Teamsters Local 25 Awards $58,000 in Scholarships - SPRING 2021
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Follow us! 10 Teamsters Boston @teamsters25 @teamsters25 Send your contact information to info@teamsterslocal25.com and you’ll received important information from Local 25 15 19 VISIT THE Left Lane In This Issue | Spring 2021 The “Left Lane” is the name of the Teamsters Local 25 Store, which is housed in the Day Room at the FEATURES DEPARTMENTS headquarters at 544 Main Street, Charlestown, Massachusetts. 8 Steward Seminar Goes Virtual 2 Business Agent Reports The store features a select number of 10 Teamsters Local 25 Presents 16 TeamstersCare different items offered on a seasonal 29 Scholarships basis: shirts, hats, jackets and sweat- 22 Futures Committee shirts. There are specialty items 14 Autism Fund Announces Grants available throughout the year. 24 Pensioners 15 Workers’ Memorial Day The store is open from 8 a.m. Remembrance Held April 28 27 In Memoriam to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday, and one hour before and one 18 Teamsters Put Amazon On 28 Retiree’s Corner hour after the monthly meetings. Notice The store accepts cash, credit 19 W omen’s Committee Walks for card or debit card. For more Domestic Violence Organization information call (617) 241-8825 21 Dispatchers Recognized The Spokesman Steven J. South Sean M. O’Brien, President/Principal Officer | Thomas G. Mari, Secretary-Treasurer John J. Juszkiewicz III John A. Murphy Joan C. Corey James L. Donovan Jr. Chris Smolinsky Vice President/ Trustee Business Agent Business Agent Political Coordinator Director of Organizing Business Agent John F. Gillis Robert J. Aiguier, Jr. Andrew P. Walsh Joseph F. Foti Daniel F. Risteen, Jr. Peter S. Berry Trustee Business Agent Business Agent Field Representative Director of Research Recording Secretary Ross H. McDonagh Jason A. Lopes Michael C. Halley Peter Alvarado & Security Trustee Business Agent Field Representative Field Representative Statement of Ownership, Management & Circulation Date of Filing: Location of Office: Ownership: Paid and/or requested 9/14/20 544 Main Street Local 25 Teamsters Union Circulation: None Title of Publication: Boston, MA 02129 544 Main Street Total Distribution: The Spokesman Total: 16,000 Boston, MA 02129 14,923 Frequency of Issue: Editor & Managing Editor: Total # Copies: 16,000 Copies not Distributed: Quarterly Sean M. O’Brien 1,077 (office use..etc)
Message from the President Dear Brothers and Sisters: As we inch towards some sense of normalcy, we must not forget the role Teamsters played in getting us here. Teamsters have always been essential workers; and now the world has witnessed this firsthand. I am beyond proud of our rank-and-file members. You never took the path of least resistance. You showed up and gave 110% every day to make sure all of us had the goods and services we needed to survive. That has not been the same for many employers. Some did the right thing; recognizing you for the true heroes you are. But others showed just how greedy they are. These employers need to be held account- able. And that will happen at the negotiating table. “I am beyond As I write this, most events in Massachusetts remain virtual. While we were not able to hold our Autism Gala again this year, the Teamsters Local 25 Autism Fund was still able to donate more than proud of our $350,000 to 11 autism organizations. Thank you to our sponsors that continue to step up for this rank-and-file cause. We look forward to finally hosting our 13th annual Autism Gala on January 8, 2022 at the Bos- ton Convention and Exhibition Center. members. You never took the On April 10, we hosted a three-hour virtual Stewards Seminar. Local 25 Business Agents are regularly in contact with their stewards, but it is also important for us to meet as a group. Thank you for all you do. path of least resistance. You We held a virtual ceremony to remember those that have died on the job, including from COVID-19, on April 28, which is Workers’ Memorial Day. As part of this year’s ceremony, Local 25 member Marc showed up and Gautreau’s name was added to our Memorial Stone. Marc was killed October 3, 2019, after injuries gave 110% every sustained in a motor vehicle accident while at work delivering for UPS. He was 51-years-old and a had worked for UPS for 17 years. day to make sure all of us had the On May 16, Teamsters Local 25 presented 29 students with $2,000 scholarships. All of the recipients are from Teamsters Local 25 families. This is always my favorite meeting. Family is the reason we fight goods and services so hard in everything we do so to see these proud families with their children, about to enter their next we needed to chapter, is amazing. survive.” The Teamsters Local 25 Futures Committee continues to show why they are the future leaders of our –SEAN M. O’BRIEN union. They have been instrumental as we fight Amazon in our own neighborhoods as well as across PRESIDENT/ the country. They have hit the road to support workers on strike and those that want to organize. We PRINCIPAL OFFICER are starting to see other unions organize young worker committees and it is testament to the hard work of these young Local 25 members. In closing, this is an exciting time for us. We have a United States President and administration not afraid to use the word union. Not afraid to embrace organized labor. Not afraid to invest in people and help those industries that were crushed in 2020. This administration has acknowledged the fact that the middle class and unions built this country and because of that our pensions will remain solvent through 2051. That means people can retire with dignity and respect. I’m excited about the future of this country. I’m excited about the future of the Teamsters. Fraternally, Sean M. O’Brien President/Principal Officer www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 1
Officers’ Reports Secretary-Treasurer Vice President/Business Agent Thomas G. Mari Steven J. South Since our last Spokesman, Since my last report I have been we continue to service the assigned the following bargaining membership as we always units: YRC Freight and Clerical have, even though the pan- (temporary) New Penn Drivers demic continues. As we and Mechanics (temporary), Town pass the one-year mark of of Hingham DPW, Town of Hing- this horrible illness, we are ham DPW Supervisors, and Town finally turning the corner of North Reading DPW. I look forward to working with all due to widespread vaccina- of the stewards and members at these new assignments. tions being available to This summer, we will continue or begin negotiations our members. with the following bargaining units: City of Medford Inspec- Many of our members in the Trade Show Division are still tors, DPW Superintendents and Recreation Department, struggling due to the State restrictions on large crowds, but City of Medford School Custodians, City of Medford School as we approach Summer, we are optimistic this will start to Security Guards, Tech Specialists and Monitors, City of change. August cannot come soon enough, when all venues Newton DPW, City of Everett DPW, City of Everett Clerical, are scheduled