A New Year wish to all.

Just wanted to wish all Union members of Local 1491, and their families a Happy New Years..
Have a great time and be safe.

Peter A DelFino
Treasurer & Police Steward
Local 1491
AFSCME

Merry Christmas wishes

I just wanted to wish all Union members along with their families a very Merry Christmas.
Peter A. DelFino
Treasurer & Police Steward

4th annual Gridiron Classic Flag football game

On October 23rd, 2009 the Johnston Police and Fire Departments will go head-to-head in the 4th Annual Gridiron Classic Flag Football Game to benefit The Autism Project of Rhode Island. The game is located at the Johnston High School football field (345 Cherry Hill Rd, Johnston R.I.) and kick-off is at 7:00 p.m. There will be refreshments, snacks and t-shirts available at the game as well as a prize raffle and a 50/50 raffle. This event is FREE to the public and donations will be available at the gate. Hope to see you there.

Executive board meeting of 10/15/2009

The Executive board held a meeting on Thursday October 15th 2009. Present at the meeting were President Prata, Vice President Tanzi, Secretary Bizzacco, Treasurer DelFino and Executive board member Marocco.
Topics discussed;
The passing of eight (8) months of Treasurer's reports.
A Union meeting to be held in November.
The purchasing of gift cards for Christmas for all Union members.
PCT refunds received by the Local.

Changes to the State Employees Retirement system

On 8/8/2009 The ERSRI did send out a enewsletter over the Internet to active members.
In short the enewletter states all the changes made to the ERSRI this year by the General Assembly.

All changes are for STATE EMPLOYEES, they DO NOT affect Municipal employees!!!!!!!
Therefore our pension plan HAS NOT been changes as of yet.................

Items for sale

I AM MOVING AND CANT TAKE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WITH ME.
FOR SALE

KENMORE THRU-THE-WALL AIR CONDITIONER
13,200 BTUS
MODEL # 580.751135
LIKE NEW / IN GREAT WORKING ORDER
ONLY 2 YEARS OLD
$250.00 OR BEST OFFER
SOLD
CHAR-BROIL GRILL WITH SIDE BURNER
COMES WITH COVER AND 1/2 TANK OF GAS
$75.00 OR BEST OFFER
SOLD
TWO 5X8 RUGS
1 GREEN WITH BEIGE FLOWER
1 ALL TAN
$20.00 OR BEST OFFER
SOLD
CALL PETER AT
401-437-6124 HOME
508-863-1752 CELL

Death of Margaret (LaTorre) DeVecchis

MARGARET M. (LaTORRE) DeVECCHIS 90, of Hartford Ave., Johnston passed away Monday July 5, 2009 at RI Hospital in Providence. She was the wife of the late Pompeo DeVecchis. Born in Methuen MA., she was the daughter of the late Benedict and Carmella (Paris) LaTorre Margaret worked for General Electric of Providence for 10 years before retiring. She was a member of the Johnston Democratic Party, and the Manton Seniors. She was the beloved mother of Pompeo DeVecchis Jr., Amalia Blinkhorn and JoAnn Bertani, dear grandmother of five and great-grandmother of twelve, and great-great grandmother of four. She was the loving sister of Benjamin LaTorre and Camille Seccareccio both of Methuen, MA. Her funeral will be held on Friday at 9 a.m. from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME 1278 Park Ave., Cranston followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in Holy Cross Church Hartford Ave., Providence at 10 a.m. Burial will be in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Providence.
VISITING HOURS THURSDAY 5-8 P.M. Kindly Omit Flowers.

Margaret was the Mother to fellow Union member Pompei DeVecchis Jr. A donation will be made on behalf of her name and Pompei's (TBA)

Happy Fathers day

Just wanted to wish all our Union members who a Fathers, a Happy Fathers day.
Enjoy you day !!!!!

After looking at the blog I realized that I forgot to do the same for Mothers day.
So to all you Mothers, I hope you had a great day as well.......

Death of Florence (Perfetto) DiDonato

Florence (Perfitto) DiDonato of Johnston RI, passed away on June 7, 2009 at Miriam Hospital, in Providence RI. She was the wife of the late Domenic DiDonato Jr.
She was the Daughter of the late Vincenzo and Carmella (DiLullo) Perfetto.
She was the Mother of Donna Giudici and her Husband Robert,Joseph D DiDonato and his wife Denise and Russell DiDonato and his wife Heidi, all of Johnston. She had five Grandchildren.
Florence had 14 siblings.
Donations can be made to Sacred Heart Manor, 265 Benham St., Hamden CT.
Florence was the Grandmother to fellow Union member Joe DiDonato Jr.
A donation will be made on behalf of her name and Joe's to the Sacred Heart Manor by our Union.

Death of Doreen Weller

Doreen Weller 82, of Lexington Ave., Cranston RI, died Saturday June 6, 2009 at RI Hospital, Providence.
Born in Auckland, New Zealand, a Daughter of the late John and Dolly (Hanning) Weller.
Doreen had been an entertainer for many years.
She leaves her Children, John Rutkowski of Cranston, Judy Griffith of Woodstock ,GA, Cabrina Cipriano of Johnston and Victor Cipriano, retired fire Chief, of Highland Beach, FL,11 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren,sisters Moira Huggins and Maryann York both from New Zealand.
Ms. Weller was the Grandmother of fellow Union member Erica Cipriano!!
Per Erica's request a donation was made to the Lynn Regional Cancer Institution of Boca Raton in Ms Wellers name.

