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COMPANIES WITH SIGNED ITERIM AGREEMENTS WITH LOCAL ONE.

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PRINT OUT THE LIST OF COMPANIES AND HAND THEM OUT TO EMANY CUSTOMERS WHO NEED QUALIFIED ELEVATOR TECHNICIANS TO WORK ON THEIR EQUIPMENT.


June 10, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Your Local One Negotiating Committee is pleased to announce that we have reached a tentative agreement with EMANY on the terms of a new collective bargaining agreement. We are in the process of reviewing the contract language changes so we can get them printed and sent to our membership for review. You will be notified of the dates we will set for the contract discussion meeting and the ratification vote which is tentatively scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 26th. The return to work date will be the day after ratification of the contract. Please be patient while we work through the final details of this contract. We will keep you notified and informed of all pertinent issues with this new agreement.

In Solidarity,

Your Local One Negotiating Committee


June 9, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Your Local One Negotiating Committee will be back at the table on Friday, June 10th to continue negotiating with EMANY. We will keep all members updated as issues evolve.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


June 9, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

The EMANY employers (Schindler, Otis & KONE) are at it again. By now you should have received their latest work of fiction (their letter of June 6, 2005). I would like to point out to each and every brother and sister of Local 1, as well as other affected parties, how blatantly dishonest these employers are.

It is true that Local 1 members who work for EMANY employers have been out of work for nearly three (3) months. However, this is not due to any fault of your Local 1 leadership. Remember, you are LOCKED-OUT, not on strike! You did not refuse to go to work; you were denied access to your work. Your Local 1 leadership has, both before and after the lockout, advised the EMANY employers that its membership would continue to work under the expired collective bargaining agreement until a new agreement is settled. The EMANY employers have consistently refused our offer.

Now, the EMANY employers have the gall to claim that they are losing business, and in turn, you are suffering, because of Local 1’s bargaining positions. WRONG! The EMANY employers did this to themselves. They locked you out without any concern or thought for the well being of you and your families. They did not think about nor did they care about the consequences of a lockout on the safety of the riding public. EVEN MORE ASTONISHINGLY, THEY DID NOT EVEN CARE ABOUT THEIR CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS TO THEIR CUSTOMERS TO PROVIDE COMPETENT ELEVATOR REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES.

This leads me to another issue raised in their letter. The EMANY employers claim that you are losing work to Local 3 and they listed several job sites in their letter. What they have failed to tell you is that these jobs provide work for less than 1.0% of Local 1 members.

They have also not told you that Otis owns Unitech, a company that has a contract with Local 3. Does Otis want this lockout to continue so that it can steal customers from its EMANY brothers?

More significantly, EMANY employers have not told you that the majority of work that they have lost has gone to other contractors that have agreements with Local 1. For example, we are aware of at least one Local 1 contractor that has picked up 300 EMANY employer units since the lockout. Another example is the multi-million dollar American Airlines construction job that a Local 1 manufacturer picked-up from EMANY employers. That job employs approximately 35 Local 1 members.

What can we learn from the fact that customers are terminating their EMANY employer contracts and relationships, but are re-signing with other Local 1 contractors? It is a simple fact: It is not Local 1 that is creating an industry-wide problem, but rather it is the EMANY employers.

The EMANY employers claim that Local 1’s bargaining positions are unreasonable. Another lie! Local 1 has reduced its bargaining demands in response to the EMANY employers’ offers but they refuse to budge. They have not moved substantially on wages and productivity. In fact, Local 1 is waiting for the EMANY employers to make a counter-proposal on wages.

You can be rest-assured that your Local 1 leadership is determined to get you a contract sooner than later. However, we have an obligation to do the best we can for the membership at the bargaining table. We do not have an obligation to bid against your proposals and to rollover like a dead dog because the EMANY employers refuse to provide a counter-offer. What the EMANY employers want us to do on your behalf is not collective bargaining but rather collective begging! Local 1 is not a Union of beggars!

On behalf of each and every one of your Executive Board members, I want to thank you for staying the course and fighting for what is right and just. Remember, the future of labor is the future of America. The members of Local 1 and their families are a large part of that future.

Fraternally yours,

RAYMOND HERNANDEZ
PRESIDENT & BUSINESS MANAGER


June 6, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Your Local One Negotiating Committee will be back at the table on Thursday to continue negotiating in good faith. For additional information on medical coverage for June, please click here.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


June 3, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

EMANY, in case they have forgotten, are the group that LOCKED-OUT their highly skilled workers. We will be back at the Negotiating Table on Thursday, June 9th at 9am to continue negotiations in hopes of reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. Please don’t believe the propaganda that EMANY produces on their website. We have always made ourselves available to negotiate, on Memorial Day weekend and any other weekend, despite EMANY’s claims. We continue to make ourselves available to get a contract for our members. We know that our membership can see through the EMANY smokescreen.

We want an agreement now so our members can go back to work and provide for their families. EMANY wants you to wait until the ratification process is completed before you return to work. That is a process that would take 2-3 weeks at a minimum in order for us to be in compliance with our Constitution & By-Laws. EMANY is well aware of our Constitutional process, which was defined on the very first day we met with them. It is just another mean-spirited proposal on their part.

