelsea

Worcester members build a garden for the village

2011-05-10T11:15:00.006-04:00

This weekend, members of Carpenters Local 107 and YouthBuild lent their skills to a garden project at the Plumley Village housing development. Raised garden frames were built by YouthBuild and then installed by members of Local 107. The project was supported by numerous city and state groups. Twenty-four families living in Plumley Village have already signed up for plots in the new garden.

The carpenters' work drew the attention of wrcstr.com, which posted about the project complete with photos.

Helping out on the project were Brothers Fred Taylor, Wayne Johnson, Sean Peek, Jim Turner, Luis Tirado & Manny Gines

All photos courtesy of Mike Benedetti.
Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Tentative Settlement Reached in CT Strike

2011-05-09T20:53:00.000-04:00

Members of three Carpenter Local Unions in Connecticut affiliated with the New England Regional Council of Carpenters have reached a tentative agreement with contractors to end a one week strike. The union and contractors--represented by the Associated General Contractors/ Connecticut Construction Industry Association--held negotiating sessions Saturday and Monday afternoon. Union carpenters returned to work today as the result of progress made during Saturday negotiations.

Members of Carpenters Local 24, 43 and 210 will meet at their Local Union halls on Thursday for ratification votes.

Cracking down on workers misclassification

2011-05-03T15:03:00.002-04:00

"Hartford, Conn. (WTNH) - Labor unions and the construction industry are coming together to support Senator Dick Blumenthal's co-sponsoring of federal legislation that would crack down on employee misclassification."

Cracking down on worker classification: wtnh.com

Even in A Down Economy, Union Carpenters B.U.I.L.D.

2011-05-03T10:13:00.001-04:00

The B.U.I.L.D. program — Building Union Initiative and Labor Dignity — was
developed by NERCC to educate members about the construction industry and where we fit into it.

In a single evening session, members are presented with some basic facts and statistics about the local and national economy and historical changes that have impacted conditions in the construction industry.

Discussions involve how much building is done union and how union members, acting together, can help increase the level of union construction.

The B.U.I.L.D. program aims to improve conditions by encouraging members to participate in efforts to:
• Build a better union
• Build a better carpenter
• Build better partnerships with employers
• Build better communities
• Build a better democracy

B.U.I.L..D sessions have been held in Local Unions throughout New England and for apprentices at the New England Carpenters Training Center. So far, more than 1,500 members have taken part.

The B.U.I.L.D. program is now also targeting active geographic areas. Cities and towns with upcoming development or important local elections are inviting all of their neighbor UBC members to B.U.I.L.D. classes as a way of developing multi-Local Volunteer Organizing Committees. It can’t just be about your Local Union or where you work, a successful union requires you to be active where you make your home and where you vote.

Construction may be slow, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t work for union carpenters. Call your local union or talk to members who live in your community about attending or scheduling a BUILD session. Learn what’s going on and how you can help make things better.

Carpenters Center welcomes BPD, Patriots' Kraft

2011-05-02T10:52:00.001-04:00

The Carpenters Center today hosted a training session put on by the Boston Police Department for their Sergeants. The Sergeants Advanced Leadership Training (S.A.L.T.) is an initiative of Commissioner Edward Davis and Superintendent Paul F. Joyce, Jr., who is Chief of the Bureau of Professional Development.

Four dozen Sergeants took part in classroom sessions in the morning before being joined by Commissioner Davis, Command Staff and Lieutenants for a larger session. Commissioner Davis spoke the the group about the vital role BPD leaders play in not only routine policing, but stepped up vigilance since the 9/11 attacks and the death of Osama bin Laden. New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft also addressed the group, talking about his business history before and after his purchase of the team.

Carpenters show career options

2011-04-27T10:20:00.004-04:00

Rhode Island Carpenters Local 94 and affiliated apprenticeship and training programs are participating in Rhode Island Construction Career Days today and tomorrow. Union representatives and training instructors are talking to thousands of high school and middle school students about careers in carpentry and affiliated trades.