Blood drive

The Johnston FOP (Fraternal order of Police) Lodge #16 will be hosting a blood drive. The date of the drive is Tuesday, June 30th 2009. The blood drive will be from 3 PM till 8 PM. The location of the drive is the Johnston Senior center on Hartford Ave., Johnston. The Blood center will also be asking individuals if they would like to be tested for Bone Maro. This is done via a blood test. There is a Child who lives in Johnston who they are testing for. I do not have his name at this time.

Union members who retired

The following Union members have retired from AFSCME Local 1491.
I just wanted to wish them good luck!!

Ann Marie Cardillo
Rosemarie Conti
Vincent DeTora
Fran DiBiasio
Charlotte Lanni
Ricky Lanni
Agnes Mancini
Arlene Morris
Wil Courtemanche

Union members vote on concessions

On Thursday March 19th 2009 Local 1491 did vote on accepting concessions that the Town of Johnston asked our Local to take.
The Union members did vote to accept the concessions by a vote of 56 to 27..
For a complete list of concessions, see the post dated March 12th 2009!!!!!!!!!!

We were the first Union to give the Mayor what he wanted, when he first came into office.
Now, once again, we are the first Union to give into the Mayor's concessions.
When our contract expires on June 30th 2010, we will see if the Mayor remebers this, or if our Union made a BIG MISTAKE...

Concession meeting

I urge every Union member to come to the Union meeting on Thursday March 19th and vote!!! No matter how you vote, your vote does count... I would be happy to seat down with any Union member and give them my opinion on the vote!

March Union meeting

The March 2009 Union meeting will be held on Thursday, March 19th at 5PM. The meeting will be held at the Johnston Middle school in the cafeteria. This meeting will be for our Union members to vote on concessions that the Town of Johnston is asking our Union.
The concessions are;
1. For the years 2009 and 2010 all employees who receive a $500.00 clothing allowance would only receive $250.00 for these two years.
2. For the year 2010 all employees who receive a $100.00 booth allowance would forgo it.
3. The town is asking for four (4) furlough days from each employee. One each of the following months, March, April, May and June 2009.
4. All employees would have to pay the following for health care; Single plan $40.00 a month.
Family plans $60.00 a month.
ALL THESE CONCESSIONS WOULD START THE DAY THE UNION PASSES THE ABOVE, IF THE MEMBERSHIP DOES NOT PASS THE ABOVE CONCESSIONS THE TOWN WILL LAY OFF FROM 11 TO 15 EMPLOYEES. THE TOWN TOLD THE POLICE THE SAME THING, THEY REJECTED THE CONCESSIONS AND NO ONE HAS BEEN LAYED OFF!!!!!

Union meetings cancelled

The January and February Union meetings were cancelled due to the School system being closed, and we were unable to hold our Union meetings.

Summary of December Union meeting

Topics discussed:
Different types of schools being held for free of charge by Local 57.
Mandatory drug testing for certain drivers.
One man per truck for snow plowing.
Floater at Police dept being transferred to 12-8 shift.
Treasurer DelFino will meet with Chief regarding the floater position.


$25.00 gift cards were passed out to Union members in attendance, one person from each Town building were given enough certificates to pass out to each Union member as a Christmas present.
Certificates were from the following restaurants;
Atwood Grille , Il Piccolo , Issabellas
ENJOY everyone and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Treasurer DelFino did meet with Chief of Police and the floater was transferred to a rotating schedule. He will be working 2 midnight to eight shifts and two eight to four shifts in Records.

New feature added to the blog..

I just added "playlist.com" to our blog. Now when you are on the blog you will be greeted with music by favorite artists.

ENJOY
Peter A DelFino
Treasurer & Police Steward

Summary of the November Union meeting

Topics discussed:
Job openings.
Union dues.
The purchase of the Christmas $25.00 certificates for Union members.
Leave to Protect status.
Update on any new changes with the State Retirement board.
The winner of the $20.00 certificate to J & D's restaurant was Michelle Bizzacco.

November Union meeting

The November Union meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 18th. The meeting will be held at the Johnston Middle school. The time of the meeting will be 5:00 P M . This is a general meeting. We will be giving away a $20.00 gift card to J & D Restaurant. You must be present to win.

Summary of October's meeting

I was not present at the October meeting due to a Death in the family.

The main topic discussed at this meeting was a change in our Bi Laws. After properly being posted and after a discussion the only change made was the following;
The term of office for the positions of President, Vice President , Secretary and Treasurer has been changed to a period of three (3 ) years in office.
No raffle was held at this meeting.

It is a Baby Girl!!!!!!!!

Union member Justine Dutilly and her Husband Robert are the proud parents of a baby girl. Alessia Dutilly was born on September 17th 2008 at Kent County hospital. Both Mother and Daughter are doing fine..
Congrats and good luck guys........

Summary of September's Union meeting

This was the first Union meeting since May. We always take the summer off and hope all Union Members had a great summer.
The meeting was held on Tuesday September 16th.
We did hold nominations for officers.
ALL OFFICERS WERE UNOPPOSED, THERE FORE THEY WERE REELECTED!!
President Louis Prata
Vice President Sal Tanzi
Secretary Michelle Bizzacco
Treasurer Peter A. DelFino
Executive Board Charlotte Lanni , Arlene Morris
We welcome a New Executive board member; Ashley Marocco.
Previous board member Justine Dutilly was elected as an Alternate.
This was due to the fact that Justine is expecting her first Child.
Topics Discussed:
Minutes of meetings.
Changing of our Local's Bi Laws.
Courtemanche Arbitration.
W. Courtemanche did win his arbitration and will be the Foreman of Building Maintenance. Will also did win back pay for over two years at Foreman's salary.
Opening in Building Maintenance for the position of a Laborer.
Union members attending meetings.
The winner of the J & D Restaurant certificate was Lucia Tracy..