Additionally, please be advised that your Union, through our membership assessment, will cover our locked out members Health Care for the month of June. There will not be a lapse in coverage. If you are working, your $250 assessment for June is due IMMEDIATELY.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


June 2, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Negotiations broke off with EMANY at 9pm with no progress to report. Your Negotiating Committee made every effort to end this lock-out but EMANY was once again unresponsive to the needs of our members. Further updates will be posted by the weekend.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


June 1, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Negotiations broke off with EMANY today with no progress to report. We are still waiting for EMANY to return to the table and continue negotiating. We are scheduled to continue negotiations Thursday at 9am. We will continue to keep all of our members involved as negotiations continue. Thank you for your support.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


May 31, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Negotiations broke off with EMANY today with no further progress to report. We are scheduled to continue negotiations tomorrow at 9am. We will continue to keep all of our members involved as negotiations evolve. Thank you for your support.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


May 27, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Negotiations broke off with EMANY tonight at 7pm. Although some progress was made this week toward a new collective bargaining agreement, your Negotiating Committee was unwilling to accept the last proposal from EMANY. President/Business Manager Raymond Hernandez expressed to EMANY that the Local One Negotiating Committee could meet again any time over the weekend and will at a moments notice. At this time negotiations are scheduled to reconvene Tuesday at 9am. We would like to wish all of our members and families a safe and happy holiday weekend. We continue to express our gratitude for your support throughout these negotiations.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


May 19, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

We will be back at the Negotiating Table on Monday, May 23rd to continue negotiations in hopes of reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. We will keep you posted on negotiations as issues evolve. We appreciate your support.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


May 18, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

Your Negotiating Committee continues to try and set negotiating dates with the EMANY group. To date they have not been willing to meet. Our aim is to try and resolve this lock-out as quickly as possible and return the skilled tradesmen and women we represent back to work. We are very proud of our members as EMANY wreaks havoc on working families and their customers. We have stayed strong throughout! We look forward to the seeing you at the Union Meeting Thursday night.

In Solidarity,
Your Local One Negotiating Committee


May 12, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This is the latest batch of lies from EMANY. I thought I should answer paragraph by paragraph. It has been eight weeks since the contract with Local 1 expired. Yet Local 1 keeps playing games and dragging out negotiations.

1 - Lets get it right EMANY it has been Eight week since you locked us out, Local One has tried to set dates since the day Emany walked out of negotiations on May 6th and still no response. You may see this as a game Mr. Walker so you can continue to collect your hourly rate of 120.00 an hour and continue to get your law firm paid. EMANY must stop dragging out our negotiations and set dates.

The longer this goes on the more employees stand to lose. So far, service workers and construction mechanics have lost an average of $10,475.20 and $11,449.20 respectively in base wages.

2 - I guess EMANY forgot that they LOCKED OUT LOCAL 1 members. It is a swift reminder to remember how much money EMANY took out of every Brother and Sisters pocket. Local 1 was willing to negotiate a contract and continue to work thru contract expiration EMANY choose to lock us out.

On top of the paychecks that employees are already missing, they are now losing out on the new wage and benefit proposal that EMANY is willing to pay: 21.5% over a 4-year period or an average of 5.3% per year.

3 - Local One’s wage proposal of $ 2.81 Hour flat rate 1st year, 6% per year total package increase in year 2,3 and 4. 23% over 4 years. 25% compounded

Enough is enough. EMANY thinks it's time that employees got a new contract and that is why they went into negotiations last week prepared to come to an agreement with Local 1 negotiators.

4 - Stop the lies, EMANY’s Negotiator Jim Walker ended negotiations with a take or leave attitude on May 6th. Local One’s negotiating team was willing to stay through the weekend to negotiate a contract and get our members back to work. I guess they had planes to catch.

In order to do that EMANY made major changes to the productivity proposals in their contract offer:

1 - Withdrew the demand for shift work in Contract Service.

  • This is news to me.
  • 2 - Changed the shift work proposal to focus specifically on added flexibility in start times.

  • They want to call it Flex time, Working from 6:00am to 9:00pm for straight pay is shift work.
  • 3 - Modified the hoisting proposal to focus on areas that would reduce the impact on work hours for Elevator Constructors.

  • Not only will it reduce work hours it will reduce our workforce.
  • Reiterated that the use of GPS will be through employees' company-issued PDA's only.

  • Local One’s proposal for the use of GPS protects our members so tracking on off hours would be prohibited.
  • So what is keeping Local 1employees out of work? The union's continued refusal to agree to reasonable proposals that improve customer service and efficiency.

    1 - YOU EMANY!!!! YOU LOCKED US OUT.

    EMANY responded to the concerns that Local 1 leadership voiced on how EMANY's productivity proposals would affect employees. EMANY put their best offer on the table and the Local 1 negotiators walked away. Now it's the union's turn to show EMANY that they want to get employees back to work soon.

    1 - LETS GET IT RIGHT EMANY (JIMMY WALKER) YOU WALKED AWAY ON MAY 6TH AND STILL REFUSE TO SET DATES. LOCAL ONE IS READY TO NEGOTIATE.

    It's time for the union to stop playing games and get serious about this contract.

    2 - Emany in your mind this is a game. THIS IS NO GAME!!! Get serious set dates and lets get this done.

    I hope EMANY’s smoke and mirror campaign is set straight.

    In Solidarity, Raymond Hernandez
    President/ Business Manager


    May 9, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    Your Negotiating Committee met with EMANY Thursday and Friday in hopes of reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. Unfortunately, EMANY once again left the table regressive and unresponsive to the proposals Local One set forth. There were many creative ideas presented and we felt progress was being made. Brother Hernandez will be meeting with the Federal Mediator on Wednesday in hopes of setting new negotiating dates and reviewing current proposals. We will keep you updated as events unfold.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    May 5, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    The Local One Negotiating Committee and EMANY met today, with a meeting scheduled for tomorrow. A report will be posted after negotiations have concluded for the day. If negotiations run late, the update will be posted on Saturday.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    Brothers and Sisters,

    Your Negotiation Committee met with EMANY for the past two days. In the negotiations, the Local One Negotiation Committee laid out some creative ideas on many issues and felt progress was being made. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, the efforts of your Negotiating Committee were met with a negative response from EMANY. Further details will be posted Monday.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    The Local One Negotiating Committee and EMANY met today, with a meeting scheduled for tomorrow. A report will be posted after negotiations have concluded for the day. If negotiations run late, the update will be posted on Saturday.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    5/2/05

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    On behalf of your Executive Board, I am writing to you to address the April 28, 2005 update posted by EMANY (Schindler, KONE, and Otis) on its website. The posting contains many inaccuracies and is an attempt to mislead you and to try to undermine your resolve in combating EMANY’s lockout of Local 1 members.