Students are getting a chance to see and hear what things are like from some union carpenter apprentices who might've been in their shoes not too long ago. Brothers Christopher Costa, Floorcoverers Local 2168, Stephen Dias Carpenters Local 94, Shawn Rios, Carpenters Local 40 and Matthew Higgins and Emerson Ocampo, both from Carpenters Local 33 are showing off their skills with the screw gun and drywall and some concrete forms.

More bad guys nabbed in New London

2011-04-20T11:45:00.003-04:00

From the New London Day:

New London - The state Department of Labor issued nine stop work orders Friday to several subcontractors at the Bates Woods housing construction site for violating labor laws.

Members of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters were protesting at the Jefferson Avenue site Tuesday after the state charged that the subcontractors were either employing independent contractors to avoid paying workers' compensation insurance or they were under-reporting the number of people on their payrolls.

Read the full story here.

Mobilize to restore the American Dream

2011-04-14T10:08:00.001-04:00

Union members in the Greater Boston area are gathering this week to send a message that they aim to defend and promote the American Dream. A rally is being held TODAY at 4:00 PM in Boston's Financial District to call on corporate CEOs and those who have prospered to create good jobs and pay their fare share for essential government services. The rally will be held at 125 High Street, near the intersection of High and Oliver Street. More than 30 labor and community groups will be attending.

It's time for middle-class Americans to be treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. You may have heard that despite more than $5 billion in profits, General Electric is paying $0 in taxes this year. Did you know that State Street Bank is also paying nothing in taxes, despite making $1.55 billion in profits? Their CEO, Joseph Hooley made $12.9 million while laying off hundreds of Massachusetts workers. Banks and financial institutions need to stop stockpiling profits and start investing in projects that create jobs and get the economy moving again.

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD AND ENCOURAGE OTHER MEMBERS TO ATTEND.

It's always the best and the worst of times...for some

2011-04-14T08:57:00.002-04:00

When Wall Street drove the American economy into a ditch, the federal government stepped in to help companies that were deemed "too big to fail." Regardless of the complicated, reckless schemes that seemed destined to collapse, the corporate heads kept their stock bonuses. How could these companies recover, after all, if the excessive salary and bonus system was denied the "best" talent?

As for the companies, they enjoyed the luxury of putting off their tax obligations. Now, after TARP money and stimulus money has been spread around and profits for banks and investment companies are headed back through the roof (along with salaries and bonuses) those companies are using the tough times to avoid paying taxes.

A few weeks ago, it became public that GE had made $5.2 billion in domestic profits, but paid no tax. Similar stories about other companies followed.

Today, the Boston Globe is reporting that State Street Bank used accounting strategies to get a $885 million tax refund only two years after getting a $2 billion taxpayer funded bailout. That's an $885 million REFUND in a year when their CEO, Jay Hooley, was paid $12.9 million.

So when they were in trouble, State Street got taxpayer money and paid no tax. Now that they're doing well, they claim past losses and pay no tax. Nice system, huh?

Carpenters Center wins award from the Association of Energy Engineers New England

2011-04-13T11:57:00.001-04:00

As reported in the New England Real Estate Journal

The Association of Energy Engineers New England selected the Carpenters Center, the new headquarters for the New England Regional Council of Carpenters (NERCC), as a recipient for their annual Chapter Energy Project Award. This award honors projects with energy-conscious design. The Carpenters Center was recognized for its outstanding use of energy and energy savings.

RDK Engineers joined forces with architect and design firm ADD Inc and provided mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, audio-visual, and commissioning services for the new center located between 1-93 and Dorchester Ave. With the creation of this new three-story building, fully equipped with a 30-foot LED sign that is used to promote the carpentry trade, motorists on the Southeast Expressway have a new landmark to appreciate on their commutes in and out of Boston. The facility was converted from an abandoned two-story commercial building to a three-story, 75,000 s/f center which will train 2,000 students per year. In addition to student classrooms, the renovated space also contains state-of-the-art offices, a conveniently located bank, and an eye-care center for union members. The center also includes energy-efficient lighting features such as incandescent lights with motion sensors and automatic shut-off.

