East Chicago, Indiana Volume 23; No.24th Qtr. 2012

LOCAL 1010STEELWORKER

If we stay the course on Safety Issues, there will be Results!

4th Qtr. 2012Page 2

The “Daniel’s Bypass,” as one localAM Radio Station had dubbed the ef-fects of Cline Avenue dumping free-way traffic on local streets caused manyripple effects. The Plant two employ-ees were constantly dealing with mo-torist using the Plant two exit ramps asa short cut, to make illegal U turnsacross a short median. Which resultedin many near miss accidents, you couldhear the big rigs sounding their AirHorns, and slamming on their brakesto avoid collisions.

The Issue was reported to the SafetyCommittee, and brought to thePresident’s attention. Tom Hargroveand Plant Manager Wendell Carter hadmeetings with the State, County, Cityof East Chicago, and ArcelorMittal.Tom’s persistence never waivered ashe worked his way thru the legal redtape to resolve this important SafetyIssue for all People using this main traf-fic artery.The Pictures above and on our front

cover are the fruits of this labor, theplacement of a permanent traffic bar-rier on our overpass. This will stop theunacceptable practice of illegal U Turnson the overpass that many people weredoing to buck the traffic back up on the“Daniel’s Bypass.”Great Job Company and Union, on re-solving this Safety Issue.In Solidarity,Dan Walters - Safety Committee

Working Together to Remove Hazards

Page 3Steelworker

Health, Safety and Environment Committee

Moving Forward and Making a Difference……

This year we have seen progress in ourPersonal Injury Cases compared to lastyear. There have been reductions inLost Work Day Cases, OSHA Record-able Cases and All Injury Cases. TheRestricted Cases are above the previ-ous year. However, we must stay fo-cused on safe work practices.ArcelorMittal world wide has exceededthe last years number of total fatalities.As we know every fatality is unaccept-able and preventable. In our “Journeyto Zero” we must still eliminate inju-ries. We believe some of our safety ef-forts that have been put in place thisyear have contributed to our improve-ments. The “Safety Awareness Training Pro-gram” has been well received and thebenefits are showing. This “hands on“approach to recognizing hazards andthe HIRAC-Lite group task assign-ments have carried over to our every-day work activities. Our instructors aredoing a terrific job!All the joint safety committees through-out the plant working on Fatality Pre-vention Standards and Assessmentsalong with the Safety ManagementSystem are also improving our safetyprogram. This system will help us man-age and control occupational health andsafety from every job in the plant, fromthe entry level job to the plant manager.This will aid us to implement health andsafety policies and with the goal to elimi-nate the hazards and risks that may bepresent on the shop floor and providethe necessary training/education. Alsoour Area and Department Safety Com-mittees have been engaged in comply-ing with all health and safety objectivesset forth in the 2 year plan.As of July 30 of this year a revisedLockout / Tagout Program (Control of

Hazardous Energy) was completed.This was a cumulative effort form 1010Safety, 1011 Safety and the plant Safetymanager so we could be consistentthroughout Indiana Harbor.One of the main objectives of the re-vised program was to address the pro-cess of inspecting Energy Control Pro-cedures periodically but at least annu-ally as required by OSHA.A form that we refer to in our programis a “Lock Placement and VerificationPermit.” This form shall be used to aidin the inspection process. The formshall be used for the following items:(1) To document the specific equipmentlocked out and the verification process.(2) To document the periodic or annualinspection of an Energy Control Pro-cedure.(3) To develop a task specific lockoutprocedure or work instruction.(4) To identify any deviations or inad-equacies observed and update the ECP,task specific lockout, or work instruc-tion accordingly.Each depart-ment shall con-duct a periodicinspection of theEnergy ControlProcedures atleast annuallyand use the“lock Placementand VerificationPermit” to cer-tify that an em-ployee otherthan the one uti-lizing the energycontrol proce-dure being in-spected must

perform the periodic inspection. Thecertification will identify the machineor equipment on which the energy con-trol procedure is being utilized, the dateof inspection, the employees includedin the inspection and the person per-forming the inspection.If an ECP has not been inspected withinthe last year it shall be reviewed andinspected upon use. Any help you maybe able to provide in this process wouldbe of benefit to all of our members.Shared Vigilance!!!The Indiana Harbor East ElectricalCommittee (Local 1010 MTE depart-mental representatives and their com-pany counterpart) meet each Wednes-day at USW Local 1010 Memorial Hallfrom 10:00 am to 11:30 am.Monthly we conduct audits of depart-ments for compliance with theArcelorMittal USA Electrical SafeWork Practices Standard. The resultsof these audits are reported back to theDepartment representatives for correc-tion of the deficiencies.

Ken Finke Plt 4 Electrical John Yadron 2 SP Electrical

November Electrical Safety Audit - 7 Blast Furnace

Continued on page 4

4th Qtr. 2012Page 4

WE MAKE THE JOB SAFE OR WE DON’T DO IT!!

We communicate information back tothe departments, such as the defectivetool exchange that was in place fordefective 1000 Volt channel locks to beexchanged free of charge at CentralSpares. Implementation of elements inthe AM USA ESWP Standard,interpitation on issues such as thechanges in Cat II Daily Wear, and thefull Cat II requirements, and when eachlevel of protection are required. We arecurrently field testing “Combat Arms”Hearing protection. We recently com-pleted a trial of Class “0” 1000 Voltrated Gloves with scuffs, for use in ar-eas that have equipment in the 500 to1000 Volt range.We review current incidents, accidents,and near misses and make recommen-dations as a result of our reviews. Werecently created a Glove bag with shoul-der strap, a corrective action on acci-dent follow up that will be available one-market.We have recognized eye injuries,sprains/strains and slip/trip/falls aresome of the types of accidents that areoccurring. In moving forward to reduceeye injuries one of the items would beto ensure proper fitting eye wear andalso additional personal protectionequipment that may be necessary. Doa HIRAC-Lite!Our joint safety committee has ap-proved a new selection of prescriptionand plano safety glasses. Contact yoursafety advocates or a member of oursafety committee for some informationabout the new styles.With sprains/strains and slip/trip/falls alldepartments are required to have awalking and working surface plans,housekeeping plans and conduct areasafety inspections. Do a HIRAC-Lite!When there is a need to lift heavy orawkward objects asked for assistance.Also keep in mind there may be theneed for the use of various types of