    EMANY claims that it continues to negotiate in good faith to secure a fair and equitable contract for Local 1 employees” but that “Local 1 negotiators have wasted valuable time by refusing to accept any meaningful proposals and offering unproductive counter proposals”.

    What EMANY fails to state is that Local 1 has consistently offered counter proposals addressing the issues that are currently on the table between the parties. It is EMANY, however, that unfortunately will not make any movement on its proposals regarding global positioning, hoisting, shift work, and wages. It is apparent that EMANY’s definition of “good faith” bargaining is for Local 1 to agree unconditionally to its proposals and that a “fair and equitable contract” is one that is settled on EMANY’s terms.

    In its update, EMANY explains why it initiated a lockout of its union represented employees. EMANY contends that it “Took this step only when it became clear that the Union President refused to negotiate a reasonable agreement, and because certain strike conduct was already taking place.” They also indicate that “Local 1 negotiators are keeping its own membership out of work by refusing to move on critical issues like wages, hoisting, and shift work.”

    In a recent deposition of EMANY’s chief negotiator, James Walker, the issue of why Otis, Schindler and KONE chose to lockout its union represented employees was addressed. Mr. Walker claimed that the lockout was implemented because Local 1 members were engaging in “strike conduct” prior to March 17, 2005. He was asked to identify the alleged “strike conduct”. He cited to two examples of Local 1 members allegedly refusing to perform work and one example of alleged violence against an EMANY replacement worker.

    The following are some quotes from Mr. Walker’s deposition. You will see from these quotes, that allegations of pre-lockout “strike conduct” or refusal by Local 1’s negotiating committee to “negotiate a reasonable agreement” are not the reason that the lockout was implemented.

    When our legal counsel, James M. Mets, Esq. asked Mr. Walker if he had any role in the decision to lockout the Local 1 members, Mr. Walker replied, “Yes.” He asked if he agreed with the decision to lockout, and he stated: “YES”.

    Mr. Walker was asked whether of not he had any knowledge of Local 1 members refusing to do work for EMANY members or refusing to respond to calls. Twice he responded, “Do I have personal knowledge, no.”

    When counsel asked Mr. Walker if he had any knowledge of any Local 1 member committing intentional acts of vandalism he again stated, “No, I have no personal knowledge.”

    Even more disturbing than Walker’s lack of knowledge with regard to any of the alleged “strike conduct” is the fact that he took no steps whatsoever to investigate these allegations. Counsel for Local 1 asked Mr. Walker:

    Mr. Mets. “In your capacity as labor relations consultant and lead negotiator, aside from speaking to Mr. Hernandez, the President of Local 1, did you take any steps to investigate the claims that they (EMANY) were making to see if they were true or false?”

    Mr. Walker. “No.”

    Mr. Mets. “Did you assign anybody on any of the EMANY committees or any EMANY member to undertake an investigation to determine whether or not the Malane and Barrett allegations were true or false?”

    Mr. Walker. “No.”

    With regard to the alleged vandalism, Mr. Walker was asked if he undertook any investigation into the alleged acts of vandalism. Again Mr. Walker responded, “No.” He also did not direct any member of EMANY to investigate the alleged acts of vandalism.

    It is apparent that Mr. Walker as EMANY’s chief negotiator, simply chose to believe that these allegations were true rather than conduct any investigation whatsoever into whether or not they were actually true.

    Mr. Walker, chief negotiator, is well aware of the terms of the collective bargaining agreement between Local 1 and EMANY. He knows that there is a grievance procedure that the companies should have used to challenge the alleged refusal of Local 1 members to perform work. Mr. Walker was asked the following questions regarding the grievance procedure:

    Mr. Mets.“Did you or any EMANY member, any company member, file a grievance against the Local with regard to these acts?”

    Mr. Walker. “Not to my knowledge.”

    Mr. Mets. “You would agree that these would be issues that could be brought through the grievance procedure?”

    Mr. Walker. “Yes.”

    Mr. Mets. “But EMANY did not file a grievance, to your knowledge?”

    Mr. Walker.“Correct”.

    It was apparent from the deposition of Mr. Walker that EMANY intended to lockout Local 1 members simply to attempt to gain an edge in collective bargaining and that it was not based on the alleged pre-lockout “strike conduct”. Mr. Walker admitted that he approved of the lockout but has no personal knowledge of any reasons why a lockout would be appropriate. The allegations that were brought to his attention could have been resolved through the collective bargaining agreement’s duly negotiated grievance procedure. However, EMANY chose not to pursue that route but rather to implement an illegal lockout of Local 1 members.

    Let me also address EMANY’s claim that Local 1 negotiators are keeping its own membership out of work by refusing to move on critical issues like wages, hoisting, and shift work.

    EMANY has proposed to increase the overall wage package (including benefits) by 7% in the first year of the contract, 0% in the second year, 7% in the third year, 0% in the fourth year, and 7% in the fifth year. They claim that this is a “fair and reasonable” proposal. This proposal increases the overall economic package of Local 1 members by approximately 4.2% per contract year. With double-digit increases in health benefit costs, and the current cost of living at approximately 3.8%, EMANY’s proposal is anything but fair and reasonable and is actually regressive.

    It is nothing more that a blatant outright lie that EMANY members Schindler, KONE, and Otis are seeking a fair and reasonable agreement when the remaining EMANY members, B&G Elevator and Fujitec Elevator, competitors of Schindler, KONE and Otis, have settled with Local 1 for economic increases of 7% per year. Ask yourself: If two EMANY members agree that better economic increases are warranted, how can Schindler, KONE and Otis claim that those settlements are not “fair and reasonable”?

