Golden Lodge News January 2011
Content
Volume 58, No. 1
January 2011
No resolution yet in amount of back pay for grievance win Joe Hoagland President
In the February, 2010 issue of Golden Lodge News, I wrote about the arbitration decision concerning supervision and salary personnel performing bargaining unit work . Although we prevailed in that dispute, there is yet no resolution to this matter. In a letter dated March 12, 2010, the Company laid out its calculations for hours, or fractions thereof, for the occupations and processes that were involved.
Going back to May, 2009, the Company raised the issue of a work-stoppage and informed me that our members would be compelled to train salaried employees in the operation of equipment. Maybe if they had stuck with that plan, it would not have taken so much time to produce the scrapped products. But as the Company supervision made the decision to self-train, they took full responsibility for the outcome. If it took them an inordinate amount of time to melt, roll, or
pierce etc., maybe they were not properly trained. We may never know. I raise this issue because a large part of the resolution to this grievance is the amount of time spent by supervisory/salary personnel doing bargaining unit work – not how long it would have taken us to get the same result. In a letter to the Company dated June 30, 2010, we stated our opinion on the calculation of hours, and also requested the crew designations from each area that would have been working in the various operations. At the time of this writing, we have received no response. (Continued on Page 2)
Their idea was to base the number of hours required, by occupation, using qualified bargaining employees in their occupations. Those hours would would have been multiplied by the appropriate labor grades, including incentive. The Company also suggested that we should decide the proper distribution distributi on of back pay to employees in the affected occupations. We do not agree.
There are many passenger car and truck tires made in the U.S.A by Steelworkers. Be sure to check the DOT code on the tires with the list on Page 5 to make sure you are buying a genuine, USW union-made product. (USW photo/Steve Dietz)
...President’s Column (Continued from Page 1)
Melt Production Payment due in March for everyone We have received the official monthly operation levels from the Company for the month of December. For the Harrison and Faircrest facilities combined, the production was 133,813 equivalent ingot tons. At Gambrinus, the number reflects 24,699 total pierced tons. According to our calculations, the 133,813 equivalent ingot tons produced gives us a monthly average of 122,790 tons for 2010. This triggers the Melt Production Payment. This Melt Production Payment for an average of 120,000 to 130,000 tons per
month entitles each employee to a lump sum payment of 2 percent of his/her total wages paid for hours worked during the year (3 percent for a 130,000 ton average). The payment will be paid on the first pay period in March, 2011. The details of this payment can be found in Article V, Section O, Pages B-52 and B-53 of the 2009 Basic Labor Agreement.
Stewards transferring? If you are a Shop Steward and have been transferred on a permanent basis to another department, please call the union hall to update your information. We must inform the Company so that you are recognized as a steward in your new department. The union hall’s phone number is: (330) 454-6137.
GOLDEN LODGE NEWS GOLDEN LODGE NEWS STAFF Tom Sponhour, Editor Joe Hoagland, Managing Editor Ron Roberts, Associate Editor Chris Tunney, Associate Editor
LOCAL 1123 OFFICERS Joe Hoagland, President Dan Ellington, Vice President Pat Eslich, Recording Secretary Joey Shearer, Financial Secretary Kathy Boyd, Treasurer James Schweitzer, Trustee Susie Camper, Trustee Keith Strobelt, Trustee Paul McKenzie, Guide Bill Webler, Outside Guard Bob Seward, Inside Guard Published monthly, except July, by the United Steelworkers, Golden Lodge Local 1123, AFL-CIO, in the interest of its members and to further the aims and programs of the Union. USW Local 1123 represents bargaining unit workers at the Canton, Gambrinus, and Faircrest plants of The Timken Company. USW Golden Lodge Local 1123 1234 Harrison Ave. S.W. Canton, OH 44706 (330) 454-6137 Fax (330) 454-3461 Email - [email protected]
February 2 Regular Union Meeting 7:30 p.m.
February 9 Stewards Classes 9: 00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.
February 15 Deadline for substitute vacation choice dates “Congress must not attempt to balance the budget on the backs of working families and retirees.” That’s the message delive red by USW Secretary-Treasurer Stan Johnson to an event held in the lobby of Steelworkers Headquarters on the eve of the final report outlining recommendations from the National Commission on Fiscal Reform and Responsibility to reduce our nation’s long term deficit.
2
February 16 Regular Union Meeting 9: 00 a.m.
January 2011
Want to file a grievance? Here’s how: By Ron Roberts, Chairman FSP Grievance Committee
Golden Lodge members may find themselves wanting to file a grievance but are unfamiliar with the procedure. The grievance process is progressive and intended to work out problems between the union and Company.
Step 2 • A meeting will be scheduled (off the clock) within five calendar days of turning in the papers. • Attending this meeting will be the grievant, steward, grievance committee member and two representatives of the Company.
The local union president and the grievance committee make recommendations whether to appeal. Many grievances are not appealed.
Step 4 - Arbitration • If the grievance is appealed to Step 4, an arbitrator is selected by mutual agreement of both parties. • The arbitrator will set the date of the arbitration hearing within 90 days.
• The meeting is an attempt to resolve the grievance.
• At the arbitration hearing, either party can call witnesses and submit documentation.
• The Company will give its written Step 2 answer to the grievant and steward within five calendar days of the meeting.
• Both parties have a two week period after the arbitration hearing to file briefs in support of their argument.
· A Union member with a complaint may discuss the problem with his supervisor. He or she must be off the clock. The member should have Union representation by either a Steward or Grievance Committee member from the proper division. (HSP, GSP, etc.)
• The grievant must bring the written answer to the Union Hall ASAP. There is a short window of time to appeal to the next step.
• Within 30 days of receiving the briefs, the arbitrator gives his decision.
• The supervisor then has five days (not counting weekends and holidays) to answer the complaint.