Due to retirements in the coming yearthere may be postings for Process Au-tomation Engineer Technicians (ETs).The ET position is a bargaining unit jobin O&T. It is a steady day, non-incen-tive position that begins at $32.76/hour.The Process Automation EngineerTechnician position is open to bidderswho have 5 years experience as anMTE. Bidders must also have alreadypassed the International Society of Au-tomation (ISA) Certified Control Sys-tems Technician Program (CCST)Level 3 test. The time to prepare isnow.Requirements for taking the CCSTLevel 3 test are;A thirteen-year total of education, train-ing, and/or experience. The followingelements may be used to satisfy thisrequirement:a. A registered apprenticeship in an in-strumentation, measurement and con-trol, electronics, electrical, and/or me-chanical program, if applicable.b. Academic degree (or equivalent) ina related technology area, to a maxi-mum of four years.c. Related work experience, includingat least five years in instrumentation/measurement and control.MTEs may wish to fill gaps in theirknowledge by taking one or more onlinecourses (a list is available) offered byISA (and paid for using their TAP al-lowance). In the past, with enough in-terest, Joblink has offered ISA’s CCSTReview course followed by the exam.If you have any questions feel free tocontact me directly.Scott Vliek PAET StewardWork: 219 399-2633Cell: 219 789-4326

Process AutomationEngineer Techniciansequipment.

We would like to thank Kermit Deelfor all his help and dedication to beingpart of the Safety Committee and allthe years as being a Union Represen-tative. We wish Kermit and his familya happy and long retirement.With that being said, We welcome GailRichardson, #3 Cold Strip Safety Ad-vocate, to our safety committee as anad hoc member.As we start the New Year, We encour-age each and everyone to do their partin making our work place a healthierand safer environment. Let’s keepmoving forward and making a differ-ence.......

We Make The Job Safe orWe Don’t Do It!!!

Continued From page 3Safety

Safety CommitteeContact Information

Don Jones - Chairmandjones@uswa1010.org

Home: 838-4210Cell: 712-5610

John Gelon - Vice Chairmanjgelon@uswa1010.org

Home: 690-1523Cell: 406-4190

Dan Walters - Secretarydwalters@uswa1010.org

Home: 924-9931Cell: 313-7913

Nick Valle - Safety Coordinatornvalle@uswa1010.org

Cell: 808-5377

Gail Richardson - Ad hoc Membergrichardson@uswa1010.org

Cell: 313-6949

Page 5Steelworker

Insurance & Benefits398-3100

Ernie Barrientez extension 117Jerry Strauch extension 112

Brothers and sisters of local 1010, wehope all of you and your families aredoing well. The winter weather is here,so remember to gear up for wintersafety, on the job and at home.Ernie, Anita and I are available to serveand assist you with any questions andconcerns you may have on health care,retirement, or any benefit that you mayneed assistance with. We are at theunion hall Monday-Friday 8am to 5pm.You can call us at 398-3100 ext 112 or117.Some frequently asked questions onretirement;- All retirements commence on the firstday of the month you retire.- Special payment is nine weeks payplus any unused vacation time. This isbased on 2% of last year’s w-2; youwill receive this lump sum payment onemonth after you retire.- First retirement check will come toyou on the fourth month following yourretirement.- Example; retirement date-January 1st- Special payment-February 1st- First retirement check-April 1st

- Direct deposit- if you sign up for di-rect deposit you will receive your spe-cial payment one month later; your firstretirement check will be deposited intoyour banking account. If you have anyquestions please come to the union hallor call us. If you are an active employee you nolonger have to complete a student formto keep insurance on your children, whoare attending college. They are cov-ered as long as they are not eligible forany other insurance. Keep your spouse updated by turningin a coordination of benefits form(COB) one month before their birth-day, each year. In the last issue of our paper I wentover the rules to receive Sickness &Accident benefits. It is your responsi-bility to get the S&A form. Fill out yourinformation on the top, have your Doc-tor fill out his portion and return it tothe west annex. Save your EOB’s (explanation of Ben-efits). The EOB has all the detailsneeded. Date of service-the provider-billscharged-discounts-deductibles and co-pays.All this information is used to de-

termine what was paid and why, andwhat you may owe the provider. TheEOB is your documentation used toprove you were billed correctly. If your spouse works and is paying aHealth care Insurance premium youqualify for the Spousal Reimbursementbenefit. You will be reimbursed for anycost over $120.00, but you must turn inthe reimbursement form. Retirement- Surviving spouse options;there are three options to choose fromwhen you retire, if you are thinkingabout retiring and have any questionson this benefit please call Jerry at theUnion Hall. Take advantage of all yourbenefits, The Union has fought hard forthese benefits and just as hard to keepthem. We would like to thank all of the ac-tive members and retirees of Local 1010for all of your support during negotia-tions. After all the crazy low down pro-posals by the company, we finally settledon a contract with no concessions.As always if you have any questionsor concerns, either stop by the hallor call us. In Solidarity, Jerry Strauch

I would like to introduce myself, myname is Anita Freels. I work in the 3C/S department and hold the union po-sitions of Secretary of Joint Civil Rightscommittee and Co-Chairman of theNext Generation committee. Please feel

free to contact me if there is anything Ican help you with. Also you can emailme your contact information if youwould like to be updated with Next Gen-eration meetings and event dates. Mayyou have a wonderful Holiday Season!

Seasons Greetings to all!

Anita FreelsCell 219-898-0691Work 219-399-7847afreels@uswa1010.org

4th Qtr. 2012Page 6

Local 1010 Scholarship Committee3703 Euclid Ave.

East Chicago, IN 46312219-398-3100

ESSAY COMPETITIVE SCHOLARSHIP AWARDFour $1,000 Scholarships

United Steelworkers Local 1010 will award four $1,000 scholarships for use at anycollege, university or technical school in the United States of America on

the basis of a 500 word written essay competition on: “WHY UNIONS MATTER”

HOW TO APPLYSecure an official application form along with procedure and instructionsbeginning February 18 through March 15, 2013 at Local 1010 Union Hall.

