Bill Lebo letter to Judge Berman...
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Two NYC Construction Workers Plummet to Their Death
More than 1,000 construction workers are killed on the job every year, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, and tens of thousands are injured in workplace accidents.
March 27, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- For years, Brett McEnroe and Roy Powell worked together on construction sites throughout New York City. Ironworkers, McEnroe, 49, and Powell, 51, were used to the cold and the heights and generally followed strict safety laws, which required preparing safety platforms and wearing safety harnesses.
But on February 9 while working on a church in Manhattan, the two friends both plummeted to their deaths in a tragic construction accident. According to the police, the men were not using their safety equipment as they worked on an elevator nearly 70 feet above ground.
It's unclear why the two, who both won safety awards during their long careers, were not wearing the harnesses that would have prevented them from falling or why nets that would have caught them had not been prepared. The construction site had been cited for a variety of violations by the city Buildings Department and was under investigation for failing to follow safety precautions.
Among the violations was the failure to use guardrails and scaffolding by the construction manager, F. J. Sciame of New York. The men were employed by Cross County Contracting of upstate Ulster County, N.Y. The Environmental Control Board also cited the worksite for 10 violations, including a notice for not securing scaffolding.
Co-workers couldn't fathom why the experienced ironworkers did not follow safety guidelines. Both men had 30 years' experience, and Powell was named Ironworker of the Year in 1999 by a trade association. They had used the safety equipment on the lower floors of the building and brought the harnesses with them to the top of the elevator but had left them on the side.
More than 1,000 construction workers are killed on the job every year, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, and tens of thousands are injured in workplace accidents. In the event of injury, or even death, experts strongly suggest contacting an experienced construction injury attorney to gauge the legal options available.
Article provided by Roy S Hiller
March 27, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- For years, Brett McEnroe and Roy Powell worked together on construction sites throughout New York City. Ironworkers, McEnroe, 49, and Powell, 51, were used to the cold and the heights and generally followed strict safety laws, which required preparing safety platforms and wearing safety harnesses.
But on February 9 while working on a church in Manhattan, the two friends both plummeted to their deaths in a tragic construction accident. According to the police, the men were not using their safety equipment as they worked on an elevator nearly 70 feet above ground.
It's unclear why the two, who both won safety awards during their long careers, were not wearing the harnesses that would have prevented them from falling or why nets that would have caught them had not been prepared. The construction site had been cited for a variety of violations by the city Buildings Department and was under investigation for failing to follow safety precautions.
Among the violations was the failure to use guardrails and scaffolding by the construction manager, F. J. Sciame of New York. The men were employed by Cross County Contracting of upstate Ulster County, N.Y. The Environmental Control Board also cited the worksite for 10 violations, including a notice for not securing scaffolding.
Co-workers couldn't fathom why the experienced ironworkers did not follow safety guidelines. Both men had 30 years' experience, and Powell was named Ironworker of the Year in 1999 by a trade association. They had used the safety equipment on the lower floors of the building and brought the harnesses with them to the top of the elevator but had left them on the side.
More than 1,000 construction workers are killed on the job every year, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, and tens of thousands are injured in workplace accidents. In the event of injury, or even death, experts strongly suggest contacting an experienced construction injury attorney to gauge the legal options available.
Article provided by Roy S Hiller
Members realign after Carpenters Union dissolves
YAKIMA, Wash. -- The Carpenters Union Local 770 in Yakima was dissolved Tuesday and its membership absorbed into a new Spokane Carpenters Union Local 59, according to the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America based in Washington, D.C.
The changes were part of a broad reorganization of unions affiliated with the Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters, according to a March 21 letter from General President Douglas McCarron to a union officials in Bend, Ore.
As a result, 17 union chapters around Washington and north Idaho have been reorganized into four broad-ranging geographical groups.
The original Local 98 in Spokane also was dissolved and renamed Local 59, according to the letter.
Reasons for the restructuring aren't clear. McCarron's letter refers to a union report that recommended dissolution of the chapters but does not elaborate. McCarron does say the restructuring is expected to generate administrative savings.
Former Yakima Local 770 president Rocky Marshall confirmed the union chapter had been dissolved but did not know what would become of its office building on South Third Street.
Marshall has been named recording secretary and delegate of the new Spokane Local while former Yakima business representative Doug Palachuk is trustee and delegate, according to McCarron's letter.
Marshall directed further questions to a spokesman for the Pacific Northwest Regional Council of Carpenters in Kent, Wash., who declined to comment.
Honeymoon in construction industry ends with a bang
Unions, contractors trade barbs as negotiations loom, jobs numbers drop
By Theresa Agovino |
| BUILDING UP, TEARING DOWN: Click to enlarge. |
Even as both sides prepare to sit down for crucial negotiations for contracts covering 60,000 workers in 18 unions and billions of dollars in projects, disputes have broken out on multiple fronts. Union officials are furious with a contractor group that has launched a subway ad campaign targeting construction workers and warning that nonunion labor could put their jobs at risk.
The officials call the ads tantamount to interference in the negotiations. They accuse the contractors of trying to intimidate union members and say the group is overestimating unemployment in the trades.
Retreat no more
Relations have become so strained that contractors say their union counterparts won't sit down with them to discuss safety issues. For the first time in 14 years, the sides called off their annual winter retreat.
“There was a trust here, but now that trust is broken,” said Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, an umbrella labor group.
The flare-up comes as the construction industry is still reeling from the recession and as nonunion workers get more jobs across the city. Moreover, there has been a small but disturbing rise in fatalities on unionized jobs.
D'Errico, Bilello, Gausman, Who Is President of Local 157?