• A meeting (off the clock) will be held within 15 calendar days.
The contract language can be difficult to read because it is a legal document. Here is a condensed overview:
Step 1
• If not satisfied with the answer, the member may ask for grievance papers. Again, off the clock and with union representation. • The member takes the papers to the Union Hall and has them filled out by the President. • The Union Hall will give the member a sheet of instructions to follow. These are important. • The Union member takes the papers back to work and gives them to the supervisor. This is the appeal to go to the next step. January 2011
• Not all Step 2 answers are appealed to Step 3.
Step 3
• Attending the meeting will be the grievant, a representative of the International Union, the local union president, the division grievance committee and a Company representative. • Minutes of these meetings are recorded by transcription. • This is a formal attempt to resolve the grievance. • The Company will give its Step 3 answer to the International Union Representative within 10 calendar days. • The International Representative can appeal to the next step.
• Arbitration decisions are final and binding. This outline does not contain every variable that comes into play during the grievance procedure but is intended to familiarize our members with the process. Grievances are an important means of protecting our rights as Union members. They also serve as a basis for future negotiations. The best way to illustrate to the Company that there is a problem is to show them grievances filed. The stewards, grievance committee members and union leadership rely on the membership for support. If you have a question about a grievance - talk to them. They are your representatives and will gladly assist you. 3
Now more than ever: Buy union-made
The UAW’s 2011 Vehicle Buying Guide In the market for a new car or truck? Or, do you just need new tires for your current vehicle? Listed below is the information needed to make sure you buy union-made. The vehicles listed are made in the United States or Canada by members of the UAW and Canadian Auto Workers (CAW). Because of the integration of United States and Canadian vehicle production, all the vehicles listed that are made in Canada include significant UAW-made content and support the jobs of UAW members. However, those marked with an asterisk (*) are produced in the United States and another country. The light-duty (LD) crew cab versions of the vehicles marked with a double asterisk (**) are manufactured only in Mexico; other models are made in the United States. When purchasing one of these models, check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A VIN beginning with “1,” “4” or “5” identifies a U.S.-made vehicle; “2” identifies a Canadian-made vehicle.
UAW CARS
UAW SUVs/CUVs
CAW CARS
Buick Lacrosse Buick Lucerne Cadillac CTS Cadillac DTS Cadillac STS Chevrolet Corvette Chevrolet Cruze Chevrolet Malibu Chevrolet Volt Chrysler Sebring Dodge Avenger Dodge Caliber Dodge Viper Ford Focus Ford Mustang Ford Taurus Lincoln MKS Mazda6 Mitsubishi Eclipse Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Mitsubishi Galant
Buick Enclave Cadillac Escalade ESV Cadillac Escalade/Hybrid Chevrolet Suburban Chevrolet Tahoe /Hybrid Chevrolet Traverse Dodge Durango Dodge Nitro Ford Escape/Hybrid Ford Expedition Ford Explorer Ford Explorer Sport Trac GMC Acadia GMC Yukon/Hybrid Jeep Compass Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep Liberty Jeep Patriot Jeep Wrangler Lincoln Navigator Mazda Tribute/Hybrid Mercury Mariner/Hybrid Mercury Mountaineer Mitsubishi Endeavor
Chevrolet Camaro Chevrolet Impala Chrysler 300 Dodge Challenger Dodge Charger Ford Crown Victoria Lincoln Town Car Mercury Grand Marquis
UAW TRUCKS Chevrolet Colorado Chevrolet Silverado** Dodge Dakota Dodge Ram Pickup* Ford F Series Ford Ranger GMC Canyon GMC Sierra** Mazda B-series
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UAW VANS Chevrolet Express Ford Econoline GMC Savana
CAW VANS Chrysler Town & Country Dodge Grand Caravan Volkswagen Routan
CAW SUVs/CUVs Chevrolet Equinox Ford Edge Ford Flex GMC Terrain Lincoln MKT Lincoln MKX
Buy USW-made tires You’ve taken great care to make sure you’ve got a genuine union-made vehicle. So why not go the extra mile and make sure you’ve got unionmade tires underneath that unionmade ride? Quality, union-made tires in the United States and Canada are made by our brother and sister United Steelworkers. The U.S. Department of Transportation requires that all tires sold in the United States carry a code which shows, among other things, the company and plant that January 2011
made the tire. The code looks something like this: DOT BE XX XXX XXX The two symbols (either two letters or a letter and a number) which follow “DOT” indicate the company and the plant where a tire was manufactured. For example, the above code BE indicates a tire made by B. F. Goodrich in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Below is a list of all unionized tire plants in the United States and Canada and their DOT codes. By comparing this list to the code on the tire you are buying, you can be certain you are getting a genuine union-made tire. In addition to company brands, these codes will also appear on “Associate Brand” and “Private Brand” tires manufactured at the above plants. The key, then, to being sure of getting a USW-made tire is the DOT code. Be sure and check it with the list. Union-made tires on union-built vehicles. DOT CODES B. F. Goodrich:
BE, BF Bridgestone/Firestone:
VE, YE, YU, 8B, 2M, 3M, D2, E3, W1, Y7, 2C, 4D, 5D Cooper:
UP, UT Denman Tire:
DY Dunlop:
DA Goodyear:
JE, JJ, JN, JT, JU, MC, MJ, MK, MD, PC,PT, PU, PY, TA, UK Kelly-Springfield:
JF, MM, PJ Yokohama Tire:
CC January 2011
The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Works The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company was or ganized in St. Louis in 1899. As the need to increase production developed, the St. Louis site became unsatisfactory because of its distance from the steel market, the high freight rates, delays in getting material and its distance from the centers of automobile production. In 1901, five lots in Canton on the west side of Dueber Avenue running north from Bridge Street (now the 20th St. gate) were purchased and in the fall, the first office-plant building was constructed. It opened on December 2 with 40 employees. In its first year, it produced 100,000 bearings. (The following editorial appeared in a Canton business publication in November, 1901, following the building of the office-plant.