to open with 100% capacity. With this news Town of Hingham DPW, Town of North Reading DPW. of opening, we do believe it will take a little more time for We look forward to negotiating strong contracts for all of the industry to get back into the swing of things. If you are our hardworking men and women in these communities. looking for work, I encourage you to visit our website: www. We have upcoming arbitrations in the City of Medford teamsterslocal25.com and click on the JOBS link. and City of Waltham, as well as several cases pending at the At UPS, Teamsters Local 25 members are still being NEAPGC UPS panels. expected to work at peak levels, many being forced to work In the Freight Division (YRCW- YRC, New Penn, six-day work weeks. As work hours at this level continue the Holland), on March 26, 2021, our members each received a injuries increase. We want to remind all members if you get “Union Bonus” in the amount of $177. This was a result of hurt at work, report it immediately. If UPS management the “two for one” provision put into the most recent tries to stop you from filing injury reports, contact your shop National Contract. The Company Executives received stewards and business agents. Remember even if you feel good bonuses in the amount of $1,672,916.67, therefore our enough to continue to work after getting hurt, you should Teamsters members shared $3,345,833.34. always file the report — it is your legal right to do so. In the Liquor Division, our members at MS Walker and In the Oil Division, the winter rush is slowing, but that Charles Gilman & Sons (Martignetti) are beginning their busy does not stop the long, hard hours - because our members in summer season, and working hard delivering to thousands the division all jump right into air conditioning season in the of liquor stores, restaurants and grocery stores across the state. Spring. The pandemic has not slowed this industry one bit, On March 18, we held a health fair at Martignetti, visiting and has even increased the workloads due to people being with our TeamstersCare Member Services and EAP staff. home more during the past year. At Global we were successful At UPS, we continue to settle thousands of hours of tri- in putting our dispatch group into the terminal operators’ ple time grievances for supervisors working. In April, we also contract, which means all six dispatchers will be getting close settled a National Panel case that resulted in the Company to $8-an-hour raises as soon as they transition, which must be creating two new full time 22.3 jobs in the Chelmsford facility. done by September 1, 2021. These dispatch members will also I wish you and your families an excellent summer! now receive Teamsters Health and Welfare at no cost to the member, and NE Teamsters pension fund contributions at the top rate. I want to thank all the members at Global for the continued solidarity; you sent a clear message to management Find us on social media! that you would walk if these changes did not happen. Proof that TOGETHER WE WIN, DIVIDED WE BEG!!!!! Teamsters Boston Send your contact In closing, the past year has been extremely tough for information to all our rank-and-file members, but once again, you all have @teamsters25 info@teamsterslocal25.com proven why the Teamsters is the #1 Union in the United and you’ll received important States. I want to personally thank you for your commitment @teamsters25 information from Local 25 to your crafts, and loyalty to Local 25. 2 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
Dedicated to Our Local Union Members Business Agent Business Agent Robert J. Aiguier, Jr. Jason A. Lopes I hope this report finds everybody I hope everyone and their families doing well, and your families happy are safe and healthy as we emerge and healthy. from the pandemic and return to Joint negotiations between Local some semblance of normalcy. 25 and UniteHere Local 26 Teamsters Local 25 members have at The Encore Boston Harbor continued to be on the frontlines Casino ended with a new Collective since day one of the pandemic, pro- Bargaining Agreement being overwhelmingly ratified 624 to viding essential products and services. I have never been more 10. It’s a two-year deal that includes 9% wage increases each proud to represent such a hardworking and dedicated group of year, union health care and many other benefits. This new members, who sacrifice and risk their own health and safety CBA will bring roughly 200 new members to Local 25. to serve the public. I commend you and thank you for your The members at InTerra Innovations also ratified a new efforts. For those of you that have lost family members, five-year deal that includes .50 per year wage increases, including the families of our hardworking brothers and sisters, pension is going from $1.25 to $1.50, and the company who unfortunately lost their battles with COVID-19, my heart- switched from the terrible but expensive, high deductible felt thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to all of you. company health plan to TeamstersCare. I’d like to thank On the negotiating front, we have now held 14 sessions Steward Carl Crimson for his help at the table. with the City of Cambridge, and have made substantial prog- Both of our Building Services companies, Emerald Green ress in several key areas. By the time this report hits your mail- and UG2, signed a one-year extension that includes a $.60 box, we are hoping to have an agreement in place. At UMass wage increase and maintains all other language and benefits. Boston and UMass Lowell, the state has finally released finan- We were successful in getting a new company, American cial parameters for 2020, 2021 and 2022, so these negotiations Cleaning, to sign on to this as well. can now move forward with the goal of reaching an agreement We’ve wrapped up negotiations with SP+. This is a new prior to the end of the fiscal year. Proposal meetings have been five-year deal. All employees will receive 3% wage increases held with the City of Cambridge E911 Supervisors and Public each year. We increased the pension contribution and accrual Works Supervisors bargaining units, with negotiations starting rate, maintained the cost of company health, maintained in early June for both groups. A one-year extension has been both pre-paid legal and the training fund, and we will increase reached with DiSilva Transportation which includes wage the minimum starting rate to $16.75 which has doubled the increases and maintenance of benefits on both the health & starting rate since we first organized in parking. Most impor- welfare and pension. tantly, we created a new “essential employee” article that will The American Red Cross national and local agreements require that the company negotiate wage increases for any will be expiring this fall; the two sides have had preliminary dis- employees deemed essential in the event of any future work cussions on an extension due to the restrictions on travel and stoppages by federal, state, city, or town governments. difficulty with negotiating a national agreement during a pan- The members at Marr Power Division unanimously rat- demic across 11 different international