2 & 2 Dispatcher & Floater bids posted

Two job bids were posted on 8/8/2008. The positions are 2 & 2 Dispatcher at the Police Department. The Dispatcher works two shifts 8-4 and two shifts 4-12. The second position is a Floater. As of this time there is not an opening for a Floater, but the Town is assuming that a Floater will take the Dispatch position.
Both job bids come down on 8/15/2008.

Erica Cipriano was awarded the position of the 2 & 2 Police Dispatcher.

Joe DiDonato has been hired to fill Erica's old position, Police Floater.

CONGRATS TO ERICA AND JOE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Death of Sephen Gaskn Jr.

Stephen John Gaskin Sr of Johnston died on July 28th 2008. Stephen was the Son of Charles E. and Dorothy C. (Youde) Gaskin. Stephen was the Son in law of John & Maria Bordieri. Besides his wife and children he is also survived by 6 Brothers and family. Charles and Marie Gaskin, Ronald and Helene Gaskin, Timothy and Dawn Gaskin, Richard Gaskin and fellow Union member Jeffrey Gaskin. His 5 Sisters arePatricia Gaskin, Holly Moniz, Dorothy and Everett Melo, Heidi and Joe Cote, Susan and Gregg Caldarone.Stephen was also an Uncle of 15 Nieces and Nephews and family.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Home & Hospice Care of RI, 169 George St Pawtucket RI.

Our Local has made a donation in Stephen's name to this organization in the amount of $50.00

Death of Timothy "Timmy" Petrone

Timothy John Petrone,57 formerly of Johnston Rhode Island, did pass away on May 23th,2008. Born in Providence Rhode Island, Tim was the beloved Son of Helen Petrone. Mrs. Petrone was a former Special Officer of the Johnston Police Department. Helen was also the Police Chief Secretary to Former Chief of Police William P. Tocco Jr. Tim was also the beloved Brother of our Current Union member Michaela Ballirano. Michaela is currently the Clerk in the Prosecution Division, of the Johnston Police Department. Michaela ,like her Mom, is also a Special Officer with the Johnston Police Department.

Besides his Mother, Helen and his Sister Michaela Tim was dearly loved by nine siblings; two Brothers Lt Col Benjamin Petrone Jr (Retired), David Petrone of Cranston. Tim's Sisters are;
Kathryn O'Hare , Felicia Petrone, Julie Pettis, Elizabeth Charlebois, Mary Jane Morris, Christine Speciale. He also leaves five Brother in Laws and two Sister in Laws, twenty Nieces and Nephews.

On a Personal note: I have known the Petrone family since I attended St Roccos' School and Mrs. Petrone was my Crossing Guard. My prayers go out to Tim's family and friends. Tim was a Polio Survivor for 55 years, I know Tim is on the Side of his Father in Heaven and No longer in pain.
Peter A DelFino

Blood drive held by the Johnston FOP Lodge #16

The Johnston Fraternal of of Police (FOP) lodge # 16 will hold a Blood Drive. The info on the Blood Drive is as follows:
Date: Saturday June 7th 2008
Time: 9 AM till 1 PM
Location: 8 Forand Circle
Johnston Rhode Island
Johnston Housing Authority
"Community room"
Coffee and pastry will be served!!
To make an appointment with the Rhode Island Blood Center you can either call them at 1-800-283-8385 or go the the website www.ribc.org
When making an appointment please use sponsor code # 2285.
Every drop of blood helps!!!!!!!!!!!!

Summary of the May's Union meeting

The May Union meeting was held on Tuesday, May 13th. There were only three (3) Union members in attendance.
Topics discussed;
Courtemanche arbitration.
Union member Erin Medeiros had a baby girl.
Congrats and good luck Erin.
Changing the time of the meeting to get more Union members to attend.
The winner of the J & D gift certificate was Peter A DelFino.

We will not be having another meeting until September 2008.
If any changes come up having the do with the contract we will hold a Summer meeting.
See you in September, I HOPE!!!!!

Summary of April's Union meeting

Some of the topics discussed at the April Union meeting were as follows:

Proposed changes in the age of retirement for Municipal Employees.
!!! This new law, if passed, would only affect employees who are not vested as of July 1, 2008.
The changes would be
1 Must be age 59 with 29 years of service.
2 Must be 65 with less than 29 years of service.
THERFORE, you could no longer retire at 58 with 10 years on the job, you must now work till the age of 65.

Job openings in the Town.

The hiring of Part time employees.

The 32 Annual AFSCME convention.

The raising of our Union dues to meet the minimum set forth by AFSCME.
Dues will be going up as of July 1, 2008.

The filing of IRS forms for Unions who have less than $25,000.00 in the bank.

Our Union's EIN ( Employee identification number).

The winner of the gift card to J & D's was Arlene Morris.

Proposed changes that WILL affect Union members

There are several proposed laws that are in session at the State house at this time here is a break down of them:

FY08 Budget Article #5
To remove Health care from the Municipal scope of bargaining. Removes Health care as a collective bargaining subject for Municipal Employees, Teacher, Firefighters and Police Officers. Contracts that laps after June 30, 2008 would receive benefits under the State procured care contract.

H-7799 & S-2664
Governor's Municipal & Fiscal Accountability Act-Briefly this increases the retirement age of members WHO ARE NOT VESTED as of July 1 2008 to age 59 with 29 years of service, or age 65 with less than 29 years of service.........

H-7108,H-7726 & S-2429
Prohibit the naming of a Specific Health Insurer in the contract.