"RDK Engineers has long been committed to sustainable and energy-efficient design practices," said RDK principal Pat Murphy. "The RDK project team truly enjoyed partnering with the New England Regional Council of Carpenters and ADD Inc on a center that was designed to suit the needs of everyone in the Carpenters' Union. We are proud to have been a part of this unique opportunity."

You also read this story on the NEREJ website.

Concentration of wealth in the US

2011-04-13T09:28:00.005-04:00

Vanity Fair has posted an interesting article on income inequality in the United States. It is based on the alarming fact that 1% of the population in the United States control 40% of the nation's wealth. Below is a taste. You can read the entire piece here.

Americans have been watching protests against oppressive regimes that concentrate massive wealth in the hands of an elite few. Yet in our own democracy, 1 percent of the people take nearly a quarter of the nation’s income—an inequality even the wealthy will come to regret.

It’s no use pretending that what has obviously happened has not in fact happened. The upper 1 percent of Americans are now taking in nearly a quarter of the nation’s income every year. In terms of wealth rather than income, the top 1 percent control 40 percent. Their lot in life has improved considerably. Twenty-five years ago, the corresponding figures were 12 percent and 33 percent. One response might be to celebrate the ingenuity and drive that brought good fortune to these people, and to contend that a rising tide lifts all boats. That response would be misguided. While the top 1 percent have seen their incomes rise 18 percent over the past decade, those in the middle have actually seen their incomes fall. For men with only high-school degrees, the decline has been precipitous—12 percent in the last quarter-century alone. All the growth in recent decades—and more—has gone to those at the top. In terms of income equality, America lags behind any country in the old, ossified Europe that President George W. Bush used to deride. Among our closest counterparts are Russia with its oligarchs and Iran. While many of the old centers of inequality in Latin America, such as Brazil, have been striving in recent years, rather successfully, to improve the plight of the poor and reduce gaps in income, America has allowed inequality to grow.

Savoie named to two state boards

2011-04-08T08:53:00.001-04:00

Local 94 Organizer/Business Representative Tom Savoie has been appointed to serve on advisory boards by Governor Lincoln Chafee and the Providence City Council.
Governor Chafee named Savoie a member of the Rhode Island Healthcare Reform Commission. The Commission is being led by Lieutenant Governor Elizabeth Roberts.

“Healthcare is both an important part of our economy in Rhode Island and is a critical cost for Rhode Island businesses and families,” said Chafee. “Ensuring access to high quality, sustainable, affordable healthcare for all Rhode Islanders is one of the most important priorities that we face as a state. Your participation on the R.I. Healthcare Reform Commission will move our state toward attaining these critical goals.”

The Providence City Council tapped Savoie to join a group that will study and make recommendations on implementing the “First Source” ordinance. The ordinance requires businesses receiving grants, incentives, or subsidies from the City to give hiring preference to Providence residents. Since its implementation, there have been concerns about obstacles that limit the program’s success. Savoie and a group of labor, business and community leaders will make suggestions about how to overcome those obstacles.

DOL crossing borders to root out pay scams

2011-04-07T09:51:00.007-04:00

The United States Department of Labor’s district office in Hartford has announced an initiative to aggressively pursue wage and hour violations on construction sites in Rhode Island and Connecticut.

“Due to the competitive nature of the construction industry, some contractor and subcontractors cut corners with respect to wages, hours and employment conditions,” said Neil Patrick, the Wage and Hour Division’s district director in Hartford. “The Wage and Hour Division is developing new strategies to better identify and remedy widespread labor violations so workers are protected against exploitation and law-abiding employers are not placed at a competitive disadvantage when they play by the rules and pay fair wages.”

NERCC staff in the two states have been pushing for increased enforcement as harsh economic conditions in the construction industry have made it more tempting for project owners and general contractors to look the other way at violations. Several meetings have been held with state and federal enforcement agencies in the last year where multi-state investigations have been a main point of discussion.

Because so many general contractors and subcontractors move across city and state borders, coordinated efforts are essential to make a significant impact on contractors and the industry as a whole.