unions. We anticipate ified a new five-year deal that includes 100% company paid difficult negotiations if an extension can not be reached, up to health and welfare, pension accruals were maintained, new and including a national job action. Please keep an eye on our $250 safety bonus, and they’ll receive a $.75 wage increase social media platforms for updates on this situation. each of the five years. Steward Dan Swanton was instrumen- We currently have six cases filed for arbitration. One of tal in getting such a strong contract. these cases will be heard at the next SNEJAC panel against When parking in and around Boston, try to remember Manfi Leasing for non-payment of overtime on a grievance set- our brothers and sisters in the parking industry. Let them tlement. We have several AAA arbitrations filed including one know you’re a member of Local 25, and remember to tip with UMass Boston for an unjust suspension, two against the your valets! Current Local 25 parking companies are VPNE American Red Cross over the elimination of sick time banks in Parking Solutions, ProPark, SPplus Parking, and LAZ Park- violation of the MA State paid sick time law. Another AAA case ing. A map of Teamster Parking Facilities can be found on the is with Stop & Shop warehouse for unjust termination will be Local 25 website. heard in the first week of June and lastly a wrongful termina- As always, thank you to my stewards for your hard work tion with QCD/Golden State Foods is scheduled for late July. and dedication representing the members in the workplace We continue to see the toll of the pandemic hit our Ware- every day! Stay safe. house Division, with increased overtime and demand on our www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 3
Officers’ Reports brothers and sisters. Stop & Shop warehouse and Manfi Leas- Business Agent ing continue to see excessive overtime and being forced in on Joan C. Corey their days off. The Union was able to negotiate a third round of double time for all hours of overtime worked, as well as a Teamsters are standing united as $2.00 increase to the starting wage in an attempt to help fill the we navigate through new challenges 50 full time warehouse positions that remain open. There are in 2021. Now is the time to build also openings in the fleet maintenance department and class upon our Teamster foundation of A drivers with Manfi Leasing. These positions provide both tradition and strength and pride. Teamsters Health & welfare (fully company paid) and pension. Now is the time to prepare for At QCD (Starbucks Warehouse) in Canton, we have a powerful revitalization of the 20 warehouse openings as of publishing of this report. The American labor movement. starting wage is $18.04 per hour with company medical and Since my last report, I am very pleased to inform everyone Teamster pension. All of these openings are currently on the that we received a favorable arbitrator’s decision against the first shift (5am-1:30pm). The current short staffing is causing Town of Acton. There was not just cause to terminate the heavy overtime and forcing in on days off. The workforce in employee. Our brother was returned to his position as Dis- Canton has done a tremendous job of answering the bell and patcher with back pay, benefits and made whole. keeping Starbucks restaurants fully stocked amid the increased Contracts have been settled for the Transportation demands during the pandemic. Our drivers and helpers have Associates at East Boston Neighborhood Health Center. Our been volunteering for overtime on their days off to help out members ratified a three-year agreement with annual wage in the warehouse and also deserve an extra pat on the back for increases, in addition significant market scale adjustments their efforts. based on years of service, bonus payments and increase In the Movie Division, it is going to be a busy Summer in clothing allowance. Thank you to committee members and Fall season. We currently have five productions up and Arthur Gufling and Elhachm Khoubach. running, with several more scheduled for a start up in the Fall. Concord Highway and Grounds Members unanimously We will also be calling on our members, both in and out of the ratified a one-year extension agreement with annual increases division, to help with the push to eliminate the sunsetting of to wages, clothing, boot, and safety allowance increases. the MA state film incentive. We need to be vigilant in protect- We were able to secure long term language improvements ing high paying, quality middle class jobs in the movie industry including compensatory time, paid time for lunch and by reminding our politicians who are most important - the negotiation sessions, as well as improved vacation language, hardworking men and women of the Commonwealth, and allowing more flexibility and options during Winter months. most importantly those in Teamsters Local 25. Recently, we have resumed negotiations for a successor three- Our monthly blood drives at the Union Hall have been year agreement. Thank you to Steward Tish Hopkins and postponed until later in 2021 to assure the safety and health of Committee members Rich Hathaway, Tim Jones and our members, donors and volunteer retirees. Please continue Joe Gazarro. to support the Red Cross by calling and making an appoint- Next Step Healthcare Nursing Assistants ratified a suc- ment to donate blood at one of their many fixed donor sites cessor agreement including wage increases, realigned and throughout the state. Remember to thank an essential worker, whether they are cleaning streets and parks (City of Cambridge), delivering goods (Costa Fruit, Stop & Shop, Manfi Leasing, QCD), pro- tecting our streets (UMass Lowell PD, UMass Boston Lieuten- RAFT TIPS ants) or providing life-saving medical services (American Red If you drink because you want to, that’s your Cross, Cambridge E911). These members continue to provide business... If you drink because you have to, the services needed in order for us to overcome this devastating we’re willing to make it our business. pandemic. In closing, I’d like wish everyone a happy and safe Summer with your families, and congratulations to all of our scholarship winners. I wish you the best next year as you begin If you or someone you know needs help, your college journey. Teamsters Local 25 is here. Visit our website to learn more about RAFT meetings. 4 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