One of the latest (and by no means the least important) additions to the Canton industrial world, during the year just closing, is The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company, whose works are located on Bridge street, just opposite the shops of the Cleveland Axle Manufacturing Company, of whose product they are a heavy consumer. While the Timken plant appe ars modest in size, it is fitted throughout with the very best and finest machinery and appliances for its especial requirements, and gives employment to 50 experienced workmen. The number of employees will be increased as occasion requires, and double this number are expec ted to be employed within a few months. The company’s specialty is the manufacture of roller bearing axles for all kinds of vehicles, including street cars and other heavy carriers. Some of the machines required in the production of these axles weigh eight or nine tons, while others are but 250 pounds in weight. The machinery has not all been assembled as yet, still the investment in this line has reached the handsome figure of $70,000. The engraving presen ted herewith gives a very good general view of the Timken plant. The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company is officered as follows: Henry Timken, president; H. H. Timken, vice president; William Timken, treasurer; J. D. Alsup, general man ager. Most of these gentlemen will become residents of this city, although suitable residences have been hard to procure. The Messrs. Timken come from St. Louis, while Mr. Alsup hails from Middletown, Ohio, where he had entire supervision of the manufacture of the specialty now being produced here. This manufactory adds one more to the great diversity of Canton products, and the new plant and its people have received a hearty welcome from the local business and social world. -Reprinted from the TIMKEN magazine Volume 19, Number 4
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SOAR NOTES
I.W. Abel Chapter 1/27
Report says young adults are ‘Too Fat to Fight’ By Jim Reed
On Veterans’ Day, America paid tribute to thousands of young volunteers who enlist to serve their country. However, a sorrowful note accompanied the yearly celebration. An organization called “Mission Readiness” issued a report titled “Too Fat to Fight”. It said: The Defense Department estimates that 75% of young adults cannot join the military due to various disqualifying factors. Weight problems are the leading medical reason why young adults cannot join. More than 100 retired Generals and Admirals signed the report, which calls on Congress to crackdown on junk food in schools, and require more exercise. The Senate has responded by passing the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, a bipartisan bill that will ensure food provided to kids in school will be healthy. I say “BRAVO”. Congress should take all steps possible to help our youth gain fitness. Now, if we can only get them from in front of the TV, computer and cell
Just a Thought Be good to your kids, they choose your rest home! 6
weather, we would try a different approach. If the city schools cancel school because of bad weather on the day of our meeting, we will also cancel our meeting. Eleven lucky winners went
home with a beautiful Poinsettia given as door prizes.
phones, and exercise a little, it would help.
Those celebrating birthdays in December: John Schaar; Bob
While watching a little league baseball game, the batter hit a ground ball toward the second baseman. He tried to bend over to field the ball, but could not! He watched it as it went between his legs into the outfield.
Wiley; Mary Jane Baguers; Bob Givins; Ruth Hayhurst; Dale Vicki; and Pauline Barkley.
I felt sorry for the boy, but I must admit, he was obese for his age. It can only lead to health issues in life.
AT OUR SOAR MEETING We had our Annual Christmas Dinner, and had a great turnout, plus, with a fine program everyone seemed to enjoy. The choir from Massillon Washington High School entertained the group. They are more than just a choir. They are a group of singers and dancers who performed a variety of show tunes, as well as, Christmas music. After their last song, they left the stage and came into the audience, shook hands and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. I must say, they were a fine group of young people that you could be proud of. President Holmes announced that since WHBC no
longer does public service announcements, and we could not let our members know if a meeting would be canceled due to bad
Anniversaries: Bob and Mary
Wiley; 58 years. Get Well Wishes: Lewis Bea-
ver, a long-time member, is recuperating after a few trips to the hospital. The last trip they implanted a pacemaker. We hope they got that old ticker regulated at last! Deaths: We were sorry to hear
that Cromer Weekley passed away. He had been ill for some time. Heard his wife enjoyed coming to our SOAR meetings. We had the pleasure of a few
guests that attended: Joe Hoagland, President of Golden Lodge; Willie Moore, Coordinator of SOAR for District 1; Jacque Miller; Mary Jane Baguers; and Linda Essinger. A collection was taken for the
Canton Ex-Newsboys Association. On their behalf, I want to thank everyone.
FEBRUARY LUNCHEON MENU Beef Tips/Noodles Carrots Apple Sauce Cake/Coffee January 2011
HARLEY E. MARTIN, Dept. 183, 636 Edgewood, S.W., Massillon, passed away January 3, 2011. Brother Martin joined the Union in 1946 and retired in 1987. WENDELL H. HUMES, Dept. 13, 5651 Louisville Street, Louisville, passed away January 3, 2011. Brother Humes joined the Union in 1946 and retired in 1975.