The DOL plans to look at general contractor and subcontractors on projects in Connecticut and Rhode Island to uncover patterns of cheating. The Wage and Hour Division conducted nearly 300 investigations in the construction industry in the last ten years, recouping $5.6 million for almost 3,300 workers.

“These numbers how that we need to change industry behavior across the board, not simply on an employer-by-employer basis,” Patrick said. “Paying workers the proper wages is the employer’s responsibility. We particularly want to encourage general contractors to require and ensure Fair Labor Standards Act compliance by all of their subcontractors.”

McCarron writes on misclassificiation

2011-04-07T09:43:00.004-04:00

Doug McCarron, General President of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America has written a piece on misclassification and tax fraud in the construction industry that was just published by the Construction Labor Report. It can be read here.

Maine labor mural goes back up...sort of

2011-04-06T14:52:00.003-04:00

If you've followed Maine Governor Paul LePage's mission to remove the mural from the Department of Labor's office which depicts scenes from Maine's history, you'll want to see this.

Meriden site sets CT record

2011-03-30T12:08:00.004-04:00

On Friday, March 25th members of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters protested in front of the site of the Chamberlain Heights Housing in Meriden, Connecticut, a low-income public housing facility. The protest was scheduled after the Connecticut Department of Labor issued a record 22 "Stop Work" orders on the site, where a $27 million renovation is under way.

The orders were issued when workers on the site were found to not have workers compensation coverage, as required by law, and were not properly paying state and federal payroll taxes. There were also concerns that the workers were not legitimate "independent contractors" as indicated during an inspection of the site.

The LaRosa Building Group is the general contractor hired by the Meriden Housing Authority hired for the project.

“Having workers on the job without any workers compensation is appalling. To allow people to avoid paying taxes on Housing Authority jobs in these times is a slap in the face to every tax payer in Connecticut,” said Tim Sullivan of the New England Regional Council of Carpenters.

The 22 workers join a list of hundreds of subcontractors on multiple other sites who have been issued “Stop Work” from the state for similar violations.

Misclassification of workers as so-called "independent contractors" has become an epidemic in the construction industry. Not only does it strip workers of basic protections, it provides a significant competitive bidding advantage to contractors who cheat and deprives the state and federal government of significant tax revenues.

The "Stop Work" orders and protest caught the attention of Connecticut House Speaker Chris Donovan, who stopped by the site.

When protesters continued to gather at the site on March 28th, a second visit by Connecticut Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division netted yet another stop work order for violations.

Protests will continue outside the project to highlight the misuse of taxpayer money and the blatant tax and insurance fraud by some of the subcontractors on their site.

Additional coverage in the Hartford Courant.

It shouldn't be comedy...

2011-03-30T08:52:00.000-04:00

The Daily Show
Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

Local 94 Awarded Green Training Grant, holds training class in Millbury

2011-03-29T08:51:00.003-04:00

RI Carpenters Local 94 has been awarded a two-year, $250,000 “Green Jobs” training grant. Funding for the grant was made available by The Providence Plan/Building Futures for the delivery of services under the US Department of Labor-sponsored Energy Training Partnership Fund in Rhode Island.

In early 2010, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis announced nearly $100 million in green jobs training grants as authorized by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The grants will support job training programs to help workers find jobs in expanding green industries and related occupations.

These grants are part of a larger Recovery Act – totaling $500 million – to fund workforce development projects that promote economic grown by preparing workers for careers in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries.

The $250,000 grant awarded to Local 94 is part of a much larger grant in the amount of $3.7 million coming to Rhode Island to train 1,600 people for jobs in energy efficient construction and renewable power industries. The money will go to the Building Futures program sponsored by The Providence Plan, a nonprofit that works to improve the economic and social well being of city residents.

Local 94’s portion of the grant calls for the training of 70 apprentices and 100 Journeymen from Rhode Island in four courses over a two year period. Courses to be offered will include: Awareness-Green Building, Lead RRP, Insulated Concrete Form Systems and Structural Insulated Panels.

The Structural Insulated Panel class listens to guest lecturer Kevin Arcand, of Smithfield Rhode Island-based Branch River Plastics, a local and regional manufacturer of Structural Insulated Panels.