    EMANY also wants you to believe that the Local 1 negotiating committee is refusing to move on EMANY’s proposal on hoisting. Let us provide you with some facts. EMANY is proposing to remove construction hoisting work in New York and New Jersey from Local 1 members and give that work to other unions. Throughout the year, there are approximately 700 Local 1 members employed at construction sites. If Local 1 were to agree to EMANY’s hoisting proposal, Local 1 members would lose approximately 1/3 of their jobs. Whatever pay raise Local 1 negotiators are able to secure for Local 1 members are meaningless, if you are unemployed.

    EMANY also claims that the Local 1 negotiating committee is refusing to move on EMANY’s proposal on shift work. EMANY claims that customer service needs require Local 1 members to perform shift work. However, EMANY fails to include in its analysis how shift work will affect the quality of life of Local 1 members. In addition, EMANY at no time has shown that the current on call system has not been successful.

    Probably the most interesting of the EMANY proposals is its request to install GPS in all of its vehicles operated by Local 1 members. Local 1 did make a counter proposal to EMANY to allow the company to put GPS in the vehicles but to also allow Local 1 members to turn the GPS off when not on duty. Local 1 also, in response to the company’s contention that GPS is necessary for the safety of Local 1 members, requested that GPS not be used for disciplinary purposes. EMANY rejected these counters.

    EMANY’s claim that GPS is to be used for safety purposes is nothing but another lie. Let me give you an example. A Local 1 member working for Otis had GPS in his van. That Local 1 member parked that van in a customer’s lot for 35 days with the GPS operating. While that van sat in that parking lot for 35 days, the Local 1 member used his personal vehicle and performed his duties. While that vehicle sat there for 35 days, Otis did not contact the Local 1 member to find out if he was in any trouble or why his van was parked at a customer facility for 35 consecutive days.

    The EMANY companies claim they “want their Local 1 employees back”. They state however, “they cannot bring them back until there is a fair and reasonable agreement.” Why? Prior to the lockout and even after the lockout Local 1 has consistently advised EMANY that its members would continue to work under the expired collective bargaining agreement until a current collective bargaining agreement is negotiated. EMANY has outright refused this request. It cites to the alleged “strike conduct” prior to the lockout for its refusal.

    However, EMANY had no evidence of strike conduct that would warrant a lockout. In addition, at his deposition, Mr. Walker specifically admitted that I advised him that at our March 15, 2005 Union meeting, I told the membership that the union does not condone or tolerate unlawful conduct. He also admitted in a March 24, 2005 letter to me, that I told him that the Union does not condone illegal acts by Local 1’s members. He believed my representation.

    EMANY tries to blame your Local 1 leadership for you being out of work. However, your Local 1 leadership has made thoughtful and reasonable counter proposals to EMANY’s negotiating committee and has reassured EMANY that Local 1 does not condone unlawful conduct. Despite the Local’s lawful conduct, EMANY put each one of you on the street without regard for your family’s welfare and the safety of the riding public.

    Why has EMANY continued to lockout Local 1 members? The plain and simple truth is greed! They are trying to get an advantage in collective bargaining. They hope to break the will of the Local 1 membership and their leaders.

    Why would Mr. Walker condone such conduct? What financial stake does Mr. Walker have in continuing these negotiations and the lockout? Well, his consulting firm in addition to having a $50,000 retainer with EMANY to conduct negotiations up until the time of expiration of the collective bargaining agreement, is now being paid $120 per hour to conduct all post lockout negotiations. In addition, the law firm that owns his consulting firm is being paid by the hour for all post lockout services provided to EMANY.

    One final word: In its welcome message on its website, EMANY contends that it has “supplemented their workforce with experienced professionals from other locations across the country so they can continue to provide customers with excellent and responsive service during this time.” In the deposition of Carl Bauerlein, a former Local 1 member and a current manager for Schindler Elevator, he identified the quality personnel that are replacing Local 1 professionals. When Mr. Bauerlein went to a modernizing project in Alphabet City, he brought with him an assistant, a position that would have been held by an Apprentice from Local 1. He identified the assistant as Luinel Diaz. He was asked: “What was Luinel’s job before he was an assistant?” Mr. Bauerlein responded, “He was a cleaner…Somebody that cleans offices.”

    We learned from another deposition, that William Samora, a KONE manager and replacement worker was asked to go to a service call at the Newport Center Mall in Jersey City. Mr. Samora testified that the purpose of the call was to repair a broken escalator. He was asked: “Do you have any training in escalator mechanics?” He responded, “No.” He was then asked, “So what was your function there?” He stated, “Helper”. He was asked what his position with the KONE is, and he responded, “Finance Manager.”

    These are the types of individuals that the three EMANY companies are using to supplement their workforce. They are claiming that these are the experienced professionals that are preserving the safety of the riding public and replacing the dedicated and well-qualified professionals that are members of Local 1. Such a claim is laughable.

    In closing, your Union leadership would like to thank each and every one of you for persevering and standing tall in the face of the adversity and financial hardship that the three EMANY companies have caused you. Stay strong and you and Local 1 will prevail.

    In Solidarity
    Raymond Hernandez
    President/ Business Manager


    April 26, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    We are pleased to announce that Local One has won the Annuity Arbitration of April 14th. If you have been locked out by Otis, KONE or Schindler, you are authorized to take loans or special financial need withdrawals as long as you are otherwise eligible under plan rules. Please contact our Annuity Fund at 201-592-6800 for eligibility and further instructions. You can read the Arbitration decision by clicking here.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    April 21, 2005

    Thank you Brothers and Sisters of our great local! By an overwhelming vote of 949 to 25, our membership has once again shown our solidarity by voting to adopt our $250 per-month assessment for all working members.

    We are proud to represent you at the table. You continue to show your support and we know you have our backs. We continue to try and reach an agreement with EMANY and as soon as they are willing to see these negotiating sessions as a two way street, we are sure an agreement can be reached. Bargaining must be done collectively. EMANY just wants it their way. We are not willing to concede to their demands and by your show of support tonight, we know our membership isn’t either.