• No ACT scores required for eligibility• Must be a high school graduate, class of 2012-2013• Son, daughter, legal ward of a member, retired member, or deceased member of USW Local 1010• Application form must be completed and certified by an official of Local 1010 by 4 pm on April 5, 2013

LOCAL 1010

First off we would like to thank allthe members who volunteered theretime in the 2012 election process.Whatever action you did (phone bank-ing, walking, or handing our flyers inyour shop) Your hard work is alwaysappreciated! Thank you ALL for get-ting out and expressing your right tovote! With that being said, let’s start offand highlight some things that our localmembership has done. During the sixweeks leading up to the 2012 electionLocal 1010 hosted phone banking. Thiswas held every week, two days a week,for two hours each day. Volunteerscalled other local 1010 members andthere family to encourage them to getout and vote for our labor friendly can-didates. We also did “Door to Door”walks for some local labor friendly can-didates and just as in every electioncycle, we posted flyers in various washhouses providing information on candi-dates. The attack on workers will not be

getting any weaker at any level! At thestate level prior to the 2012 election theIndiana house of representatives was60-40 republican majority, which meansany extreme anti-labor legislationbrought to the house floor, (i.e. Right towork) could have been stalled by thehouse democrats by way of “walk out”which would have denied the republi-cans a quorum to continue with busi-ness. Now after the election, it is now 69-31 republican, giving house republicansa super majority. This means that Re-publicans can now pass any motionwithout a single Democrat beingpresent. This super majority house willnot be doing Hoosier workers any fa-vors! Our fight must continue remind-ing the House of Representatives thatwe as union workers are not happy withthe states current anti-labor laws andlet them know that organized labor isnot going away in the state of Indiana!We need to mobilize, and prepare our-selves for the upcoming elections, We

need to balance out the House of Rep-resentatives.At a national level labor/working fami-lies’ hard work paid off by re-electingPresident Barack Obama for anotherterm. But our fight is far from over atthe national/state level. We must con-tinue to remain vigilant on pursuing leg-islation that will benefit America andAmerican workers by electing officialsthat stand for our values as workingpeople, and continue to let our voicesbe heard by fighting back against thosewho don’t! Local 1010 Rapid Response actionteam will continue to be there with youon the front lines leading those fightsthat will jeopardize our industry and ourmember’s way of life!In solidarity,Local 1010 Rapid ResponseLuis Aguilar Ed MedinaMario Mendoza Nick Young

Rapid Response Committee

Page 7Steelworker

ATTEND YOURUNION MEETINGS!

FIRST THURSDAY OFEACH MONTH @ 5:30

Workers Memorial DayApril 25, 2013

Family members of those honoredon Memorial wall that wish to beplaced on our list of participants andnotified of details to participate inthe 2013 Workers Memorial Day,and future events please contactJohn Gelon (219) 406-4190 workersmemorial@uswa1010.org

With the addition of the new traininglanguage in the Collective BargainingAgreement, the face of training for2013 should see considerable changes.

As always the language is only asgood as applied. This means that if youhave not been properly trained nor haveyou been made aware of all safety as-pects pertaining to any assignment youshould not be doing the job. Currentlythe parties are working on a commonTemplate to facilitate training and track-ing in every department and for everyassignment in that LOP. Hopefully thiswill assure that no less than 25% of theincumbents in a box will be trained an-nually in their respective LOP until allare qualified, on all assignments, withintheir respective box as called for by theBLA.

The new BLA calls for the Company’scommitment to fill 40% of the annualplant wide Maintenance Technicianswith Maintenance Trainees. Thesetrainees will be bidders that have scoredat least a raw score of 50 on the Ramseytest, if you are a prevailing bidder and

scored at least 50 but not an 84 forMTM or a 73 for MTE. The Prevail-ing bidder will be offered 320 hours ofCompany provided training to bringyour score up to the required (MTM84/MTE 73) score. If you do not bringyour score up to the required level youwill revert back to your previous as-signment.

Prevailing bidders entered into theMaintenance Technician Trainee pro-gram will be Labor Grade 3 and of-fered 320 hours of instruction and 720hours of practical experience to passfive of the ten factor tests. Once thefive Factor tests are completed an ad-ditional 320 hours instruction and 720hours of practical experience will beprovided for the remaining five factortests. Upon completion of all 10 Factortests the trainee will advance to fullMaintenance Technician status LaborGrade 4.

During the course of the above men-tioned training the Trainee may be as-signed anywhere in the plant during his/her period of training. If there is a fail-

ure to progress at an acceptable pacethe Trainee shall be offered an addi-tional 160 hours to correct the deficien-cies, and retested. Should the Traineebe deemed to not have the ability toperform the work, or at anytime volun-tarily withdraws from the program forany reason he/she shall be assigned atthe discretion of management to anydepartment within the plant as a utilityperson.

The Training Committee is commit-ted to enforcing the Training languageand to make each Department respon-sible for their Joint Training plans.

Don SeifertTraining Coordinator

Questions, feel free to call any mem-ber of the Training Committee at398-3100.Don Seifert ext.141Tom Hargrove ext. 111Luis Aguilar ext.115Steve Wagner ext. 113

Training CommitteeBy Don Seifert

4th Qtr. 2012Page 8

Alcohol or Drugs a Problem?A Members Assistance Committee member is at the Hall every Thursdayand is available to help with Substance Abuse or Behavioral Problems. Oryou can call them at the numbers listed below. Nationwide consultation isavailable 24/7 from Value Options at 800-332-2214.

Value Options is the Care Administrator for all Substance Abuse and Behav-ioral issues. Referral and certification by Value Options can substantially re-duce your out-of-pocket cost.