The Department of Labor will be tracking the major grant outcomes, keeping in mind the goal of providing green, certifiable technical skills training to workers and the priority placement of those workers on green jobs or projects. The 8-hour Green Awareness classes started in October and are being scheduled on an ongoing basis. Both the Green Awareness and Lead RRP courses will be held in Rhode Island. The Insulated Concrete Form Systems and Structural Insulated Panels courses will be held at the New England Carpenters Training Center in Millbury, MA, because of space requirements. Both day and night/weekend courses are being scheduled.

Because the classes are funded by grant money, they are currently available only to members of Rhode Island Local 94. All Local 94 members should have received a mailing regarding the grant and classes being offered. If you did not receive this information, or would like to find out more, contact instructor Charlie Johnson at Local 94 at 401-467-7070.

LePage channels Robert Irsay

2011-03-28T14:40:00.004-04:00

The mural celebrating the history and advances of Maine workers was removed from the state's Department of Labor office over the weekend, sparking memories of the Baltimore Colts middle-of-the-night move out of town to Indianapolis.

An interesting--if insulting--read

2011-03-28T10:56:00.002-04:00

Last week, Ray Buursma wrote a column that appeared in the "Holland Sentinel," a paper based in Holland, Michigan. It's striking in its blunt and straightforward premise: that American workers have gotten exactly what they've deserved over the last several decades. In short, he says they've taken for granted and significantly miscalculated the extent to which democratically elected representatives in a capitalist society would look out for their best interests.

Here's sample:

First, hundreds of thousands of manufacturing jobs went overseas while the politicians you elected did nothing to stop them. Yet you continue to elect leaders who offer nothing but tax cuts, as if that would stem the flow of disappearing jobs.

Did you demand your leaders address America’s trade imbalance or continuous outsourcing of jobs? Did you demand your leaders require foreign countries to buy a dollar’s worth of American goods for every dollar of goods they sell here?

No and no. You didn’t bother. You simply crossed your fingers and prayed, “I hope my job’s not next.” You made concessions to your employer and hoped that would stem the exodus of jobs, or at least yours. How’d that work for you?

Second, you bought into the myth that unions are the cause of America’s demise. You didn’t bother to learn America became a world power when union membership was at its peak. You didn’t bother to learn America became the envy of the world while 1 of every 3 Americans was a union member.

The rest of the column is equally enlightening/challenging.

Information on assistance for members available

2011-03-24T11:55:00.005-04:00

The New England Regional Council of Carpenters has developed state-specific Resource Lists of agencies and programs that can help members who are experiencing long-term unemployment and may require emergency assistance.

The lists include services such as food, housing, employment, health care, counseling, fuel assistance and more.

In addition, the United Way has set up a phone service in all states that helps connect people in need with appropriate services. 2-1-1 provides free and confidential information and referral. Please visit 211.org for more information.

Click on the links below to find a list of resources for your state:
Connecticut
Maine
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Rhode Island
Vermont

Wentworth Institute of Technology & The Carpenters: A Joint Venture

2011-03-21T10:49:00.002-04:00

In the fall of 2008, the New England Regional Council of Carpenters along with Wentworth Institute of Technology's College of Professional and Continuing Education launched a tailored program, which enables union carpenters to earn an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Building Construction Management in as little as two years.

The first class of carpenters graduated from the program in August 2010. In the short time since the program began, it has already expanded to allow union carpenters to pursue a Bachelor's Degree from the prestigious school.

Members of the Carpenters Union can find the admissions checklist for the Associate Degree in Building Construction Management here. You can also view the program’s curriculum (PDF) by clicking here.

If you would like to speak to someone directly about the program, please contact Jacklyn Haas, Associate Director of Admissions, at haasj@wit.edu or 617-989-4258.

New Balance buys land for potential $235m project

2011-03-17T08:34:00.001-04:00

From yesterday's Boston Herald:

New Balance has stomped out the competition for a swath of land next to its Brighton headquarters and taken the first steps toward building a proposed $235 million development off the Massachusetts Turnpike.