    Thank you again for your support!

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    April 20, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    The Local One Negotiating Committee and EMANY met today with no progress to report. We will be reconvening Thursday morning with EMANY in hopes of making progress toward a new collective bargaining agreement. We are disappointed with the EMANY group in their propaganda campaign and reiterated that at the table today.

    We look forward to the membership meeting Thursday night to discuss the contract negotiations and any other membership issues. Please make every effort to attend.

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    April 17, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    We will be back at the table on Wednesday and Thursday of this week to continue negotiating. We also have an arbitration on April 27th to determine what the cost of health care will be after our current eligibility ends. The Employer Trustees of the National Elevator Industry Benefit Plans want you and your family to pay the COBRA rate of nearly $1,000 a month to maintain your Health Coverage. Your Union Trustees opposed this mean spirited attempt of crushing working families. EMANY wants to bring your family to their knees financially. They don’t want you to have the ability to pay for health care by denying loans from your Annuity Fund. It is hypocritical to send letters to your homes calling you “valued employees” when their goal is to deny you Health Care and Annuity Loans. If we were truly valued, EMANY would have allowed us to continue employment while we negotiated instead of LOCKING US OUT!

    Please keep supporting your union. We will prevail in this battle for justice!

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    April 14, 2005

    Dear Brothers & Sisters:

    Your Union Trustees (Brothers Hernandez, Legotte & Carudo) attended an Annuity Fund Arbitration today on your behalf. The Employer Trustees of your Fund (James Walker, Joe Zaffuto and Charlie Gutowski of EMANY) argue that their employees should NOT be entitled to a weekly compensation for the current lock-out. Local One could not disagree more. Our position is that our members are locked-out and are not being given an opportunity of employment. Therefore, we feel our members should be entitled to the $300 per week involuntary unemployment compensation as outlined by our Plan. We should have the Arbitrator’s decision by months end. In the meantime, please feel free to contact the Annuity Fund Office (201-592-6800) regarding unemployment applications.

    There are negotiating meetings set up for next Wednesday and Thursday. We hope for progress and are prepared to continue negotiating in good faith. We are hopeful EMANY will start to live by that motto also.

    A big THANK YOU to IUEC Local 4 (Boston) for sending a busload of members today to join us on the picket line set on 6th Avenue. Your presence is appreciated in our fight for justice. Thank you Business Manager Langer, officers and members of Local 4! We’d also like to thank IUEC Local 138 (Poughkeepsie) Business Representative Ken Harris for joining us today.

    We need to continue our presence at all pickets, rallies, etc. for us to succeed. We thank you for your continued show of solidarity. We will prevail!

    In Solidarity,
    Your Local One Negotiating Committee


    Wednesday, April 13, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    The Local One Negotiating Committee met with EMANY on Monday, April 11, and Tuesday, April 12, 2005. The discussions did not go too well because the three companies in question, Kone, Otis and Schindler remain holding a hard line. We brought changes to the table, we were willing to move in certain areas, but the companies are NOT willing to accelerate. We even withdrew the J.I.T. Language (Apprentice Language) knowing this was a sticking block for EMANY - still no acceleration. We are looking forward to obtaining a contract with Kone, Otis and Schindler. We need a fair and equitable contract for our members, our families and the employers. We need a fair and equitable cost of living increase.

    We are preparing a full explanation and up-to-date informational letter to be mailed to your homes in the next few days. We want you, our membership, to be 100% knowledgeable of what is transpiring. We are acting as one unit at Negotiations.

    The Local One IUEC Members who were locked out by Schindler Elevator Corporation received correspondence dated April, 8, 2005, from Scott Stadelman, President of Schindler. I refer to the last paragraph where Mr. Stadelman refers to you as "valued employees of Schindler and we want you back at work. No one wins in a work stoppage situation." Valued Employees? We want you back? YOU LOCKED US OUT, MR. STADELMAN! We were willing to work (without a contract) during negotiations. We continue to want to work as skilled trades people. Work stoppage? YOU LOCKED US OUT, MR. STADELMAN!

    UNION BUSTING TACTICS ARE OUT THE WINDOW!
    WE WILL SUCCEED!

    UNION BUSTING TACTICS ARE OUT THE WINDOW!
    OUR FAMILIES WILL SUCCEED!

    UNION BUSTING TACTICS ARE OUT THE WINDOW!
    LOCAL ONE, IUEC WILL EMERGE THE VICTORS!

    Brothers and Sisters, we are a UNION, NOT a LARGE GREEDY CORPORATION! We would NEVER lock out a Brother or Sister! Our sole purpose is to represent you against such tyranny. Our voice is your voice......one voice

    A CHAIN IS ONLY AS STRONG AS ITS WEAKEST LINK!
    UNITED WE STAND - DIVIDED WE BEG!

    In Solidarity,

    Your Local One IUEC Negotiating Committee


    April 8, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters,

    EMANY's latest web site update proves that their smoke and mirrors campaign continues. On Thursday, April 7th Local One Negotiating Committee met with EMANY with no progress. Local One made serious offers that would be to EMANY's advantage and they have been rejected.

    New dates have been set for Monday April 11th and Tuesday April 12th.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    March 31, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    The smoke and mirror campaign that EMANY tries to represent to their employees, customers and the riding public needs to be made clear to all. Let us review the latest EMANY website update so you may know the truth.

    EMANY: The negotiation teams from EMANY and Local 1 met yesterday for the first time since the current contract expired at midnight on March 16.

    THE TRUTH: EMANY walked away from the negotiating table in the early hours of March 17th and locked out their employees before officially notifying the union. Your negotiating team did not want a work stoppage and implored the companies to continue negotiating. President-Business Manager Raymond Hernandez reached out to EMANY directly or the Federal Mediator to return to the negotiating table on a daily basis since the lock-out incurred. EMANY refused to return to the table and only through the efforts of a federal mediator did we return on March 30th.