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| Picture from left Rally Organizer Donny Arana, brother Gauntlett Holness and pro tem Vice President, Gerry Gausman. |
There has been much discussion and confusion on this subject pertaining to what exactly happened at last Monday's Local 157 meeting and who the President is. Even the parties involved are not entirely sure what happened!
To help answer that question and give you a better understanding, I needed to refer to the UBC Constitution, consult with Chief Compliance Officer John Ballantyne and recap exactly what happened and the events leading up to Monday's historic meeting to find the answer.
On Monday March 21, Local 157 was thrown into the unprecedented position of having both the President and Vice President absent for a regular schedule meeting because of Review Officer ("RO") Dennis Walsh zealous investigation of organized crime influence over the District Council.
Friday, March 25, 2011
A Defining Moment
President Pro Tem Continues To Violate Member Rights
At Mondays Local 157 meeting, newly nominated President pro tem Mike Bilello, refused to accept a motion for a copy of the meeting minutes saying, “I am done with this issue, it's been beaten to death.”
In the seconds it took him to make that statement, brother Bilello defined who he really is.
March 21, a day which will live in UBC history--- Local 157 was thrown into the unprecedented position of having no President and Vice President because of Review Officer ("RO") Dennis Walsh zealous investigation of organized crime influence over the District Council.
Netted so far in the investigation were eight council employees, among them were, President Lawrence D'Errico, who's employment the RO is considering vetoing, Vice President Anthony Pugliese, who was pushed into retirement because he refused to cooperate, and Financial Secretary Paul Capurso, who is consulting with an attorney.
At Mondays Local 157 meeting, newly nominated President pro tem Mike Bilello, refused to accept a motion for a copy of the meeting minutes saying, “I am done with this issue, it's been beaten to death.”
In the seconds it took him to make that statement, brother Bilello defined who he really is.
March 21, a day which will live in UBC history--- Local 157 was thrown into the unprecedented position of having no President and Vice President because of Review Officer ("RO") Dennis Walsh zealous investigation of organized crime influence over the District Council.
Netted so far in the investigation were eight council employees, among them were, President Lawrence D'Errico, who's employment the RO is considering vetoing, Vice President Anthony Pugliese, who was pushed into retirement because he refused to cooperate, and Financial Secretary Paul Capurso, who is consulting with an attorney.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
District Council Welcomes New Director of Operations Matthew Walker
From NYCDC -- Retired Major Matthew Walker has been selected as the Director of Operations for the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America District Council of New York City & Vicinity. After serving over 26 years in the New Jersey State Police he will begin his new position on March 28, 2011.
During his tenure with the New Jersey State Police Major Walker investigated various criminal enterprises including narcotics and official misconduct. He then conducted and supervised high profile internal investigations and was a key liaison with the United States Department of Justice Independent Mentoring Team which implemented a federal consent decree for approximately 9 years with the State of New Jersey. The decree was successfully satisfied and dissolved in 2009.
Major Walker holds a Masters degree in Administrative Science and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Individual Studies from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and an Associate of Arts Degree in Law Enforcement Science from Mercer County Community College. He is an adjunct professor for Fairleigh Dickinson University in the areas of Leadership, Ethics, Human Resources Management and Advanced Writing.
(John's Note: Why no mention of D'Errico)
During his tenure with the New Jersey State Police Major Walker investigated various criminal enterprises including narcotics and official misconduct. He then conducted and supervised high profile internal investigations and was a key liaison with the United States Department of Justice Independent Mentoring Team which implemented a federal consent decree for approximately 9 years with the State of New Jersey. The decree was successfully satisfied and dissolved in 2009.
Major Walker holds a Masters degree in Administrative Science and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Individual Studies from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and an Associate of Arts Degree in Law Enforcement Science from Mercer County Community College. He is an adjunct professor for Fairleigh Dickinson University in the areas of Leadership, Ethics, Human Resources Management and Advanced Writing.
(John's Note: Why no mention of D'Errico)
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
News Blackout! Carpenter Boss D'Errico Suspended Without Pay
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| Virtual News Blackout Imposed |
On Sunday, we reported that Lawrence D’Errico, has been fired by UBC Supervisor Frank Spencer, on Friday March 18th.
We also reported that RO, has begun a new phase of investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council, its affiliated local unions and members, and we reported the RO has netted seven other council employees in his mob corruption probe.
There is no information posted on the Councils Latest News & Archives website, which is paid for by the membership, on what we reported.
A virtual news blackout has been imposed, Council officials are tight-lipped regarding Walsh's investigation of organized crime influence over the Council several sources said.
On Monday, after inquiring, I received official confirmation from Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) John Ballantyne regarding D'Errico.
"Lawrence D’Errico was suspended without pay until such time as he is able to resolve his issue with the Review Office or the Review Officer makes a final determination and vetoes his employment," Ballantyne wrote.
"At this time, the Review Officer is considering vetoing Lawrence’s employment, therefore it is the policy of the New York City District Council of Carpenters to suspend the employee without pay until such time as the member is able to resolve their issue or the RO makes a final determination to veto their employment."
D'Errico was out on personal days after receiving the RO's written "NOTICE OF POSSIBLE ACTION, and UBC officials wanted to give D'Errico the news in person but decided they couldn't wait any longer, and convened Friday morning and telephoned D'Errico suspending him without pay an informed source said.
Hardhat Unions Have Not Dropped Savings Pact
by New York State AFL-CIO
NEW YORK, NY (03/21/2011)(readMedia)-- Contrary to published reports, cost-saving terms found in the Economic Recovery Project Labor Agreement, which has contributed to $10 billion of private construction in New York City advancing in the past two years, will remain available to projects in need due to the lingering fallout of the economic recession.
