Colin T. Rehrig pleaded guilty to stealing more than $30,000 from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters
By Tracy Jordan, OF THE MORNING CALL
A Carbon County man working as a bookkeeper for a local carpenters union embezzled an estimated $30,483 over four years from the organization, according to federal authorities.
Colin T. Rehrig, 68, of Mahoning Township, pleaded guilty in federal court Monday to taking the money from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local Union 600 of Bethlehem between September 2004 and September 2008.
Rehrig was charged in an information filed March 30. The two-page document says Rehrig's job duties included writing payroll checks, including his own, from a bank account from which he stole the money.
Rehrig faces a possible sentence of up to five years imprisonment, three years supervised release, a $250,000 fine and a $100 court fee. Sentencing is set for Sept. 27. He is free on a $10,000 recognizance bond.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Feds nail carpenters labor union employee for embezzlement
385 building projects get fast green light
New city program to eliminate red tape in construction project approval process results in 52% jump in productivity; $262 million jolt of economic activity seen.
By Amanda Fung
The city Department of Buildings said Tuesday that 385 construction projects were approved last month under a new pilot program designed to speed up the process. In fact, the agency calculated that courtesy of the new program, 52% more construction projects were approved per hour compared to the traditional approval process.
The program dubbed “Get It Done. Together.” took place over 16 nights in May. At these sessions, Department of Buildings' five borough commissioners and representatives from six city agencies met with property owners, licensed architects and/or engineers and filing representatives to resolve project plans and examine projects for approval, a process that is usually complex and burdensome because it involves approvals from multiple agencies acting separately. The 385 approved projects are expected to generate $262 million worth of economic activity.
“More construction projects means more jobs, and that's what this new program is quickly accomplishing,” said Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri, in a statement. “By bringing these government agencies together into one room for the first time, we've stripped away the typical back-and-forth that can serve as a roadblock for any construction project, and we're working closely with developers and designers so their construction projects can start as soon as possible.”
Sunday, June 12, 2011
The “Dockbuilders”
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| Charlie Harkin awarded Christmas "bonuses: to select board members. |
The below excerpt was taken from the second semi-annual report by Review Office Dennis Walsh.
Local Union 1456
Late last year, my office began an investigation of the governance and administration of Local Union 1456 (the “Dockbuilders”). The investigation has revealed various improprieties relating to the expenditure of union funds and deep flaws in its business practices. After his veto, Michael Koballa settled certain outstanding issues with this office pursuant to the terms of an agreement executed on February 24, 2011. The President of the Local, Charles Harkin, resigned his position effective April 27, 2011; resigned as a trustee of the Benefit Funds effective April 29, 2011; and resigned as a business representative and “withdrew” his membership in the Union effective April 30, 2011. Olaf Olsen, the treasurer of the Local, resigned his position and his employment as a business representative of the District Council pursuant to the terms of an agreement with this office executed on May 10, 2011.
The investigation of Local Union 1456 is discussed in detail at 32-39. The Harkin resignation letters and the settlement agreements with Koballa and Olsen are attached hereto as Exhibits 12, 13 and 14, respectively.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
What Kind of a Country Do You Want?
By Bill O'Reilly
Throughout the ages, Robin Hood has carried a very positive image: a dashing hero who steals from a corrupt kingdom and distributes the loot to the poor. Errol Flynn was among the first to bring Robin to life in the movies and, recently, Russell Crowe advanced the legend.
President Obama, I believe, sees himself as the noble Robin. Certainly, his "tax the rich" mantra and health care giveaways demonstrate a strong desire to redistribute income from the affluent to the poor in America. So how is that playing in Peoria?
Well, a new Gallup poll tells us. The question was simple: "Do you think our government should or should not redistribute wealth by heavy taxes on the rich?" Most Americans said no. 49% do not support President Obama's vision, including 69% of Republicans and 53% of independents. But 47% of Americans do want to be shown the money, including a whopping 71% of Democrats.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Congratulations 105 Signed The Petition!
