Common Ground News October 2010

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

Primary

Alternate Versions

R

R

R

Join Rhode Island’s largest union of health careprofessionals. Call 831-3674 or email: [email protected] more info, go to www.unap.org.

United Nurses &Allied Professionals

Working to improve thelives of our members...

and our patients.

In his own words:

Why Frank Caprio wants to be your governorBy John Houle

Join Rhode Island’s largest union of health careprofessionals. Call 831-3647 or email: [email protected]. For more info, go to www.unap.org.

Common VOLUME 1, NUMBER 10

GroundOCTOBER 2010

TM

Take Blossom Home

See Page 11

RHODE ISLAND

FREE OFFER For Union Members! Are You About To Retire? Early Retirement Offer?

Mention this ad to receive a FREE

analysis of your early retirement package

or of your current investment portfolio.

We specialize in retirement planning and structuring income from your retirement plan or a lump sum payout from your employer.

Jeffrey H Massey, CFP®

Certified Financial Planner™

And Radio Show HostMassey & Associates, Inc.Locations in Lincoln,East Greenwich & Middletown, RI

401-333-8000

www.JeffreyMassey.com

Investment Advisory Services offered through Global Financial Private Capital, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Adviser

Common Ground recently interviewed General Treasurer Frank Caprio about his candidacy for governor. There have been many misconceptions about Caprio’s stances on issues affecting unions. Read his own words, unfiltered and free from the spin of those who would want to distort his record for their own personal gain, about those positions.

CG: What would you say directly to the teacher, carpenter, firefighter, plumber, laborer, police officer and nurse, as to why you should be our next governor?

Caprio: I know what needs to be done to bring this state back. We need to create jobs and generate economic activity in Rhode Island. Over the course of my campaign, I have held over 100 small business meetings with owners and workers to learn how the next governor can put some wind at the back of small businesses and to get the state out of the way of small businesses. If we help every Rhode Island small business create just one job - just one - we will cut unemployment in half.

CG: There is talk that you plan to dramatically change teachers’ pensions? What exactly is your plan for teachers’ pensions?

Caprio: It is not fair to employees to keep changing the retirement system year after year. What we need to do is modernize the plan once and for all so that it is similar to other modern plans like the plan in place for federal employees or for employees of R.I.’s quasi-state agencies. To be clear, this new plan will not affect any benefit already earned by employees, and there will be no change to the plan for retirees.

CG: One of your opponents says he plans to raise taxes on groceries, clothing and prescriptions, among other things. How do you compare that plan to raise taxes versus your plan to make structural changes?

Caprio: As governor, I will hold the line on taxes and find ways to eliminate wasteful spending. New sales taxes on daily essentials such as groceries and medication will have the most significant effect on struggling families. During these tough economic times, the last thing they need is higher taxes. To grow our economy, we need to focus on job creation.

The next governor must improve the effectiveness of government and find ways to reduce its cost. As treasurer, I have been able to return over a million dollars from my budget back to the treasury through strategic planning decisions. As governor, I will eliminate wasteful spending, hold the line on taxes and serve as an advocate for our state’s small businesses.

CG: Putting people back to work is still one of the top issues on people’s minds. What plans do you immediately have to put people back to work?

Caprio: My small business plan is designed to promote job creation. We need to revamp our small business loan program, offer tax incentives to businesses that settle and create jobs in Rhode Island, ensure that state government is an advocate for small business, eliminate red tape and improve access to health care. My clean energy plan emphasizes the need for energy efficiency, which

can provide many job hours as we realize savings for homes, businesses and public buildings. CG: The 38 studios proposal has been controversial. Why as general treasurer did you attempt to put the brakes on that project?

Caprio: The Economic Development Corporation and the governor had not taken the necessary steps to protect Rhode Island’s financial position. The deal creates a risky moral obligation for the state, which could adversely affect the state’s bond rating and make future state debt issuances more expensive. In addition, there are thousands of small businesses in need of better access to capital.

CG: It’s probably one of the most difficult times in recent history to become governor. What in your professional background prepares you best for the daunting task of governor?

Caprio: In my time serving as general treasurer, I managed to reduce my department’s budget by an average of 10 percent per year while at the same time earning the reputation as having the best customer service in state government. We accomplished that by enacting a strategic plan, negotiating with the union and setting up a system of employee and management reviews where everybody knows what is expected of them and how to succeed. As governor, I would bring that plan to all 42 state entities.

In addition, to effectively reform our state, a governor needs to be proactive about communication. The governor and the General Assembly need to work together to achieve a goal, and the key to that is communication. During my eight terms serving in the General Assembly, I learned the value of communication and how to communicate with legislators. As governor, I will keep the lines of communication open not just to General Assembly leadership, but also with rank-and-file legislators.

See CAPRIO Continued on Page 2

Page 2 Common Ground OCTOBER 2010

John J. Tassoni, Jr. - Publisher

John Houle - Co-Publisher/Editor

Paul V. Palange - Editor

Gregory Sowa - Assistant Editor

Anna Romano - Office Manager

Kerryn Azevedo - Graphic Design

Jen Davey - Web-

Common Ground, Inc.111 Wayland Avenue, Providence, RI 02906

c. 401.451.1305 f. 401.831.6111

[email protected] www.commongroundnews.net

CommonGround, Inc.

TM

Printed By:The Woonsocket Call

A Union PrinterLoCAL 12N

We sponsor low-cost spaying/neutering clinics,

provide pet adoption services, legal assistance, investigate neglect and

abuse cases, and advocatefor the protection of animals.

To defend the inalienable rights of both companion

animals and wildlife through education, legal and legislative activism.

Annual Membership Fee: $25

DEFENDERS OF ANIMALS P. O. Box 5634

Weybosset Hill Station

Providence, RI 02903-0634

401- 461-1922

www.defendersofanimals.org

TWELVE ACRESSunday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

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

1537 NEWPORT AVE.PAWTUCKET, RI726-4449

SpumonisRestaurant.comCannot be combined

with any other promotion or coupon.

SPUMONI’S

SINGLE

LOBSTER$1199

FRI. AUGUST 27 to MON. AUGUST 30

TWIN

LOBSTER$2299

BAKED STUFFED

LOBSTER$1899

✭ All dinners served withFrench Fries, Spaghetti or Ziti & Soup or Salad ✭

OUR NEWBAR & LOUNGE

THURSDAY - LADIES NIGHT

BAR & LOUNGE SPECIALS

EXTENDED HOURS: SUN.-THURS. 11 PMFRI.-SAT. MIDNIGHT

8 PM - 11 PMFREE BAR APPETIZERS

FOR THE LADIESW/BEVERAGE PURCHASE

COUPON

ComplimentaryMIMOSAor BLOODY MARY

With Brunch & Coupon. Must be 21 or older. Exp. September 26, 2010.20% service charge will be added with use of coupon.

EVERY SUNDAY 9:30-1:30$999 $599Children

(3-12 yrs)Adults

Sunday

EVERY SUNDAYBOOK YOURPARTY NOW• Birthdays• Anniversary• Private FunctionsGROUPS WELCOMEAT OUR BRUNCH

Brunch includes:Carving Station • Omelet StationScrambled Eggs • Home Fries • French Toast • Bacon

Breakfast Pastries • Fresh Fruit Display • Breakfast SausageBaked Scrod • Chicken Entrée • Vegetable • Pasta with Sauce

Dessert Station • Coffee, Tea

Adults$1299 $699

Grand Opening

Children(2-10 years)

ClambakesPig RoastOutings

FRI. THROUGH WED.8-11 Sun.-Wed. • 9-12 Fri. & Sat.

1/2 PRICEAPPETIZERSIN OUR LOUNGE

CAPRIO Continued from Page 1

CG: Who is the most inspirational person in your life?

Caprio: The most inspirational person in my life is my grandfather Antonio “Tup” Caprio. He came to the port of Providence from Italy about 85 years ago. He had no money, no education and he couldn’t speak any English. His first job was selling fruit from a pushcart. Later he worked on a WPA crew, and finally he got his dream job as a milkman for Hood’s Milk. My grandfather taught me the value of sacrifice. He lived a life of hard work so that those who came after him could have a better life.

Talking with people now, I get more of a sense that people feel that the ladder of success has been pulled up, that it doesn’t matter how hard you work, that you can’t get ahead. I want Rhode Island to be a place where people know that the ladder of success is still there, and that the state is going to get out the way of people trying to succeed.

John Houle is the Co-Publisher/Editor of Common Ground News.

The victories of labor

supported candidates in the

recent General Assembly primary

elections have been called a

“big day for organized labor in

Rhode Island.” The truth of the

matter is that the victories did

not materialize out of thin air,

nor were they handed to labor

supported candidates because

they are nice people. But rather

they were tirelessly worked for by

many people who will never get

any recognition or accolades, save

for the fact that they know what

they did to help good candidates,

candidates who will stand up and

be a voice for the working men

and women of Rhode Island, get elected.

Elections are not won on the second Tuesday in September or the first Tuesday in November,

elections are won in the days, weeks, and months leading up to those Tuesdays. Elections are won

when people see something special in a candidate and are drawn to helping that person achieve

victory. Elections are won when people sacrifice to help others, taking time away from family, friends

and their day-to-day lives or spending time knocking on one more door, making one more phone

call or licking one more stamp.

This summer there were dozens of union volunteers across the state walking door-to-door talking

to other union members about the importance of supporting candidates who will stand up for the

interests of union members in the General Assembly. While most Rhode Islanders were sitting at

the beach or watching the Red Sox on TV, there were dedicated union volunteers who only felt the

ocean breeze if they were canvassing in Bristol or caught a glimpse of David Ortiz through the front

door of a fellow union member’s house in Buttonwoods.

People coming out and exercising their right to vote for who they think best represents their

interests and concerns is democracy working at its most fundamental level. The success of the

Rhode Island labor movement on primary day is the result of union members educating other union

members about where certain individuals stood on issues that they felt were important to them,

and people responded. When the General Assembly reconvenes in January, there will be a few more

people who believe that it is better to bring everyone up together than knock someone down so a

few can prosper.