Local 1010 Members Assistance CommitteeDave Lomellin (219) 397-0902 Paul Johnson (219) 364-1284

When is enough, enough? We are themiddle class, blue collared workers ofAmerica. And yet we are constantlyunder attack by our employers. For in-stance, Lakshmi Mittal the 21st richestman in the world with over 28.7 billionsdollars in personal wealth, wants to stripus workers in America of basically ev-erything we have collectively bargainedfor over the last 70 years. Wages, pen-sions, benefits. When does it stop?When is enough, enough? A man like Mr. Mittal doesn’t becomerich over night. I commend him for thesuccess in his life, but I want to live asuccessful life too. I want to be pros-perous and know that my wages andbenefits are safe and not at the disposalof the company to change as they feelnecessary. Who could sleep at nightwith that on your conscience, knowingthat you’re affecting hard working menand women’s livelihood and well be-ing. We are the ones in the mills sacri-ficing 8,12, sometimes 16 hour days justto put a meal on the table and clotheson our children’s backs. Blood, sweat and tears are just the be-ginning of our physical sacrifice. Wewant to go home at night the same waythat we came but too often that isn’tthe case. Too often brothers and sis-ters pay the ultimate sacrifice. Theycome to work to put an honest days

work in, and for some reason or an-other, their lives are lost. The image of a union worker is sicken-ing to say the least. Fat, lazy, overpaid.That’s just the beginning. I would loveto show some of the union basherswhat it’s like to work a day in the mill.Take off that white collared shirt andput some greens on. Don’t be afraid toget your hands dirty, or your knucklesbanged up. When people ask me if I have any broth-ers or sisters, my face lights up. Myresponse is often questioned. I proudlysay that I have 1.2 million brothers andsisters. They are both active and re-tired union brothers and sisters. We area union. We stand for solidarity andunity. You can find us fighting for work-ers in union halls, at the workplace, inthe courts and legislatures.I am a steelworker. I am your neigh-bor, your family, your friend, an every-day person just like you. I don’t ask formuch: Just to have fair wages so I canprovide for a family. I ask for benefitsso when me or my family gets sick wehave a plan in place. I ask for a pen-sion so I don’t have to work literallyuntil the day I die. Ultimately I ask fora safe workplace. I am a steelworker.In Solidarity,Jake Cole

When is enough, enough?By Jake Cole, Steward Area 4

Retirees andActive Employees

I want to thank all of you who wereinvolved in the two marches while wewere in negotiations. Those marchesplayed a major role in the settling ofthe contract. This was my seventeenthtime in contract negotiations and thiswas the most ridiculous things the com-pany wanted out of the union that I haveever seen. The two major things thatthey wanted the active to go on the Sal-ary Health Care Plan and they tried toeliminate health care coverage for theretirees. YOUR union held together andwith YOUR support the company hadto EAT what they wanted out of us.The retirees, spouses, surviving spouseskept the 5 million dollar health care cov-erage, the 1 million dollar organ trans-plant coverage, the $1,500 coverage oneach ear every three years, the $240eyeglass coverage every two years, andyour premium cost for your health in-surance if on Medicare is $35 a monthand not on Medicare is $70 a month. U.S. Steel pays $190 a month not onMedicare and $95 a month on Medi-care.Beginning in December 2013 everysurviving spouse whose spouse retiredbefore January 1, 2000 will get a Medi-care Part B check for $850 from thecompany each December of the con-tract.I have been doing pensions and deathpapers since 1952. I have caught a lotof mistakes on pensions. Two weeksago I caught a huge mistake on a per-son retiring on 01-01-2013.If you want me to do your pensions callme on my cell at 742-3269 or my homephone at 924-2294. I don’t get paid fordoing this AND I will not take anymoney from anyone.Anyone who thinks they might have aproblem with alcohol or drugs give mea call. I know what living is hell is like. The call might save your life, your job,or your marriage.Don Lutes, Retirees Representative

Page 9Steelworker

Donald GuerreroGriever, Area 4

SafetyPeople do not like it when I say thisbut, “You are your first line of defensewhen it comes to Safety”. If some-thing does not seem right, you need toquestion it. If someone tells you to doanything that goes against your safetytraining, you need to question it. Youneed to question it whether it is comingfrom a co-worker or a supervisor.There are provisions in the contract forthe right to refuse unsafe work, article3, section C. (page 25)

We have had a couple of incidentswhere the individuals saw somethingthat was not right and questioned thesituation and held their ground. EricNelson saw water in the mold and ques-tioned it. He asked for safety reliefand used the stop work card. It turnedout management did not properly un-derstand either of them, as a result thedepartment is supposed to have somefollow up training to explain them.Camille Modrowski saw many issueswith a confined space job at the BFFBag House and stopped the work. Be-

cause these people questioned thesafety of the work, they kept themselvesout of harms way, and changes aregoing to happen to make it safer forthose who follow. We need morepeople like them.

If you have not had confined spacetraining, you can not work in a confinedspace. If you have not had fall protec-tion training, you can not work in anarea that requires fall protection. If youhave not had hazardous material (lead)training you can not change the bags atthe Cadre Bag House.

New SchedulesIf you feel there is a seniority violationwith the new 16 turn schedule, let usknow as soon as possible.

Vacation SchedulingIf you have any issues with the vaca-tion scheduling, let us know as soon aspossible. we have already had to repick

in some areas because of violations thatwere corrected.

6/7 Day FormsI want to give a special thank you toSteve Govert, Pat Bergs, Jake Cole,Dave Ellman, and Kathryn Kreider forputting in the time to help people fill outtheir forms. We helped over 150 peoplefill out their backlog of 6-7 day forms.We worked for 4 days at union hall onthe 6/7 day forms and many hours athome to get them done. I would alsolike to thank all of the people at payroll,and our local 1010 for giving us sometime to help you. Thank you for yourpatients while we worked on yourforms. I would also like to give a spe-cial thank you to Sylvia Clark, ArlindaVelazquez, Tom Hargrove, Darryl Reedand Nick Pappas for the help they pro-vided. Make sure you thank all of theabove when you see them.

Most people think you only need to fillout the 6/7 day request for overtimeforms when they work 6 or 7 days in arow across two weeks. This is not true.The majority of the acceptances hap-pen when what is normally your 6 dayweek and your off day is Sunday andsometimes Saturday.

If you need help filling out the 6-7 dayforms just ask Steve Govert, Jake Coleor me for help.