I URGE YOU TO CONTACT YOUR REP OR SENATOR TO TELL THEM YOU ARE AGAINST THE ABOVE LAWS....

32nd Annual AFSCME-AFLCIO Convention

It was a pleasure to be the Delegate,once again, for Local 1491 to the AFSCME-AFLCIO Convention. The Convention was held at the Providence Biltmore. Some of the Political speakers included; Senator Jack Reed, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse , Representative Langervine, Secretary of State Mollis and Attorney General Patrick Lynch. There were numerous speakers from our Union.
Some of the topics discussd were;
State retirement systerm.
The Governor's proposed cuts against Unions in this State.
The backing of Hilary Clinton by our Union for President.
SEE my next blog entry for the Governor's proposed changes that will affect Union members!!!!!!!
After the Convention the Biltmore put on a wonderful dinner which was held on the 17th floor banquet room.

Summary of March's Union meeting

Some of the topics discussed at the March meeting were as follows:

Two job openings in the Water Department.
Library contract has been extended till 2010.
Retirement changes proposed by the Governor.
Folcarelli scholarship discussed.
Arbitration Decision on Charles Lamoureux.
Arbitration for W. Courtemanche is scheduled for August 2008.
The reason we held this meeting at the Police Dept. was that Union members working on the 4-12 shift could attend the meeting.
NO MEMBERS BOTHERED TO SHOW UP!!!!!

The winner of the J & D restaurant certificate was Ashley Marocco.

March Union meeting

The March Union meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 18th. The meeting will be held at the Johnston Police Department. The meeting will be in the Roll call room. Anyone who will be attending the meeting must first check in with the Receptionist. The time of the meeting will be 7:00 P M . This is a general meeting.
We will be giving away a $20.00 gift card to J & D Restaurant. You must be present to will.

Summary of February Executive board meeting

An Executive board meeting was held on 2/26/2008. The meeting was held at Ribs & Co. In attendance were President Prata, Vice President Tanzi,Secretary Michelle Bizzacco, Treasurer Peter A. DelFino, Executive board members Justine Dutilly and Arlene Morris.
This meeting was held so that the November 2007, December 2007 & January 2008 Treasurers reports could be passed. This was due to Treasurer DelFino having to meet a deadline of March 1st to file the Surety report and the Annual Financial report.
Other issues discussed;
Pending arbitration(s).
Status of several Union members who have applied for Disability.
A proposed law having to do with Health care State wide.
Proposed changes in the State Retirement system

Summary of February's Union meeting

Some of the topics discussed at the February Union meeting were the following:

Possible proposal for 2010 contract for a better Maternity leave.
New Employee (Perez) in the position of Master Mechanic.
New benefit, Since Johnston Fire had a time limit changed in their contract it now applees to our contract also. The new language is a son or daughter is now covered till the age of 26 under Delta Dental.
Discussion on the new Law being proposed by the Governor. This Law is regarding all Unions going out for bid for Healthcare.
Discussion on location of March meeting, possiblty to be held at Johnston Police, pending approval of the Chief of Police. This way employess who are working the 3rd watch may attend the meeting.
Discussion on the upcomming convention at the Biltmore Hotel (possible Delegate).
Lou Prata was the winner of the $20.00 certificate to J & D 's Family restaurant.

February Union meeting

The February Union meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 19 th. The time of the meeting will be 7:00 P.M. . The locations of the meeting will be The Bridge at Chery Hill FKA Whytebrooke Terrace. Please use the Main entrance. The meeting will be held in the " Tea room".
We will be raffling off a gift certificate to J & D's Family restaurant.
You MUST be present to win.
Coffee and Pastry will be served..

Summary of January's Union meeting

Discussion on the proposed changes to the State Retirement board. President Prata, who is also a Board member advises of the following: Most of the changes affects State workers.

Discussion on several grievances at eh Johnston DPW.

Discussion on pending grievances..

Discussion on new and old On the Job Injuries..

Discussion on possible change in the time and place of the Union meeting. It seems we had more members attend when the meeting were at 5 PM. We will be contacting the Johnston Senior Center to see if we could use there facility.

The winner of the certificate to J & D's rest was Justine Dutilly!!

Next meeting is scheduled for Feb 19th, unless we change locations!!

January Union meeting

The January Union meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 15th,2008. The time will be 7:pm. The meeting will be held at the Bridge on Cherry Hill FKA Whytebrooke Terrace. Please use the front entrance. As always the meeting will be held in the Tea room.
This will be a general meeting.
Coffee and pastry will be served.
We will be raffling off a $20.00 restaurant certificate, to a local restaurant.
You MUST be present to win..

Happy New Year to our Union Brothers & Sisters

To all our Union Brothers & Sisters,,,,
Hoping you and your families had a Happy and Safe New Years..

Summary of the November Union meeting

Once again a poor turn out at our November Union meeting. Only four members showed up, three of them were Union officers. Minutes were read from the October meeting and the November Executive board meeting. Both were not able to be passed due to NO quorum. Discussion on the new job at JPD,2&2 Dispatcher.
We are up to date with Treasurer reports.
Discussion on raising dues as of 1/1/2008.
The December meeting was cancelled!
The winners of the $20.00 gift card was M. Bizzacco and E. Cipriano.
One winner for November and one for December, since the cards expire the end of December.
ALL NAMES will be recycled for the year 2008.

Winner of Guns & Hoses II

For the second year in a row. The Johnston Police Department has won the Guns & Hoses game. The score was JPD 33 and JFD 12.

Ouch - sorry JFD guess you need more practice for next year.