While the primary victories are something we can all be proud of, it is not a time to sit back.

There are important elections still to come that will shape the direction of our state for years to

come. So as we approach November 2, once again there will be union volunteers spread out across

the state going door-to-door talking about issues that are important to them, such as preserving

pension rights, protecting collective bargaining, holding businesses accountable for wage and hours

laws, and ensuring that project labor agreements are enforced.

Elections will be won or lost in those few minutes at your front door.

John F. Killoy III is director of communications, mobilization and research for the Rhode Island AFL-CIO. Contact him at (401) 751-7100 or online at www.riaflcio.org or www.facebook.com/riaflcio.

Book YourHoliday Party

NOW!!!

With Brunch & Coupon. Must be 21 or older. Expires october 31, 2010.20% service charge will be added with use of coupon.

Labor volunteers must keep campaigning to ensure victories on November 2nd By John F. Killoy III

OCTOBER 2010 Common Ground Page 3

.75%1Only your imagination stands in your way now. This special introductoryrate on a Home Equity Line of Credit won’t last long. Come in today andtake advantage of this extraordinary low rate. And Journey on.

Enjoy Life’s Journey

HOME EQUIT Y L INE OF CREDIT

APR*

C a l l 4 0 1 . 2 3 3 . 4 7 0 0 , o r v i s i t n a v i g a n t c u . o r g

No Title Fee • No Application Fee • No Closing Costs

Thereafter, remaining term will automatically

convert to a variable rate of interest as low as prime minus 0.50%

Advertised Introductory *Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 1.75% is the lowest available and is fixed for the first 12 months. Offer applicable for applicants with acredit score of 680 or higher. After initial 12 monthly billing cycles, rate automatically reverts to a variable rate of interest as low as Prime minus 0.50% as publishedin The Wall Street Journal 30 days before the date of any rate adjustment. As of 9/1/2010 Prime Rate was 3.25%. Interest rate and line amount determined by individual creditworthiness and subject to loan-to-value ratio of 80%. Offer limited to 1-4 family owner-occupied primary residence properties only. Property insurance(and flood insurance if applicable) required. Offer and rate is subject to change at any time without notice. Other terms and restrictions may apply. APR will not exceed21% with a minimum rate of 2.75%. If home equity line is paid in full and closed within twelve (12) months from the opening date, a prepayment penalty may apply.RI: up to but not to exceed 2% of the balance due at time of payoff; MA: remaining balance of first year’s interest or amount equal to last 3 months’ interest,whichever is less. Existing NCU home equity lines/loans are not eligible for refinance with this promotion. Other rates and terms available. Inquire for full details.

Introductory Fixed Ratefor First 12 Billing Cycles

.75%2 APR*

WOONSOCKET – The city’s firefighters volunteered their time late

this summer to benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) by

hitting the streets and “filling their boots”.

Fire Department Local 732 is a part of the International Association of

Fire Fighters (IAFF). It was the IAFF’s 56th year dedicating its time and

efforts to the MDA, according to Jane Young, the MDA’s executive director.

Since 1954, firefighters have raised nearly $275 million for the MDA.

IAFF is the largest national sponsor of MDA, and firefighters pride

themselves on their devotion to the cause. Last year, firefighters here raised

an astounding $11,100 from their annual boot drive and various other

fund-raisers.

Local 732 President Christopher Oakland said, “If it weren’t for our

off-duty firefighters in heavily traveled intersections, we would not be able

to raise this much needed money to help the kids that can’t even play ball,

Jerry’s kids!”

All proceeds of the fund-raisers go toward MDA services, research

programs and support groups that benefit local individuals and families

affected by neuromuscular disease, according to Young.

Woonsocket Fire Department Local 732 raises $9,600 to benefit MDA

Woonsocket firefighters raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. They are, front to back, Lt. Daryl Paux, Pvt. Sean Hoyle and Lt. Mike Morin.

What do the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the White House

and the Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition have in common? Simple: They

all want us to get out of our cars and on our feet, our bikes, our skates,

anything, in fact, that moves under human muscle power.

The reason is equally simple. Numerous studies, including very recent

ones by the White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity and the CDC,

report that we are literally driving ourselves to the poorhouse and ill health.

They warn that our sedentary, badly fed lifestyle has become more costly,

more time-consuming and more damaging to our health than ever before.

And while the factors underlying that situation are complex, we know those

gloomy outcomes share at least one common source — our love affair with

our cars.

Today’s transportation system is extremely expensive. Data from 2005

shows that nationally we spent more than $900 billion on vehicles and

related needs, accounting for 17 percent of total household expenditures —

more than households spent on food and clothing combined. That date

predates the recent frequent fluctuations in oil prices. Those costs do

not factor in the billions more spent by businesses and public agencies

on the care and feeding of cars, as well as coping with the impacts of

cars.

For not only are we pouring money into our cars, we’re also

throwing away time. Again from 2005, studies showed that the average

rush hour traveler in an urban area spends 38 hours in traffic delays,

imposing large economic costs to the tune of 4.2 billion lost hours and

2.9 billion gallons of wasted fuel. That is an estimated $78 billion drain

on the economy. In little Rhode Island, our share of that drain was

$343 million in congestion costs. And of course that estimate doesn’t

account for the reduced quality of life, or the moments we could have

spent with our families and friends.

Nor does it account for the environmental costs. The carbon dioxide

we produce in the Northeast, primarily by driving and by burning

fossil fuels, makes us the seventh highest contributor of greenhouse gas

in the world. In Rhode Island, a quarter of the state’s emissions come

from vehicle use alone.

Finally, it’s not only municipal and household costs and greenhouse

gases that are up. So are rates of asthma, obesity and diabetes. In Rhode

Island, 57 percent of adults are overweight or obese, an increase of 66

percent since 1990. Worse, our kids are following the same alarming

trajectory — one in five children entering kindergarten in our state are

obese, facing a life-long impact on their physical and mental health.

Those effects are happening now -- 60 percent of obese Rhode

Island children ages 5 to 10 already have at least one cardiovascular

disease risk factor. Medical experts relate these effects directly to the

increasing lack of exercise in our lives, some of which is due to our

car-dominated communities and landscapes. The CDC found that

relationship so compelling that it has created an entire program to

encourage built environments that encourage regular physical activity.

The Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition wants to reverse the impact of

our car-dominated society by advocating for bicycling as cost-effective,

healthy, enjoyable and environmentally friendly.

Rhode Island has an immediate advantage because of the miles

of paved bike paths in the state. There are already 50 miles of bike

paths, with 40 more miles in various stages of design or preparation.

We expect to be the

first state to complete

its portion of the East

Coast Greenway, a

magnificent route

that will run from

Calais, Maine, to Key

West, Florida. Our citizens routinely support bond issues for greenway

development, and we devote 5.4 percent of our federal transportation

dollars to bike and pedestrian programs — the highest allocation in the

country. But that number can be misleading. Any map will show that our

bike paths are viewed by users and transportation officials as primarily

recreational. The Blackstone, East Bay and Washington Secondary routes all

come to the edge of Providence and disappear.

Although the newly opened Woonasquatucket Greenway is a welcomeSee PEOPLE Continued on Page 6

Move people not carsBy Margherita Pryor


We’re beside you when you need us.

When it comes to everything you value, who you call matters

Brian Hunter, CPCU, CIC, President

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

"If you're going to spend

15 minutes on your

insurance, why not

spend it with a Trusted

Choice agency that can

shop 15 insurance

companies for you."

ADVOCACY H represenTATiOn H resulTs

in prOViDenCe:

111 Wayland Avenueprovidence, rhode island 02902

401•331•1300

in WAsHinGTOn:

601 pennsylvania Ave. n.W.suite 900, south Building

Washington, DC 20004

202•220•3013

A voter recently asked how I plan to ensure safe, affordable housing for all Rhode Islanders. It’s an extremely important question and one that’s important to me personally, as I serve as vice chair of the Board of Crossroads Rhode Island, the state’s largest homeless organization. I played a role in launching Crossroads’ women’s shelter, designed to give women a safe place to stay while they get back on their feet. Through my work with Crossroads,

I’ve seen first-hand just how devastating homelessness — and a lack of affordable housing — can be. As General Treasurer, I will be a member of the R.I. Housing and Mortgage Finance Corporation board, and I’ll be able to offer the

incentive of increased opportunities to do business with the state to encourage local banks to boost their investments in their communities — particularly in non-profit housing groups such as SWAP (Stop Wasting Abandoned Properties) and the Women’s Development Corporation, which work to create and maintain access to affordable housing for all. But protecting Rhode Islanders from foreclosure and mortgages they can’t afford starts with financial literacy education for our citizens and that’s something I’m really excited about offering through the General Treasurer’s office. Helping people understand how to make their money work for them and grow the resources they have is something I’m passionate about, and I plan to use my role as General Treasurer to empower Rhode Islanders to take charge of their financial lives.

Gina Raimondo is a Democratic candidate for Rhode Island general treasurer. She is co-founder of Point Judith Capital, a Providence-based firm that invests in startup companies and creates jobs in high growth industries.