Thanks for your time,Don Guerrero219-309-3890Don.g2@juno.com

4 SP Safe Sustainable SteelWe Make The Job Safe or We Don’t Do It!!!

4th Qtr. 2012Page 10

The fight has Just Begun in 2012By Lil Joe Gutierrez

The election is over, but the fight has justbegun. It’s not surprising that those whovoted for Romney were so shocked thatPresident Obama not only won, but that hewon with such an overwhelming margin ofvictory given that their only source ofinformation had been FOX news and RushLimbaugh.Obama’s success is, indeed, a mandate, amandate for truth. The cavalier skeweringof facts and numbers by the Romneycampaign became so obvious thateverything said on that side becamesuspect. The electorate rejected thedeception and obfuscation, and ultimatelyallowed truth to rule the day.Elections have consequences. Every votedoes count. The blatant voter suppressionby Republican led legislatures in swingStates motivated affected citizens to endurethe duress in order to exercise their right tovote and for their voice to be heard. Andtheir voice was not a whisper but a shoutacross this country that everyone countsregardless of race, color, religion or financialstatus.Democracy is alive. Votes have been tallied,and we shall survive. President Obama mustaccept the fact that the other side of theaisle does not like him, does not want him,and will do everything possible to defeathim. Those congressmen determined tooppose any effort by our President to createjobs and reduce our deficit in a fair and

sustainable way must put country, ourcountry, first. Tax brakes to move our jobsoverseas must stop. Jobs in this countrycan be a reality if Washington has thepolitical will.If it’s necessary to eliminate the filibusterto create jobs and maintain social justice,then so be it. Concerned citizens stood upto the millionaires and billionaires and won.We are sick and tired of gridlock andobstruction, and we will stand up againstthose politicians who represent thecorporate elite and the almighty dollar.The top 2 percent must pay their fair share.No. Corporations are not people. Yes.Citizens United, which allows corporationsto spend unlimited amounts of money tobuy our elections has desecrated ourpolitical process and must be revoked. Yes.Voter fraud was a straw man perpetrated bythe GOP to suppress voting rights. Yes.The Republican Party has been hijacked bythe likes of the Koch brothers and thereligious right, and yes, the country needsmoderates in both parties.Yes. We must protect Social Security andMedicare and Medicaid, because they workand they are the social safety net for allcitizens. And yes, we must save the UnitedStates Post Office by forcing Congress torescind the unfair law that forces the PostOffice to fund its pension plan and medicalbenefits for its future employees for the next75 years.

Benjamin Franklin, the first Post MasterGeneral said that the purpose ofgovernment is to further the common good,not to make a profit. Save the USPS. Andyes, we must end the war in Afghanistanand bring our soldiers home, now. It’s timeto end the madness. Someone said thatthere is never a good war and never a badpeace. Yes. We need unions now more thanever. And yes, nurses, firemen, policemen,government workers, teachers, our belovedteachers, should not be scapegoats for theprivatizers, financiers and banksters withtheir hedging and derivatives who live onlyin the moment mortgaging our future andour children’s future.Banks should not be too big to fail. Wecannot, we must not, lie down and die.Surrender is not an option. Open your eyesand open your hearts because there is hopeand hope is alive. The late Howard Zinn’swords bear repeating: “Sooner or later,profound change will come to this nationtired of war, tired of seeing its wealthsquandered, while the basic needs offamilies are not met. These needs are nothard to describe. Some are very practical,some are requirements of the soul: healthcare, work, living wages, a sense of dignity,a feeling of being at one with our fellowhuman beings.”In Solidarity, Lil Joe Gutierrez,Retired steelworker and Union Official,L.U.1010, USWA

Jean Parker ShepherdDocumentary/FilmHammond Indiana native Nick Mantisis producing a Documentary/Film onthe Life and Career of Jean Shepherd.Jean Shepherd (July 26, 1921 – Octo-ber 16, 1999) grew up in Hessville andwent to Harding Elementary, MortonMiddle School and graduated fromHammond High School in 1939. Jeanwent on to serve in the U.S. Army Sig-

nal Corps. during WWII and then wenton to a successful radio broadcast ca-reer that started in Cleveland and endedin New York on WOR through the1950’s, 60’s and 70’s.Jean also wrote for Playboy, Car &Driver and his first Novel, “In God WeTrust, All Others Pay Cash” was a bookrecalling many childhood memoriesJean had from Hammond that went onto become the movie “A ChristmasStory.” Jean then went on to producenumerous PBS TV specials called

“Shepherd’s Pie.”Nick seeks anybody that may have anypictures, video or any stories they mayhave regarding Jean Shepherd. Jeanvisited Northwest Indiana in the 1970’s,80’s and 90’s. He was a member ofLocal 1010 and often spoke about hislife growing up in Hammond and work-ing in the Steel Mill.Nick Mantis can be reached at (219)670-9687 or email atnickjmantis@yahoo.com

Page 11Steelworker

I’m constantly being asked,“What is Next Generation (NextGen)?” I hope to answer this questionand stimulate interest in the labor move-ment and in our union, Local 1010.Next Gen is a committee no differentthan others like Women of Steel orCommunity Services. Similar to theseother committees, Next Gen has aChairman, James Thomas 80” HotStrip Mill, a Co-Chair, Anita Freels 3Cold Strip Quality, and a Secretary,Andres Maldonado in MEU FieldForces.

Next Gen’s goal is to enhanceour local with new ideas and new faces.We would like to provoke and promotea new found interest in our local. NextGen had its first summer picnic. Withyour support, we had a good turn-out;and with the support of our President,Tom Hargrove, we hope to continue thispicnic annually and much more.

So, who is Next Gen and whyis the labor movement important? To

begin with, I’d like to set the recordstraight. Next Gen is for all of us re-gardless of age, gender, or years ofseniority. Local 1010 belongs to all ofus. We are all steelworkers. NextGen serves as a tool to reach out toour members and educate them on is-sues which affect all steelworkers. Byempowering our members with knowl-edge of unionism and social justice, wehope to bring to light and address theinjustices that affect us all.

Next Gen should have an im-portant role in the labor movement. Astrong labor movement is vital to thesuccess of our working conditions,healthcare, job security, and the abilityto collectively bargain. It is importantto honor and recognize the fights,struggles and solidarity of our union’spast. All of this holds true to our nego-tiating slogan, “Respecting Our Past,Securing Our Future.”