The following members of Golden Lodge have passed away and Bibles have been presented to their families. RAYMOND C. BOOTH, Dept. 60, 5810 Bosford, S.W., Canton, passed away November 4, 2010. Brother Booth joined the Union in 1973 and retired in 2003. ALBERT SCHWITZGEBEL, Dept. 68, 900 Miles Avenue, N.W., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Brother Schwitzgebel joined the Union in 1948 and retired in 1978. EDWIN C. PARKS, JR., Dept. 120, 5350 Ridge, S.E., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Brother Parks joined the Union in 1955 and retired in 1984. ALMA ROSE SHANNON, Dept. 81, 1615 17th Street, S.W., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Sister Shannon joined the Union in 1969 and retired in 2000. ADDIE D. NEECE, Dept. 12, 4224 Sherer Road, S.W., Canton, passed away December 13, 2010. Brother Neece joined the Union in 1944 and retired in 1981. JOSEPH A. ROSS, Dept. 750, P.O. Box 203, Malvern, passed away December 14, 2010. Brother Ross joined the Union in 1964 and retired in 1994. JAMES B. CARMICHAEL , Dept. 754, passed away December 16, 2010. Brother Carmichael joined the Union in 1969 and retired in 1999. WARDELL M. SUMPTER, JR., Dept. 71, 2091 Cloveridge Avenue, S.E., East Canton, passed away December 16, 2010. Brother Sumpter joined the Union in 1956 and retired in 1997. HERBERT L. DeLANCEY, Dept. 73, 1218 Washington St., S.W., Sherrodsville, passed away December 29, 2010. Brother DeLancey joined the Union in 1956 and retired in 1990. WILLIAM B. BROWNING, Dept. 750, 1366 Overland St., N.E., North Canton, passed away December 29, 2010. Brother Browning joined the Union in 1949 and retired in 1991. THOMAS ROY AMMOND, Dept. 133, 2284 Ashley River Road #206, Charleston, SC, passed away December 30, 2010. Brother Ammond joined the Union in 1971 and retired in 2001. JAMES LEE JENKINS, Dept. 94, 411 Girard Avenue, S.E., Canton, passed away December 31, 2010. Brother Jenkins joined the Union in 1973 and retired in 2004.
January 2011
CHESTER C. STEIN, Dept. 188, 4365 Gooding Road, S.W., Canton, passed away January 5, 2011. Brother Stein joined the Union in 1941 and retired in 1971.
Recent Retirees Golden Lodge congratulates the following members who have recently retired and will now enjoy their union-negotiated retiree pension and healthcare benefits. Scott E. Aguredakes Wayne C. Harless Michael D. Mayle Wade A. Radabaugh Paul E. Rusher Garry L. Webster
December 1 Meeting
Dale Jones Joe Wallace *John Posan **Bill Meyers **Bob Seward December 15 Meeting
Chuck Morris Andy Schneider ***Terry Bressler ***Scott Jacob ****Lum Keenan *Donated to USW Local 5000 **Donated to the USO ***Donated to the Salvation Army ****Donated to Meals on Wheels
...Crackdown (Continued from Page 8) STEVEN GREENHOUSE:
So, many states face large budget deficits, and we’re seeing two different strategies by governors and legislators. One is trying to get, you know, public sector unions to agree to wage freezes or to agree to less expensive pensions. Now, with Republicans capturing many, many state houses last November, we’re seeing another thing, where Republican governors - John Kasich in Ohio, Scott Walker in Wisconsin they’re really taking aim at the unions, not just to get them to trim wages, but to really try to weaken them. And they’re trying to push through real institutional, structural changes that will weaken unions long term. And in Ohio, Kasich is really going to war against the unions. You know, as we just saw, he wants to take away the right to bargain for child care workers and home care workers and end binding arbitration and end teachers’ right to strike. And I interviewed a professor at Ohio State, who said, “Well, if you don’t give public employees the right to strike, you absolutely should give them binding arbitration, to try to maintain some modicum of fairness in the system, because if you can’t strike and you don’t get arbitration, management could really squeeze unions very hard.” (This article is taken from a daily TV/radio news program on the web at: DemocracyNOW.org. It airs on over 900 stations and is hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.) 7
Crackdown on organized labor: States call for wage & benefits cuts Ohio Gov. John Kasich: ‘We need to break the back of organized labor in schools.’ In states across the country, elected officials and right-wing pundits are calling not just for cuts to wages and benefits in the name of austerity, but even proposing laws to undermine labor unions’ influence, and in fact, their very existence. New census figures released recently show state revenues declined by nearly 31 percent in 2009, a $1.1 trillion loss. Underperforming investments by state pension funds and declining tax revenues were cited as the primary causes for the falling revenues. Nicholas Johnson, director of the State Fiscal Project at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told the Washington Post that next year will mark, quote, “the most difficult budget year for states ever.” A recent study by the group found that 40 states have projected budget gaps totaling $113 billion for next year. Forty-six states have raised taxes and made deep cuts to close a combined budget gap of $130 billion. In his first “State of the State address” the newly inaugurated governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, declared a fiscal crisis. Pledging to make New York “a business-friendly state,” Cuomo ruled out additional borrowing to pay down the deficit and called for a one-year freeze on public sector wages. 8
.
GOV. ANDREW CUOMO:
We have to start with an emergency financial plan to stabilize our finances. We need to hold the line, and we need to institute a wage freeze in the state of New York. We need to hold the line on taxes. We need a state spending cap. And we need to close this $10 billion gap without any borrowing.
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JUAN GONZALEZ: A num-
ber of other states are facing even greater threats to the public sector. The Ohio governor-elect, John Kasich, wants to ban teachers’ strikes and prevent child care and home care workers from unionizing. Kasich discussed his views on striking and binding arbitration last month. ne
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the right to strike of any public employee, OK? That’s my personal philosophy. How practical that is to implement - you know, but my personal philosophy is I don’t like public employees striking. OK? I mean, they’ve got good jobs. They’ve got high pay. They’ve got good benefits, a great retirement.
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of changes, but binding arbitration is not acceptable. You are forcing increased taxes on taxpayers, with them having no say, by people who are - come from a faraway place that have no accountability to the taxpayers.
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sure I’m clear, you do not think police and fire, emergency services, should have the right to strike.
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What are they striking for? Steven Greenhouse, is the labor and workplace reporter for the New York Times. This week he wrote a piece for the New York Times that begins, “Faced with growing budget deficits and restive taxpayers, elected officials from Maine to Alabama, Ohio to Arizona, are pushing new legislation to limit the power of labor unions, particularly those representing government workers, in collective bargaining and politics.” He was asked about this attack on especially public sector unions and workers. (Continued on Page 7) January 2011
January 2011
No resolution yet in amount of back pay for grievance win Joe Hoagland President
In the February, 2010 issue of Golden Lodge News, I wrote about the arbitration decision concerning supervision and salary personnel performing bargaining unit work . Although we prevailed in that dispute, there is yet no resolution to this matter. In a letter dated March 12, 2010, the Company laid out its calculations for hours, or fractions thereof, for the occupations and processes that were involved.