Travis Rowley’s insults, recently hurled at Senator John J. Tassoni, Jr., apparently are what Republican politics have stooped to in our state. It’s not a surprise that the philosophy of the Republican Party is to throw all the mud you can, hoping it sticks. They’ve been doing that for years. But to resort to the type of name-calling usually reserved for schoolyard bullies, as Rhode Island Young Republicans Chairman Travis Rowley did towards Senator Tassoni, takes the campaign rhetoric to a sad new low. [Valley Breeze, Young Republicans chairman hurls insults at Tassoni, September 30, 2010.] Is it any wonder voters are disenchanted? Is it any wonder it is so difficult to get good people to step up and run for office? Mr. Rowley – who resides in Providence, not Smithfield or North Smithfield, which comprise the district Sen. Tassoni represents, Senate District 22 – has never put himself out there and run for office. He prefers to sit on the sidelines and call those who do choose public service vile names. What those of us who live in the district know is how hard Sen. Tassoni has worked

for us. Any time we have a problem, we know that we can turn to Senator Tassoni, and he won’t rest until it is addressed. To borrow the phrase from Smithfield Democratic Chairman Lawrence Mancini, Senator Tassoni is the “top banana” when it comes to serving the needs of his constituents. Senator Tassoni has led the effort to bring lights to the fields of Smithfield and North Smithfield so that football and soccer games can be played there at night, “under the lights.” He has spearheaded the effort to curb bullying in schools, passing legislation and helping to bring the successful TalkWorks anti-bullying program to the schools. (Perhaps Mr. Rowley should attend a session!) The bullying commission he currently chairs is looking for further ways to reduce bullying in the schools.

Senator Tassoni authored the affordable housing law which balances a community’s need for responsible growth with the continued need for affordable housing, and he championed the successful affordable housing bond issue. He has hosted fundraisers to raise money

to combat cancer in children, and provided support for countless local civic organizations. He continuously advocates for lower utility rates and opposes increases in health care premiums. He is an outspoken opponent of bloat and waste in government – in fact, it was a criticism Senator Tassoni made about government waste which prompted Mr. Rowley’s derision. His accomplishments on behalf of the communities he represents are too numerous to list in this space. Suffice to say that he is extremely responsive to the needs of his constituents, and tireless in his efforts to improve Smithfield, North Smithfield and the state of Rhode Island. Wouldn’t we all be better served to focus on issues such as these, and each candidate’s vision for the future, rather than childish name-calling that serves no one and does nothing to further the discussion about who would best represent our community?

Helen O’Connor is a resident of Smithfield and voter.

Protecting Rhode Islanders and Their HomesBy Gina Raimondo

Rowley has it all wrong about TassoniBy Helen O’Connor


ARTHUR A. COIA

ALBERT J. LEPORE

GEORGE L. SANTOPIETRO

ARMAND E. SABITONI

JAMES J. LEPORE

ALBERT J. LEPORE JR.

MARIA SCARAMUZZO-CONTE

ALFREDO T. CONTE

SHERI M. LEPORE

JOHN F. CASCIONE

PETER J. COMERFORD

MARK SALES

RANDALL J. LEVESQUE

COURTNEY L. MANCHESTER

LESLIE N. TUCHAPSKY

COUNSELORS AT LAW

A Tradition of Client Satisfaction for 40 Years

• Workers’ Compensation

• Automobile Accidents

• Slip and Fall

• Civil Litigation

• Divorce / Child Custody

• Real Estate

• Tax and Financial Planning

• Wills, Trusts and Probate

• Immigration

• Traffic Violations

• Consumer Transactions

• Criminal Litigation

• Bankruptcy

• Medical Malpractice

• Social Security Disability

The Law Firm of Coia & Lepore, Ltd. is proud of its tradition of providing outstanding Legal

Services to satisfied individuals and families. In addition, Coia & Lepore, Ltd. represents more

than twenty union entities including, but not limited to, Laborers, Teamsters and Public Service

Employees throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.

We invite you to browse our new website at

www.coialepore.com

OUR AREAS OF PRACTICE:

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

401.751.5522

PROVIDENCE — Nearly 12,000 breast cancer survivors, their families, and volunteers from around the state will converge at Roger Williams Park on October 24, hoping to raise about $1 million for the 15th Annual American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 3.2 mile walk. Registration and a rolling start are set for 8:30 to 10 a.m. Since its inception in 1993, nearly 6 million walkers nationwide have raised more than $400 million. In 2009 alone, nearly 700,000 walkers across the country collected $60 million. Participants will have the opportunity to help the American Cancer Society create a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays by participating in this year’s walk. This is one of 22 Making Strides’ walks being held in October around New England and one of more than 160 such events that will be held throughout the nation. According to American Cancer Society statistics, every three minutes a woman in the United States learns she has breast cancer. In addition: • Breast cancer accounts for nearly one out of three cancer diagnoses among women in the U.S. • An estimated 207,090 U.S. women will develop breast cancer this year, and 40,230 will die. • In Rhode Island, 790 women will develop breast cancer this year, and 130 will die. • Progress in both early detection and treatment of breast cancer has resulted in decreasing mortality rates since 1990. Patients with breast cancer that is diagnosed before it has spread have a 98 percent five-year relative survival rate, and 61 percent of breast cancers are found at that early stage. “As the official Sponsor of Birthdays, the American Cancer Society wants women to see the real tangible benefits of taking care of

themselves,” said Nicole Gotthold, manager of the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks. “Women can take charge of their breast health, fight breast cancer and save lives. More than 2.5 million breast cancer survivors will celebrate a birthday this year thanks to early detection and improved treatment.” Making Strides Against Breast Cancer supports the American Cancer Society’s unique mission to save lives and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or finding it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking research; by fighting back by encouraging lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer; and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. Funds raised through Making Strides are critical in meeting the needs of breast cancer in the community through: • Stay well: The American Cancer Society provides answers to questions day and night through (800) 227-2345 and cancer.org. Breast cancer is the number-one reason people call us. • Get well: Because breast cancer patients, survivors and their families need emotional and physical support, the American Cancer Society offers Reach to Recovery, a one- on-one program that pairs patients with trained survivors for support and advice. The society’s Look Good…Feel Better workshops teach ways to help with appearance-related side effects from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. • Finding cures: The American Cancer Society has invested more than $388 million in breast cancer grants since 1971, more than any other voluntary health organization. As a result, more than

2.5 million breast cancer survivors will celebrate a birthday this year. In Rhode Island, the society has a current investment of $4.7 million in cancer research grants. • Fighting back: American Cancer Society advocacy efforts have played a key role in fighting to keep the breast and cervical cancer early detection program funded; ensuring that women across Rhode Island are able to receive lifesaving mammograms. “The volunteers who join us in Making Strides help save the lives of many mothers, daughters and sisters,” said Gotthold. Media sponsors for the 2010 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Providence are Cat Country 98.1, GladWorks and WPRI Fox Providence. Other partners are Kent Hospital and University Surgical Associates. Additionally, hundreds of teams from businesses, schools and community groups will participate. For more information or to sign up for the Making Strides’ event in Providence, call (401) 243-2604 or visit cancer.org/stridesonline. The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer, with a global grassroots force of more than 3 million volunteers. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, the society turns what it knows about cancer into what it does. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer, and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year.

American Cancer Society prepares to Make Strides on October 24thClose to 12,000 walkers ready to participate


PROVIDENCEAUTO BODY, INC.

Auto Body Work - Estimates - Unconditional 100% Lifetime Guarantee

“Rhode Island’s Largest Volume Auto Body Repair Facility”

• Unibody Specialists • Environmentally Safe Spray Booths

• State of the Art Equipment • Substitute Vehicles Available

- 24 HoUR TowIng SERVIcE -

350 Silver Spring Street, Providence, R.I. 02904

phone: 401.861.2211 fax: 401.421.3160

John & Sandra Petrarca and the staff of Providence Auto Body

PEOPLE Continued from Page 3 change in that it actually enters Providence and proceeds to the heart of downtown, it too is mostly on streets without marked bike lanes or adequate buffers from adjacent traffic. Poor or missing signage and routes along bike-unfriendly streets confuse cyclists and discourage routine commuting. The absence of secure hitches — only a few bikes can be locked to a parking sign — and facilities for changing also are barriers to more bicycle uses. So it’s no surprise that bikes make up a mere two-tenths of 1 percent of all modes for trips to work. Even compared to the not-so-good national news — nine-tenths of 1 percent of trips to work are on bikes — that is an astonishingly low percentage. Given the high correlation between compact development, which we have in Rhode Island’s cities and towns, and opportunities for biking and walking, we should do much, much better. The average automobile trip in Rhode Island is 8.37 miles, takes 24.03 minutes; and, in 80 percent of cases, is in a single-occupancy vehicle. On a bicycle at 12 mph, those trips would take just 40 minutes. That’s door to door without the hassle and cost of parking and the thousands of dollars annually to operate and maintain a car. In 2009, only 13 percent of students rode a bike or walked to school, and a stunning 44 percent went by car. Parents cite many barriers to putting their children on bicycles, including distance, traffic-related danger, weather, fear of crime and prohibitive school policies.

So what can be done to increase bicycle (and pedestrian) commuting?

• Ensure that the state Department of Transportation (DOT) takes advantage of federal support for active transportation when setting long-range transportation goals. That means identifying how much it wants bicycle riding to increase and the steps it will take to generate that increase, including implementing safety programs and enforcing traffic rules that protect cyclists and pedestrians. That is a key early step. In 2007 alone, 14,000 children were injured and 300 killed by cars. There is a “safety in numbers” trend in which roadways generally become safer for everyone when more people are out walking and biking.

• Make the true costs of our transportation policies transparent so that we recognize how much the different modes cost. Factors such as pollution, disease and the physical dismemberment of our neighborhoods must be considered along with the tradeoffs and consequences among them.

• Advocate for a transportation system focused on moving people not cars. Every year, the third Friday of May is designated Bike to Work Day. Between now and May 20 we have eight months to bring hundreds of like-minded commuters and advocates into our cities and towns and to let our elected officials know that we want a better way to get from here to there.

The solution is in our own hands — or more accurately, on our own feet! Pedal on Rhode Island! Margherita Pryor is a founding member of the Rhode Island Bicycle Coalition, an organization established to promote and enable bicycling as a healthy, enjoyable, efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation in Rhode Island. Its Web site is www.ribike.org.

Learn more about bicycling Need more incentives to try biking? There are two nifty calculators that estimate how much you can save on gas, maintenance, tires and the depreciation of your car. The calculators also show the reduction of CO2 emissions, how many hours of exercise you can accumulate and how many calories you can burn.