    EMANY: EMANY reiterated and explained the details of its last contract offer, which would provide Local 1 employees with a 22.5% wage and benefit increase over the life of a 5-year contract, including an immediate 7% raise. EMANY is also insisting on changes in work rules that would result in improved efficiencies, labor costs and customer service.

    On average, the last contract offer would allow the following wage adjustment:

    Construction Mechanic (Current)____$40.89
    Construction Mechanic (In 5 Years)__$48.96
    Service Mechanic (Current)________$32.73
    Service Mechanic (In 5 Years)______$38.94

    THE TRUTH: More smoke and mirrors from EMANY. As stated to Mr. Walker on March 30th, his proposal misrepresents the real world we live in today. First, his proposal eliminates any raises to our Annuity Fund over a 5-year period. Last year our Construction Mechanic made $5.40 an hour in Annuity. That number would remain the same until 2010 under the EMANY proposal.

    Second, the EMANY proposal only includes an .80 (cents) per-hour increase to the Health, Pension and Education Funds. Over the last two years, these Funds have increased at $1.05 per-hour. How could we logically believe it will be less than that five years from now? The escalating costs of Health Care were one of the fundamental reasons why we settled on a three-year contract with ThyssenKrupp. In this day of rising health care it is almost impossible to project out health care costs over a five year period. We learned that lesson with our current contract.

    Mr. Walker’s proposal of under-funding our benefit packages could cost only one person in the long run- the working member. If his projections ended up being light, the difference would be taken from your wage. He didn’t mention that on his website.

    Based on EMANY’s current proposal of 22.5% wage and benefit increase over a five year contract, we project the following. Please keep in mind that EMANY’s proposal has two years built in with no wage or fringe increases so our projections show the following:

    Construction Mechanic (Current)____$40.89
    3/17/05__________________________$43.29__________Increase of $2.40 per hour
    1/1/06___________________________$41.24__________Rollback of $2.05 per hour
    1/1/07___________________________$43.41__________Increase of $2.17 per hour
    1/1/08___________________________$41.36__________Rollback of $2.05 per hour
    1/1/09___________________________$43.83__________Increase of $2.47 per hour

    Total EMANY increase would be $2.94 over 5 years or 1.53% per year over 5 years

    We projected these numbers based on a $1.05 increase an hour to Health, Pension and Education and a 50 cent per hour increase in annuity the first year and $1.00 an hour each subsequent year. We need to insure our members benefit contributions are stable with little chance of rollbacks to our hourly wage.

    EMANY: In addition, our Local 1 employees would continue to enjoy excellent health and pension benefits.

    THE TRUTH: The truth be said, we need to project increases for the future as stated above to ensure long term benefits for our families.

    EMANY: Despite the presence of a federal mediator, the Local 1 negotiating committee made no effort toward trying to resolve our remaining issues.

    THE TRUTH: Local One continues to bargain in good faith. We were at the table at the scheduled starting time of 10 am on March 30th. As usual, EMANY was late, showing up at noon. We were more than willing to negotiate EMANY’s issues. However, EMANY was not willing to negotiate our issues. Collective bargaining is a two-way street!

    EMANY: Although Local 1 proclaims that our customers will easily accept the increases it has negotiated with other Local 1 signatory companies, EMANY believes otherwise. EMANY believes that the contract between Local 1 and other signatory companies shows total disregard for the realities of the New York market and our customers.

    THE TRUTH: The Elevator Constructor’s total package is ranked ninth by the Department of Labor in New York behind the Electrician, Operating Engineers, Steamfitters, Carpenters, Iron Workers, Sheet Metal Workers, Boilermakers and Plumbers. This data has been provided to EMANY.

    Local 1 and its signatory companies show total regard for the realities of the New York market and its customers by negotiating in good faith, agreeing on a contract, and providing skilled tradesman to install, repair and service elevators and escalators in New York and New Jersey. EMANY would rather spend their money on unskilled, untrained labor which can not provide the services our customers are accustomed to. That’s total disregard for the market, their customers and the riding public.

    EMANY: We are disappointed in the lack of good faith bargaining on behalf of the Local 1 negotiating committee and currently there are no new meeting dates scheduled. EMANY indicated its willingness to continue meeting with the Local 1 Negotiating Committee as long as progress is achieved.

    THE TRUTH: Local 1 is totally committed to negotiating a fair and equitable contract for its members and contractors. Local One’s willingness to continue bargaining through the contract expiration and keep everyone working is bargaining in good faith. Our willingness to get back to the table anytime and anywhere is also bargaining in good faith. No new meeting dates being scheduled is EMANY’s choice, not ours. Brother Hernandez reaches out every day in an attempt to return to the table.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    April 1, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    It is imperative that if you are denied or there is a dispute in your unemployment claim in New York or New Jersey that you provide a copy of your denial to the following:

    Mr. James M. Mets
    Attorney at Law
    Fax: 732-636-5705

    On the cover sheet be sure to include your name, address, phone number and the company you worked for.

    Mr. Mets is handling the appeals for our members. Fax your paperwork immediately!! There are deadlines for appeals that we must meet!!

    In Solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    Brothers and Sisters, The RALLY at Kennedy Airport set for Monday, April 4th is CANCELED due to Security reasons. The Port Authority has pulled our permit and will issue us another permit when they find a secure place to put us. We will set up another date and notify our members when the RALLY is set.

    STAY STRONG,
    Frederick McCourt


    March 25, 2005

    Dear (Loyal) Brothers and Sisters of Local One IUEC:
    By now, I am quite sure that all of you are aware of the correspondence being written by James Walker (EMANY). He continues to try and negotiate via correspondence through the media. WAKE UP AND COME BACK TO THE NEGOTIATING TABLE! Our Local One negotiating Committee wants nothing more than to sit down and bargain in good faith. You, our (Loyal) members chose to have us represent you and our contention is to do just that.