adjusted increases to steps, with no changes to health insur- members continuing to deliver goods and services to the ance. Thank you to Steward Nadine Alexander. community. Melrose School Administrators, which are Directors, Negotiations for ABC Supply just wrapped up, and the Assistant Principals, and Special Education Administrators. membership ratified the new five-year agreement unan- As of the writing of this report, we are close to reaching an imously. This agreement includes stronger language to agreement to bring back to the membership for a vote. protect our members and our work, wage increases of up to Negotiations continue with the City of Cambridge, $3.50 per hour, and we were able to freeze healthcare costs Winthrop and WCI. Proposal Meetings have been conducted throughout the term of agreement. We were able to add to and negotiations are underway for Town of Sudbury E911 the annuity, shortened the progression period. I would like Dispatchers, Town of Acton Public Safety Dispatchers, to thank Steward’s Kenny Wright and Greg West for their Town of Concord Public Safety Dispatchers, City of Woburn hard work on the members behalf. Department Heads and Professional Staff, Tewksbury We negotiated a new four-year agreement at Airgas School Administrators, Tewksbury School Nurses, Brookline Hingham. This is the first four-year agreement for the Public Safety Dispatchers, City of Boston: Steam and HVAC group, which includes wage increases, two more personal Engineers and Somerville Housing Police. holidays, increases in on call pay and added excused time off Covestro successfully completed the acquisition of DSM in to be counted towards overtime. They now have a guaranteed Wilmington on April 1. The collective bargaining agreement 40-hour work week and we were able to reduce healthcare expires June 30, and negotiations for a successor agreement costs. As I said earlier in my report, these negotiations can have started. not happen without the members; thank you also to Steward All airline and related businesses continue to be adversely Bob Farquharson. impacted. Air Canada temporarily closed six stations in the We have upcoming arbitrations at Republic Services. U.S. We anticipate some of our agents at Logan Airport will We have two terminated mechanics that we have filed for be recalled for June 1st. In January our members at Gate arbitration. We are in the process of selecting dates and Gourmet servicing the international flights were recalled and arbitrators. returned to work under the CARES ACTS. Gate Gourmet In our Solid Waste Division, the increased household has opened a second facility Boston, and we welcome our trash volume has not subsided. Our members are picking newest members who have been negotiated into the national up approximately 20-30% more trash than pre-pandemic. master agreement. They are the first Teamsters in the U.S to I want to thank the members for doing such a great job in provide catering services to Jet Blue. these times. In 2019, Local 25 was able to negotiate and On behalf of the entire Teamsters Local 25 Women’s increase the prevailing wages in 28 cities and towns mostly Committee, I want to thank all our sisters and brothers who done by non-union contractors. This was done to level the have supported our fundraising efforts and raised awareness playing field for our union contractors to bid the communi- for survivors of domestic violence through donations and ties. Boston Carting is the first of our contractors to win one participation in the HAWC Virtual Walk in May. of the towns, and they will begin to be the Town of Abington’s Thank you to all our brothers and sisters who are working contractor on July 1. There are multiple bids coming up, and extremely hard and truly stand out in the workforce. We are my hope is that Capitol Waste, Boston Carting, and Republic deeply appreciative to our stewards, committee members and Services are successful. to every member for standing together. Thank you to your fam- In the Airline Division, our issues with United continue. ilies for their support as we come together to build a stronger We have multiple cases filed for system board and the American labor movement for the generations to come. IBT and the company have started to schedule hearings. Throughout the United system there are hundreds of cases, and ours have not been scheduled to be heard as of yet. Business Agent In our Laundry Division, our members at Angelica Andrew P. Walsh Textiles, Crown Linen, and Aramark uniform have kept our medical profession supplied through the pandemic. Crown Brothers and sisters, I hope you Linen has closed its Rhode Island plant, and consolidated and your families are well. I think the work in our group in Brockton. The result of the merger is we are all happy to say goodbye we expect to receive three new routes. to 2020 and welcome in 2021. I In the Building Materials Division, we are seeing an increase am humbled at the efforts made to home remolding and commercial building. Arlington Coal, throughout this past year by our Waldo Bros, Beacon Sales, ABC Supply members have been working tirelessly to keep the job sites supplied. www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 5
Officers’ Reports In closing, I look forward to a better 2021. And as I have Lastly, I would like to thank the membership for their tre- said before when times got tough, you, the members, stood up mendous generosity during the Local 25 Toy Drive. It was an and made Local 25 proud. Thank you. extremely challenging year and the pandemic caused so much financial hardship for so many families. Many parents strug- gled with how to provide at the holidays but our members Field Representative came through huge. Together, Local 25 members dug deep, Michael C. Halley and we were able to raise over $175,000 in cash and toy dona- tions. This is the largest amount ever raised in the history of Since my last report, we have been the Teamsters Local 25 Toy Drive! able to negotiate and ratify agree- Special thanks to our members and stewards at UPS, Manfi, ments for both Boxford Police and and Stop & Shop, and everyone else who donated. This year’s newly organized National Express successful drive would not have been possible without our Safety Department. For our hard- leader, President Sean O’Brien, and our whole leadership working men and women working team: my co-chair Joe Conti, Billy Grubbs, Bobby McAllister, in the Teamsters Law Enforcement Greg Dodd and the Futures Committee. Thank you again. Division, our Boxford officers ratified a three-year agreement that includes annual wage increases, increases in educational pay, detail pay and an additional paid day off. Special thanks Field Representative to Steward and committee member Officer Kurt Anderson for his help in those negotiations. At National Express, after a Joseph F. Foti long fight to attain a first contract, the Safety Department was Since our last report, we were suc- able to ratify a five-year agreement, which will dramatically cessful in securing a first contract improve their working conditions there. This will include for Bradford Airport Logistics. first year correctional wage increases of $2-to $4-per-hour This group provides logistics and depending on seniority, as well as first time seniority based delivery services for Boston Logan job bidding, an increase in paid holidays, and Teamsters pen- Airport. The group saw significant sion. This contract was accomplished by the hard work and layoffs during 2020 due to the dedication of the committee: Walter Thomas, Rick Neil, and pandemic, but they are now slowly rebounding as availability Chief Steward Ricardo Acevado. of COVID-19 vaccinations and passenger travel confidence Committee member Walter Thomas, the force behind increases. The group agreed to a three-year deal, with wage the organizing drive, was unjustly terminated by the general increases, seniority rights, preferred