To use the calculators, go online to www.freedombicycle.com/content/view/24/21/ or www.youcanbikethere.com/content/bike-commute-calculator.

For recommendations from the White House obesity report and CDC studies, go to www.letsmove.gov/taskforce_childhoodobesityrpt.html, www.activelivingbydesign.org and www.cdc.gov/healthyplaces.

Web sites of other cycling and pedestrian advocacy organizations include www.peoplepoweredmovement.org/site, www.bikewalk.org, www.bikesatwork.com/carfree.


Homeowners Welcome!

Affiliated with the INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS

121 BRIGHTRIDGE AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 02914www.teamsterslocal251.org

EXECUTIVE BOARD BUSINESS AGENTS Joseph J. Bairos Brian Carroll Secretary-Treasurer Principal Executive Officer Kevin Reddy Kevin Reddy Steven Labrie President Joseph Boyajian James Croce Vice President Douglas Teoli David Demuth Daniel Manocchio Recording Secretary Asst. Business Agents Dennis Mello Linda Russolino Trustee Susan Folan Trustee Janet O’Grady Trustee

TUESDAY 7:00 - 8:00 P.M.

THURSDAY 8:00 - 9:00 P.M.

SATURDAY 5:00 - 6:00 P.M.

Rhode Island State Association of Fire FightersAffiliated with the AFL-CIO

PAUL C. REEDPresident

JOSEPH A. ANDRIOLEVice President

PAUL A. DOUGHTYSecretary Treasurer

MARCEL E. FONTENAULT, JR.Exec. Bd. Chairman

1ST DISTRICT V.P. John Silva

2ND DISTRICT V.P. Steve Rodrigues

3RD DISTRICT V.P. Michael Stevens

ROBERT K. NEILL, JR.Staff Representative

PAUL L. VALLETTA, JR.Legislative Agent

REBECCA D. FISHERLegislative Agent

356 Smith Street • Providence, Rhode Island 02908 • (401) 272-6870

risaff.org

Providence’s BravestServing the City of Providence since 1854

PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS

Paul A. Doughty, President

Philip F. Fiore, Vice President

Scott G. Mello, Secretary

John F. Woodard, Treasurer

Executive Board Representatives

Christopher J. JannittoJoseph P. Moreino

Hans RamsdenWayne C. OliveiraZachariah Kenyon

Anthony Toro

92 Printery Street Paul A. DoughtyProvidence, RI 02904 401-569-4444 401-272-7999 (O)401-274-7999 (F) local799.com

WORKERS’ COMPInjured at Work?

STEPHEN J. DENNISAttorney at Law

Learn the 3 MajorTricks played onInjured Workers!

Call for Your FREEBook on R.I. Comp.

OFFICE453-1355

HOME245-0676

CELL595-4571

www.stephenjdennis.com

COX CHANNEL 14 - VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 33


AFSCMELocal 2881

RepresentingRIDEM and CRMC

www.local2881.org

PROFESSIONAL TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

401.822.0622eSavV.com

Website Appl icat ions

Mobi le Appl icat ions

Internet Market ing

SoftwareDevelopment

STEPHEN ROYPOWER EQUIPMENT

SNOWBLOWERS - CHAINSAWS - LAWN MOWERS - RIDING TRACTORS - LEAF BLOWERS - LINE TRIMMERS

SALES AND SERvICE. PICk uP & DELIvERy AvAILABLE.

146 Putnam Pike, Johnston [email protected] www.stephenroypower.com

We have beautiful apartments ready for you to move-in. These apartments are affordable and best of all they have heat, hot water and some electric included. If

you have a small pet (less than 20 lbs.), no problem, they can also move- in at no extra cost to you.

- SEE HABLA ESPANOL -

Call our office for further information regarding our reasonably priced apartments that are located in the city of Central Falls and Woonsocket, RI.

CenTRal FallS OFFICe WOOnSOCkeT OFFICe 401-723-8035 401-762-5518 [email protected] [email protected]

The Courage to LeadIn Congress, Jim fights hard to represent the interests of working families all across

Rhode Island. Now, more than ever, his focus is on rebuilding the economy and bringing more good-paying jobs

to our state.

Keep Jim fighting for us!Your vote matters in the

Democratic Primary on September 14thwww.jimlangevin.com

Paid for and authorized by Langevin for Congress

Vote - Tuesday, November 2nd

Southern New Englands Neighborhood Union

David P. FlemingPresident

James P. Riley Secretary-Treasurer

United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 328278 Silver Spring Street • Providence, RI 02904-2593 • 401.861.0300 • 800.624.7776 • www.ufcw328.org


As we all sit back and watch the various layers of the painful U.S. war effort disassemble, it is nearly impossible for most of us to conceptually grasp the level of loss and violent despair unfolding each minute for our troops in the Middle East and the soldiers who have already returned. Family members of soldiers who risk their lives daily may have a different perspective on the madness, but nothing can or will ever compare to the horror each soldier experiences in his or her own individual way. The reason I bring this up is to shed a little light on a situation we are all facing that is set to explode like a hidden improvised explosive device (IED) tripped by an unsuspecting soldier. It is called post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it’s about to change the world in which we live. PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents or military combat. In connection with troops who have served in the Middle East, PTSD is a ticking bomb that has been constructed in the region since day one of our occupation. The fuse on that particular PTSD bomb has been burning for quite some time and is set to explode gradually over the next 20 years. Believe me, if you think I’m being dramatic, watch the approaching explosion and think back to this article if you survive it.

Visit www.ptsd.va.gov/public/pages/fslist-ptsd-overview.asp for a peek at what we all face. When you’re reading the material remember that only recently have the U.S. military’s powers that be begun to recognize that PTSD exists. While it is wonderful that it is finally being given credibility, the resources set aside for treatment is a pittance compared to what will be needed. Ironically, there will be a ticking PTSD IED that could go off at any second inside each returning veteran. Whether an acute PTSD reaction occurs on the street, at work, at school, at

church or at home, you can bet that virtually none of us are equipped with even a basic understanding of how to deal with it; we will be suffering as a society for generations to come. Sadly, PTSD cannot be treated like other behavioral disorders. We hear reports daily of treatment facilities failing patients and their families by attempting to treat PTSD along with other behaviorally impaired patients. That is not possible. PTSD patients and their families need specialized treatment. With the number of veterans returning from the Middle East, we are in for our own desert storm if we don’t get a handle on the problem. The government has its hands full, so the private sector absolutely has to pick up the slack. The military and government preparation for dealing with returning veterans and families is painfully substandard so we all must support our troops. That doesn’t mean putting stickers on our cars; it means professionals must donate time, facilities must donate beds and citizens must go out of their way to learn how best to treat our returning heroes.

Steve Miranda is a treatment consultant for Treatment Solutions Network’s Northeast region. If you have any questions or know someone who may need his services, contact him at [email protected] or (508) 525-5974. Treatment Solutions Network is proudly supporting the observance of September as Recovery Month. It will be participating in many events to help spread the good news of recovery. Visit http://www.treatmentsolutionsnetwork.com for more information.

Post traumatic stress disorder: A hidden threat to our troops coming homeBy Steve Miranda

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers - LOCAL UNION 99

Allen P. Durand John P. Shalvey Business Manager President

22 Amflex Drive • Cranston, R.I. 02921 (401) 946-9900 • Fax (401) 946-9907

www.IBEwLU99.oRg

Edward J. McElroy, lifelong educator and labor leader, is being inducted into the La Salle Academy Hall of Fame on November 4 at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston. A 1958 graduate of La Salle, McElroy is chief executive officer of the Union Labor Life Insurance Company Inc. (ULLICO), an insurance and financial services holding company serving the American labor movement. McElroy is also president emeritus of the more than 1.4 million-member American Federation of Teachers (AFT), having served as its president from 2004 to 2008. Prior to his election as president, McElroy served 12 years as AFT secretary-treasurer. McElroy also served on the executive council of the AFL-CIO, to which he was elected in December 2001. During McElroy’s tenure as a national officer, the AFT added more than 500,000 new members. McElroy began his career as a social studies and English teacher in Warwick, and was elected president of the Warwick Teachers Union, Local 915, in 1967. At age 30, he became president of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers, a position he held until he was elected AFT secretary-treasurer. McElroy served as president of the Rhode Island AFL-CIO from 1977 to 1992, and

earned a reputation as a unifier and effective representative of public and private sector unions. Throughout his years at the national union, McElroy led efforts to strengthen and uphold financial accountability requirements at every level of the union. He was at the forefront of the AFT’s initiatives to harness technology to support, inform and mobilize union members. While serving on the AFT executive council, McElroy was instrumental in launching the Futures Committee, a panel of AFT vice presidents who spent two years consulting with federation leaders and members to shape a new direction for the union in its governance and structure. McElroy also serves on the board of directors of Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, Education International, the Debt Reduction Task Force and the Council on Competitiveness. McElroy is a graduate of Providence College. He resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Edwina B. (Ricci). They have four children — Kathy, Mary, Steven and Elizabeth — and four grandchildren — Kyle, Evan, Chloe and the late Noah Jordan. The induction starts at 6 p.m. For tickets or to be included in the program book, contact Tim Welsh at [email protected] or (401) 351-7750, extension 135.


Rhode Island Judicial,Professional and Technical Employees’

LOCAL UNION 808

Frank A. Ciccone Pasquale Zompa Norma M. Sousa Business Manager President Vice President

Claudia Porrazzo David GarzoneRecording Secretary Executive Board Member

Dominick J. Ruggerio Gina M. Sabitoni-ArakelianSecretary-Treasurer Executive Board Member

McElroy to become member of the La Salle Hall of Fame

La Salle Academycongratulates

Edward McElroyC� ss of 1958

on his induc� on into the La Salle Academy

Hall of Fame

e

Induction ceremony to be held Thursday, November 4, 2010, at 6 p.m.