Originally posted Saturday May 21.
The comment period for the draft bylaws has ended. I want to thank all of you who have written to the RO or signed the petition. Your comments are part of a very important court record.
The RO has urged all members to read and consider these draft bylaws. At the Court conference held on May 16, the RO stated he received 12 comments (very pathetic). You have until June 9, 2011, to express your opinion, either sign the petition or email written comments to the RO about the draft bylaws and become part of a VERY IMPORTANT COURT RECORD.
To help you better understand and explain why you should be against these bylaws, we posted this petition which you should read and we urge ALL UBC member's to sign.
It is clear that these bylaws if allowed to be implemented will "Destroy Rank and File Rights" by taking away our guaranteed Right to Vote, to Organize and to Legislate our own affairs at the Local Union level.
By signing this Petition you will be telling the RO that you OPPOSE these bylaws that eviscerate and negate our guaranteed protected rights under the law.
Click "Continue Reading" to View Petition Text and Sign Petition!
Dual power in the NYC Carpenters Union
Submitted by mnadmin
Throughout the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, in all of the United States, there remains one last remnant of union democracy, and that's in the New York City District Council of Carpenters. International President Douglas McCarron would like to eradicate this vestige so that the 22,000- member unit can be forced into the authoritarian mold of unionism he has successfully devised for his union everywhere else.
Carpenters’ Committee for Democracy and Workers’ Rights
Carpenters’ Committee for Democracy and Workers’ Rights has submitted the following comment in response to the draft Bylaws and the proposed Restructuring Plan.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
March for the Middle Class on June 15th
Solidarity March across the Brooklyn Bridge
Wednesday, June 15th -2:30pm
The New York City District Council of Carpenters invites our members to join the NYC Central Labor Council and working men and women from the Public Sector, Private Sector and Building and Construction Trades. The NYC Labor Movement will march across the Brooklyn Bridge as ONE, to support each other and stand together in opposition to attacks on middle class workers and their values.
*PLEASE NOTE: THIS WILL NOT FULFILL YOUR PICKET DUTY OBLIGATION*
NEWS From Inspector General Scott C. Danielson
NEWS From the Office of the New York City & Vicinity District Council of Carpenters Inspector General Scott C. Danielson
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Karolyn Castillo
212.366.3354 June 9, 2011
The Office of the Inspector General (“OIG”) Hotline is a clearing house for receiving and handling allegations regarding fraud, waste, abuse, mismanagement or misconduct affecting jobsites within the Council’s jurisdiction. Examples of allegations that should be reported to the OIG Hotline include:
• Members working for less than what is provided for under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA);
• Cheating on the OWL;
• Violating the UBC Constitution and NYC District Council by-laws;
• Contractors that are violating the CBA;
IG's Office Probing Gausman and Bilello
In an email, the IG has confirmed his office is "looking" into the matter and has "requested records from local 157 and Assistant Supervisor John Ballantyne."
On March 21st, Bilello was elected President pro tem for the "meeting only" and constitutionally appointed Gausman Vice President pro tem, who immediately became President following the veto of former Local 157 President Lawrence D'Errico on April 12th (see forum).
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Tutor Perini Acquires Frontier-Kemper and Plans to Buy Lunda
By Richard Korman and Debra K. Rubin
Tutor Perini Corp. acquired Frontier-Kemper and plans to acquire Lunda Corp., adding significantly to its market share in heavy and civil construction, especially in the Midwest.
Tutor Perini says in a statement that it will pay $153.5 million for Lunda--$131.8 million in cash and $21.7 million in debt. In addition, Tutor Perini says there is a structured earnout based on profitability targets for three years.
The transaction is scheduled to close July 1, 2011.
Founded in 1938, Lunda Construction Co. is based in Black River Falls, Wisc. It has extensive experience in bridges and marine and railroad-related construction. The company’s plainly presented website prominently displays the words “Bridges—Pile Driving—Dams.”