We have a new fight on ourhands that now attacks our core union

values. We all saw what the companybrought to the table—two-tiered pay, alack of respect for both seniority rightsand healthcare for retirees. Not tomention, there exists an anti-worker,anti-union political agenda. An agendalike this only tries to drive down wages,erode benefits, and do away with pen-sions. This was seen in the passing ofthe Right to Work legislation in Indi-ana. The corporations, along with somepoliticians, believe the workers standin the way of profits and fiscal budget-ing. However, the 99% of us that workwith respect and dignity for a livingshould be proud of our hard work andour union.

We are all the next generationof leaders in our local communities, andin our local union. Next Gen is set upto incite a flame of activism and to pro-mote our fighting anthem of “One daylonger, One day stronger.” In our NextGen meetings, we hope to inspire thenext generation of leaders for Local1010. -Andres Maldonado

Next GenerationBy Andres Maldonado

Legal Problems? Need a Lawyer?Local 1010 members can take advantage of a free legalconsultation every Wednesday at the Union Hall from:

8:30 am - 9:30 am* and 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm*Provided by the Law Offices of

Joe Banasiak2546 45th Highland, IN 46322 or Call 219-924-3020

Michael Bosch &Alexis Dedelow8320 Kennedy Ave. Highland, IN 46322 or Call 219-972-3030

*Times are approximate

Back: Nick Young, Tim Janko, Jayson Culp, Anite Freels,Andres Maldonado, Mario Mendoza, Quinn Hartman, Jake ColeFront: Amy Nyhanna, James Thomas, Eddie Medina, Tasos Katopodis

4th Qtr. 2012Page 12

Brothers and Sisters, I would like totake this opportunity to thank all of youwho supported me and others in thispast election, James Harris, Lee Smith,Adam Deel, and Andy Klawiter. Tothose who didn’t support us we hopeto earn your support. I appreciate all ofyou who ran in this past election espe-cially our younger members you are thelife blood and future of our Union. Yourinvolvement and participation is key forour Union to remain strong and vibrant.Congratulations to all who won.I have encouraged participation fromall the union reps and there is strongsolidarity among us, we are workingtogether. All of the union reps have beenappointed to the department steeringcommittee and have a voice. We havea lot of solidarity on the grievance com-mittee and we are doing our best toprotect your rights. The turn out andvotes from 2 Steel Producing during thispast election, showed it’s important toour Brothers and Sisters who representsthem. Not only for the grievance com-mittee within our shop but also for thosein the executive committees at theUnion Hall that represent all of us atthe plant wide level. There were manyworkers who came out to vote on theirday off. We thank you for your partici-pation. This is something all of us canbe proud of. As in past elections, 2 SteelProducing’s participation in the electionswas strong and sends a loud message,we will not be taken lightly. With ourVote we will be heard, We have strongsolidarity!

Our grievance committee is demonstrat-ing the strong Solidarity that is neededin order to represent and defend yourRights. The responsibility to representthe Rights of all of our Brothers andSisters takes a total commitment and isan honor. Remember your support ofthe Union and the Reps who defendyou has an impact on management.Never before has the need to stand to-gether been as important.From the elections we moved into ne-gotiations with the company for thecollective bargaining rights that we asworkers have fought to obtain. TheRight to bargain for a fair contract wasnot given to us; it was earned by thosewho laid down their lives. The com-pany was determined to fracture us andthey probed for weaknesses to exploit.When our Union leadership called forSolidarity and Unity. We answered thebell. Our demonstrations and Unity, forwearing stickers, displaying placards,and demonstrating with marchesshowed we will do what is necessaryto receive a fair contract. Many work-ers from 2 Steel Producing were on thefront lines. Many young workers alongwith senior members were making theirvoices heard. As we move forward wemust remember that we are in a battleand that the War is not over. From theBOF to the Caster, from 2SP to the 3Cold Strip, from the East side to theWest side from the Indiana Harbor toBurns Harbor, workers will be readyfor 2015. When we stay United theresults are positive.

Again I want to remind you, manage-ment has been calling workers into theoffice for discipline. Remember youhave rights anytime you are asked tohave a meeting with a supervisor, andthat meeting could lead to discipline youhave the Right to ask for a Union Rep.Don’t be coerced into a meeting with-out a Union Rep. present. By law youhave rights under the Weingarten Act.Any worker called to a meeting withmanagement should say, “If this discus-sion in any way could lead to my beingdisciplined or terminated, or affect mypersonal working conditions, I respect-fully request that my Union represen-tative, officer, or steward be present atthis meeting. Until my representativearrives I chose not to participate in thisdiscussion.” An employer’s failure tocomply with a workers request forUnion representation or a violation ofany other Weingarten right is an unfairlabor practice.

We wish you all a Joyous and Prosper-ous holiday season,and a Happy new year.

United We Stand Divided We Fall!

Yours in Solidarity

Mike Bouvat

United We Stand Divided We Fall!By Mike Bouvat, Griever Area 5

WE MAKE THE JOB SAFE OR WE DON’T DO IT!! WE MAKE THE JOB SAFE OR WE DON’T DO IT!!

Page 13Steelworker

By now, you should all know that ourunion’s offices are moving to a new build-ing. The old hall developed some seri-ous structural problems that would beextremely expensive to remedy. Andwho knows what other problems mightdevelop in a building that old. So as agroup our union has decided not to throwgood money after bad and simply investin a newer, more reliable building.

This was not an easy decision to make.Our union hall has a long and proud his-tory. It was built in the 1930s and hasserved us well since then. It was ourhome through good times and bad, aplace of refuge where we could meet todiscuss any issues that arose. Most re-cently, it was rededicated as MemorialHall, in memory of those who lost theirlives in our mill as they worked to sup-port their families. It is the only hall thatany of us has known. In some ways, itfeels like we are losing an old friend.

But the responsible thing to do is to in-vest the union’s money where it will givethe best return. Not only is the new build-ing more modern, it also is more energyefficient, easier to maintain, and has suf-ficient space for all our needs. It is eas-ily accessible, too – right off Cline Av-enue, just a few minutes from the plant.Just as important, it provides future gen-erations with a serviceable building foryears to come. We do not need a hallthat is an albatross around our necks bothnow and in the future.