Rhodes-on-the-PawtuxetCranston, Rhode Island

$50 per person • $500 per table

For more information call (401) 351-7750, ext. 135

Best of Luck and Continued Success from the Drivers, Maintenance and

Supervisory Personnel ofATU Local 618 & 618A

in Providence & Newport

Stephen S. Farrell thomaS Cute Kevin m. millea

President – Business Agent Vice President Secretary-Treasurer

ExECUTivE BoArDBob Davis • Bob Doyle • Paul Harrington • Jim Murphy

Frank Plutzner • Peter Ritchie • Vincent Rowan

SChooL BUS DiviSioNS

WarWiCK-JameStoWn

Sherri Cirelli • Laurie Paul • Mary Tarbox

JohnSton

Dennis Jarvis • John D’Alo • Wendy LaCombe


ER Card is an electronic personal health record (ePHR) service

providing individuals, doctors and other caregivers with anytime,

anywhere access to personal medical information in a secure and

confidential manner. With the ER Card, medical professionals

have instant access by web, phone or fax to:

401-822-1181www.er-card.com

• current medications

• allergies

• chronic conditions

• primary care physician

• physical or verbal limitations

• emergency contacts

• advance directives

• and more

keychain accessory braceletcredit card size

Who knows

your medical

information in

an emergency?

Elizabeth Roberts knows what matters to your family

because it mattersto her family, too.

www.elizabethroberts.orgPaid for and Authorized by Roberts for Rhode Island

VOTENOV.2!

Blossom is 12 weeks old, spayed,

litter box trained, Feline Leukemia

tested, and healthy. We have a

number of kittens and cats available

for adoption that are all spayed/

neutered, have shots up to date

and Feline Leukemia tested. All

cats that are old enough have also been tested for feline

immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Please call Defenders of Animals

at (401) 461-1922.

Instead of trying to do it ALL yourself,

outsource your marketing to

JH Communications and

the Sentinel Group.

Who's DirectingYour Marketing?

Call 831.6123for a free consultation.

We are a �rm that has tailored our service and

fees to meet your growing needs and continually

strives to meet and exceed your expectations.

Try us on for size and �nd that we truly are the

perfect �t for you — now and going forward.

Let us grow together.


INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS

LOCAL 2323

THE ONLY RHODE ISLANDUNION CABLE TV, INTERNET&

TELEPHONE PROVIDER.

WILLIAM McGOWAN

Business Manager

1150 NEW LONDON AVENUE

CRANSTON, RI 02920

401-732-4239

There’s no place like home

for healing.

Infusion Therapy Compounding Respiratory Services Nursing Services

New England Home Infusion, Inc. specializes in administering adult and pediatric intravenous and respiratory therapies in the comfort of patients’ homes. Licensed in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, we provide for the medical needs of patients throughout Southeastern New England. Specialized medical equipment is delivered to patients’ homes and our pharmacy and nursing staffs monitor dosages, schedules and laboratory results.

401-821-0600 • 888-240-7879www.nehomeinfusion.com

ADVERTISE IN COMMON GROUND call 831-6123 or visit commongroundnews.net

529 plan benefits: An education for your student, tax breaks for you By William J. Hawkins III

With higher education costs rising faster than the general Consumer Price Index (CPI), it’s easy to understand why saving enough money to fund a child’s college education has become a financial challenge for many parents and grandparents. The numbers tell the story: The first-year college tuition bill in 2020 is projected to be $32,803 for an average public institution and $66,036 for an average private institution. So whether college for your child or grandchild is years away or right around the corner put time on your side by considering the benefits of contributing to a 529 plan. Made possible by federal legislation, 529 plans are implemented at the state or institution level. Nearly all states have approved and adopted those qualified tuition assistance programs. Most states let nonresidents participate in their plans, although the tax benefits may be greater for residents than for nonresidents. The student can use 529 plan account balances at any participating accredited postsecondary school in the United States or certain schools abroad for tuition, room and board, books, equipment and supplies. For 2010, qualified expenses also include computer technology, and Internet-access costs. As the owner, you retain control of the assets and can change beneficiaries within the designated student’s family at any time without penalty. A qualified family member generally includes siblings, descendants, ancestors, aunts, uncles and first cousins. Other key advantages of the plans include:

• Federal income tax free qualified distributions to students.

• No income limitations for participation.

• Contribution limits are significantly higher than those allowed for other education savings plans.

• Significant estate-planning benefits. A single

person can contribute up to $65,000 and a married couple up to $130,000 in one year per beneficiary with no gift-tax

consequences. Such a contribution will be considered a five-year accelerated annual exclusion gift, so no additional gifts can be made for that beneficiary for the next four years without incurring gift-tax implications unless the annual exclusion gift increases. The gift amount and subsequent appreciation, however, are removed from your taxable estate.

• No burden of investment decisions. The plan’s chosen investment manager will be responsible for portfolio management. Initially, some plans may let you select from several asset allocation model alternatives, which generally may be changed once every calendar year and/or with a beneficiary change.

If for some reason the account balance is not used for qualified higher education expenses, every withdrawal from a 529 plan is separated into two components: an earnings portion and a return of your investment portion. The earnings portion of the withdrawal is subject to federal income tax and potentially a 10 percent Internal Revenue Service (IRS) penalty. The return of your investment portion plan is never subject to federal income tax or IRS penalty. If the beneficiary dies, becomes disabled or receives a tax-free scholarship, you may take penalty free withdrawals from the 529 balance within that same calendar year. Keep in mind that 529 plan investment balances may affect eligibility for financial aid.

• If a parent owns the 529 account, up to 5.64% of the value is included in expected family contribution (EFC) as a parental asset. Any 529 accounts owned by a dependent student or by a custodian for the student are reported on the free application for federal student aid (FAFSA) as a parental asset. Any qualified withdrawals from those accounts are not included as income to the student.

• If a 529 account is owned by a grandparent or

someone other than a parent or the student, the value of the 529 plan is not reportable as an asset on the FAFSA. However, any distributions from third-party accounts are considered financial support to the student and are reportable on the following year’s FAFSA as student income. Student income is assessed at the student’s rate of 50 percent.

There are many 529 plan choices. Discuss college-funding alternatives with your financial adviser and choose the one that best fits your needs. William J. Hawkins III is a chartered retirement planning counselor for Wells Fargo, which supplies agents with columns. His office is in Providence.Contact him at (401) 459-6824.

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

OPINIONEye On Rhode Island

OCTOBER 2010 Page 13

Congressional Democrats take aim at defeating proposals to cut retirees’ benefitsBy John A. Pernorio

House Democrats say no to Social Security cuts

According to the “Talking Points Memo” blog, House Democrats, led by Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) Co-chairman Raul Grijalva of Arizona, are drawing a line in the sand before the White House’s fiscal commission: If your report recommends cuts or other changes to Social Security, you’ll lose our support. In a letter they are drafting to President Obama, House Democrats will pledge to vote against any legislation based on the commission’s report unless Social Security is taken off the table. “We oppose any cuts to Social Security benefits, including raising the retirement age,” the letter reads. “We also oppose any effort to privatize Social Security, in whole or in part. ... If any of the commission’s recommendations cut or diminish Social Security in any way, we will stand firmly against them.” The effort is intended to tie the commission’s hands, at least on this issue. Grijalva’s effort is a response to signals and reports suggesting that the commission is reaching common ground on Social Security cuts. Democrats and advocates are rounding up signers, and will deliver the letter to Obama once the numbers climb. Besides Grijalva, the original cosigners are John Conyers (D-MI), Dan Maffei (D-NY), Mary Jo Kilroy (D-OH), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), and CPC Co-chair Lynn Woolsey (D-CA). They issued a “Dear Colleague” letter to House members and have identified dozens of potential signatories based on pledges and past statements. “Alliance members will have the opportunity to take part in a movement to

increase the number of co-sponsors in an upcoming Friday Alert,” said Barbara J. Easterling, president of the alliance. According to the AFL-CIO blog, phasing out, privatizing or otherwise eliminating Social Security does not sit well with the vast majority of the voting public: The latest NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll finds that 68 percent of voters are “uncomfortable” with candidates who support such ideas.

Tell Congress not to raise the retirement age

U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) plans to introduce a resolution expressing the sense of Congress against raising the retirement age. “This resolution, especially with a large number of co-sponsors, can be a good counterweight to proposals from the fiscal commission to raise the retirement age,” said Edward F. Coyle, executive director of the alliance. In a “Dear Colleague” letter recently sent to House members, Giffords said that an increase in the retirement age is simply a cut in benefits. Co-sponsors include: Reps. Travis Childers (D-MS), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Laura Richardson (D-CA), Diane Watson (D-Calif.), Joseph Crowley (D-NY), Carol Shea-Porter (D-NH) and Joe Courtney (D-CT).

Ask your congressional representative to co-sponsorthe resolution.

John A. Pernorio is president of the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans.

Letter to the editor:New health care law and cancer patients As an advocate, I’m aware of the pitfalls of our nation’s health care system. People with cancer can fall through the cracks at the moment they need care the most. It can take a cancer diagnosis to realize how quickly medical bills can add up. All of a sudden you realize that your health plan may not provide the care you need at a cost you can afford. For example, some plans have monetary caps on coverage. If the cost of your care exceeds those limits, you must pay for additional care out of your own pocket. The high costs of cancer care can cause patients to bump up against coverage caps, forcing them to go tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in debt to pay for lifesaving treatment and follow-up care.

But thanks to the new health care law, cancer patients and their families no longer have to fear monetary lifetime coverage limits. On September 23, six months after the law was signed, new patient protections took effect that prohibit lifetime limits on the dollar value of coverage and significantly restrict annual limits for most plans. Those are just a few of the several provisions of the new law that will benefit patients.