November Union meeting

The November 2007 Union meeting will be held on Tuesday November 27 th . The meeting will be held at the Bridge at Cherry Hill formerly known as Whytebrooke Terrace. The time of the meeting will be 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held in the "Tea room". Please use the Main entrance located on the Cherry Hill Rd. side.
We will be giving away a $20.00 gift card to Stop & Shop.
You must be present to win.
Refreshments will be served.

Executive board meeting held on 11/5/2007

An Executive board meeting was held on Monday November 5th 2007. The meeting was called to order at 7 Pm. The meeting was held to pass seven (7) months of Treasurer's reports. These reports were not able to be passed at pass meetings due to not having a quorum. Other topics discussed at the meeting were Union Scholarships , Increase of dues, Health and Safety Committee.

Johnston FOP link added

I have added a link to the Johnston (FOP) Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #16's web site. This site explains what the FOP is all about. I am proud to be a member along with the FOP Liaison of the Lodge.

October Union meeting

Here is a summary of what took place at the October 16,2007 Union meeting.
Discussion on Job bids, as of this time ALL job bids have been posted and fulled.
Ashley Marocco has finally been moved into the Records' Clerk position.
Discussion on Courtemance up coming arbitration.
The Health and Safety committee will be starting up again soon.
Discussion of members dues needing to be raised! We are over $2.00 short per member per month!!!!
Only six members in attendance, not enough members to pass the past six months Treasurer's reports, we will be having an Executive board meeting to pass the reports.
Winner of the Stop & Shop certificate was Kathy Bedrosian.

Guns and Hoses II

The second annual Guns and Hoses flag football game is here. This is a flag football games between the Johnston Police Dept (Guns) and the Johnston Fire Dept (Hoses). The 1st game was held last year and the winners were the Johnston Police.

The game will be held on November 24th 2007 at 1:00PM. The location will be the Johnston Senior High School football field.
THERE IS NO FEE TO ATTEND THE GAME, BUT DONATIONS ARE BEING TAKEN!!!!!
ALL PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT CHARITY!!
Donations may be mailed to the JFD JPD Charity fund C/o 1520 Atwood Ave., Johnston RI 02919.
For any info contact
Jim Jacavone of JFD at 232-5650 or Sgt Frank Levesque of JPD at 231-4210.
GO FOR YOUR SECOND WIN JPD

New Employee

Matt Leveillee has been hired for the position of 2/2 Dispatcher at the Johnston Police Department. Matt takes over the job which was held by Ashley Marocco. Ashley is taking the Records Division Clerk position.

Good luck guys!!

October Unon meeting

The October 2007 Union meeting will be held on Tuesday October 16th. The meeting will be held at the Bridge at Cherry Hill formerly known as Whytebrooke Terrace. The time of the meeting will be 7:00 PM. The meeting will be held in the "Tea room". Please use the Main entrance located on the Cherry Hill Rd. side.
This our first Union meeting since our Summer break, please make every effort to attend.

We will be giving away a $20.00 gift certificate to Stop & Shop, you MUST be present to win.

Coffee and Pastry will be served...

Job bid

A Job bid had been posted for the position of Clerk in the Town Clerk's office. This Clerk will be crossed trained on all positions within the Clerks office. The bid was posted on 9/7 and will be taken down on 9/13/2007.

Job bid

The position of Dispatcher(2&2) at the Johnston police has been posted. This position was held by Ashley Marocco. The position consists of two shifts on the 8-4 shift and two shifts on the 4-12 shift.

Since NO UNION MEMBER signed for the bid Mr. Matthew Leveillee was hired from outside of the Union.

Good Luck Matt!!

Superbowl Extravaganza fund raiser

The Johnston Police IBPO # 307 are raffling off tickets for the following prizes. The cost of a ticket is $25.00 . The prizes are as follows:

1st Place Prize

Super bowl XLII Extravaganza

4 day/3 night accommodations in Phoenix Arizona at a Clarendon hotel.
2 Lower level Corporate tickets to the Superbowl.
Round trip Airfare & transfers to Phoenix AZ.
2 tickets to the NFL Experience.
Welcome gift & Complimentary breakfast.
Luxury bus transportation to & from the Superbowl.
All taxes & tips are included.

2nd Place Prize
Wide screen TV.


3rd Place prize
$ 250.00 in CASH.


The drawing date will be Monday December 3rd,2007.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a charitable organization.
For a ticket you can contact Detective Richard Almonte at 231-4210 (M-F).

Job bid

The position of Records Division Clerk has been posted. The job was previously held by Michelle Bizzacco, Michelle is now working in BCI. The job bid comes down on August 14th 2007.
This job has been awarded to Ashley Marocco..

New employees

Derek Palazzo has been hired as the 4-12 Dispatcher at the Police department.

Alyssia Abrahamson , who used to be employed by the Town has been hired as the DPW CLerk.

Welcome aboard guys..

Job bid awards

Peter A. DelFino, thats me, was awarded the position of 12-8 Dispatcher. I will be switched to the 12-8 shift as of August 13th 2007.

Michelle Bizzacco was awarded the job of BCI Clerk. Michelle Will start in BCI as of August 13th. 2007.

No one in our Union signed for the 4-12 Dispatch position, therefore the Town hired Derek Pallazzo.

Job Bid

The position of Fire Prevention Clerk at the Johnston Fire Department has been posted. The bid comes down on August 3rd. Dawn Corvese has won this bid, and will be starting in the near future.

Union Blood drive

Our Union wil be hosting a Blood drive . The date of the drive is August 1st 2007. The times will be from 3pm till 7pm. The location of the drive will be the Johnston Town hall. I urge all members to donate blood and if possible take a friend. I donate blood every eight weeks and it is a wonderful feeling.
See you there!!