Going back to May, 2009, the Company raised the issue of a work-stoppage and informed me that our members would be compelled to train salaried employees in the operation of equipment. Maybe if they had stuck with that plan, it would not have taken so much time to produce the scrapped products. But as the Company supervision made the decision to self-train, they took full responsibility for the outcome. If it took them an inordinate amount of time to melt, roll, or
pierce etc., maybe they were not properly trained. We may never know. I raise this issue because a large part of the resolution to this grievance is the amount of time spent by supervisory/salary personnel doing bargaining unit work – not how long it would have taken us to get the same result. In a letter to the Company dated June 30, 2010, we stated our opinion on the calculation of hours, and also requested the crew designations from each area that would have been working in the various operations. At the time of this writing, we have received no response. (Continued on Page 2)
Their idea was to base the number of hours required, by occupation, using qualified bargaining employees in their occupations. Those hours would would have been multiplied by the appropriate labor grades, including incentive. The Company also suggested that we should decide the proper distribution distributi on of back pay to employees in the affected occupations. We do not agree.
There are many passenger car and truck tires made in the U.S.A by Steelworkers. Be sure to check the DOT code on the tires with the list on Page 5 to make sure you are buying a genuine, USW union-made product. (USW photo/Steve Dietz)
...President’s Column (Continued from Page 1)
Melt Production Payment due in March for everyone We have received the official monthly operation levels from the Company for the month of December. For the Harrison and Faircrest facilities combined, the production was 133,813 equivalent ingot tons. At Gambrinus, the number reflects 24,699 total pierced tons. According to our calculations, the 133,813 equivalent ingot tons produced gives us a monthly average of 122,790 tons for 2010. This triggers the Melt Production Payment. This Melt Production Payment for an average of 120,000 to 130,000 tons per
month entitles each employee to a lump sum payment of 2 percent of his/her total wages paid for hours worked during the year (3 percent for a 130,000 ton average). The payment will be paid on the first pay period in March, 2011. The details of this payment can be found in Article V, Section O, Pages B-52 and B-53 of the 2009 Basic Labor Agreement.
Stewards transferring? If you are a Shop Steward and have been transferred on a permanent basis to another department, please call the union hall to update your information. We must inform the Company so that you are recognized as a steward in your new department. The union hall’s phone number is: (330) 454-6137.
GOLDEN LODGE NEWS GOLDEN LODGE NEWS STAFF Tom Sponhour, Editor Joe Hoagland, Managing Editor Ron Roberts, Associate Editor Chris Tunney, Associate Editor
LOCAL 1123 OFFICERS Joe Hoagland, President Dan Ellington, Vice President Pat Eslich, Recording Secretary Joey Shearer, Financial Secretary Kathy Boyd, Treasurer James Schweitzer, Trustee Susie Camper, Trustee Keith Strobelt, Trustee Paul McKenzie, Guide Bill Webler, Outside Guard Bob Seward, Inside Guard Published monthly, except July, by the United Steelworkers, Golden Lodge Local 1123, AFL-CIO, in the interest of its members and to further the aims and programs of the Union. USW Local 1123 represents bargaining unit workers at the Canton, Gambrinus, and Faircrest plants of The Timken Company. USW Golden Lodge Local 1123 1234 Harrison Ave. S.W. Canton, OH 44706 (330) 454-6137 Fax (330) 454-3461 Email - [email protected]
February 2 Regular Union Meeting 7:30 p.m.
February 9 Stewards Classes 9: 00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.
February 15 Deadline for substitute vacation choice dates “Congress must not attempt to balance the budget on the backs of working families and retirees.” That’s the message delive red by USW Secretary-Treasurer Stan Johnson to an event held in the lobby of Steelworkers Headquarters on the eve of the final report outlining recommendations from the National Commission on Fiscal Reform and Responsibility to reduce our nation’s long term deficit.
2
February 16 Regular Union Meeting 9: 00 a.m.
January 2011
Want to file a grievance? Here’s how: By Ron Roberts, Chairman FSP Grievance Committee
Golden Lodge members may find themselves wanting to file a grievance but are unfamiliar with the procedure. The grievance process is progressive and intended to work out problems between the union and Company.
Step 2 • A meeting will be scheduled (off the clock) within five calendar days of turning in the papers. • Attending this meeting will be the grievant, steward, grievance committee member and two representatives of the Company.
The local union president and the grievance committee make recommendations whether to appeal. Many grievances are not appealed.
Step 4 - Arbitration • If the grievance is appealed to Step 4, an arbitrator is selected by mutual agreement of both parties. • The arbitrator will set the date of the arbitration hearing within 90 days.
• The meeting is an attempt to resolve the grievance.
• At the arbitration hearing, either party can call witnesses and submit documentation.
• The Company will give its written Step 2 answer to the grievant and steward within five calendar days of the meeting.
• Both parties have a two week period after the arbitration hearing to file briefs in support of their argument.
· A Union member with a complaint may discuss the problem with his supervisor. He or she must be off the clock. The member should have Union representation by either a Steward or Grievance Committee member from the proper division. (HSP, GSP, etc.)
• The grievant must bring the written answer to the Union Hall ASAP. There is a short window of time to appeal to the next step.
• Within 30 days of receiving the briefs, the arbitrator gives his decision.
• The supervisor then has five days (not counting weekends and holidays) to answer the complaint.
• A meeting (off the clock) will be held within 15 calendar days.