Joyce J. Dolbec, Slatersville Volunteer, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

Advocates: Put Providence animal shelter under civilian controlBy Dennis Tabella

Some of our municipal animal control officers have made tremendous gains regarding their expertise and care of animals. Unfortunately, some animal shelter operations have continued to have serious problems in spite of changes in management. Those issues are not related to budget problems. An example of a municipal shelter that has made no progress is the municipal shelter in Providence. It has been riddled by numerous problems for the last 30 years, which can be attributed to employees that are not properly trained and lack the sensitivity to both animals and customers. As reported recently by WJAR NBC 10, a dog named Tyson was euthanized under suspicious circumstances. That action by a Providence animal control officer has led to a suit by the owner of Tyson, Defenders of Animals, and a Providence resident. Tyson was not the first dog to be destroyed needlessly, and scores of dogs have been destroyed without having a veterinarian examine them while animal control officers continue to

ignore information on lost animals. In addition, there have been documented cases of owned dogs being injured while at the Providence animal shelter. Two of those cases resulted in recent litigation. Problems have been constant. Several years ago, Providence Animal Control was found in violation of the city’s ordinance. Judge Stephen Fortunato granted Defenders of Animals a restraining order to prevent Providence Animal Control from taking dogs and cats to other shelters that had the gas chamber even though the City of Providence had banned the use of the gas chamber. The gas chamber is now banned statewide; however, the Providence animal shelter’s rate of destroying animals continues to be the highest among municipal shelters. To add insult to injury, a Providence councilman wanted to give an award to a convicted rapist. That person was working at the Providence Animal Shelter at the time. After protest from residents and community leaders,

the award was withdrawn. This year, a nine-member commission to investigate and make recommendations regarding the operation of that shelter was put together by Councilman John Lombardi. As a member of that commission, I can tell you that none of those recommendations have been put in place by the mayor or the chief of police in Providence. Furthermore, Providence has had all sorts of opportunities to make necessary changes, including looking at other systems such as Warwick. The city changed its system by putting its animal shelter operation under civilian control, which has worked very well. In the case of Providence, privatizing that shelter or at least turning it over to civilian control is something that the new mayor should consider. Dennis Tabella is director of Defenders of Animals Inc. (www.defendersofanimals.org).


UA Local Union 51 Plumbers • Pipefitters • Refrigeration

Thomas A. Handfield

Business Manager

Robert Walker Timothy L. Byrne Frederick Foeri William D. Mello Financial Secretary Business Agent Organizer/Agent Business Agent

Done Once. Done Right SERVING RHODE ISLAND AND SOUTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS

II Hemingway Drive, East Providence, Rhode Island 02915

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

www.ualocal51.com

Lt. Gov. Elizabeth H. Roberts and the Healthy Rhode Island Task Force released the report, “Healthy R.I. Task Force: Getting National Health Reform Right for Rhode Island,” on September 23, exactly six months from the signing date of the national health reform law at the Providence Community Health Center. The report outlines the state level policy decisions that need to be made with related recommendations. The aim is to ensure that Rhode Island provides high quality, affordable, sustainable health care for families and businesses. The task force was formed by Lt. Gov. Roberts in June to make sure Rhode Island is at the forefront in implementing the federal health reform law. She pointed out that Rhode Island must be ready to take advantage of the many opportunities that are available to the state, as well as anticipate and address any challenges that will face the state as the law takes effect. More than 150 dedicated Rhode Islanders generously gave their time and talent of the task force throughout the summer. The panel integrated partners from a cross section of Rhode Island’s health care community, and members served in one of seven work groups, including insurance market reform and coverage expansion; developing a health insurance exchange for more affordable health insurance; making payment and delivery system reforms; and accessing federal funding for reforms. Despite the wide and often disparate array of professional perspectives and

interests in the group, task force members worked collaboratively throughout the process. At the public release of the report, the lieutenant governor thanked

the task force members for their ongoing commitment to making sure that all Rhode Islanders have access to high-quality, affordable health care.

Getting national health reform right for Rhode Island

2010/11 PROVIDENCE BRUINS HOME SCHEDULE

For more inFormation, please contact the providence Bruins www.providencebruins.com (P) 401-273-5000 1 LaSalle Square - Providence, RI - 02903 (F) 401-273-5004

OCTOBER

Fri. 8 SpringfieldFalcons 7:05p.m.


Sun. 17 HartfordWolfPack 4:05p.m.

Fri. 29 AlbanyDevils 7:05p.m.

Sun. 31 WorcesterSharks 1:05p.m.

NOVEMBER

Fri. 5 BridgeportSoundTigers 7:05p.m.

Fri. 12 AbbotsfordHeat 7:05p.m.

Sun. 14 AbbotsfordHeat 4:05p.m.


Fri. 26 WorcesterSharks 7:05p.m.

Sun. 28 PortlandPirates 4:05p.m.

DECEMBER

Fri. 3 HartfordWolfPack 7:05p.m.

Sun. 5 ManchesterMonarchs 4:05p.m.

Fri. 10 PortlandPirates 7:05p.m.

Sun. 12 SpringfieldFalcons 4:05p.m.

Fri. 17 CharlotteCheckers 7:05p.m.

Sun. 19 SpringfieldFalcons 4:05p.m.

JANUARY

Fri. 7 ManchesterMonarchs 7:05p.m.

Sun. 9 BinghamtonSenators 4:05p.m.

Fri. 14 W-B/ScrantonPenguins 7:05p.m.


Fri. 21 ManchesterMonarchs 7:05p.m.



FEBRUARY


Fri. 11 HersheyBears 7:05p.m.




MARCH

Fri. 4 CharlotteCheckers 7:05p.m.

Sun. 6 BridgeportSoundTigers 4:05p.m.


Sun. 13 BridgeportSoundTigers 4:05p.m.

Fri. 18 WorcesterSharks 7:05p.m.

Sun. 20 PortlandPirates 4:05p.m.


APRIL

Fri. 1 HartfordWolfPack 7:05p.m.





STM ERAE ST

G

ER

CA

NP

EH

RIC E

FC

NO

OM CM SU NN OI IC TA

Mark Montecalvo-(401) 692 0304

Mark @Montees.net

LOCAL 12NBUY LOCAL

Made in the USA available

-EMBROIDERY SCREEN PRINTING-SIGNS PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

-SCREEN WORKSI

UNION LOGO WEAR &U NIFORMS

5.11 TacticalPromote Morale Fund Raising

Athletics eventsOrganizational

I I

Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals

Marcia B. Reback President

356 Smith Street (401) 273-9800 Providence, RI 02908-3761 FAX (401) 331-8815 [email protected] www.rifthp.org

Joseph M. O’Connor Vice President

GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS CONFERENCE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS

25 Louisiana Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001

E mail [email protected] 202/624-8145Cell 202/297-2945

A UNION REPRESENTING PROUD UNION PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1918

685 Warren Avenue 401.438-5450East Providence, RI 02914 www.ifpte400.org

LOCAL 400International Federation of

Professional and Technical Engineers

A progressive labor union representing more than80,000 men and women in professional, technical,

administrative and associated occupations.

Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value

®CPRC ,III ,snikwaH .J mailliW rosivdA laicnaniF

0061 etS ,teertS retsnimtseW 001 30920 IR ,ecnedivorP

4286-954-104

-non etarapes a dna relaed-rekorb deretsiger a si ,CPIS rebmeM ,CLL ,srosivdA ograF slleW.ynapmoC & ograF slleW fo etailfifa knab

.devreser sthgir llA .CLL ,srosivdA ograF slleW 9002© ]1v-42147[ 0621-9040

DISTRICT 4 - LOCAL 12431

172 Longfellow SreetProvidence, Rhode Island 02907p. 401.527.6792 f. 401.284.3677

Joseph A. MontanaroPresident

Gary GlittoneVice President

Steven KirbyFinancial Secretary

Gordon HuffmanTreasurer

Mark BoyajianRecording Secretary

LOCAL 12NBUY LOCAL

BUSINESS TRAVELCRUISES, HOTELS, AIRLINE RESERVATIONS

WEDDING DESTINATION TRAVELCUSTOMIzED TOURS

Call us to see if we can do better for you. (401) 725-1234 (800) 633-2985

[email protected] • www.taitrips.com

Moe, Jeannine and Dan Rondeau, Local 328, retired

204 Front Street, Lincoln, Rhode Island

Travel advisorsInternational

Full Service Travel Agency

(401) 946-9940/946-3710Fax: (401) 946-5060

E-mail: [email protected]

PAUL R. ENOSVice President

INTERNATIONAL UNION OF

BRICKLAYERS & ALLIEDCRAFTWORKERS

LOCAL # 3 R.I.

POST OFFICE PLAZA150 MIDWAY ROAD

SUITE 153CRANSTON, RI 02920-5743

Local 310Brotherhood of Utility Workers Council

affiliated with theUtility Workers Union of America, AFL-CIO

Phil FogartyPresident

1300 Jefferson Blvd.Warwick, RI 02886E-mail: [email protected]

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

Looking for some good news for a change?

View past issues at www.commongroundnews.net.Rhode Island's only newspaper for unions, and about unions.

TM


Rhode Island Brotherhood

of Correctional Officers“Representing Those Who Work the Toughest Beat in the State”

-OFFICERS-

Dave Mellon …….……….………………..President

Bob Miller ………….……………1st Vice President

Bob Lantagne ..…………………..2nd Vice President

Michael Hogan.……………………..…….Treasurer

John Meehan………………………………Secretary

Mike McKenna...……….……….Financial Secretary

-EXECUTIVE BOARD-

Ken Rivard Manny Leander

Bill Bove Alan Depalo

John Bray Jeff Golding

Joe Lopes David Pezza

Mark Vierra Letizia Signore

Adam Klaus Carlos Oviedo

Justin Pelissey

Keeping Your Community Safe

105 Railroad Avenue, Johnston, Rhode Island401-232-1660 l 800-427-1660

To See How This Stimulus Package Works Visitwww.hillviewautobody.com

Stimulus Package H Reduce your Deductible

H Free Recondition with Every Repair

H Complete Service Check

You have the legal right to choose your repair facility in RI, so don’t let the insurance industry direct you to their preferred shop.