Lunda reported 2010 revenue of $360 million and ranked 143d on ENR’s Top 400 Contractors.
Until now, Lunda had remained under the control of the Lunda family, with Larry Lunda serving as chief executive.
Avram Fisher, an analyst for BMO Capital Markets, New York City, says the Lunda deal gives Tutor Perini northern Midwest geographic exposure, primarily in highways. “Lunda is highway, dam and rail contractor with experience in 30-states but significant exposure to states around Wisconsin,” he says.
·
Fisher characterized Lunda as a disciplined bidder. “We calculate that over the last 12-months the company has been the low-bid on roughly $130 million in work to WIDOT and $138M in low bids to MNDOT.
Tutor Perini acquired 100% of Frontier-Kemper's stock from Dellmann Haniel International Mining and Tunneling GmbH. for about $61 million in cash and assumed about $52 million of debt. Tutor Perini paid $35 million at closing.
Based in Evansville, Ind., Frontier-Kemper is known for its tunneling projects. The company reported $148.4 million in 2010 revenue and ranked 343d on ENR’s Top 400 contractors.
Frontier-Kemper will continue to operate under its current name and will be managed by its current senior management team, with W.D. Rogstad remaining as president and chief executive.
"We are eager to leverage Tutor Perini's national presence and civil expertise to expand our reach and capture new opportunities," Rogstad said in a statement.
REVIEW OFFICER FORUM ON TUESDAY, JUNE 21, 2011
All members of constituent local unions of the District Council, as well as employees of the District Council, Benefit Funds and local unions are invited to attend the next Review Officer Forum at 395 Hudson Street. I will speak as well as hear from those in attendance who wish to comment on the proposed restructuring of the District Council as well as the proposed District Council Bylaws. The event will be recorded and attendees may also bring their own recording and video devices.
The forum will be in the meeting space of the school on the second floor from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Please have your current union or employee identification cards ready for presentation at the door to gain admission.
Dennis M. Walsh
Review Officer
Members to Serve on Advisory Negotiations Committee
From NYCDCC
Members to Serve on Advisory Negotiations Committee - the committee has been briefed and updated on the status of ongoing negotiations. They have attended negotiation sessions and will also be present at future negotiations. A summary report will be presented at the monthly delegate meeting.
The following members are currently serving on the District Council Delegate Advisory Committee during the ongoing contract negotiations:
Paul Tyznar – Committee Chair
Larry Cirello – Local#20
James Smith – Local #2287
Thomas King – Local#1536
John Maloney- Local#157
Stephen Philbin – Local#157
Rony Lorvil – Local#2870
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Labor costs may change construction industry
Builders push for concessions from unions as contracts expire.
By Daniel Massey
A profane jeer greeted contractors as they ascended the red-carpeted stairs outside Cipriani Wall Street for last month's annual gala of the unionized construction industry.
The heckling, from an ad hoc chorus of angry workers who wielded signs assailing contractors' “greed” for demanding cost reductions, was just one indication of the turmoil shaking the city's construction industry.
With about two dozen contracts set to expire June 30, builders are pushing for significant concessions from unions. They say that the Great Recession has permanently altered the finances of the $24 billion industry and that without major changes to work rules, they will have to shift to nonunion workers.
“We're at a fundamental crossroads,” said Louis Coletti, president of the Building Trades Employers' Association. “We're sincere; we want to continue this business model. But we need some cooperation in reducing the cost differential between union and nonunion work.”
Lebo Letter to Judge Berman
On June 1, Brother Bill Lebo sent Judge Richard M. Berman a letter in response to the UBC's proposed restructuring plan for the NYCDCC.
Lebo, among other things vehemently objects to the:
- Reducing the carpenter trade to specialties.
- Creation of Local Union 395 and the Heavy construction local as a specialty/ company locals.
- Decreasing of the jurisdictional areas of the locals affected by this plan.
- Ending of the 50-50 manpower rule.
- Lack of information disseminated by the UBC to the membership.