job schedules, and safe manager in an attempt to intimidate the group and punish equipment language. him personally for exercising his right to organize his work- In the Moving & Storage Division, the members in six place. Local 25 fought back against this manager and com- companies unanimously ratified new five-year agreements. pany by filing a litany of labor charges with the NLRB against These members received significant wage increases, COVID- National Express. We were victorious and Walter Thomas 19 pandemic pay protections, new boot allowance, and was fully reinstated with full back pay, returning to the bar- language defining and protecting computer disconnect/ gaining table, and taking us over the finish line to gain that reconnect work for our members. Members also will see group’s first Teamster contract. Congratulations to this group improvements in vacation accrual language and contribution for staying strong in the fight. increases for pension, annuity, and health & welfare. I would We are also wrapping up negotiations for our drivers at like to thank the stewards on the negotiating committee, Vice The Boston Globe, Rohtsteins and another newly organized President Steve South, and President O’Brien, for making group, Randolph Transportation, and will be planning votes sure that these hard-working members continue to be the for all three of those groups. Negotiations are ongoing at highest paid in the industry. Transdev, St. Elizabeth’s and Mystic Island. We will begin At UPS in the Feeder Division, we went to arbitration in negotiations for custodians at Norwell Schools, and recently April for a case involving the company sending supervisors to organized Eastern Bus workers in Medford. customer locations to do work that we consider bargaining Through the Arbitration process we were successful in unit work. We expect a decision soon, and I look forward two cases of unjust terminations at National Express. Lemark to reporting on the results. We also put on cases at the New Nazairre, who was unjustly terminated for a minor traffic England Grievance panels for Sleeper Team grievances, and accident, was reinstated with full seniority and seven months two discharges cases in package and preload that resulted of full back pay, and Woodly Preval was reinstated with ten in one driver returned to work with over two weeks of back months of full back pay. pay claims. It should be no surprise to the members at UPS 6 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
that all their hard work during the height of the pandemic is during the pandemic, with the company failing to provide ade- now forgotten by the company. As members continue to be quate safety supplies. subjected to excessive overtime and forced work on weekends, In addition to our short-term organizing goals, we have they must also endure over-supervision, frivolous discipline, also been building our army for organizing our biggest threat and on road harassment. More members now opt into Article — Amazon. We have had four trainings with our volunteer 37 protection from excessive overtime and are being paid organizing committee, surveyed UPS to find contacts, and grievance settlements weekly for excessive overtime. Thank passed many resolutions in and around Boston to hold our you to the stewards and members who continue to enforce elected officials accountable when it comes to upholding the contract. community standards. During Business Agent John Murphy’s leave of absence, To some up our organizing for the first quarter of 2021, I have been assigned UPS Freight, UPS Cartage, and DHL. we’ve successfully organized two new companies, which I have met with the stewards and members in each group, consisted of three new bargaining units, and 267 new members. and I look forward to helping my friend and brother any Stay safe and have a great summer! way that I can. I wish him a speedy recovery and return to work. I would like to wish all our members a good and safe summer season spending time with family and friends. Teamsters Local 25 Movie Director of Organizing Division Members rally to save Chris Smolinsky the film tax credit After my last report, the organizing department sat down to outline our goals for 2021 and develop our plan for growth. After some strategy sessions and lengthy discussions, we decided to focus on two main goals for this upcoming year. The first is to organize in our core industries to capture more market share, which drives up bargaining power for our existing members. The second is to create a new industry for Local 25. We have begun executing this plan, and it has proven to be effective and fruitful. The school bus industry will be our core focus for 2021. At first glance, we identified 47 cities and towns in Local 25’s jurisdiction that have school buses operating as non-union or at On May 25, Teamsters least unidentified as being represented at this time. We had our Local 25 members joined first successful school bus campaign at Eastern Bus Medford, unions and advocates to which we won in mid-March, bringing in 43 new members. urge state legislators to These 43 new members were dealing with a multitude of issues keep the film tax credit in that lead them to unionization. In the end, it was the lack of respect and mistreatment from their manager that drove the place. Since its inception organizing drive. more than a decade ago, Our target for a new industry is WCI (work, community, 270 productions have independence). These workers are in-home direct care health filmed in over 225 cities and workers who take care of society’s most vulnerable people. towns, spending more than The residents in these homes have varying levels of disabilities, $2.8 billion in the state. that range from being deaf to traumatic brain injuries. WCI Teamsters Local 25 has led operates 49 different homes in and around Waltham, MA. the fight since the beginning I’m happy to report that WCI workers have won three consecutive elections for union representation with Local 25. and we will continue to The 228 newly organized members work across six different help grow the film and divisions. They faced incredibly unsafe working conditions television industry in MA. www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 7