According to the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC), an organization consisting of local affiliates of 15 national and international unions representing 100,000 members in New York City, project labor agreements (PLAs) with these terms for four projects valued at $345 million are in the process of being executed by unions in the industry. PLAs with these terms for another two projects valued at $81 million are in the process of being drafted and approved, with more expected to follow.
NEW YORK, NY (03/21/2011)(readMedia)-- Contrary to published reports, cost-saving terms found in the Economic Recovery Project Labor Agreement, which has contributed to $10 billion of private construction in New York City advancing in the past two years, will remain available to projects in need due to the lingering fallout of the economic recession.
According to the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York (BCTC), an organization consisting of local affiliates of 15 national and international unions representing 100,000 members in New York City, project labor agreements (PLAs) with these terms for four projects valued at $345 million are in the process of being executed by unions in the industry. PLAs with these terms for another two projects valued at $81 million are in the process of being drafted and approved, with more expected to follow.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Unions Drop Savings Pact
By ANTHONY KLAN
A much-heralded cost reduction program launched two years ago by New York unions and contractors to stimulate construction has come to a halt ahead of a major round of contract negotiations.
The program began in March 2009 to lower construction labor costs and both sides agreed to renew it one year ago. But union officials allowed it to lapse last week, believing the market was improving and not wanting to take action while major collective bargaining agreements were pending.
"Quite frankly we don't know what conditions are going to be agreed to [in the contract talks] so it made no sense to extend that particular agreement," said Gary La Barbera, president of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, an umbrella union group.
The move by union officials marks the latest maneuver as unions and contractors prepare to renegotiate 30 collective bargaining agreements to be redrawn by June 30. These talks are traditionally tough but this year they're shaping up to be particularly acrimonious, as both sides struggle with the continuing impact of the economic downturn.
Louis Coletti, president of the Building Trades Employers' Association representing contractors said it was a "mistake" to not renew the program in the current economic climate. He said the move sent a "terrible signal" to contractors who he said were trying to work with unions, rather than employing non-union workers.
A much-heralded cost reduction program launched two years ago by New York unions and contractors to stimulate construction has come to a halt ahead of a major round of contract negotiations.
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| Click to enlarge. |
"Quite frankly we don't know what conditions are going to be agreed to [in the contract talks] so it made no sense to extend that particular agreement," said Gary La Barbera, president of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, an umbrella union group.
The move by union officials marks the latest maneuver as unions and contractors prepare to renegotiate 30 collective bargaining agreements to be redrawn by June 30. These talks are traditionally tough but this year they're shaping up to be particularly acrimonious, as both sides struggle with the continuing impact of the economic downturn.
Louis Coletti, president of the Building Trades Employers' Association representing contractors said it was a "mistake" to not renew the program in the current economic climate. He said the move sent a "terrible signal" to contractors who he said were trying to work with unions, rather than employing non-union workers.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Will History Repeat Itself?
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| Stop making me laugh! |
On November 26, 2007, UBC General President Douglas McCarron, acting on a petition, ordered an emergency supervision be imposed on Local 157. McCarron also appointed the UBC’s Eastern District Vice President Frank Spencer to lead this supervision and the District Council’s Executive Secretary-Treasurer, Mike Forde, as his first assistant supervisor, to oversee the orderly restoration of internal self-governance and the responsible management and conduct of the Local’s and the District Council’s business in Local 157. Forde appointed Lawrence D’Errico new Business Manager of Local 157.
Listen to exclusive 2008 audio of former disgraced carpenter president Pete Thomassen, in a rare moment of candor, exposing the phony and politically motivated supervision of Local 157, in order to stop Vice President George Dilacio, from becoming president. By the way, Dilacio was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in the 2009 Forde indictment.
Really, you couldn't make this stuff up...Has the UBC lost all creditability. You gotta laugh at it all!!!
Be at Monday's meeting to find out if history repeats itself and Local 157 finds itself under supervision because UBC officials will not allow a rank and file member to be nominated President pro tem. Be there...it's gonna be big!
Thomassen said: “I was in the office with Mike (referring to Forde) when McCarron called, He Asked, what is going on with the local? We said George Dilacio was fired as a business agent but he is staying as a vice president, He is elected and we can’t take him out of that position and he is going to become the president."
“McCarron said no way PUT THE LOCAL UNDER SUPERVISION.”
What Will Happen At Monday's Local 157 Meeting?
There has been no official word or information posted on the New York City District Council of Carpenters website pertaining to Review Officer (“RO”) Dennis Walsh, investigation of organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council, its affiliated local unions and members.
Informed sources say there will be an announcement Monday pertaining to the RO's investigation.
In the event that everything I have posted about the RO's investigation is accurate and the list of individuals netted in the RO's new phase of investigation pertaining to organized crime is accurate, Monday's Local 157 meeting will be very challenging.
Let me ask a question to the forum or you could post your comments here.
If in fact Local 157 President Lawrence D'Errico and Vice President Anthony Pugliese have resigned, according to Section 32 D of the UBC Constitution, the Recording Secretary shall call the meeting to order and those present shall elect a President pro tem.
Section 32 D states: "In the absence of both the President and the Vice President, the Recording Secretary shall call the meeting to order and those present shall elect a President pro tem."
In other words, if I read this correctly, the members present at the meeting would nominate a qualified member or members for president pro tem, and the members present would vote and elect a President pro tem. The President pro tem would then appoint a qualified member Vice President pro tem to fill the vacancy, until such time as an election is held. In this case that would be the regular scheduled executive board election in June 2011.