Anthony Toro











Anthony Toro











Anthony Toro


It’s that time of year again, when political ads bombard us on TV, radio, the Internet and in the mail. But what we can learn from political campaigns — messaging, targeting, timing, and asking — should be applied to how you organize and run your marketing campaign. The pundits will tell you that you must have three of four key elements to win an election: the candidate, the organization, the funding, and the message. When you have all four, you usually win. Three of the four puts you in a winning position, while anything less makes victory difficult. In terms of business, when you have the right product or service, a solid organization with a dedicated staff, the necessary resources to run a proper campaign and a targeted message, then you give your company a better chance to succeed in marketing. With this understanding, your company is positioned to fight for new customers. At the same time, cannot neglect your current clients. This is not unlike the candidate who needs to appeal to new voters while remaining true to existing supporters. All voters or customers are bombarded with “vote for me” and “buy me” messages, so the clear, concise message always wins out. Do you remember Clinton’s “It’s the economy, stupid,” and have you heard Chevrolet’s new battle cry, “Let the best car win?” Both are compelling messages. They get

right down to what is important to the voter or consumer. Do you have a message that will resonate with your customers? Are you showing your customers how your product will benefit them, or are you still just bragging about your product’s features? Remember that the true benefit to customers always wins over the laundry list of what your product does. Successful campaigners know that they do not have the financial resources to reach every voter, so they target their message to “likely voters.” The same principle should be applied to marketing. So, when a marketing professional asks you, “Who is your customer,” the answer is not, “everyone.” The marketing professional is looking for the person most likely to buy your product. Is it women who are 45-64 years old or men, 25-54? Maybe it’s both, but it cannot be the entire population. Political campaigns do not have unlimited budgets, so they often back-load their spending in campaigns. The rule-of-thumb for a candidate is to spend the most in the last two weeks of a race, when people are making their decision. The lesson you can take is that you should spend your marketing dollars when your customer is most likely to buy. For example, even if a hardware store is selling snow shovels for half-price in August, no one is really looking for a new one until

mid-December or January. Therefore, if I’m the owner of a hardware store, I’m not promoting shovels until I check in with the weatherman about the first snowfall. When are your customers most likely to buy your product? Don’t tell me all-year-round. Like any candidate or business, the reality is that you probably do not have the resources to reach all people, all the time. So do your research and market to new prospects at the right time. “All politics is local,” Tip O’Neill told us, and in many respects the same is true with small business. Most small businesses are integral parts of their communities. So, yes, the sponsorship of the Little League, the support of the local parade, and the other things you do in your home town is money well spent. People like to deal with people they know, who they see at the soccer field or in the coffee shop. But, the best “Tip” still rings true: make sure you ask for their vote. Tip O’Neill famously explained how in his first campaign he discovered that his long-time neighbor had not voted for him. He asked her why, and she politely responded, “You never asked.” If you’re wondering why some of your friends, family and neighbors have not bought your products…well, have you asked? John Houle is the Co-Publisher/Editor of Common Ground News.

What political campaigns tell us about running your marketing campaignBy John Houle


MAFFE FINANCIAL GROUP INC875 Centerville Road

Warwick, Rhode Island

Office: 401-828-2090x305

Cell: 401-529-5110

www.maffefinancialgroup.com

Put John’s 25 years of

experience along with

Maffe’s Tax, Estate &

Retirement Planning

services to work for

you today.

John C. Edes, LUTCF

A.C. Jewelers401.349.4094

CASH PAID FOR GOLD, SILVER & PLATINUM+ earn an extra 5%- All Work Done On Premises -

GOLD, DIAMONDS, PLATINUM AND SILVER JEWELRY REPAIRS. REMOUNTS & CUSTOM MADE JEWELRY.

Buy One Charm and Get a FREE bracelet. July 1st - 15th

Remount, event reset your diamond

or gemstone into a new mounting.

Over a thousand mountings to choose from ...

rings, earrings , pendants , bridal sets - trade

your broken jewelry for new!!!

Since taking office three years ago, Secretary of State Ralph Mollis has achieved many of the goals he set when he was first elected in 2006. From making it easier to do business in Rhode Island to cleaning up the voter rolls and opening the doors of government, he is proud of his record. Among his office’s highlights, he points to the following key accomplishments: A record 700,000 voters were registered. Record-setting elections were effectively managed with more Rhode Islanders turning out

to vote than at any other time in state history. More information about government is available to the public today than ever before. At any time of the day or night, Rhode Islanders can find the agenda for their town council meeting, see how much companies are spending to lobby at the State House, monitor the General Assembly’s compliance with the state’s Open Meetings law and review proposed state rules and regulations before they become law. The Secretary of State is particularly pleased with how his office helped 6,900 new businesses

get started last year — more than 21,800 since taking office. His office helped introduce new technology to help businesses grow and launched an initiative that helps start-ups get fast answers from government agencies. “It has been an honor to serve as Secretary of State, but this is only the beginning,” Mollis says. “With the challenges facing our state, it is more important than ever to continue our work. With your support, the coming years will be even more successful.”

As Secretary of State, Mollis brings a Vision for Rhode Island


rhode island Carpenterslocal union 94

David F. palmiscianopresident

Thomas J. savoieVice president

William F. HolmesFinancial secretary

W. paul landertrustee

14 Jefferson park road

Warwick, ri 02888

401.467.7070Petrarca & Petrarca

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

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

• Was the vehicle repaired?

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

If we agree to handle your matter

we guarantee you willreceive at least $500.00.

Call Us Now!401.273.1111

Compliments of

International Union ofoperating Engineers

LocAL UnIon 57Providence, Rhode Island

James J. WhiteBusiness Manager and President

Timothy E. QuillenVice President and Bus. Agent

Gregory E. OlsonTreasurer and Bus. Agent

Gina RaimondoDEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE FOR GENERAL TREASURER

“As Treasurer, I’ll set high standards, call for accountability

and get things done based on what is best for Rhode Islanders.

Taxpayers should be treated as customers.”

New Leadership, A Fresh Approach

Is your life WORkInG for you?Looking for a new career or justneeding to supplement your income?

We can help.

We’re looking for a few good people who aren’t earning what their WORTH, that just need the right OPPORTUnITY, and know that TIMInG can mean everything.

lIVe YOUR lIFeCall 401.385.9670

Finally, a business opportunity that feels like home


DIRECTORY OF UNION SERVICES

Bristol Branch390 Metacom AvenueBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1313

URI BranchURI Memorial UnionKingston, RI 02881(401) 789-0253

Dexter Credit Unionwww.dextercu.org1 Village Plaza WayNorth Scituate, RI 02857(401) 934-7600

934 Dexter StreetCentral Falls, RI 02863(401) 724-6200

Woodlawn FederalCredit Union744 Main StreetPawtucket, RI 02860(401) 728-8300

The Carpenters’ Unionrepresents:

First Trade Union Bankwww.ftubhb.com14 Jefferson Park RoadWarwick, RI 028881-800-242-0272

FUNCTION FACILITIES

Biltmore Hotel11 Dorrance StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 455-3027Scott Connery, Director ofCatering

Brown University45 Prospect St.Providence, RI 02912(401) 863-1075Cynthia Schwartz, Director ofUniversity Event

Bryant University1150 Douglas PikeSmithfield, RI 02917(401) 232-6921Sheila Guay, Director of Events

BARBERS &HAIRDRESSERS

Some barbers and hairdressersare organized by UFCW Local328. For a list of union barbershops and hairdressers, pleasecontact Local 328 at(401) 861-0300 orwww.ufcw328.org

BUILDING TRADES

For home and businessconstruction, repairs, oradditions please contact oneof the following unions for areputable contractor in yourarea. For general questions orhelp please call Build RI at(401) 553-2100 orwww.BuildRI.org

BoilermakersLocal No. 29(617) 328-8400

BricklayersLocal No.1(401) 946-9940

CarpentersLocal No. 94(401) 467-7070

Elevator ConstructorsLocal No. 39(401) 423-2293

GlaziersLocal No. 1333(401) 781-4736

Heat and Frost InsulatorsLocal No. 6(617) 436-4666

International Brotherhoodof Electrical WorkersLocal No. 99(401) 946-9900

International Unionof Operating EngineersLocal No. 57(401) 421-6678

Iron Workers LocalLocal No. 37(401) 438-1111

LaborersLocal No. 271(401) 331-9682

Painters & Allied TradesDistrict Council 11(401) 467-7010

Plaster & MasonsLocal No. 40(401) 943-1185

Plumbers & PipefittersLocal No. 51(401) 943-3033

Rhode Island Building Trades(401) 438-1111

Roofers & WaterproofersLocal No. 33(781) 341-9192

Sheet Metal WorkersLocal No. 17(401) 831-7150

Sprinkler FittersLocal No. 676(860) 666-4447

TeamstersLocal No. 251(401) 434-0454

BUS SERVICES

RIPTARhode Island Public TransitAuthority265 Melrose StreetProvidence, RI 02907(401) 781-9400www.ripta.com

Peter Pan Bus LinesCorporate HeadquartersP.O. Box 1776Springfield, MA 01102-17761-800-237-8747 ext. 1209www.peterpanbus.com

CHILD CAREPROVIDERS

To arrange on-site child carecoverage for your meetings orconferences, or to locate aDCYF-licensed home-basedchild care provider in yourneighborhood or near yourworkplace, contact the unionof home-based child careproviders, District 1199 SEIU,at (401) 457-5099 orwww. seiu1199ne.org

DELIVERY SERVICES

United Parcel ServiceThe Teamsters Local 251represent Rhode Island’s UPSworkers. For the outlet nearestyou, or to schedule a homepick up, please contact UPS atwww.ups.com or1-800-PICK-UPS.

United States Postal ServiceYour local post office isrepresented by the NationalAssociation of Letter Carriers,the American Postal WorkersUnion and the National PostalMail Handlers Union (a divisionof the Laborers Union.)www.usps.com

FINANCIALINSTITUTIONS

Credit union employees areorganized by UFCW Local328.