The contract language can be difficult to read because it is a legal document. Here is a condensed overview:
Step 1
• If not satisfied with the answer, the member may ask for grievance papers. Again, off the clock and with union representation. • The member takes the papers to the Union Hall and has them filled out by the President. • The Union Hall will give the member a sheet of instructions to follow. These are important. • The Union member takes the papers back to work and gives them to the supervisor. This is the appeal to go to the next step. January 2011
• Not all Step 2 answers are appealed to Step 3.
Step 3
• Attending the meeting will be the grievant, a representative of the International Union, the local union president, the division grievance committee and a Company representative. • Minutes of these meetings are recorded by transcription. • This is a formal attempt to resolve the grievance. • The Company will give its Step 3 answer to the International Union Representative within 10 calendar days. • The International Representative can appeal to the next step.
• Arbitration decisions are final and binding. This outline does not contain every variable that comes into play during the grievance procedure but is intended to familiarize our members with the process. Grievances are an important means of protecting our rights as Union members. They also serve as a basis for future negotiations. The best way to illustrate to the Company that there is a problem is to show them grievances filed. The stewards, grievance committee members and union leadership rely on the membership for support. If you have a question about a grievance - talk to them. They are your representatives and will gladly assist you. 3
Now more than ever: Buy union-made
The UAW’s 2011 Vehicle Buying Guide In the market for a new car or truck? Or, do you just need new tires for your current vehicle? Listed below is the information needed to make sure you buy union-made. The vehicles listed are made in the United States or Canada by members of the UAW and Canadian Auto Workers (CAW). Because of the integration of United States and Canadian vehicle production, all the vehicles listed that are made in Canada include significant UAW-made content and support the jobs of UAW members. However, those marked with an asterisk (*) are produced in the United States and another country. The light-duty (LD) crew cab versions of the vehicles marked with a double asterisk (**) are manufactured only in Mexico; other models are made in the United States. When purchasing one of these models, check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A VIN beginning with “1,” “4” or “5” identifies a U.S.-made vehicle; “2” identifies a Canadian-made vehicle.
UAW CARS
UAW SUVs/CUVs
CAW CARS
Buick Lacrosse Buick Lucerne Cadillac CTS Cadillac DTS Cadillac STS Chevrolet Corvette Chevrolet Cruze Chevrolet Malibu Chevrolet Volt Chrysler Sebring Dodge Avenger Dodge Caliber Dodge Viper Ford Focus Ford Mustang Ford Taurus Lincoln MKS Mazda6 Mitsubishi Eclipse Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Mitsubishi Galant
Buick Enclave Cadillac Escalade ESV Cadillac Escalade/Hybrid Chevrolet Suburban Chevrolet Tahoe /Hybrid Chevrolet Traverse Dodge Durango Dodge Nitro Ford Escape/Hybrid Ford Expedition Ford Explorer Ford Explorer Sport Trac GMC Acadia GMC Yukon/Hybrid Jeep Compass Jeep Grand Cherokee Jeep Liberty Jeep Patriot Jeep Wrangler Lincoln Navigator Mazda Tribute/Hybrid Mercury Mariner/Hybrid Mercury Mountaineer Mitsubishi Endeavor
Chevrolet Camaro Chevrolet Impala Chrysler 300 Dodge Challenger Dodge Charger Ford Crown Victoria Lincoln Town Car Mercury Grand Marquis
UAW TRUCKS Chevrolet Colorado Chevrolet Silverado** Dodge Dakota Dodge Ram Pickup* Ford F Series Ford Ranger GMC Canyon GMC Sierra** Mazda B-series
4
UAW VANS Chevrolet Express Ford Econoline GMC Savana
CAW VANS Chrysler Town & Country Dodge Grand Caravan Volkswagen Routan
CAW SUVs/CUVs Chevrolet Equinox Ford Edge Ford Flex GMC Terrain Lincoln MKT Lincoln MKX
Buy USW-made tires You’ve taken great care to make sure you’ve got a genuine union-made vehicle. So why not go the extra mile and make sure you’ve got unionmade tires underneath that unionmade ride? Quality, union-made tires in the United States and Canada are made by our brother and sister United Steelworkers. The U.S. Department of Transportation requires that all tires sold in the United States carry a code which shows, among other things, the company and plant that January 2011
made the tire. The code looks something like this: DOT BE XX XXX XXX The two symbols (either two letters or a letter and a number) which follow “DOT” indicate the company and the plant where a tire was manufactured. For example, the above code BE indicates a tire made by B. F. Goodrich in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Below is a list of all unionized tire plants in the United States and Canada and their DOT codes. By comparing this list to the code on the tire you are buying, you can be certain you are getting a genuine union-made tire. In addition to company brands, these codes will also appear on “Associate Brand” and “Private Brand” tires manufactured at the above plants. The key, then, to being sure of getting a USW-made tire is the DOT code. Be sure and check it with the list. Union-made tires on union-built vehicles. DOT CODES B. F. Goodrich:
BE, BF Bridgestone/Firestone:
VE, YE, YU, 8B, 2M, 3M, D2, E3, W1, Y7, 2C, 4D, 5D Cooper:
UP, UT Denman Tire:
DY Dunlop:
DA Goodyear:
JE, JJ, JN, JT, JU, MC, MJ, MK, MD, PC,PT, PU, PY, TA, UK Kelly-Springfield:
JF, MM, PJ Yokohama Tire:
CC January 2011
The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Works The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company was or ganized in St. Louis in 1899. As the need to increase production developed, the St. Louis site became unsatisfactory because of its distance from the steel market, the high freight rates, delays in getting material and its distance from the centers of automobile production. In 1901, five lots in Canton on the west side of Dueber Avenue running north from Bridge Street (now the 20th St. gate) were purchased and in the fall, the first office-plant building was constructed. It opened on December 2 with 40 employees. In its first year, it produced 100,000 bearings. (The following editorial appeared in a Canton business publication in November, 1901, following the building of the office-plant.