Also, in the event that President Lawrence D'Errico, and Vice President Anthony Pugliese have not resigned, but have either refused to sign the RO's declaration and/or received a veto letter, and have the audacity to attend the meeting like nothing has happened, we should make a motion and demand they resign immediately.
They should also recuse themselves from any participation in selecting and electing a President pro tem, and turn the meeting over to the Recording Secretary.
In the event they refuse to recuse themselves the members present should boo them off the dais like a bad act until they resign.
Do you agree with my assessment of the situation?
Informed sources say there will be an announcement Monday pertaining to the RO's investigation.
In the event that everything I have posted about the RO's investigation is accurate and the list of individuals netted in the RO's new phase of investigation pertaining to organized crime is accurate, Monday's Local 157 meeting will be very challenging.
Let me ask a question to the forum or you could post your comments here.
If in fact Local 157 President Lawrence D'Errico and Vice President Anthony Pugliese have resigned, according to Section 32 D of the UBC Constitution, the Recording Secretary shall call the meeting to order and those present shall elect a President pro tem.
Section 32 D states: "In the absence of both the President and the Vice President, the Recording Secretary shall call the meeting to order and those present shall elect a President pro tem."
In other words, if I read this correctly, the members present at the meeting would nominate a qualified member or members for president pro tem, and the members present would vote and elect a President pro tem. The President pro tem would then appoint a qualified member Vice President pro tem to fill the vacancy, until such time as an election is held. In this case that would be the regular scheduled executive board election in June 2011.
Also, in the event that President Lawrence D'Errico, and Vice President Anthony Pugliese have not resigned, but have either refused to sign the RO's declaration and/or received a veto letter, and have the audacity to attend the meeting like nothing has happened, we should make a motion and demand they resign immediately.
They should also recuse themselves from any participation in selecting and electing a President pro tem, and turn the meeting over to the Recording Secretary.
In the event they refuse to recuse themselves the members present should boo them off the dais like a bad act until they resign.
Do you agree with my assessment of the situation?
Forde Holdover Carpenter Boss D'Errico Fired and 7 Others Netted in Walsh's Mob Corruption Probe
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| Forde Holdover D'Errico Fired. |
Spencer appointed Area Standards Director Eddie McWilliams, new "Acting Director of Operations," the source said.
On Wednesday March 16, we reported that Review Officer ("RO") Dennis Walsh, issued a veto letter to D’Errico on Monday March 14th, vetoing D'Errico's employment as a council representative, allegedly for organized crime associations.
D'Errico, was appointed "Acting Director of Operations" in July, and replaced Maurice Leary, who suddenly retired immediately after Michael Forde copped a plea to corruption charges, received a $45,000 salary increase in December from Supervisor Spencer, increasing his salary from $177,776 last year to over $223,000 this year, an informed source said.
The RO has been zealously conducting investigations into troubling allegations that after 587 days of supervision by the UBC International, because former council leader, Michael J. Forde, and nine others, were charged with racketeering, the New York City District Council of Carpenters remains influenced by the mob, deeply ingrained in the culture of corruption and is still a source of cash and illicit benefits for a select few.
In October, Spencer posted a video message on the councils website, saying "We had the issues with corruption, But that's yesterday."
On Friday, November 19, 2010, Michael Forde was sentenced to 11 years in prison. Forde had pleaded guilty to racketeering, bribery and perjury in late July in connection with taking as much as $1 million in illegal contractor bribes and skimming many millions more from union benefit funds. The Justice Department uncovered the scheme as part of a probe that netted guilty pleas from eight persons and the jury conviction of Genovese crime family-linked contractor Joseph Olivieri.
In December the RO filed a report showing some progress in cleaning up the district council but presented a troubling picture of corruption, and some aspects of the report raise questions about the stewardship of supervisor Frank Spencer.
Many members, including myself have criticized Spencer and his handling of the supervision. The RO's report includes evidence and troubling allegations that some of the same kinds of misconduct that led to the 2009 charges have continued under Spencer’s supervision.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Walsh's Mob Corruption Probe Nets 3 More Carpenter Leaders
Informed sources say that Review Officer ("RO") Dennis Walsh investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council has netted 3 more Carpenter leaders.
Local 157 Financial Secretary/Regional Manager Paul Capurso, and Local 926 President/Representative Joseph DiNapoli, have not signed the RO's declaration to disclose any information that they have about such conduct, and are consulting with attorneys and may invoke their privilege against self-incrimination.
Council employees are required to cooperate with the RO in this undertaking pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the Stipulation and Order. Failure to comply with the undertaking or invocation of the right against self-incrimination may subject persons to action pursuant to Paragraph 7, which makes failure to cooperate an express violation of the Stipulation and Order, as well as Paragraphs 5.b and 5.f.
It is expected that Capurso who last year reportedly made $116,709 and recently received a huge salary increase since being named regional manager, and DiNapoli, who earned $156,327 will either be fired or will resign an informed source said.
Local 157 Organizer Andre Puerta, did not sign the declaration and resigned last week this source said. Puerta who reportedly made $153,333 last year is rumored to be married to Brian O'Dwyer's niece (O'Dwyer & Bernstein LLP) and has been well taken care of over the years seeing his salary dramatically increase since being hired as an organizer a member commented.
We also reported that Walsh sent Local 157 President/Director of Operations Lawrence D’Errico a letter late Monday vetoing D'Errico's employment as a council representative, Local 157 Vice President/Representative Anthony Pugliese was pushed into retirement because he refused to cooperate and sign the declaration and council employees Ray Brugueras, Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo all resigned rather than sign the declaration.
That brings the total to eight council employees netted so far last week, in the RO's investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council.
The RO said his investigation "is broad in scope and many employees (as well as persons affiliated with the Benefit Funds) can expect to be interviewed in the near future."
