November 2009 Labor’s Views 

Service awards to members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America for the month of November were presented to: 

            Victor Gumbs             40 yrs.

            Patrick Roark               40 yrs.

            James Christina            35 yrs.

            Laudalino Tavares            35 yrs.

            Thomas Leone               30 yrs.

Congratulations! 

At this month’s Union meeting, the Local will be addressing by-law proposals which everyone should have received in the mail.  We will also take any proposed changes from the floor at this meeting.  One of the issues to be addressed is our monthly dues. 

Reminder:  If you received a layoff notice, it is my recommendation that you seek any medical procedures you need before your insurance runs out at the end of that month. 

You should also be aware that, if you have any floaters saved, you should use them before your last day of work.  Otherwise, you will not receive payment for them.  If you have not received your safety shoes, you should get them before your last day of work. 

The United Way recently kicked off its annual fundraising campaign.  For those members who are in a situation to increase their contributions, I’m sure that is deeply appreciated.  For those members who are being laid off, I’d like you to be aware that the United Way is a resource for food, home heating oil in the winter months, dental care, and other services.  Don’t hesitate to take advantage of what the United Way offers if you are in need, or if you know someone who is in need.  A contact number is (860) 464-7281. 

In the month of November, we have three paid holidays which our Union negotiated.  I would like to mention that a lot of work places do not pay their employees for these holidays.  When you give thanks on Thanksgiving, I hope that you are appreciative of this negotiated benefit.  When we celebrate Veteran’s Day on November 11, we should think about the sacrifices of the many veterans who serve our country.  I believe that I speak for everyone when I say that we are grateful for their service and appreciate what they do for this country on a daily basis.  We should keep veterans in our thoughts not only on this holiday but everyday. 

Last month I wrote in my article that swine flu shots would be available to employees in the shipyard.  It has been brought to my attention that that was incorrect information, and swine flu shots will not be available to us in the shipyard. 

Next year will be a slow year for our work load.  Hopefully we will get road work in other shipyards.   There is a chance that some work may come our way dismanteling  models in 16-J. 

Last year we signed our contract in November, and we received our 3 ½% raise.  Our next raise is actually 13 months from the date of signing that contract.   A 4% raise will go into effect Dec. 20, 2009.