One of the latest (and by no means the least important) additions to the Canton industrial world, during the year just closing, is The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company, whose works are located on Bridge street, just opposite the shops of the Cleveland Axle Manufacturing Company, of whose product they are a heavy consumer. While the Timken plant appe ars modest in size, it is fitted throughout with the very best and finest machinery and appliances for its especial requirements, and gives employment to 50 experienced workmen. The number of employees will be increased as occasion requires, and double this number are expec ted to be employed within a few months. The company’s specialty is the manufacture of roller bearing axles for all kinds of vehicles, including street cars and other heavy carriers. Some of the machines required in the production of these axles weigh eight or nine tons, while others are but 250 pounds in weight. The machinery has not all been assembled as yet, still the investment in this line has reached the handsome figure of $70,000. The engraving presen ted herewith gives a very good general view of the Timken plant. The Timken Roller Bearing Axle Company is officered as follows: Henry Timken, president; H. H. Timken, vice president; William Timken, treasurer; J. D. Alsup, general man ager. Most of these gentlemen will become residents of this city, although suitable residences have been hard to procure. The Messrs. Timken come from St. Louis, while Mr. Alsup hails from Middletown, Ohio, where he had entire supervision of the manufacture of the specialty now being produced here. This manufactory adds one more to the great diversity of Canton products, and the new plant and its people have received a hearty welcome from the local business and social world. -Reprinted from the TIMKEN magazine Volume 19, Number 4
5
SOAR NOTES
I.W. Abel Chapter 1/27
Report says young adults are ‘Too Fat to Fight’ By Jim Reed
On Veterans’ Day, America paid tribute to thousands of young volunteers who enlist to serve their country. However, a sorrowful note accompanied the yearly celebration. An organization called “Mission Readiness” issued a report titled “Too Fat to Fight”. It said: The Defense Department estimates that 75% of young adults cannot join the military due to various disqualifying factors. Weight problems are the leading medical reason why young adults cannot join. More than 100 retired Generals and Admirals signed the report, which calls on Congress to crackdown on junk food in schools, and require more exercise. The Senate has responded by passing the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, a bipartisan bill that will ensure food provided to kids in school will be healthy. I say “BRAVO”. Congress should take all steps possible to help our youth gain fitness. Now, if we can only get them from in front of the TV, computer and cell
Just a Thought Be good to your kids, they choose your rest home! 6
weather, we would try a different approach. If the city schools cancel school because of bad weather on the day of our meeting, we will also cancel our meeting. Eleven lucky winners went
home with a beautiful Poinsettia given as door prizes.
phones, and exercise a little, it would help.
Those celebrating birthdays in December: John Schaar; Bob
While watching a little league baseball game, the batter hit a ground ball toward the second baseman. He tried to bend over to field the ball, but could not! He watched it as it went between his legs into the outfield.
Wiley; Mary Jane Baguers; Bob Givins; Ruth Hayhurst; Dale Vicki; and Pauline Barkley.
I felt sorry for the boy, but I must admit, he was obese for his age. It can only lead to health issues in life.
AT OUR SOAR MEETING We had our Annual Christmas Dinner, and had a great turnout, plus, with a fine program everyone seemed to enjoy. The choir from Massillon Washington High School entertained the group. They are more than just a choir. They are a group of singers and dancers who performed a variety of show tunes, as well as, Christmas music. After their last song, they left the stage and came into the audience, shook hands and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. I must say, they were a fine group of young people that you could be proud of. President Holmes announced that since WHBC no
longer does public service announcements, and we could not let our members know if a meeting would be canceled due to bad
Anniversaries: Bob and Mary
Wiley; 58 years. Get Well Wishes: Lewis Bea-
ver, a long-time member, is recuperating after a few trips to the hospital. The last trip they implanted a pacemaker. We hope they got that old ticker regulated at last! Deaths: We were sorry to hear
that Cromer Weekley passed away. He had been ill for some time. Heard his wife enjoyed coming to our SOAR meetings. We had the pleasure of a few
guests that attended: Joe Hoagland, President of Golden Lodge; Willie Moore, Coordinator of SOAR for District 1; Jacque Miller; Mary Jane Baguers; and Linda Essinger. A collection was taken for the
Canton Ex-Newsboys Association. On their behalf, I want to thank everyone.
FEBRUARY LUNCHEON MENU Beef Tips/Noodles Carrots Apple Sauce Cake/Coffee January 2011
HARLEY E. MARTIN, Dept. 183, 636 Edgewood, S.W., Massillon, passed away January 3, 2011. Brother Martin joined the Union in 1946 and retired in 1987. WENDELL H. HUMES, Dept. 13, 5651 Louisville Street, Louisville, passed away January 3, 2011. Brother Humes joined the Union in 1946 and retired in 1975.