Stewards Seminar Goes Virtual 145 Local 25 Stewards participate in half-day program A Teamsters Local 25 s we continue to work through the pandemic, Teamsters Local 25 stewards met virtually for the Stewards Seminar this year. More than 145 stewards joined presenters for a half-day program on April 10. ONLINE “Our leadership is only as good as those on the front-lines and that is you,” said Local 25 President Sean M. O’Brien. STEWARD “You don’t just carry the message; you help us craft the mes- sage that we bring to the membership. The union steward is SEMINAR often the first person a worker meets. You know the members in your workplace better than any of us. You represent Teamsters Local 25 to those workers.” ON ZOOM PLATFORM President Sean O'Brien speaks at the Steward Seminar, held “I’ve been a Teamster for 28 years, and steward for 15 on Zoom this years,” said Peter Alvarado, UPS East New England Feeders. year due to the “I walked away from the program with an even better under- pandemic standing of how the union is working during these tough times to protect our jobs and keep us safe.” Throughout the program a series of three videos played thanking Teamster essential workers. “Our essential workers have gone through so much these past 15 months it was Topics included national and regional organizing, the nice to recognize them during the seminar,” said Local 25 Paid Family Medical Leave Act and worker rights, political Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari. and strategic outreach, and overall union benefits. Presenters included newly named U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh, Boston City Councilor and Teamsters Local 25 endorsed “I walked away from the program with an candidate for Boston Mayor, Michelle Wu, Attorneys Michael Feinberg and Brian Cloherty, Ed Groden from New even better understanding of how the union England Teamsters Pension Fund, Dr. Carol Blanchard and Leslie Russell from TeamstersCare, Secretary-Treasurer Tom is working during these tough times to Mari, Brian Rainville from Teamsters Joint Council 10 New protect our jobs and keep us safe.” England, and Jim Donovan, Chris Smolinsky and Greg Dodd from the union. — Peter Alvarado, UPS East New England Feeders “Work can feel overwhelming at times, especially the last year during the pandemic,” said Nancy Campbell, steward at Cambridge 911. “I have missed meeting in person with Local The program closed with a tribute to everyone who 25 stewards and other members. Hearing from President has supported the Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala through O’Brien and all of the other presenters helped me set goals of the years. how I can continue to use my role as a steward in the work- “I hope this morning gave you the resources to better do place to better help my colleagues.” your job,” concluded O’Brien. “Seeing all of you take time “Meeting in person remains our top priority,” O’Brien away from your family, and time away from your weekend, continued. “But until it is deemed safe to do so, the virtual is truly inspiring. I know that I am leaving this session more platform offers a way for us to come together to share ideas engaged than ever. Thank you for all that you do for Teamsters and make sure that all of you are informed.” Local 25.” 8 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
Left, top: Jimmy Donovan and Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari Middle: Jimmy Donovan, Greg Dodd, Attorney Mike Feinberg Bottom: Leslie Russell fist bumps Attorney Brian Cloherty Right, top: Boston mayoral candidate Michelle Wu addresses delegates Middle: Dr. Carol Blanchard Bottom: President Sean O’Brien Teamsters Local 25 STEWARDS SEMINAR SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2021 www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 9
Teamsters Local 25 Presents 29 Scholarships Students receive $2,000 scholarships to further their education 29 students – all from Teamsters Local 25 families – Emma Walsh, a Local 25 member that works at UPS - were honored at the May16 General Membership Chelmsford, made history as the first scholarship recipient Meeting. The students all graduated from high that is also a member. Congratulations to Emma who will school this spring and will attend college this fall. attend UMASS Dartmouth this fall. In a year that has taken so many milestone memories The raffle included three laptops donated by Sea Change from high school seniors, it was nice to be able to celebrate Systems and Staples gift cards donated by the Local 25 together and applaud their good work. The proud parents Futures Committee. and honorees heard from President Sean O’Brien and Boston Seven companies sponsored scholarships. Thank you to City Councilor Michelle Wu before the formal presentations DBR Group, Inc., a Hilb Group Company, Feinberg, Dumont took place. & Brennan, Keches Law Group, Planned Strategies, Regan President O’Brien challenged the graduates to do good Associates Chartered, Regan Communications Group and and to never forget where they came from. “Make certain the Teamsters Local 25 Retiree Chapter. that you give back to your community,” O’Brien said. “If you become a CEO, make sure you treat the janitor just as good as you treat the CFO. There were times your parents sacrificed their own happiness for yours. You are a product of the greatest organization in the world.” “You are all amazing,” Councilor Wu began by telling the recipients. “This is going to be one more step in an incredible future. I have a sense of how hard you all have worked and look forward to seeing everything that you are going to do in the future.” Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari, Councilor Michelle Wu, Ramana Venkatakrishman, Akshay and Manjula Ramana, President Sean O’Brien Vice President/BA Steve South, Councilor Michelle Wu, Robert, Emma and Angela Walsh, President Sean O’Brien Field Rep. Joe Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Leslie, Colin and Joseph Mahoney, President Sean O’Brien 10 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
BA Jason Lopes, Councilor Michelle Wu, Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari, Councilor Business Agent Robert Aiguier, Councilor Alisha and Johnny Gonzales, President Michelle Wu, Viviana Genao-Sosa, Michelle Wu, Judy, Lilia and Peter Martin, Sean O’Brien Briana Alvarez, President Sean O’Brien President Sean O’Brien Field Rep. Joe Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Will, Brady and Patty BA Jason Lopes, Boaz Levin, Brian Sullivan, Councilor Michelle Wu, Leslie, George Regan, President Sean O’Brien Jennifer, Ethan and William Beaulieu, President Sean O’Brien Kevin Harrington, Councilor Michelle Wu, Ellen, Frank, Olivia and Frank Field Rep. Joe Foti, Michele Councilor Michelle Wu, Richard, Olivia, Dawson, President Sean O’Brien Nicholas and Cathy Marquis, President Sean O’Brien Field Rep. Joe Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari, Councilor Michelle Wu, Field Rep. Joe Foti, Councilor Michelle Timothy and Elizabeth Cashman, Mike O’Brien, Olivia and Noreen Dennett, President Wu, Anthony, Alyssa and Michelle Toppi, President Sean O’Brien Sean O’Brien President Sean O’Brien www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 11
BA Jason Lopes, Councilor Michelle Wu, Joseph and Angelina Councilor Michelle Wu, Field Rep. Peter Alvarado, Sec.-Treas. Mari, Bairos, Mike Feinberg, Christine Bairos, President Sean O’Brien Cindy, Michael and Courtney Casey, President Sean O’Brien Field Rep. Joe Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Carol, Grady and BA Joan Corey, Councilor Michelle Wu, Tayla, Michael, Cheryl and Edward Ellis, President Sean O’Brien Vanessa Kenny, President Sean O’Brien BA Andy Walsh, Councilor Michelle Wu, Alessandro, Maria, Field Rep. Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Carrie, Philip and Frank Kirby, Madison and Nicole Possamai, President Sean O’Brien President Sean O’Brien Paul Desrosier, Councilor Michelle Wu, Kevin, Gavin and Anne Marie Vice President/BA Steve South, Councilor Michelle Wu, Gabriella, Kelly, President Sean O’Brien Rebecca and Dennis Cronin, President Sean O’Brien 12 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com