Jim Davis, chairman of New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc., paid $26.5 million for two properties on Guest Street, a move that puts an end to a controversial four-year effort by Lowe’s to build its first home improvement store in the Hub.

Full story here.

Carpenters rally in support of Wisconsin workers

2011-03-15T12:59:00.003-04:00

Members of Carpenters Local 210 joined a loud and spirited rally in Danbury over the weekend to support union workers in Wisconsin, where the Governor recently rammed through severe limitations on collective bargaining rights of workers. The rally was picked up by the Danbury News-Times. The story can be read here.

BTEA offering scholarship for Wentworth program

2011-03-15T12:56:00.002-04:00

The Building Trades Employers' Association (BTEA) and the Thomas S. Gunning Foundation have established a scholarship program to assist students who are enrolled in the Wentworth Institute of Technology Program through the New England Regional Council of Carpenters. Tom Gunning was a long-time member of the Board of Trustees for the New England Carpenters Labor Management Program and Executive Director of the BTEA.

A scholarship in the amount of $2,000 will be made to a single winner this year, selected on the basis of academic record, potential to succeed, leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience, a statement of educational and career goals and an outside appraisal.

A fuller description of the program and applications can be downloaded here or by contacting the BTEA at:

Thomas S. Gunning Foundation, Inc. Scholarship Program
100 Grossman Drive, Suite 300
Braintree, MA 02184
781-849-3220.

NECarpenters.org is undergoing a redesign

2011-03-15T12:08:00.003-04:00

An exciting construction project is underway!

The New England Carpenters Union’s cyber home is undergoing major renovations and is looking for your input!

If you haven’t visited the site in awhile, check out the existing site by clicking here.

Have any suggestions for features you’d like to see incorporated into the new site? How about updates to the way existing information is presented? Is there a feature that you use regularly on the exisiting site that you want to be sure is included in the design of the new site?

Let us know! Send an email with the subject line “NECarpenters.org Redesign” to nerccweb@gmail.com.

Hundreds turnout in opposition to bank merger

2011-03-14T14:46:00.002-04:00

Nearly three hundred people, including representatives from Carpenters Local 24, gathered last week at a hearing in New Haven, Connecticut, to urge stat Banking Commissioner Howard Pitkin to reject Buffalo-based First Niagara Bank’s proposal to purchase NewAlliance Bank, which is headquartered in New Haven.

First Niagara President and Chief Executive Officer John R. Koelmel is seeking state regulatory approval for a merger that would make NewAlliance part of First Niagara.

Opponents of the $1.5 billion deal point to First Niagara’s poor community lending record, while New Haven leaders have suggested concessions, including significant contributions to the city’s school reform and technology-oriented economic development efforts.

NERCC Organizers in Connecticut worked together to reach out to members living in New Haven asking those interested to attend the hearing.

“We reached out to members living in New Haven, because this is the city that will be most directly impacted by this merger,” notes Tim Sullivan, NERCC Organizer. “We had an outstanding turnout by our membership, with over seventy-five members joining us at the hearing.”

As part of First Niagara’s business plan, the bank will make more than $1 billion in Community Reinvestment Act loans and other economic development initiatives within NewAlliance’s market over the next five years. CEO Koelmel claims the merger will help the local community with more dollars invested locally, more philanthropic giving and more community sponsorship.

However, at the four-hour hearing held on Wednesday, speakers argued that the deal would destroy local jobs. While First Niagara said it will not close any of the 88 NewAlliance branches, they will eliminate over 200 jobs, making the claim that many will be added back by the end of next year. There is also great concern that the deal will dry up mortgage and business loans for low- and moderate- income residents. People also fear that many economic decisions would be made hundreds of miles away in Buffalo, NY.

In his remarks given at the hearing, Sullivan emphasized the impact this may have on construction in the area. “We do not want to see cranes become an endangered species in this vibrant city. We are very opposed to the loss of local control on loans and decision on capitol. We need a local partner in local decisions, not an entity in far away Buffalo…We are an industry very dependent on finance and the carpenters will not stand by silently when we see a potential for problems.”