Local 157 Financial Secretary/Regional Manager Paul Capurso, and Local 926 President/Representative Joseph DiNapoli, have not signed the RO's declaration to disclose any information that they have about such conduct, and are consulting with attorneys and may invoke their privilege against self-incrimination.
Council employees are required to cooperate with the RO in this undertaking pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the Stipulation and Order. Failure to comply with the undertaking or invocation of the right against self-incrimination may subject persons to action pursuant to Paragraph 7, which makes failure to cooperate an express violation of the Stipulation and Order, as well as Paragraphs 5.b and 5.f.
It is expected that Capurso who last year reportedly made $116,709 and recently received a huge salary increase since being named regional manager, and DiNapoli, who earned $156,327 will either be fired or will resign an informed source said.
Local 157 Organizer Andre Puerta, did not sign the declaration and resigned last week this source said. Puerta who reportedly made $153,333 last year is rumored to be married to Brian O'Dwyer's niece (O'Dwyer & Bernstein LLP) and has been well taken care of over the years seeing his salary dramatically increase since being hired as an organizer a member commented.
We also reported that Walsh sent Local 157 President/Director of Operations Lawrence D’Errico a letter late Monday vetoing D'Errico's employment as a council representative, Local 157 Vice President/Representative Anthony Pugliese was pushed into retirement because he refused to cooperate and sign the declaration and council employees Ray Brugueras, Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo all resigned rather than sign the declaration.
That brings the total to eight council employees netted so far last week, in the RO's investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council.
The RO said his investigation "is broad in scope and many employees (as well as persons affiliated with the Benefit Funds) can expect to be interviewed in the near future."
Welcome to “Respect Our Crafts”
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| Click for Website |
The National Building and Construction Trades Department in Washington DC launches a new website that showcases the collective efforts of all member unions and their leaders as they stand in UNITY against United Brotherhood of Carpenters leader Doug McCarron.
I was going to reprint the article titled, "Now is the time - this is the place," but instead please go to the website and see for yourself!
The website also features our Rally Flier and says, "On April 13, 2011, rank and file UBC members who “are sick and tired of business as usual” will gather outside a meeting of the NYC District Council of Carpenters at 395 Hudson Street in New York City to protest what they say is a “Rubber Stamp Committee” for UBC President Doug McCarron.
We are saluting the efforts of the BCTD and President Ayers!!
For additional videos click here.
Attention All Carpenters
Frank Spencer and the International Union have begun their attempt in court to bring full mobility to the NYC District Council.
Because I hear a number of carpenters are interested in the court conference before Judge Berman regarding OWL referrals and full mobility, be advised that it has been moved from March 22 to April 6, 11:00. In effect, it will be combined with the conference already scheduled for April 6 regarding progress on the elections. See below.
Because I hear a number of carpenters are interested in the court conference before Judge Berman regarding OWL referrals and full mobility, be advised that it has been moved from March 22 to April 6, 11:00. In effect, it will be combined with the conference already scheduled for April 6 regarding progress on the elections. See below.
Trade Unions in City Confront a Rise in Nonunion Projects
A luxury apartment building is rising at 23rd Street and 10th Avenue, and, across town, one is being created inside an old Salvation Army building overlooking Gramercy Park. Other residential buildings and hotels are going up on 11th Avenue, West 18th Street and East 23rd Street.
All are signs that New York City’s real estate industry is clawing out of the recession. But they are noteworthy for another reason: they are being constructed without any union labor.
For most of the last century, the city’s construction unions were a symbol of labor strength in a pro-labor town, and their involvement in large projects was almost never in doubt. But just as public employees’ unions across the country are in the fights of their lives, the city’s major building unions are facing their own moment of reckoning.
While they are still a major presence, their share of the city’s $20 billion to $30 billion in annual construction work has dropped significantly in recent years. There are no official statistics; according to unionized construction companies, two out of five construction jobs in the city are now nonunion, though unions put the number at one in four. All agree that for many years, at least 85 percent of building jobs were union ones.
Friday, March 18, 2011
Prefabricated Tower May Rise at Brooklyn’s Atlantic Yards
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| A 34-story structure at Atlantic Yards would satisfy an obligation of the developer, Bruce C. Ratner, to build affordable housing. |
By CHARLES V. BAGLI
In a bid to cut costs at his star-crossed Atlantic Yards project in Brooklyn, the developer Bruce C. Ratner is pursuing plans to erect the world’s tallest prefabricated steel structure, a 34-story tower that would fulfill his obligation to start building affordable housing at the site.
The prefabricated, or modular, method he would use, which is untested at that height, could cut construction costs in half by saving time and requiring substantially fewer and cheaper workers. And the large number of buildings planned for the $4.9 billion Atlantic Yards — 16 in all, not including the Nets arena now under construction — could also make it economical for the company to run its own modular factory, where walls, ceilings, floors, plumbing and even bathrooms and kitchens could be installed in prefabricated steel-frame boxes.
The 34-story building, with roughly 400 apartments, would comprise more than 900 modules that would be hauled to Atlantic Yards, lifted into place by crane and bolted together at the corner of Flatbush Avenue and Dean Street, next to the arena.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Walsh’s Mob Corruption Probe Leads to D’Errico
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| You're Fired! Carpenter Boss D'Errico |
Walsh has been zealously conducting investigations into troubling allegations that the District Council remains influenced by the mob and is still a source of cash and illicit benefits for a select few.
In December Walsh, issued his First Interim Report, and wrote:
“My office has deep historical knowledge and is developing current information about actual and attempted influence of organized crime over the affairs of the district council and the funds,” Walsh wrote in the report. “We have developed sufficient information to reasonably suspect that there are certain district council employees who have been and are currently under the influence of La Cosa Nostra figures.”