Rhode Island Credit Unionwww.ricreditunion.orgProvidence Branch160 Francis StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 751-7440

Cranston Branch570 Pontiac AvenueCranston, RI 02910(401) 941-8770

Community Collegeof Rhode IslandKnight Campus, WarwickFlanagan Campus, LincolnListon Campus, ProvidenceNewport CampusCCRI Downcity(401) 825-2015Edna Mattson

Dunkin Donuts Center1 LaSalle SquareProvidence, RI 02903(401) 331-0700 ext. 150Robert Sturm, Event Manager

Newport Grand150 Admiral Kalbfus RoadNewport, RI 02840(401) 849-5000 ext. 157David Rollin

Providence College549 River AvenueProvidence, RI 02918(401) 865-1000 ext. 2070Victoria Mocshu

Rhode Island College600 Mount Pleasant AvenueProvidence, RI 02908(401)456-8022Kathy Sasso

RI Convention Center1 Sabin StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401)-458-6002Antonia Anthony, Director ofEvent Services

Roger Williams Park Casino1000 Elmwood AvenueProvidence, RI 02905(401) 785-9450 ext. 240Lisa Gonzales, Casino EventPlanner

Roger Williams University1 Old Ferry RoadBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1040 ext. 3793Allison Chase-Padula

Twin River1600 Louisquisset PikeLincoln, RI 02865(401) 723-3200 ext. 8497Alana Barts

University of Rhode IslandKingston, Alton Jones CampusProvidence Campus(401) 874-2214Sherry DavisThe Westin Providence1 Exchange StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 598-8245Alan Swerdolff, Director ofSales and Marketing

HOSPITALS

UNAP members work atthe following locations:

• Fatima Hospital• Greater RI Visiting

Nurse Service• Homestead Group• Kent Hospital• Landmark Medical Center• Memorial Hospital• Rehabilitation Hospital

of RI• Rhode Island Hospital• RI Community Living &

Support Services• RI Dept of Human Services• RI Veterans’ Home• URI, CCRI, RIC Health

Services• Westerly Hospital

(Professional & Technical)• Westerly Hospital (Service

& Maintenance)• Zambarano Hospital

SEIU 1199 members work atthe following locations:

• Butler Hospital• Women & Infants

Hospital

JANITORIAL SERVICES

Some janitorial companies areorganized by SEIU Local 615.For a list of unionized janitorialservices, contact the Local 615office at (401) 521-6150 orvisit their website atwww.seiu615.org.

NEWSPAPERS

Common Ground Newswww.commongroundnews.netSubscribe401.451.1305

Providence Journalwww.projo.comSubscribe(401) 277-7600

Pawtucket Timeswww.pawtuckettimes.comSubscribe(401) 722-4000

Woonsocket Callwww.woonsocketcall.comSubscribe(401) 767-8522

NURSING HOMES

SEIU 1199 members work atthe following locations:

• Bannister House• Charlesgate Nursing

Center• Country Gardens

Skilled Nursing• Crawford Skilled Nursing• Greenville Skilled

Nursing• Hopkins Manor• Pawtucket Skilled Nursing• Parkview Associates• United Methodist Health

Care Center

PRINTERS, BANNERS& SIGNS

American Speedy Printing635 Arnold RoadCoventry, RI 02816Phone: (401) 823-0090Fax: (401) 823-0092

B Sign Graphics27 Libera StreetCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-6941Fax: (401) 943-2287

Checkmate ConsultingGroup & Printing461 Main StreetEast Greenwich, RI 02818Phone: (401) 885-0666Fax: (401) 885-0775

Cogens, Inc.1 Virginia AvenueProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 421-4436Fax: (401) 331-9032

Crownmark109 Fletcher AvenueCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-1112Fax: (401) 943-1113

Dorrance Engraving635 Prospect StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 725-0504Fax: (401) 725-0504

East Coast Screen Printing22 Partridge StreetProvidence, RI 02908Phone: (401) 272-1166Fax: (401) 272-1167

Federal Signs135 Dean StreetProvidence, RI 02903Phone: (401) 421-3400Fax: (401) 351-2233

Financial Innovations1 Weingeroff Blvd.Cranston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 467-3170Fax: (401) 467-3570

JB Foley Printing1469 Broad StreetProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 467-3616Fax: (401) 467-8309

Lamar Outdoor Advertising360 Warren AvenueE. Providence, RI 02914Phone: (401) 421-4504,Fax: (401) 421-4757

Mandeville Sign Co.676 George Wash. Hwy.Lincoln, RI 02865Phone: (401) 334-9100Fax: (401) 334-7799

Regine Printing Co., Inc.208 Laurel Hill AvenueProvidence, RI 02909Phone: (401) 943-3404Fax (401) 944-1228

R.I. Litho Printing, Inc.1395 Atwood AvenueJohnston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 275-0760Fax: (401) 464-6002

Screen Works, LLC62 South Main StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 692-0304

Sheahan Printing Corp.1 Front StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 273-7272Fax: (401) 769-9206

Sign Lite, Inc.6 Corporate DriveN. Haven, CT 06473Phone: 1-800-544-0854Fax: (203) 234-8344

The Sign ShoppeP.O. Box 2296Westerly, RI 02891Phone: (401) 364-7442

Tarvis Graphics Inc.21 Sabin StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 726-5530Fax: (401) 723-6420

SUPERMARKETS

Supermarket employees at thestores listed below aremembers of UFCW Local 328or UFCW Local 791.

Super Stop and Shop• Bristol• Coventry• Cumberland• Johnston• Lincoln• Middletown• Narragansett• Newport• North Kingstown• North Providence• North Smithfield• Pawtucket• Providence• Richmond• Smithfield• Warwick• Westerly

Shaw’s Supermarket• Barrington• Garden City• Cranston• East Providence• Riverside• Johnston• Middletown• North Providence• Pawtucket• Providence• Wakefield• Warwick• Lakewood• Westerly• Woonsocket

Eastside Marketplace• Providence

Brigidos IGA• Pascoag• North Scituate

Grand Union Family Markets• South Yarmouth• Provincetown• Buzzards Bay• South Yarmouth

C-Town Supermarket• Pawtucket

PUBLIC RELATIONS

Checkmate ConsultingGroup & Printing461 Main StreetEast Greenwich, RI 02818Phone: (401) 885-0666Fax: (401) 885-0775

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

All public school employees areorganized by the Rhode IslandFederation of Teachers andHealth Professionals or theNational Education Associationof Rhode Island.

The following Charter Schoolsare also unionized:

• Laborers Charter School• Textron Charter School• Times 2 Charter School

RECYCLING AND TRASHREMOVAL SERVICES

Waste Management ofRhode Island(800) 972-4545

TELEPHONE, INTERNET& CABLE SERVICES

AT&T Wireless1 (800) 897-7046www.wireless.att.comUnion members recieve specialdiscounts on AT&T wirelessservice plans. For moreinfomation to towww.unionplus.org

VerizonVerizon, whose employees aremembers of the InternationalBrotherhood of ElectricalWorkers Local 2323, canprovide for all of your homeand office internet, telephoneand cable TV needs throughVerizon’s new FiOS (Fiber OpticService) network.

Simply call 1-888-Get FiOSor 1-888-591-6076.

Or contact IBEW 2323 at(401) 732-IBEW (4239).

IBEW 23231150 New London AvenueCranston, RI 02920

The Sentinel Group, LLC111 Wayland AvenueProvidence, RI 02906Phone: (401) 451-1308Fax: (401) 831.6111

BUY Union Products. USE Union Services.Use your hard earned money to support hard working union members!

P.O. Box 7613Warwick, RI 02887

(401) 751-7100

Don’t Miss

An informative, one-hour

weekly show highlighting

issues and events affecting

working families.

TUESDAY 7 P.M.

THURSDAY 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 5 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14

VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 33

BUY Union Products. USE Union Services.Use your hard earned money to support hard working union members!

P.O. Box 7613Warwick, RI 02887

(401) 751-7100

Don’t Miss

An informative, one-hour

weekly show highlighting

issues and events affecting

working families.

TUESDAY 7 P.M.

THURSDAY 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 5 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14

VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 33


PUBLIc EMPLoYEES’LocAL UnIon 1033

Representing the Public Servantswho make government work!

PUBLIC EMPLOYEES = PUBLIC SERVICE Cranston Crossing Guards Town of North Kingstown

Lincoln Highway Department Providence Community Action Program

Providence School Department Lincoln Public Library

Narragansett Bay Commission Town of North Providence

City of Providence Narragansett Town Hall

North Providence Crossing Guards Lincoln Water Commission

Providence Civic Center Authority R.I. Department of Transportation

Warwick Crossing Guards North Providence School Department

Lincoln Town Hall

DONALD S. IANNAZZI, ESQ. VICKI A. VIRGILIO

Business Manager President

Partnering withRhode Island’s Municipalities toProvide the Most Effective and

cost-efficient Public Employee Benefits

The Rhode Island Public The Rhode Island PublicEmployees’ Health Services Fund Employees’ Legal Services Fund

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Education,

Training and Apprenticeship Fund

Donald S. Iannazzi, Esq., Chairman

Vicki A. Virgilio Pasquale T. D’Amico Trustee Trustee

Sharen Gleckman Joseph F. Kenney Trustee Trustee

Betty Jackson Chris Lombardi Liaison Coordinator

Rhode Island’s Union Built, Operated and Staffed Facilities

ROGER WILLIAMS PARK CASINOACCOMMODATING 50 - 300(401) 941-5640 (401) 785-9450

CITY CENTER SKATING RINK ACCOMMODATING GROUPS FROM 10 - 400

(401) 331-5544 ExT. 5

AffordableHearing Solution

“We've listened to you and

we've rede ned the way

this o�ce serves the public.

�at is why it is more

important than ever to

continue our work.”

I ask for your vote onTuesday, November 2nd

www.mollis2010.com

Documents

Common Ground News October 2010