Additionally, opponents emphasized that while NewAlliance has received “outstanding” Community Reinvestment Act rating, First Niagara routinely earns “satisfactory” ratings. Opponents fear the bank’s rating would be lowered if purchased by First Niagara.

Speakers at the hearing also pointed out the estimated $23 million payout departing CEO Peyton Patterson stands to collect in the deal. Four bank directors would collect a combined $17.4 million. This is money many feel should stay in New Haven to support affordable mortgages and small-business loans.

As Sullivan remarked, “this [payout] does not seem to be in the interest of consumers, stockholders, or government. It could mean 600 fulltime jobs…It could mean a number of meaningful investments. It could mean police on the street, teacher aides in classes. This payout does no create new meaningful jobs in Connecticut. What it means is a wholesale layoff of Connecticut workers, higher rates and/or new fees for consumers and a fat payday for Peyton.

Pitkin said he would review the statements made during the hearings, and any other documents the public might wish to provide him with about the proposed merger, and then make a decision. In addition to approval from the Connecticut Department of Banking, the Federal Reserve Board and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency must also approve the merger.

Senator visits union-built school

2011-03-14T14:34:00.003-04:00

The work of union carpenters and Gilbane Construction in Westerly, Rhode Island was praised by visiting Senator Jack Reed and in the Westerly Sun today. The town recently built a new $6 million two-story science and technology wing onto their existing high school. It opened last month.

Side-by-side comparison of costs

2011-03-14T09:27:00.000-04:00

McCarron calls for action on Korea pact

2011-03-10T12:08:00.002-05:00

UBC General President Douglas McCarron recently sent the following letter to all Delegates in the United States, asking them to take action on a pending trade pact with Korea.

Dear Brothers and Sisters:
As you know, unfair trade policies have hurt every member of our union and every worker in the United States. The ongoing economic downturn has only made those effects worse.

I hope you will take a few minutes to read the enclosed letter that I sent to Representatives and Senators in the U.S. Congress regarding another proposed free trade agreement, this time with growing industrial power Korea.

The Obama Administration has made some attempt to change the original wording agreed to by the Bush Administration in 2007, but after three years of negotiating, this agreement remains essentially the same as its predecessors. It has no new labor standards, not even minimum worker rights; continues provisions in earlier trade pacts allowing foreign companies to challenge US financial, labor, and other regulations; and constrains the United States' ability to enact certain types of financial reforms. The Economic Policy Institute estimates that at least 159,000 jobs will be lost under this pact.

After you've read the letter, I hope you'll take action. In just a few days the U.S. Congress will vote on the proposed agreement.

I urge you to write or e-mail your U.S. Representative and Senators urging them to protect U.S. jobs and workers' rights worldwide by voting against eh proposed Korea Free Trade agreement.

You can also sign in at Carpenters.org/Members to register as an "e-Activist" so you can stay informed and quickly send messages to Congress on this and other vital issues.

Sincerely & fraternally,

Douglas McCarron
General President

Play ball!

2011-03-10T10:21:00.003-05:00

Carpenters from Local 424 volunteered their time to build a new snack bar at a local Little League field in Braintree, MA. The snack bar was built at Hollingsworth Park, which hosts over 700 players a year. The volunteers saved the league an estimated $10,000.

“That’s money that we would have had to raise and pay off. It means a lot to the program,” said Steve Guilbault, the vice president for the League’s Board of Directors.

The donation drew the attention of Town Hall, who praised the union’s efforts.

“In these challenging times, this kind of volunteer effort is especially valued,” said Peter Morin, the chief of staff and operations for Braintree.

The volunteer carpenters completed the project in just 5 days. Permanent signage recognizing the efforts of the Carpenters Union will be hung on the outfield wall in the Spring.

The Local 424 volunteers were: Dave Curley, point person and project foreman; Steve Paker; Steve Singleton; Brian Knox; Tom Duncanson; Dave Shurtleff; Brian DuBois; Joe MacLellan; and Frank Baxter.

The Boston Globe ran a piece about the volunteer efforts, it can be read here.