So, goodbye Memorial Hall. You’vebeen a good, reliable friend. But ev-erything must come to an end. Andfor our hall, that time is now.

As we make plans to move, we arewelcoming a new contract. I say“welcoming,” because it is a welcomerelief to have essentially the sameterms as the previous agreement withsome positive changes along with apay raise. It is a welcome relief thatour union successfully fought off allthe concessions the company wanted.It is a welcome relief that we main-tained pensions and retiree medicalbenefits. It is a welcome relief that,together, we rose to beat back thecompany’s challenge.

While our negotiating team was inPittsburgh, they kept in close contactwith us. They made it clear to man-agement that they represented thewhole union. They did a heck of ajob fighting for us. For our part, werallied together to show the companythat the negotiating team had our sup-port. When management looked atour negotiating team, they saw thou-sands of workers behind them, in soli-darity with them. They didn’t just seepeople; they saw a force to be reck-oned with. And eventually, they sawthe light and negotiated reasonably,instead of pursuing an unrealistic listof unwarranted concessions.

Congratulations to all of us. Becauseeveryone did their part, we were suc-cessful. That’s what a union is about.That’s what we do best.

Our slogan was “Respecting Our Past,Securing Our Future.” There is a mes-sage in it for both sides. Managementneeds to know that is what we will al-ways demand, and we need to remem-ber that the advantages we enjoy wereachieved through the hard work anddedication of our predecessors. Westand in solidarity not simply to honorthose who came before us; we do sobecause it works. And I don’t thinkanyone could say it didn’t work thiscontract.

This brings us back to the mixed feel-ings about leaving Memorial Hall. Assad as it is to leave our old friend, it istime to do so. It wasn’t the hall thatgot us a decent contract; it was theunion. And the union is all of us, notjust the officers. Whether we are inthe old building or a new one, we arestill the same people, working in soli-darity for the betterment of each andall. That spirit will be with us wher-ever we go, and soon the new hall willfeel just like home. It will be your, no,our new home. Welcome to the newhome of USW Local 1010 – the bestlocal in the best damn union you eversaw.In Solidarity,Jim Gogolak

Goodbye Old Friend/Welcome New ContractBy Jim Gogolak, Inner Guard

4th Qtr. 2012Page 14

The Local 1010 Steelworker is the officialpublication of the United Steelworkers - Local 1010,AFL-CIO. It is published to circulate informationof use and interest to its members. Submissionsfrom members are welcomed and encouraged.This publication is free of charge to all active andretired Local 1010 members.

Mail to: USW Local 1010Attention: Editor3703 Euclid AvenueEast Chicago, IN 46312

Phone: 219-398-3100 ext.140

email: editor@uswa1010.org

Editor’s Note: Editor’s Note: Editor’s Note: Editor’s Note: Editor’s Note: The opinions of the authors ex-pressed herein do not necessarily state orreflect the opinions of the Local 1010Executive Board or the Editor.

LOCAL 1010STEELWORKER

Executive BoardTom Hargrove, PresidentTom Hargrove, PresidentTom Hargrove, PresidentTom Hargrove, PresidentTom Hargrove, President

Steve Wagner, Vice PresidentJerry Strauch, Recording Secretary

Rosa Maria Rodriguez, Financial SecretaryJoe Piller, TreasurerDon Jones, Guide

Jim Gogolak, Inner GuardErnie Barrientez, Outer Guard

Max Carrasquillo, TrusteeLuis Aguilar, Trustee

Dan Mosley, Trustee

Grievance CommitteeGrievance CommitteeGrievance CommitteeGrievance CommitteeGrievance CommitteeDennis Shattuck, Chairman

Darrell Reed, Vice ChairmanMatt Beckman, Secretary

GrieversGrieversGrieversGrieversGrieversDonald Guerrero

Mike BouvatOtis CochranCornell SmithJoe Torres

David HunterRon Kaszak

Eddie HarveyAdam Govert

Larry McMahonWil RiveraTim Trtan

Gary Bender

Danie l Wal ters , Edi torDanie l Wal ters , Edi torDanie l Wal ters , Edi torDanie l Wal ters , Edi torDanie l Wal ters , Edi tor

www.uswa1010.org

There are various ways to registerfor Joblink classes:Online at www.bkjoblink.org!Phone in at 399-8135 0r 8136!Walk in at 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Mon-day – Thursday & Friday 9:00 am to4:00 pmAnyone interested in a specific classmay contact Joblink with the type ofclass desired to begin an interestedlist. Don’t take classes for granted.The same classes are not always of-fered due to participant interest, soenroll in a desired class when you seeit offered as soon as possible. AllJoblink classes must be in accordancewith the Career Development Pro-gram Guidelines.Retirees and spouses of active 1010members can purchase courses thatare on a per person pay arrangement.This applies to classes that are notfilled by active members. Retireesand spouses of active 1010 membersmust pay for the class at least twoweeks prior to the class start. Classcost can be obtained by calling Joblinkat 399-8136.Any questions regarding Joblink canbe directed to the Joblink staff (219)399-8136.Anyone else who needs additionalinformation can call me at the unionhall (219) 398-3100 (x-113) or E-mailme at swagner@uswa1010.org.If you call when I am not available,please leave a detailed message onmy voice mail.If you need a more immediate re-sponse you may call me on my cellat (219) 718-3199. Either way, I willget back to you as soon as possible.