The report said individuals involved in running some of the local unions were under scrutiny for similar ties, something that Walsh said was “a matter of grave import.”
Walsh sent D’Errico a letter late Monday vetoing D'Errico's employment as a council representative, allegedly for organized crime associations an informed source said.
In an email seeking comment, Walsh wrote, he "can’t presently comment." The story is still developing, stay tuned...
Carpenter Leader Pugliese Was Forced to Retire or Face Disciplinary Action
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| Pugliese speaking, with Forde and Sheil. |
Pugliese 57, a 35-year UBC member, and for the past 12 years, a Council Representative reportedly making $158,069 and collecting a tools pension, before he unexpectedly retired last week amid a zealous investigation by Review Officer Dennis Walsh, pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council, its affiliated local unions and members.
As part of Walsh’s investigation, employees of the District Council are asked to disclose any information that they have about such conduct other than what they may know from the information available from the docketed materials or from media accounts.
Those who say that they have no such information are asked to confirm their response by signing a declaration under penalty of perjury. Pugliese invoked his privilege against self-incrimination and decided to retire instead of sign the declaration an informed source said.
Pugliese a former organizer was appointed business agent of Local 157 by corrupt former Carpenter boss Mike Forde during the November 2007 phony Local 157 supervision. In 2008 he was elected vice president running on president Lawrence D'Errico's slate.
At a union meeting last August, Pugliese continued to defend and support convicted Forde by declaring "Forde Innocent" and improperly tabled a motion to have the UBC sue Mike Forde and Martin Devereaux for the $800,000 they reimburse themselves for legal fees in 2008 in connection with a September 2000, indictment by the Manhattan District Attorney's office on bribery and racketeering charges.
Last month Pugliese stated, "the work list houses incompetent carpenters and that's why the contractors want to pick and choose who they want working for them."
Also last week we reported that council employees Ray Brugueras, Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo all resigned rather than sign the declaration.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Walsh Begins New Phase Of Investigation Into Mob Influence Over District Council
In December Review Officer (“RO”) Dennis Walsh, issued his First Interim Report, which was filed in federal court in Manhattan, accompanied by hundreds of pages of exhibits, and included evidence and troubling allegations that the council remains influenced by the mob and is still a source of cash and illicit benefits for a select few.
“My office has deep historical knowledge and is developing current information about actual and attempted influence of organized crime over the affairs of the district council and the funds,” the RO, wrote in the report. “We have developed sufficient information to reasonably suspect that there are certain district council employees who have been and are currently under the influence of La Cosa Nostra figures.”
The report said individuals involved in running some of the local unions were under scrutiny for similar ties, something that Walsh said was “a matter of grave import” that remained under investigation.
In an email, the RO said he has begun a new phase of investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council, its affiliated local unions and members. As part of the investigation, employees of the District Council are asked to disclose any information that they have about such conduct other than what they may know from the information available from the docketed materials in U.S. v. District Council (90 Civ. 5722) or from media accounts.
Those who say that they have no such information are asked to confirm their response by signing a declaration under penalty of perjury pursuant to Paragraph 5.d of the Stipulation and Order entered on June 3, 2010 (which grants the RO the authority, among other things, to compel sworn statements of any officer, agent, representative, employee, trustee or member of the District Council or the Benefit Funds concerning any matter within the RO’s authority).
All such persons are given a reasonable opportunity to consider their options and to consult with an attorney and may invoke their privilege against self-incrimination. All such persons are required to cooperate with the RO in this undertaking pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the Stipulation and Order. Failure to comply with the undertaking or invocation of the right against self-incrimination may subject persons to action pursuant to Paragraph 7, which makes failure to cooperate an express violation of the Stipulation and Order, as well as Paragraphs 5.b and 5.f.
The investigation is broad in scope and many employees (as well as persons affiliated with the Benefit Funds) can expect to be interviewed in the near future.
Note: We reported that council employees Ray Brugueras, Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo have all resigned rather then sign the below declaration.
“My office has deep historical knowledge and is developing current information about actual and attempted influence of organized crime over the affairs of the district council and the funds,” the RO, wrote in the report. “We have developed sufficient information to reasonably suspect that there are certain district council employees who have been and are currently under the influence of La Cosa Nostra figures.”
The report said individuals involved in running some of the local unions were under scrutiny for similar ties, something that Walsh said was “a matter of grave import” that remained under investigation.
In an email, the RO said he has begun a new phase of investigation pertaining to organized crime influence over the affairs of the District Council, its affiliated local unions and members. As part of the investigation, employees of the District Council are asked to disclose any information that they have about such conduct other than what they may know from the information available from the docketed materials in U.S. v. District Council (90 Civ. 5722) or from media accounts.
Those who say that they have no such information are asked to confirm their response by signing a declaration under penalty of perjury pursuant to Paragraph 5.d of the Stipulation and Order entered on June 3, 2010 (which grants the RO the authority, among other things, to compel sworn statements of any officer, agent, representative, employee, trustee or member of the District Council or the Benefit Funds concerning any matter within the RO’s authority).
All such persons are given a reasonable opportunity to consider their options and to consult with an attorney and may invoke their privilege against self-incrimination. All such persons are required to cooperate with the RO in this undertaking pursuant to Paragraph 7 of the Stipulation and Order. Failure to comply with the undertaking or invocation of the right against self-incrimination may subject persons to action pursuant to Paragraph 7, which makes failure to cooperate an express violation of the Stipulation and Order, as well as Paragraphs 5.b and 5.f.