- Does not want a corrupt UBC General President and his cronies negotiating our contracts, and believe the negotiations and finalization should wait until such time as elected officials of the NYCDCC can be installed.
Ex-Union Benefit Fund Trustee Gets 18 Months In Prison For Perjury
Briarcliff Manor resident lied about ties to organized crime.
By William Demarest
A former union leader from Briarcliff Manor was sentenced today in federal court in Manhattan to 18 months in prison and fined $10,000 for perjury.
Joseph Olivieri, 56, of Briarcliff Manor, also faces three years of supervised release after he gets out of prison.
Olivieri is the former executive director of the Association of Wall, Ceiling, and Carpentry Industries of New York and a former trustee of the benefit funds managed for the District Council of New York City and Vicinity of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners. He was convicted by a jury after a one-week trial before U.S. District Judge Victor Marrero in October 2010.
"Joseph Olivieri was a corrupt union trustee who, along with his cronies both inside and outside the union, exploited the hard-working carpenters whose pension and benefit funds he was supposed to protect,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Preet Bharara. “Today's sentence is the latest result of this office's campaign to root out organized crime and corruption in the union and to prosecute those responsible."
Saturday, June 4, 2011
List of The Candidates
Original posted 5.18
The following is a list of Local 157 candidates nominated at the May 16, meeting. Local 157 will be holding an election on June 22nd for the Executive Committee positions. Polls open 6 AM to 7 PM at the NYCDCC Labor Technical College 395 Hudson Street.
| Workers' Rights Slate | New Direction Slate | Carpenters for Solidarity | Independent Slate | Independent | |
| President | Patrick Nee | Pat Crean | Gerry Gausman | William Davenport | Mike Bilello |
| Vice President | Thomas McGonnigle | Herman Warren | Patrick Brennan | Bill Walsh | Hercules Reid |
| Recording Secretary | Levi Messinetti | Eddie Peterson | Donny Arana | Daniel J. Franco | |
| Financial Secretary | Peter Corrigan | James Noonan | Eddie Herrero | Willie Huvane | |
| Treasurer | Matt Seabury | Greg Kelty | Patrick Smolka | ||
| Conductor | John "Terror" Carty | Mike Leonard | Carmine Bonura | ||
| Warden | John "Cigars" DeFalco | Lenny Chambers | Justine Kuhn | ||
| Trustee | Mariano Arocho | Brian Mooney | Steven Fuggio | Jim Hogan Don Foley | |
| Trustee | Kevin Corrigan | Hector Diaz | Harry Peck | Gary O'Conner Denys' Seykora | |
| Trustee | Gauntlet Holness | Gerard Hanranhan | Edwin Sanchez | Andy McCouley | |
Mandatory Stewards Meeting
Now this is very funny, the Council mailed this postcard to all stewards requiring they attend this "Steward Meeting." They say, "We are dedicated to keeping our shop stewards informed of what is going on at the District Council."
Since when is the Council dedicated to keeping anyone informed!
Friday, June 3, 2011
The Second Interim Report of the Review Officer
Review Officer Dennis Walsh has issued his Second Interim Report, this report is a must read for all members.
Last Ten Years Of Wage Gains Lower Than During The Great Depression
By Pat Garofalo
For decades, wages and incomes for the American worker have been stagnant, even as productivity has increased substantially. Over the 2000 to 2009 period, workers experienced a “lost decade,” with incomes falling by nearly five percent and wages hardly growing at all. And according to Jed Graham, the last decade in terms of real wages was actually worse than the Great Depression:
The increase in total private-sector wages, adjusted for inflation, from the start of 2001 has fallen far short of any 10-year period since World War II, according to Commerce Department data. In fact, if the data are to be believed, economy wide wage gains have even lagged those in the decade of the Great Depression (adjusted for deflation). Over the past decade, real private-sector wage growth has scraped bottom at 4%, just below the 5% increase from 1929 to 1939, government data show.