2021 Teamsters Local 25 Field Rep. Foti, Councilor Michelle Wu, Deborah, Memorial Scholarship Awards Halle and Brian McGrail, President Sean O’Brien Briana Alvarez Philip Kirby Akshay Ramana Kevin F. Harrington, Sr. Daughter of Viviana Genao-Sosa Son of Frank Kirby Son of Manjula Ramana Scholarship Award Massport UPS - Chelmsford TeamstersCare Stoughton Olivia Dawson Graduate of Kipp Academy Lynn Graduate of Central Catholic Graduate of Newton South Daughter of Frank Dawson, Jr. Collegiate High School High School Stop & Shop Distribution Center Attending Suffolk University Attending Unites States Coast Guard Attending Bentley University Graduate of Joseph Case High School Academy Attending Fisher College Courtney Casey Tsion Tedla Daughter of Michael Casey Colin Mahoney Daughter of Abraham Tedla Francis Ciccarelli Memorial UPS - Norwood Son of Joseph Mahoney SP Plus Parking Scholarship Award Graduate of Melrose High School UPS - Norwood Graduate of Cambridge Rindge & Attending Saint Anselm College Graduate of Oliver Ames High School Latin School Grady Ellis Attending UMASS Amherst Attending Boston University Son of Edward Ellis Gabriella Cronin UPS - Norwood Daughter of Dennis Cronin Nicholas Marquis Alyssa Toppi Graduate of Franklin High School UPS - Chelmsford Son of Richard Marquis Daughter of Anthony Toppi Attending UMASS Amherst Graduate of Clinton High School DHL Express UPS - Watertown Attending Curry College Graduate of North Middlesex Graduate of Wakefield Memorial DBR Group, Inc. Scholarship Regional High School High School Award Olivia Dennett Attending Middlesex Community Attending American University Gavin Kelly Daughter of William Dennett (Deceased) College Son of Ann Marie Kelly Massport Emma Walsh Local 25 Office Graduate of Wilmington High School Lilia Martin UPS - Chelmsford Graduate of Malden Catholic Attending Providence College Daughter of Peter Martin Graduate of Chelmsford High School Attending Bunker Hill Community Aggregate Industries Attending UMASS Dartmouth College Alisha Gonzales Graduate of Wakefield Memorial Daughter of Johnny Gonzales High School Feinberg, Dumont & Brennan Regan Communications Group Stop & Shop Distribution Center Attending The American University Scholarship Award Scholarship Award Graduate of BMC Durfee High School of Rome Angelina Bairos Brady Leslie Attending Massachusetts Institute of Daughter of Joseph Bairos Son of Will Leslie Technology Halle McGrail Movie Division UPS - Norwood Daughter of Deborah McGrail Graduate of Lincoln High School Graduate of Braintree High School Catherine Hammond DHL Express Attending Rhode Island College Attending Massachusetts Maritime Daughter of Robert Hammond Graduate of Windham High School Academy Admiral Metals Attending UMASS Amherst George Rodrigues Memorial Graduate of Cushing Academy Scholarship Award Teamsters Local 25 Group Legal Attending Salem State University Angela Melin Daughter of Steven Melin Ethan Beaulieu Service Plan Scholarship Award Era Haxhimali UPS - Chelmsford Son of William Beaulieu Ian Wright Daughter of Edmond Haxhimali Graduate of Burlington High School Stop & Shop Distribution Center Son of Richard Wright UPS - Logan Attending UMASS Amherst Graduate of BMC Durfee High School UPS - Watertown Graduate of Somerville High School Attending UMASS Dartmouth Graduate of Belmont High School Attending Worcester Polytechnic James Murphy Attending Worcester Polytechnic Institute Son of Christine Murphy Joseph C. Conlon Memorial Institute UPS - Norwood Scholarship Award Michael Kenny Graduate of Xaverian Brothers Elizabeth Cashman Teamsters Local 25 Retiree Son of Cheryl Kenny High School Daughter of Timothy Cashman Chapter Scholarship Award Saugus Police Department Attending Middlebury College UPS - Watertown Clara Anderson Graduate of Saugus High School Graduate of West Bridgewater Granddaughter of Roy Anderson Attending Harvard College Madison Possamai High School Retired, Mystic Island Transport Daughter of Alessandro Possamai Attending Salem State University Graduate of Middleborough Romanow Container High School Graduate of Bridgewater-Raynham Attending University of Delaware Greg Dodd speaks with an Jerry (Doobie) Leary early votes Regional High School Amazon worker. at Fenway Park. Attending Wheaton College www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 13
Teamsters Local 25 Autism Fund Announces Grants 11 organizations awarded more than $350,000 D espite there being no Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala in 2020 or 2021, the Local 25 Autism Fund was still able to give out $350,000 in grants this year. “It was exactly one year ago tonight when we made the difficult decision to postpone the 13th annual Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala,” Teamsters Local 25 President Sean M. O’Brien told grantees, sponsors and supporters during a virtual awards announcement. “Despite having no event and other challenges posed by the pandemic, I am happy that we have been able to fund our grantees again this year. The Teamsters Local 25 Autism Gala will be back stronger than ever and our mission will never slow down.” The Teamsters Local 25 Gala for Autism is rescheduled for January 8, 2022 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. Above, in center: Larry More than 75 people joined together on zoom for the special Cancro, Boston Red Sox and Autism Speaks announcement. Congratulations to the 2021 Autism Grant Recipients: Boston Higashi School..........................................................$100,000 Melmark New England...........................................................$75,000 McLean Hospital.......................................................................$75,000 Autism Speaks New England................................................$25,000 Above: President Sean O’Brien Braintree Challenger League................................................$15,000 welcomed more than 75 guests Mark Fidrych Foundation........................................................$10,000 virtually for the grant announcement District 12 Challenger League...............................................$10,000 At right: Mike Kelly, Boston Higashi Jason Roberts Challenger League.......................................$10,000 School Medford Invitational Tournament........................................$10,000 Special Townies Organization..............................................$10,000 Stoneham Light It Up Blue......................................................$10,000 Thank you to all of the Sponsors, including platinum sponsors: SAVE THE DATE! Gala for Autism Saturday, January 8, 2022 Boston Convention and Exhibition Center *All tickets previously purchased will be honored * 14 | The SPOKESMAN | SPRING 2021 | www.teamsterslocal25.com www.teamsterslocal25autism.com