The investigation is broad in scope and many employees (as well as persons affiliated with the Benefit Funds) can expect to be interviewed in the near future.
Note: We reported that council employees Ray Brugueras, Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo have all resigned rather then sign the below declaration.
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Saturday, March 12, 2011
Page Six
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| Brugeras third from left. |
We hear...THAT council organizer/Local 926 Financial Secretary, Ray Brugeras, has also suddenly resigned last week.
Sources say Brugueras is the third person to resign because he refused to sign an affidavit from the Review Officer, Dennis Walsh, stating he's not connected to or has any knowledge of organized crime influence over the district council. Richard Tuccillo and Paul Pietropaolo also resigned and did not sign the affidavit.
Brugeras was Director Eddie McWilliams, deputy in Organizing and hired last year at the request of Joe Olivieri, an informed source said.
In November a Manhattan federal jury found Olivieri (56), ex-executive director of the Association of Wall, Ceiling & Carpentry Industries guilty of perjury over a sworn deposition he gave three years ago in a civil RICO case.
Contractors Call For 20% Wage Cut
The Building Trades Employers’ Association has launched a campaign to inform Rank and File Building Trade Union members and the public about the need to reduce costs that will protect union construction jobs.
The campaign, “Build Union Jobs,” will consist of subway advertisements, a website and op-eds in the press and will outline how the number of union construction jobs will keep shrinking unless union work becomes more economically competitive. Subway ads are running from March 7th to April 11th, 2011.
Union construction workers are experiencing over 30% unemployment. At the same time, market share of non-union construction continues to grow because it is 20-30% less expensive than union work.
Contractors, who are represented by the Building Trades Employers' Association, say that major concessions are necessary to help crank up the city's construction industry.
They have provided unions with a 26-point list it calls a "Framework For Reducing Union Construction Cost", which includes 25 proposed rule changes and a 20% reduction in wages and fringe benefits.
The campaign, “Build Union Jobs,” will consist of subway advertisements, a website and op-eds in the press and will outline how the number of union construction jobs will keep shrinking unless union work becomes more economically competitive. Subway ads are running from March 7th to April 11th, 2011.
Union construction workers are experiencing over 30% unemployment. At the same time, market share of non-union construction continues to grow because it is 20-30% less expensive than union work.
Contractors, who are represented by the Building Trades Employers' Association, say that major concessions are necessary to help crank up the city's construction industry.
They have provided unions with a 26-point list it calls a "Framework For Reducing Union Construction Cost", which includes 25 proposed rule changes and a 20% reduction in wages and fringe benefits.
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Friday, March 11, 2011
Current District Council Delegates
Below is a list of all current council delegates by local noting whether they are elected or appointed.
Preview of “delegates list”
Preview of “delegates list”
Thursday, March 10, 2011
REVIEW OFFICER FORUM ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 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 answer questions and hear from those in attendance who wish to share their thoughts on matters relating to the District Council, the Consent Decree and the Stipulation and Order.
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
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
Updated Rally for Solidarity
The permit is filed and the rally date has been changed to Wednesday April 13, 2011@ 3:30 pm.
Print out the below flier and and hand it out to your fellow brothers and sisters, post it at your job site, deli, etc.
Print out the below flier and and hand it out to your fellow brothers and sisters, post it at your job site, deli, etc.
We must stand together and let our voice be heard!
GET THERE & GET INVOLVED!!!
Rally Flier 
Page Six
Another Carpenter Union Leader Bites The Dust...
We hear...THAT Paul Pietropaolo, who reportedly made $152,493 last year as a district council business agent has suddenly resigned. Pietropaolo a former collection agent, was appointed business agent to Local 45 in May by UBC Supervisor Frank Spencer.
Sources say Spencer made the appointment as a favor to Pete Thomassen, the former president of the scandal-scarred carpenters union, who resigned amid revelations of massive spending on steak dinners, junkets and parties. Insiders say Pietropaolo, who join the union 10 years ago, never worked in the field or with tools. He was hired as a security guard from Bo Dietl Associates as a favor, then moved up to collection agent and business agent.
We hear...THAT Paul Pietropaolo, who reportedly made $152,493 last year as a district council business agent has suddenly resigned. Pietropaolo a former collection agent, was appointed business agent to Local 45 in May by UBC Supervisor Frank Spencer.
Sources say Spencer made the appointment as a favor to Pete Thomassen, the former president of the scandal-scarred carpenters union, who resigned amid revelations of massive spending on steak dinners, junkets and parties. Insiders say Pietropaolo, who join the union 10 years ago, never worked in the field or with tools. He was hired as a security guard from Bo Dietl Associates as a favor, then moved up to collection agent and business agent.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Page Six
Carpenter Union Leader Bites The Dust
We hear...THAT District Council employee Richard Tuccillo, suddenly resigned on Tuesday, March 8th, according to informed sources. Tuccillo of Local 157, is a 25-year member with more than 12 years as a council representative covering trade show work, grievance processing, and other duties. Tuccillo was also an elected delegate to the council. Under the corrupt Mike Forde administration, Tuccillo saw his salary increase dramatically from $94,418 in 2000 to over $180,477 in 2010. He could not be reached for comment.
We hear...THAT District Council employee Richard Tuccillo, suddenly resigned on Tuesday, March 8th, according to informed sources. Tuccillo of Local 157, is a 25-year member with more than 12 years as a council representative covering trade show work, grievance processing, and other duties. Tuccillo was also an elected delegate to the council. Under the corrupt Mike Forde administration, Tuccillo saw his salary increase dramatically from $94,418 in 2000 to over $180,477 in 2010. He could not be reached for comment.