    There should be NO disclaimer with the following:

    Hoisting is one third (1/3) of our work. Do we want to GIVE this work away?
    NO!

    Otis, Kone and Schindler have NO competition in shift work in the service departments. What advantage is it to us? What monetary gain is there for us?
    NONE!

    They are only willing to pay a ten (10) or fifteen (15) percent differential. Is your quality of life worth ten (10) or fifteen (15) percent?
    NO!

    GPS - Does this have to be explained to the Local One IUEC membership? GPS has already been used during OFF hours to discipline and terminate! Is Local One IUEC really ready to amuse EMANY and give up our Privacy?
    NO!

    Brothers and Sisters, I have responded in writing to every allegation and continue to want you to know that you all deserve to be aware of these allegations as well as the misuse of communiction tactics EMANY is utilizing. Through representation, my response is, actually, your response to EMANY. One voice, one union!

    Our time, energy and efforts need to be focused on sitting at the negotiating table and bargaining in good faith for every Local One IUEC member and their family, NOT wasting time picking and choosing to "right" a "wrong" eluded by EMANY!

    Brothers and Sisters, our negotiating Committee is doing a hell of a job presenting your wishes to EMANY, who does not feel you are worthy or deserving of economic growth, who feel you have to be part of a "satellite watch" with GPS, care only about company profits through unnecessary shift work, and have no remorse about giving away one third (1/3) of Local One IUEC's work!

    ONE VOICE, ONE UNION!
    UNITED WE STAND - DIVIDED WE BEG!!

    In (total) solidarity,

    Raymond Hernandez
    President-Business Manager

    click here to view correspondence between Brother Hernandez and EMANY


    March 24,2005

    Brothers and Sisters,
    I have spoken to the Department of Labor today. Anyone who has filed a claim that they were filing a claim due to being laided off is in jeopardy of being denied their benefits after the 49 days. You must enter that you were LOCKED OUT!!! If you have filed a claim and you accidentally filed that you were laid off you must correct the claim immediately. Any questions please call me at 732-558-1779. If your claim has been denied you can go through an appeal process.

    New York Unemployment

    Brother Frederick McCourt


    March 22, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters,

    The Elevator Manufacturers Association of New York (EMANY) continues to lie to their employees, their customers and the riding public.

    It is not the intention of your Local One Negotiating Committee to negotiate through the media. We feel that good faith bargaining needs to be addressed at the negotiating table. Where both sides can look each other in their eyes and exchange proposals.

    This is why I reach out to the EMANY group on a daily basis and urge them to negotiate in good faith; however, to this point, they have been unresponsive to our requests.

    The EMANY group's web site fabricates the truth to say the least. Their issues are cloudy and their math is fuzzy, but responding to them in the media will only weaken the process.

    The families we represent are too important to us to undermine the process of collective bargaining. EMANY needs to return to the table. Replacement workers are called replacements for a reason. They are not the skilled tradesmen we represent, and everyone should recognize that for the safety of the riding public.

    Our membership has entrusted this Negotiating Committee to bargain for them. We urge EMANY to discontinue their efforts of bargaining in the media and return to the negotiating table.

    Fraternally,
    Raymond Hernandez
    President-Business Manager


    Pictured here are 25 former locked out Kone Brothers that now work for Transel Elevator on a former Kone job, Shea Stadium. How is your lock out working so far?


    3/18/05

    We would like to thank all the members from throughout the country for their support while Otis, Schindler and Kone Elevator Companies refuse our members employment by locking us out. Local One continues to be willing to sit down and negotiate a fair contract for our members, the companies and their customers. Unfortunately the EMANY group refuses to set dates to negotiate. Instead they spend their money on replacement workers and customer propaganda. Remember to remind the customers and the riding public what is really happening. Our members have been locked out and unskilled, untrained workers are working on equipment, on which they have not been trained. Stop hiding Schindler, Otis and Kone. Come back to the negotiating table. Stay strong Brothers and Sisters.


    Brothers & Sisters,
    If you locked out by Otis, Schindler or Kone, go to the sites listed below to apply for unemployment.

    New York Unemployment

    New Jersey Unemployment


    3/9/05

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    We met with EMANY today, Wednesday, March 9, 2005 for the 20th session of contract negotiations. Our Committee is continuing to negotiate in good faith to bring you and your families a contract you will be proud of.

    This evening we are having a meeting to update the Shop Stewards of Local One on the status of negotiations.

    Your Stewards are available for you to contact if you have any questions. Please utilize the availability of these Local One Representatives so you will fully understand what is transpiring during the negotiating sessions.

    We look forward to seeing a strong attendance next Tuesday at the negotiating update meeting and the General Membership meeting on Thursday, March 17th.

    Remember.....

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    3/8/05

    Dear Brothers and Sisters,

    Today, EMANY submitted an entire package of proposals and a wage increase of three percent (3%) per year for five years. The Local One Negotiating Committee rejected the entire package of proposals. These proposals EMANY submitted would gut our working conditions and jurisdiction. The wage proposal was insufficient to fund increases in the Health and Pension Plan, never mind a cost of living increase in wages. The Committee will be in negotiations with EMANY from today thru March 16th on behalf of all Local One members and your families.

    Jimmy Walker of EMANY, Joe Zaffuto of Kone. Hank Berchard of Otis are three members of EMANY's Negotiating Committee. These three are also Trustees on the National Elevator Industry Health Benefit Plan who we feel have violated their fiduciary responsibilities by making a motion to the Board of Trustees to triple the COBRA payments in the event of a work stoppage. That just shows what the companies really think of Local One members and our families.

    The International Union of Elevator Constructors Trustees are working to fight the motion of the companies. We feel that at this time the International Trustees will be successful in keeping our benefits from any unfair changes.