Workers’ Memorial Day Remembrance Held April 28 UPS Member Marc Gautreau’s name added to the Memorial Stone W orkers’ Memorial Day April 28 marked another solemn milestone as Teamsters Local 25 held a virtual program for the second consecutive year honoring workers who have lost their lives on the job. It served as a stark reminder of the lives lost to COVID-19 and its impact on essential frontline workers, Top right: Billy Grubbs including Teamster members. The observance was high- lowers the United States lighted by a poignant moment honoring the life and career of flag during the ceremony longtime UPS Teamsters Local 25 member Marc Gautreau. Top: Gregg Dodd and This year’s ceremony also marked the 50th anniversary Secretary-Treasurer of the OSHA Act. The law ensures every worker the right to a Tom Mari safe job. The virtual program included remarks from Secretary- Left: Trustee John Treasurer Tom Mari, speaking on behalf of President Juszkiewicz, III O’Brien, who was out of town. Greg Dodd, Chairman of the Bottom: The Memorial Futures Committee, read the official International Brother- Stone hood of Teamsters statement. A bagpiper played Amazing Grace to close the ceremony while the United States flag was lowered by Retiree Billy Grubbs and Kevin Kelleher. Marc Gautreau’s name was added to the Memorial Stone that sits in front of the union hall. A longtime member of Local 25, Gautreau was killed October 3, 2019, after injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident while at work delivering for UPS. He was 51-years-old and a 17-year Teamster UPS member. He began as a UPS package sorter and worked his way up to a package carrier. “Marc’s name is now engraved on the Teamsters Local 25 Memorial Stone, joining other Teamsters Local 25 workers that have died on the job,” said Secretary-Treasurer Tom Mari. “The memorial stone stands tall as a tribute to these workers, but also as a call to action to never forget their sacrifices. People like Marc are the reason we fight – and will continue to fight – for better and safer working conditions.” Later in the day, Teamsters Local 25 Trustee and Workers' Memorial Day Committee Co-Chair, John Joseph Juszkiewicz, III, represented Local 25 at the MassCOSH Workers' Memorial Day tribute at the Massachusetts State House. www.teamsterslocal25.com | SPRING 2021 | The SPOKESMAN | 15
Board of Trustees Teamsters Union 25 Highlighting the TeamstersCare Dental Office in Stoughton Health Services & Insurance Plan Sean M. O’Brien Union Co-Chairman The TeamstersCare Dental office, located at 1214 Park Street in Stoughton, MA, has been open since February 1, Thomas G. Mari 1999. We are proud to report that our very first patient, Douglas K, still receives his dental care at our facility. Union Trustee Dr. Laurie Dylis Murphy, who manages and practices at the Stoughton office, is also the Dental Director Steven J. South overseeing all three TeamstersCare Dental Offices. Dr. Dylis Murphy began her career with TeamstersCare in Union Trustee 1996 as a dentist at the Charlestown location. Dr. Elena Jordache joined the Stoughton staff in 2009, and Dr. John A. Murphy Manjula Ramana in 2011. Union Trustee Rounding out the talented Michael Shaughnessy staff at the Stoughton Employer Co-Chairman dental office are three hygienists and six dental Michael A. Rico Employer Trustee assistants. Dental hygienists are: Marissa Bialek, Jessica Jason Paradis Davis, and Helen Regan, Employer Trustee who recently retired and has been helping out John W. White Employer Trustee part-time until our new hygienist starts. Dental assistants are: Carolyn Blanchette, Ashley Donohoe, Louna Mahotiere, Heather Pavao, and Brooke Rego. Janice White was the dental assistant/receptionist from 2001 until her recent retirement in January 2021. Janice will be dearly missed by staff and patients alike. TeamstersCare dental offices have digital technology for x-rays, computerized appointments and patient records, intra-oral cameras, and the ability to e-prescribe medication when necessary. Please be assured that all TeamstersCare dental offices are following the most recent CDC/OSHA/ADA and MDS guidelines to serve you and your family safely during the COVID pandemic. Our patients have noticed some important changes at all of our offices. We are asking you some pre-appointment screening questions, taking your temperature when you arrive, and staff is wearing full PPE for everyone’s safety. At this time we’re asking patients to arrive no earlier than 5 to 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment. You must wear your mask while in the office, until advised by the staff that you may remove it so that your dental procedure can begin. Your safety and the safety of all of our patients and staff is very important to us – thank you for your cooperation.
Top-notch care and TeamstersCare big savings… Directory Charlestown Offices 16 Sever St. Charlestown, MA 02129 TeamstersCare members and their families can receive expert, personalized • Administration care by fellow Teamsters at our In-House Clinical Offices in Charlestown, • Audiology • Dental Chelmsford and Stoughton. In the next few Spokesman publications, we • Member Services plan to highlight different ways that you can tackle many of your family’s Local Tel: 617-241-9220 health care needs at a fraction of the cost you would spend elsewhere. Within MA: 800-442-9939 Out of State: 800-225-6135 Dental: Proper dental health is very important for your overall Fax: 617-241-8168 health, and no one does it better than the dedicated providers at our Charlestown Pharmacy three TeamstersCare Dental Offices. Covered members and their 552 Main St. families are eligible to receive a variety of preventive dental services Charlestown, MA 02129 at no cost. The offices provide many routine dental care services for Local Tel: 617-241-9024 a $5 or $10 TeamsterShare payment per visit. Toll Free: 800-235-0760 Fax: 617-241-5025 TeamstersCare DENTAL - 3 convenient locations - Call for an appointment Stoughton Pharmacy • 16 Sever Street, Charlestown ~ (617) 241-9220 ext. 1 1214 Park St. • 1214 Park Street, Stoughton ~ (781) 297-7360 Stoughton, MA 02072 Tel: 781-297-9764 • 4 Meeting House Road, Chelmsford ~ (978) 256-9728 Fax: 781-297-9370 TeamstersCare Dental Blue Provider – Stoughton Dental Office Service/Procedure Dental Fee Your Average Cost 1214 Park St. Stoughton, MA 02072 6 month dental checkup including dental cleaning, No charge $69 Tel: 781-297-7360 annual bitewing X-rays, and doctor exam Toll Free: 877-326-1999 Fax: 781-297-7830 Partial or Complete set of Dentures $50 $684 - $846 ($10 per appointment, 5 appointments required) Chelmsford Dental Office 4 Meeting House Rd. Composite Restoration $5 $42 - $75 Chelmsford, MA 01824 (White filling: 1-4 tooth surfaces) Tel: 978-256-9728 Toll Free: 800-258-2111 Deep Scaling per Quadrant or Section of Mouth No charge $77- $308 Fax: 978-256-9846 (fee is per visit) EAP Office Simple Extraction of a Tooth $10 $42 16 Sever St. Charlestown, MA 02129 Root Canal Therapy on a Front Tooth (fee is per visit) $10 $250 24-hour Toll Free Tel: 800-851-8326 Mouth Guard to Protect Teeth from Grinding $10 $100 Fax: 781-321-6501 Sealants (fee is per visit) $5 $15 - $60 Take advantage of the TeamstersCare clinical in-house services offered to you at the hands of our own dedicated healthcare professionals. We hope to see you soon!
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