Two Job bids posted

The position of DPW clerk along with BCI Clerk at the Johnston Police department have been posted on this date. Both job bids come down on 8/1/2007. The position of BCI Clerk is contingent upon availability of position.

Job bids at the Police dept.

On Monday July 16th two Job bids were posted for two positions at the Police Department.
The two positions are: 4-12 Dispatcher & 12-8 Dispatcher. Both jobs came vacant due to two Union members, Dave Loffler and Stephen Altomari being sent to the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy. GOOD LUCK GUYS!!!!
The job will be taken down on July 20th.

Happy Fathers day

To all our Union members who are Fathers have a Happy Fathers day.

Enjoy you day! We only get one..

Death of Thomas Stokes

Thomas F. Stokes 83 of Johnston died on June 7 2007. He was the husband of the late Theresa (Piscione) Stokes. Thomas was a letter carrier for 33 years. He was the son of the late Thomas and Margaret Stokes. He leaves behind three daughters, Donna L. Pari , Colleen S. Stokes and Laurie aRusso. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren. He was the father of the late Arlene Stokes.

Laurie aRusso is a Union member of Local 1491 AFSCME.

The funeral was held at Robins funeral home on Saturday the 10th. He was buried with Military honors at Highland Memorial Park in Johnston.

In lieu of flowers the family asks donationsto be made to Hospice of RI,169 George St Pawtucket RI.

Our local has made a Fifty dollar donation in Mr. Stokes name.

Our sympathy goes out to Laurie and her family.
May he rest in peace.

Congrats to Alycia Bedrosian

Alycia Bedrosian, the daughter of Union member Kathy Bedrosian has won the Regional Talent America contests. Alycia won the Adult Female Solo category. She will be going onto the National level. The nationals will be held in Brooklyn New York from July 13 - 15th.

Alycia ,must receive donations from sponsors in order to supply the cost of the trip and all other expenses. Anyone wishing to make donations may contact Kathy Bedrosian at 401-231-4210 for instructions.

Our Local will be making a Fifty dollar donation to her.
Good Luck Alycia.

Death of Margaret A. Prata

Margaret A. Prata, 82 yrs old passed away on Friday May 25th 2007 . Mrs. Prata passed away while in Miriam Hospital. She was the Mother of our Union President Louis Prata. Margaret was the wife of the late Joseph Prata. She was survived by Anthony Prata, Maria Mariano and Louis Prata. Mrs. Prata's son Joseph is deceased. She was a Grandmother of eight and Great Grandmother of six.

Her funeral was held at Nardolillo's funeral home on 5/29/2007 and followed by a Christian burial at Holy Ghost church. She was buried at St Ann's cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to the Multiple Scelrosis Society, 205 Hallane Rd. #209 Warwick RI.

Our Union has made a donation in the amount of $100.00 to MS. The donation was in the name of Mrs. Margaret Prata.

Our sympathy goes out to Lou and his family.
May she rest in peace.

Enjoy your summer!!

Our next Union meeting will not be till September. Each year a motion is made to suspend Union meetings for the summer. If any Important issues come up we will schedule a general meeting..

Enjoy the summer!!!!!!!

See you in September..

May Union meeting

This is a summary of what took place at the May 2007 Union meeting.
Topics discussed:
Job bids.
Pending grievances.
Health & Safety issues at the Police Station & Town hall.
Retirement options.
Death benefits of Union members.
Health care benefits.
There were eight (8) Union members in attendance.
The Stop & Shop card went to Lou Prata.
The next scheduled meeting is September 2007.

Happy Mothers day

I wanted to wish all our Union members who a mothers, a HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!!!!!
Enjoy your special day!!!!!

May Union Meeting

The May Union meeting will be held on Tuesday May 8th 2007. The meeting will be at 7:oo pm. The location will be the Bridge at Cherry Hill FKA Whytebrook Terrace. We will meet once again in the "Tea Room".
Please make sure to use the Main entrance, which is located on the Cherry Hill Road side of the building.
We will be giving away another $20.00 gift card to Stop & Shop.
You must be present to win.
Coffee & Pastry will be served!!!

April 23rd Emergency Union meeting

At the April 23rd Emergency Union meeting a vote was held on the Mayor's proposed Three (3) percent pay back from our Union.
The vote was unanimous to accept the Mayors proposal.
Therefore the contract will be extended until June 30rd 2010.
There were app. Sixty (60) members in attendance.

Job Bid Recreation Coordinator/Weekend &Weekday Supervisor

The Postion of Recreation Coordinator Weekend/Weekday Supervisor with a Non Standard work week Monday - Sunday was posted on April 24th. This bid comes down on April 30th.
According to President Prata the position pay scale is one of a Laborer.
Work hours will vary!.
Resumes required!!!!!!

This position was previoulsy held by Ralph DeAngelis who's employement was terminated...

Update, NO Union member signed for this job, therefore the Town will be hiring from the outside.
Richard J. DelFino III was hired for this position!
Welcome aboard Richard!!!!!!!!

Special Union meeting

There will be a SPECIAL Union meeting held on Monday April 23rd 2007.
The place will be the Ferri Middle school.
The time will be 5 pm.
This meeting will be a vote on the Mayors' proposed 3% pay back.
THIS IS A VERY IMPORTANT MEETING!!!!!!
PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND!!!!!!
!!!!!VOTE TO ACCEPT!!!!!