    Please mark your calendars for the Contract Update meeting for Tuesday, March 15, 2005 being held at 630 Second Avenue starting t 6pm (35th Street and 2nd Avenue). The General Membership meeting is on Thursday, March 17, 2005. We hope to see a strong attendance at both meetings. Your Committee looks forward to seeing you.

    Remember.....

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    3/8/05

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:
    You were sent notification of a Contract Update Meeting for next Tuesday, March 15, 2005 (6pm) at 630 2nd Avenue (35th St and 2nd). This meeting is to bring you up-to-date on our negotiations. We are still having our monthly membership meeting on Thursday, March 17th. I look forward to seeing a strong attendance and greeting you next week.

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez

    Remember

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!


    3/04/05

    Dear Stewards of Local One, IUEC:

    There will be a Shop Steward meeting next Wednesday, March 9, 2005 beginning at 6:30pm at the Radisson Hotel located at 401 South Van Brunt Street, Englewood, NJ

    I am asking for a strong attendance to discuss contract negotiations with you. You will be brought up-to-date on the current contract sessions so that you may, as Shop Stewards of Local One IUEC, convey this important information to our members.

    Please gather all questions pertaining to contract negotiations so that I may answer them accordingly. It is critical to keep our membership apprised at this important time. What affects one family of Local One, affects ALL families.

    I look forward to meeting with you next Wednesday.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez

    Directions to the Radisson: Take the George Washington Bridge to Rt 4 West - go four exits to Van Brunt Street. The Radisson Hotel is in sight while exiting the ramp. The hotel number is 201-871-2020


    3/04/05

    Dear Brothers and Sisters:

    You will be receiving a postcard in the mail for the following, but I thought you Brothers and Sisters would like to have the following information now:

    We will be having a contract update meeting at 630 Second Avenue (35th Street and Second Avenue) New York on Tuesday, March 15, 2005 at 6:00pm.

    This meeting is to inform you on all current negotiations with EMANY, ThyssenKrupp, and Our Independents.

    Please come out and support your UNION!

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez


    February 25, 2005

    Dear Brothers & Sisters,

    We are pleased to announce that your Local One Negotiating Committee has reached a tentative agreement with Thyssen Krupp Elevator Corporation that is fair and equitable. We would like to thank the Thyssen Krupp Corporation for bargaining in good faith and we look forward to discussing this tentative agreement with our membership.

    As previously stated, we will reconvene with EMANY on Monday, February 28, 2005 to negotiate in good faith.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Local One Negotiating Committee


    February 23, 2005

    Dear Brothers and Sisters,

    Today we began negotiations with ThyssenKrupp Elevator Corporation with the intent of securing a fair and equitable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

    Local One and ThyssenKrupp exchanged initial proposals and engaged in some meaningful dialogue with further negotiations scheduled for February 24th and February 25, 2005.

    Our intent is to reconvene with the EMANY Group (Schindler, Otis, Kone) on Monday, February 28th, 2005 and continue to negotiate in good faith. We hope they intend to do the same.

    Your negotiating committee heard you loud and clear at the Union meeting last Thursday in what your expectations are and your disappointment in what EMANY has proposed to date.

    We appreciate the support you gave this committee. We will continue to work towards an agreement we can live with.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez
    President-Business Manager


    Thursday, January 27, 2005

    Dear Brothers/Sisters,

    Negotiations reconvened on Monday, January 24, 2005. The three days consisted of meeting with Management and exchanging Proposals.

    We are presently reviewing the Proposals and all language which is pertinent in presenting our Membership with a sound Contract. We are right on target for this stage of Negotiations and our Committee continues to move forward in a positive direction, with the goal of securing an equitable contract.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez
    President-Business Manager


    Dear Brothers/Sisters,
    Negotiations will commence again on Monday, January 24, 2005. Our Negotiating Team is working very hard to bring you a contract you will be happy with. You can be assured that we are working in your best interest as well as your families.

    I look forward to seeing you this coming Thursday, January 20, 2005 at the General Membership Meeting. We will bring you up-to-date and resolve any questions you have.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez
    President-Business Manager


    Thursday, January 13, 2005
    Otis Elevator Company is stating that I, Raymond Hernandez, issued a directive for different start times. As I stated in yesterdays communication, if you are working for Otis Elevator Company, we are under a separate agreement in which you may start at 7:00 am. Your start time can be either 7 am or 8 am. If your start time was assigned 7:00 am with Otis Elevator Company, you are to continue to work your assigned 7:00 am start.

    United We Stand - Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity,
    Raymond Hernandez


    Wednesday, January 12, 2005
    The question has been asked in our current Collective Bargaining Session with EMANY as to what hours constitute a normal work day. It is stated in our current Collective Bargaining Agreement with EMANY, that straight time hours begin at 8:00am in New Construction and Modernization.

    It has been brought to our attention that certain jobs have been starting at 7:00am without receiving proper wages (New Construction-double time and Modernization- time and one half on a per hour basis). Grievances have been filed on behalf of all members working on these sites as the Employers were in violation of our current Collective Bargaining Agreement.

    If you are currently working for Otis Elevator Company, our current Collective Bargaining Agreement (with Otis Elevator) states for the purposes of establishing straight-time hours, the regular day of seven hours is to be performed between the hours of 7:00 am and 2:30 pm or between the hours of 8:00 am to 3:30 pm with one half hour allotted for lunch from 12 noon to 12:30 pm. You are to continue working the hours in which you were assigned. if your Employer changes your assigned work hours, please contact your Business Agent or Local #1 immediately at 718 767-7004.

    We ask that you stay in constant contact with our Shop Stewards as they will be updated on current issues with negotiations.

    Our negotiating team is working diligently in securing the rights of all Local #1 members and their families. Our negotiating team consists of Ray Hernandez, Lenny Legotte, Fred McCourt, Ed Krull, Bob Stork, Tony Carudo, Gary Reifenhauser, Steve Mazza, and Bill Bulger.

    United We Stand-Divided We Beg!

    In Solidarity, Raymond Hernandez