The following members of Golden Lodge have passed away and Bibles have been presented to their families. RAYMOND C. BOOTH, Dept. 60, 5810 Bosford, S.W., Canton, passed away November 4, 2010. Brother Booth joined the Union in 1973 and retired in 2003. ALBERT SCHWITZGEBEL, Dept. 68, 900 Miles Avenue, N.W., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Brother Schwitzgebel joined the Union in 1948 and retired in 1978. EDWIN C. PARKS, JR., Dept. 120, 5350 Ridge, S.E., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Brother Parks joined the Union in 1955 and retired in 1984. ALMA ROSE SHANNON, Dept. 81, 1615 17th Street, S.W., Canton, passed away December 8, 2010. Sister Shannon joined the Union in 1969 and retired in 2000. ADDIE D. NEECE, Dept. 12, 4224 Sherer Road, S.W., Canton, passed away December 13, 2010. Brother Neece joined the Union in 1944 and retired in 1981. JOSEPH A. ROSS, Dept. 750, P.O. Box 203, Malvern, passed away December 14, 2010. Brother Ross joined the Union in 1964 and retired in 1994. JAMES B. CARMICHAEL , Dept. 754, passed away December 16, 2010. Brother Carmichael joined the Union in 1969 and retired in 1999. WARDELL M. SUMPTER, JR., Dept. 71, 2091 Cloveridge Avenue, S.E., East Canton, passed away December 16, 2010. Brother Sumpter joined the Union in 1956 and retired in 1997. HERBERT L. DeLANCEY, Dept. 73, 1218 Washington St., S.W., Sherrodsville, passed away December 29, 2010. Brother DeLancey joined the Union in 1956 and retired in 1990. WILLIAM B. BROWNING, Dept. 750, 1366 Overland St., N.E., North Canton, passed away December 29, 2010. Brother Browning joined the Union in 1949 and retired in 1991. THOMAS ROY AMMOND, Dept. 133, 2284 Ashley River Road #206, Charleston, SC, passed away December 30, 2010. Brother Ammond joined the Union in 1971 and retired in 2001. JAMES LEE JENKINS, Dept. 94, 411 Girard Avenue, S.E., Canton, passed away December 31, 2010. Brother Jenkins joined the Union in 1973 and retired in 2004.
January 2011
CHESTER C. STEIN, Dept. 188, 4365 Gooding Road, S.W., Canton, passed away January 5, 2011. Brother Stein joined the Union in 1941 and retired in 1971.
Recent Retirees Golden Lodge congratulates the following members who have recently retired and will now enjoy their union-negotiated retiree pension and healthcare benefits. Scott E. Aguredakes Wayne C. Harless Michael D. Mayle Wade A. Radabaugh Paul E. Rusher Garry L. Webster
December 1 Meeting
Dale Jones Joe Wallace *John Posan **Bill Meyers **Bob Seward December 15 Meeting
Chuck Morris Andy Schneider ***Terry Bressler ***Scott Jacob ****Lum Keenan *Donated to USW Local 5000 **Donated to the USO ***Donated to the Salvation Army ****Donated to Meals on Wheels
...Crackdown (Continued from Page 8) STEVEN GREENHOUSE:
So, many states face large budget deficits, and we’re seeing two different strategies by governors and legislators. One is trying to get, you know, public sector unions to agree to wage freezes or to agree to less expensive pensions. Now, with Republicans capturing many, many state houses last November, we’re seeing another thing, where Republican governors - John Kasich in Ohio, Scott Walker in Wisconsin they’re really taking aim at the unions, not just to get them to trim wages, but to really try to weaken them. And they’re trying to push through real institutional, structural changes that will weaken unions long term. And in Ohio, Kasich is really going to war against the unions. You know, as we just saw, he wants to take away the right to bargain for child care workers and home care workers and end binding arbitration and end teachers’ right to strike. And I interviewed a professor at Ohio State, who said, “Well, if you don’t give public employees the right to strike, you absolutely should give them binding arbitration, to try to maintain some modicum of fairness in the system, because if you can’t strike and you don’t get arbitration, management could really squeeze unions very hard.” (This article is taken from a daily TV/radio news program on the web at: DemocracyNOW.org. It airs on over 900 stations and is hosted by Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez.) 7
Crackdown on organized labor: States call for wage & benefits cuts Ohio Gov. John Kasich: ‘We need to break the back of organized labor in schools.’ In states across the country, elected officials and right-wing pundits are calling not just for cuts to wages and benefits in the name of austerity, but even proposing laws to undermine labor unions’ influence, and in fact, their very existence. New census figures released recently show state revenues declined by nearly 31 percent in 2009, a $1.1 trillion loss. Underperforming investments by state pension funds and declining tax revenues were cited as the primary causes for the falling revenues. Nicholas Johnson, director of the State Fiscal Project at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told the Washington Post that next year will mark, quote, “the most difficult budget year for states ever.” A recent study by the group found that 40 states have projected budget gaps totaling $113 billion for next year. Forty-six states have raised taxes and made deep cuts to close a combined budget gap of $130 billion. In his first “State of the State address” the newly inaugurated governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, declared a fiscal crisis. Pledging to make New York “a business-friendly state,” Cuomo ruled out additional borrowing to pay down the deficit and called for a one-year freeze on public sector wages. 8
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GOV. ANDREW CUOMO:
We have to start with an emergency financial plan to stabilize our finances. We need to hold the line, and we need to institute a wage freeze in the state of New York. We need to hold the line on taxes. We need a state spending cap. And we need to close this $10 billion gap without any borrowing.
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JUAN GONZALEZ: A num-
ber of other states are facing even greater threats to the public sector. The Ohio governor-elect, John Kasich, wants to ban teachers’ strikes and prevent child care and home care workers from unionizing. Kasich discussed his views on striking and binding arbitration last month. ne
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the right to strike of any public employee, OK? That’s my personal philosophy. How practical that is to implement - you know, but my personal philosophy is I don’t like public employees striking. OK? I mean, they’ve got good jobs. They’ve got high pay. They’ve got good benefits, a great retirement.
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of changes, but binding arbitration is not acceptable. You are forcing increased taxes on taxpayers, with them having no say, by people who are - come from a faraway place that have no accountability to the taxpayers.
KASICH: I really don’t favor
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sure I’m clear, you do not think police and fire, emergency services, should have the right to strike.
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GOV.-ELECT JOHN KASICH: We ’ll come up with a series
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What are they striking for? Steven Greenhouse, is the labor and workplace reporter for the New York Times. This week he wrote a piece for the New York Times that begins, “Faced with growing budget deficits and restive taxpayers, elected officials from Maine to Alabama, Ohio to Arizona, are pushing new legislation to limit the power of labor unions, particularly those representing government workers, in collective bargaining and politics.” He was asked about this attack on especially public sector unions and workers. (Continued on Page 7) January 2011