April Union meeting

This is a summary of the April 17th Union meeting.
There were app. 27 members in attendance.
This was our 1st Union meeting held at the Bridge on Cherry Hill AKA Whytebrooke terrace.
They put out a nice selection of cookies and pastry, along with coffee.
February and March Treasurer reports were passed.
March minutes were passed.
Discussion of job bids that were filled.
Discussion on the firing of Josh Parrillo.
Most of the meeting was a discussion on the 3 % pay back that the Mayor is asking our Union to give up.
If we give up our 2007 3% raise the Mayor agrees to extend our current contract till 2010!!
We would receive a pay raise of 1.5% & 1.5 till 2010.
Both Police and Fire Unions were asked the same.
The winner of the Stop & Shop raffle was Kevin Cherubino.

April Union Meeting

The April Union meeting will be held on April 17th at the following location:
The Bridge on Cherry Hill AKA Whytebrook Terrace.
The time will be 7:00 PM.
The meeting will be held at the Tea room
We will once again be raffling off a $20.00 gift card to Stop & Shop.
You must be present to win!!
You must enter by the main entrance, it is on the Cherry Hill side.
This will be a General meeting..
Coffee and Pastry will be served

Humane Officer AKA Dog Officer

A bid has been posted to fill the vacany of the Humane Officer AKA Dog Officer. David Izzo was the previous Dog Officer. The bid was posted on 4/3/2007 and will be taken down on 4/9/2007.

NO UNION MEMBERS SIGNED FOR THIS JOB!!

The Town hired Erin Beal for this position.
Welcome aboard Erin.

Job Bid ( Foreman)

A job pid has been posted for a Foreman at the Highway Department. This is a new position. The bid was posted 4/2/2007 and will be taken down on 4/6/2007.
The New Foreman is Michael Panarello.
Good Luck Mike.

March Union meeting

This is a update of what took place at the March 20th Union meeting.
Topics discussed;

1. One Clerk position to be posted at the Department of Public works.
2. The results of the first Health & Safety committee held with the new administration.
3. Police department members will be asking for an Air Quality test at JPD.
4. Courtemanche arbitration postponed.
5. Winner of the Stop & shop gift card was Peter A. DelFino
6. Membership along with President Prata were advised of the vandalism of our Union
bulletin board at the Police Department.
There were seven members in attendance.
!! Treasurers reports could not be passed due to no quorum!!

March Union meeting

The March Union meeting will on held on March 20th. The time of the meeting will be 5:00 Pm. The location will be the Ferri Middle School.

This will be a General meeting.

We will be raffling off a $20.00 gift card to Stop and Shop.
YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!!!!!!!

Executive Board Meeting 3/5/2007

An Executive Board meeting was held on 3/5/2007. The meeting was held for the purpose of approving Treasure reports going back to December 2005. The reason for this was due to the fact that since December 2005 we have not had a quorum at the monthly meeting to pass these reports. All Treasurer reports from December 2005 to and including the January 2007 report were passed. A motion was made by VP Tanzi and seconded by Pres Prata. The board also updated the Sunshine Committee guidelines.

Union Memember's Husband Passes Away

MORRIS, PETER F., 71, of Rowena Drive, died peacefully Wednesday after an eight month illness. He was the beloved husband of Arlene M. (Kelly) Morris. Arelene is the Federal Funds / Human Resource / Personnel Clerk at the Johnston Town Hall.

The funeral will be held Saturday, at 9:45 am, from the Russell J. Boyle & Son Funeral Home, 331 Smith Street, Providence. Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in Holy Cross Church, 645 Hartford Avenue, Providence. Burial will be in Saint Ann Cemetery, Cranston. Visiting hours Friday, 5-8 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Care of Rhode Island, 169 George Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860 in his memory will be appreciated.
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Arlene and her family.

Our Union has made a $50.00 donation on behalf of Mr. Morris to Hospice.

Union meeting

Our next Union meeting will be on Tuesday February 13, 2007. The meeting will be at 5PM. The meeting will be held at the Johnston Middle School.
Please plan to attend.


Once again our Local had a TERRIBLE turn out at this meeting. The only two members that attended the meeting was our President and Vice President.

Job bid posted

The position of Clerk at the Recereation Department has been posted. The bid opened on 2/1/2007 and closes on 2/7/2007.
Congratulations to Terry Prata the new Recreation Clerk.

Job bid posted

The position for Secretary to the Detective Commander fell under Leave To Protect Status. Once Ms. Robin Pimental resigned, this bid had to be re posted as a FULL TIME job. The person who has worked in that position has been Sue DiMaria. Susan DiMaria was awarded the FULL TIME bid as of 1/22/2006..
Congrats Sue!

Union members' Mother & GrandMother passed away

It is with deep regret that I inform you that Sue (Gamma) Ottaviano of Johnston Rhode Island has passed away. Mrs. Ottaviano was the Mother of fellow Union Member Susan DiMaria. Susan has been a Union member since 1995. She is presently a Clerk in the Detective Division of the Johnston Police Department. The family requested that all donations be sent to Hospice of Rhode Island. Therefore our Union has made a $50.00 donation to Hospice in the name of Sue Ottaviano. Mrs. Ottaviano was also the grandmother of fellow Union member Bethany Alviano. Any additional donation in the amount of $20.00 was made to Hopice for this reason.
The funeral will be held on 1/25/2007 at Hoey-Arpin-Williams-King funeral home, located at 168 Academy Ave., Providence Rhode Island. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 8:15 to 9:15 Am.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Sue, Deborah and Carole all daughters of Mrs. Ottaviano, along with her Granddaughter Bethany Alviano.

Swearing in of Mayor Polisena

All Union members are URGED to attend the swearing in of our new Mayor. Mayor Polisena will be sworn on on Monday, January 8th at 7:00 P.M. . The location is the Johnston Senior High School. There is a reception to follow. PLEASE take the time to come and support our Mayor.