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| Photo from Local Connection 157 |
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Notice of Appearance
New counsel for the Benefit Funds, Raymond McGuire, of the law firm Kauff MuGuire and Margolis LLP filed the below notice to appear in all court proceedings.
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Monday, March 7, 2011
A Message From Louis J. Coletti, President of the Building Trades Employer’s Association
The Building Trades Employers’ Association has launched a campaign to inform Rank and File Building Trade Union members and the public about the need to reduce costs that will protect union construction jobs.
The campaign, “Build Union Jobs,” will consist of subway advertisements, a website and op-eds in the press and will outline how the number of union construction jobs will keep shrinking unless union work becomes more economically competitive. Subway ads are running from March 7th to April 11th, 2011.
Union construction workers are experiencing over 30% unemployment. At the same time, market share of non-union construction continues to grow because it is 20-30% less expensive than union work. The campaign intends to deliver the message that union contractors and labor unions need to:
• Work Together
• Face The Facts As They Are, Not as They Would Like Them To Be
• Embrace Change That Will Result In Reducing Union Construction Costs
The campaign coincides with 30 union contracts set to expire June 30, 2011. We urge you to go to the website, www.buildunionjobs.com, and give us your feedback on this effort.
The campaign, “Build Union Jobs,” will consist of subway advertisements, a website and op-eds in the press and will outline how the number of union construction jobs will keep shrinking unless union work becomes more economically competitive. Subway ads are running from March 7th to April 11th, 2011.
Union construction workers are experiencing over 30% unemployment. At the same time, market share of non-union construction continues to grow because it is 20-30% less expensive than union work. The campaign intends to deliver the message that union contractors and labor unions need to:
• Work Together
• Face The Facts As They Are, Not as They Would Like Them To Be
• Embrace Change That Will Result In Reducing Union Construction Costs
The campaign coincides with 30 union contracts set to expire June 30, 2011. We urge you to go to the website, www.buildunionjobs.com, and give us your feedback on this effort.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
District Council Requests Clarification on Manning Provision
Frank Spencer and the International Union have begun their attempt in court to bring full mobility to the NYC District Council.
From the Councils website: The District Council of Carpenters has petitioned the United States District Court Judge Richard Berman to clarify how to interpret and enforce manning provisions set forth in the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries of New York, Inc.
This request pertains to the May 26, 2009 “Final Order and Judgment of Contempt and Remedy” regarding the abolishment of contractors being able to make unlimited requests for particular union carpenters, by name, from the OWL. This order stipulates that the total carpenter workforce on a job site selected by the contractor shall not exceed 67% and 33% provided by the union, however if the number of carpenters required at a particular job site does not divide evenly into this formula then the contractor may select an additional carpenter whose prior employment satisfies paragraph 3 b (iii) of this Order.
As the District Council and the Association have disagreed on the interpretation of the proper ratio under this ruling, we will await a clarification from Judge Berman on the proper job manning ratio to apply that would be in compliance with the Court’s order. Once the Council receives clarification we will post this information on our website for the membership.
conboy 3-3-11(2)
From the Councils website: The District Council of Carpenters has petitioned the United States District Court Judge Richard Berman to clarify how to interpret and enforce manning provisions set forth in the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries of New York, Inc.
This request pertains to the May 26, 2009 “Final Order and Judgment of Contempt and Remedy” regarding the abolishment of contractors being able to make unlimited requests for particular union carpenters, by name, from the OWL. This order stipulates that the total carpenter workforce on a job site selected by the contractor shall not exceed 67% and 33% provided by the union, however if the number of carpenters required at a particular job site does not divide evenly into this formula then the contractor may select an additional carpenter whose prior employment satisfies paragraph 3 b (iii) of this Order.
As the District Council and the Association have disagreed on the interpretation of the proper ratio under this ruling, we will await a clarification from Judge Berman on the proper job manning ratio to apply that would be in compliance with the Court’s order. Once the Council receives clarification we will post this information on our website for the membership.
conboy 3-3-11(2)
FORMATION OF AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE TO THE REVIEW OFFICER
To: All Members of the Local Unions of the New York District Council of Carpenters
I intend to form a committee composed of approximately 50 to 75 local union members for the purpose of holding monthly meetings to facilitate my communication with the membership and to inform me directly of any and all issues of concern to the membership and to receive their suggestions regarding improvements to the operation of the District Council and local unions. Meetings will typically be held at the District Council at 4 p.m. Committee member service will be on a volunteer basis.
Any member who would like to be considered by me for appointment to the committee should write a statement of between 250 and 300 words explaining why he or she would like to serve and why I should select them to serve. Include your contact information and local union affiliation.
Please email any such submission or other communications relevant to this notice to dmwfw@verizon.net, with a copy to mfitzwalsh@optonline.net. The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2011.
Dated: February 27, 2011
Dennis M. Walsh
Review Officer
Updated April,16: Below are the 63 members selected to serve on the committee.
I intend to form a committee composed of approximately 50 to 75 local union members for the purpose of holding monthly meetings to facilitate my communication with the membership and to inform me directly of any and all issues of concern to the membership and to receive their suggestions regarding improvements to the operation of the District Council and local unions. Meetings will typically be held at the District Council at 4 p.m. Committee member service will be on a volunteer basis.
Any member who would like to be considered by me for appointment to the committee should write a statement of between 250 and 300 words explaining why he or she would like to serve and why I should select them to serve. Include your contact information and local union affiliation.
Please email any such submission or other communications relevant to this notice to dmwfw@verizon.net, with a copy to mfitzwalsh@optonline.net. The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2011.
Dated: February 27, 2011
Dennis M. Walsh
Review Officer
Updated April,16: Below are the 63 members selected to serve on the committee.