Continued from page 15Steve Wagner

The Union Civil Rights committee isworking to ensure that your rights un-der Article 4, Section A of the Collec-tive Bargaining Agreement are adheredto.We are all entitled to come to work freeof harassment and to be treated withrespect. If you have a complaint orproblem feel free to contact any mem-ber of the committee, we will go throughyour issues and make a determinationon what course of action is necessaryto correct the issue. It goes withoutsaying that everything will be held in thestrictest confidence. Harassment and Prevention trainingwill continue into 2013. The Union Com-mittee will ensure that all Employees areexposed to the training classes pertain-ing to Civil Rights. Members of the committee capitalizedon the opportunity to build solidarity withother union members, at the NationalCivil Rights Convention in CincinnatiOhio. A series of training workshopswere attended. which will help us tobetter serve the membership.We are committed to helping you Please join us in this mission TO HELPCREATE A WORKPLACE FREEOF HARASSMENT, DISCRIMI-NATION, AND WORKPLACEVIOLANCE.In Solidarity,

Civil Rights Committee:

219-398-3100

Luis Aguilar Ext. 115

Anita Freels Ext.112

Gail Richardson Ext.122

Civil Rights Committee

Photographs: Tom Hargrove, Bill Staniec,Daniel Walters, Tasos Katopodis

Page 15Steelworker

Change of AddressIf you have moved please mail this form, with the mailing label on the back page to Editor,Local 1010 Steelworker, 3703 Euclid Ave., East Chicago, In. 46312

Name_________________________________ Check No._________

New address ____________________________________________________

City/State/Zip___________________________________________________

The Bernard KleimanJOBLINK Learning Center

By Steve Wagner, Vice President

This past summer, the JobLink staffparticipated in Summer Safe events ina number of departments. They werehappy to speak to participants that theyhave not seen for some time and par-ticularly to those who have never par-ticipated. Many made suggestionsabout courses they’d like to see offered.Because of those suggestions we havea series of three one-day culinaryclasses on healthy cooking through theEast Chicago IVY Tech campus: TheArt of Cooking Lite, The Art of HealthyCooking, and the Art of Low-CarbCooking.We were also asked to offer welding,which we have started this fall at IVYTech; Welding Fundamentals II is con-tinuing in February. Related to that isthe Metalworking Class which webrought back – because of intereststeelworkers expressed to us duringthose Summer Safe events.While many of the old favorites are stillbeing offered, here’s a sampling ofsome the new courses that will be run-ning in the winter session:Boating Safety – given by a CoastGuard captain, John “Hoppy” HopkinsPergola Class – freestanding and as anaddition to a deck with Nick NashCell Phone Repair – great for extra in-come with George ZahariadisAdditionally, JobLink and Leon Lynchare offering new Apple computercourses with George Zahariadis.We are also offering two certificationcourses that will start in January:MCSA 680 – Microsoft Certified Sys-tems Administrator – a course that BillNeedles will teach (can also be takenthrough telecasting)

Residential Wiring I – the first part of atwo-part certification program. Thishasn’t been offered in a while, so weare happy to bring it back. Given byTim SpanosWe’re always trying to find the rightbalance of classes as well as a widevariety of classes. We hope you agreethat there’s something for everyone.And if you don’t agree, give me a call.Tell me what you’d like to see us offer.It’s your benefit!Attention new hires…stop by Joblinkand see what educational opportunitiesyour union negotiated for you!1010 Members can use their TuitionAssistance Program (T.A.P.) monies toaccess any accredited learning institu-tion. T.A.P. benefits are a very flexiblepart of our contractually funded edu-cational benefit. T.A.P. funds are sub-ject to funding limits and are availableannually on a first come first serve ba-sis. Participants $1,800.00 maximumannual benefit can be used to covertuition, book, and course - related feesat nearly 100 approved learning institu-tions. Classes with the primary purposeof recreation or personnel enjoymentare not eligible for tuition assistancefunding. Stop by Joblink to apply fortuition program funding or pick up a listof T.A.P. vendors. A list of these edu-cational institutions is also available onJoblink’s website.

We have reciprocal participant arrange-ments with the other Career Develop-ment sites here in Northwest Indiana.The availability of customized classesat other sites is subject to specificagreements that we have for eachclass. Those classes are available toactive members from each of the sitesinvolved. To see the class offerings atother sites, drop by JobLink to lookthrough the catalogs or check Joblink’swebsite- http://bkjoblink.org/. You canfind them by clicking on the link on theleft –“Class Catalogs” then scroll downand you’ll find the Burns Harbor andUSS catalogs.Don’t forget that active 1010 membersnow can combine the Tuition Assistance$1800 annual limit with the CustomizedClass $2000 annual limit to provide amore flexible total amount of educa-tional assistance — $3800 per year toLocal 1010 Members. This combina-tion of limits is available to individualswho have clear career goals to developvocational expertise and may be ap-proved in accordance with Institute forCareer Development’s guidelines.If you have a computer at home, checkout the Joblink website at http://bkjoblink.org/ . You will find nextsemester’s course lineup with coursedescriptions and other pertinent infor-mation.

Continued on page 14

4th Qtr. 2012Page 16

PPPPPRESIDENTRESIDENTRESIDENTRESIDENTRESIDENT’’’’’SSSSS R R R R REPORTEPORTEPORTEPORTEPORT

November 2November 2November 2November 2November 2

3703 Euclid Av.East Chicago In. 46312

NONPROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE PAID

GRIFFITH, IN.PERMIT NO. 13

Safety First!We Make the Job Safe,or We DON’T DO IT!!!

In Solidarity,

SafetySafety must be 24/7 365 days a year,on the job and off the job. You mustwear your PPE at all times for yourown protection. It is your limbs andlives we are trying to protect. Acci-dents happen in seconds and we don’thave time to go put our PPE on after-the-fact. Recently at our Clevelandplant a Contractor fell thru a roof 65feet above the ground. He is alive to-day because he had his fall protectiononAs President of Local 1010 I have nogreater responsibility or obligation thanto the safety of everyone in the plant.Together we can make this a safer plantby finding and removing hazards.We must make “WE MAKE THEJOB SAFE OR WE DON`T DO IT”more than just a slogan. Zero acci-dents are possible.

New hallDue to serious structural problems atour present location, Local 1010 mem-bership approved a motion to move toa new location. The building was pre-viously a Hammond Library located at171st and Grand Avenue in Hammond,just south of Morton High School.

This was a very difficult decision tomake giving our long history in EastChicago, but there comes a point wereit makes more sense to move to a morestable building for the long term good.More information will follow.

New Contract

After a long contentious negotiation wereached agreement and the Contractwas ratified thanks to all who came outin support you made a difference. Thetime to get ready for the next one isnow 2015 will come quickly better tobe prepared and not need it then not.

Retirees no change in your benefits orcost Pre 65 $70 a month Post 65 $35 amonth.

7047 Grand Avenue, Hammond, Indiana 46323

Or Current Resident