New Employees

Welcome aboard to three (3) NEW Employees & Members of Local 1491.
They are;
Joshua Parrillo (Recreation) Guido Gosetti (DPW) and Robert Keefe (DPW) .

Hope you all had a GREAT holiday

I hope all of our members and there families had a very Merry Christmas. Enjoy New years Eve, but be safe.

Happy Thanksgiving to all Union members

I just wanted to wish all Union members and there families a Happy Thanksgiving.

2006 - 2008 Elected Union Officials

The Elected Union Officials for the years of 2006 thru 2008 are:
President: Louis Prata
Vice Pres : Sal Tanzi
Secretary: Michelle Bizzacco
Treasurer: Peter A. DelFino
Thanks to the Seventy Union members who came out and voted..

1st Annual Police vs Fire Depts Football game

The 1st Annual Guns and Hoses football game will be held on Saturday November 25th 2006. The game will be at the Johnston High School football field. The time is 1 P.M. There is NO CHARGE for admission, but donations will be accepted. All donations will be given to the Make A Wish foundation.


Congrats to the Johnston Police Department, the winners of the 1st annual Guns and Hoses football game.

Date of Elections

Our Union will be holding Elections for the positions of Vice President and Secretary on Tuesday November 14th 2006.
The location is the Ferri Middle School.
The time of the Election is from 4PM to 6PM.
Canidates for Vice President are Sal Tanzi vs Will Courtemanche.
Canidates for Secretary are Michelle Bizzacco vs Christine Moniz.
PLEASE COME OUT AND VOTE.

October 2006 Union meeting.

Here is what happened at out October Union meeting. Prior to nominations we discussed the following matters:
Pending grievances.
New CDL drug testing procedures, not yet complete.
Motion made by President Prata to give each Union member a $20.00 certificate to either Shaws or Stop and Shop markets. Treasurer DelFino advises he also has to finish the Christmas raffle. This will done all at the same time, by Thanksgiving.
Cost should be app $3,500.00
NOMINATIONS
President- Louis Prata. (No election necessary)
Vice Pres- Sal Tanzi and Will Courtemanche.
Secretary- Christine Moniz and Michelle Bizzacco.
Treasurer- Peter A DelFino. (No election necessary)
Exec. board Justine Dutilly, Arlene Morris and Charlotte Lanni. ( No election necessary)

New position

Roland Smyth was awarded the Position of Laborer at the Parks' Department. Roland reverted back to his old job. Josh Parrillo was hired for this position. WELCOME ABOARD JOSH!!!!!!

Tuesday September 12th, Primary day

To all Union brothers and sisters;
Remeber to go vote on Tuesday September 12th in the Primary!
Lets make sure we cast our votes for Politicians who support Unions....
See you at the polls!!!!!!

New Employee

Welcome to the newest member of Local 1491, Erica Cipriano . Erica will be taking over the duties of Civilian Floater at the Johnston Police Department.
Welcome aboard..

New Positions

The following two positions have been filled:
Mechanic Foreman at the Parks department goes to Scott Fellella.
Foreman of Building maintenance goes to Pat Simone .
Good luck guys!!

New Positions

The following Union employees have bided into different jobs at the Police Department;
New Records Clerk at Johnston Police: Michelle Bizzacco.
New Operations, Training & Accreditation Clerk: Justine Ambrosino.
New 4-12 Receptionist/Dispatcher: Toni Mallane.
Congratulations to all!

Union member Richard Tirocchi Passes Away

Union member Richard Tirocchi passed away on Tuesday, June 20th after a brief illness. Richard was the Son of Eugene & Margaret Tirocchi. Richard was a Husband to Patricia and Father to Amanda Rose. Richard was also the Brother of the late Charles Tirocchi.
Richard was a Union member since 1978. He held the position of Foreman / Mechanic at the Recreation Department. All ceremonies are private. He will be missed and our prayers go to his family.

Free ad space for Union members

I will be happy to place a link on our web site for any Union member who owns there own business. Just email me with the web site of the business, and I will place the link. I do not know how many links I am able to place on the web site, but I will try to accommodate as many people as possible. If I am limited to a certain amount of links I will try to rotate the links so everyone gets a turn on the web site. You can email me at bciman607@cox.net

Happy Fathers day

Just wishing all our Union members who are Dads, a Happy Fathers day. Hope you all have a GREAT day!

Memorial for Victoria Fasciano

On Friday June 9th 2006 there was a Memorial ceremony remembering Victoria Fasciano. Victoria is the daughter of fellow Union member Annmarie Indell. Victoria was lost in a fatal car accident earlier this year. The ceremony was held at the Thorton Elementary school from the hours of 1 - 2 p.m. A tree was planted in Victoria's name. Along with a plaque and a bench in her memory. Many Union members, Police Officers, and family memb
ers did attend the ceremony. Also present were Victoria's classmates along with teachers from the school. The ceremony was very moving!

Job bid posted

A job bid for the position of Working Forman in the Building Department has been posted on May12th. It will be taken down on May 18th.
Resumes are required
!!!!! C L O S E D !!!!!

Welcome aboard Steve !!

A welcome to a new Union member Steven Altomari. Steve is the new 4-12 Dispatcher at the Johnston Police Department.
Glad to have you aboard Steve..

Elected Officers of our Union

ELECTIONS ARE HELD EVERY THREE YEARS. THE FOLLOWING ARE THE OFFICERS OF THE UNION FROM 11/2008 - 11/20111.

President Louis Prata
V. Pres. Sal Tanzi
Secretary Michelle Bizzacco
Treasurer Peter A. DelFino