Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

Helping Hands June: Suicide Prevention

EAP Peers:

 
      Helping Hands addresses suicide this month. We feature the 988 hotline that was funded and put in place last July. Since then, calls have increased over 800%! The line is a good resource and can help each of us when we aren’t sure about what to do. Of course, always consult your upline EAP Peer – every time you have a potential suicide. I always call a fellow EAP whenever there is a potential suicide – to insure that I am covering all of the bases. Your regional reps, along with Tony Rodriguez, Chris Davis and now Christine Mahoe on Hawaiian and I are always available to talk. Please welcome Chris as a part of our leadership team! 
 
       There are some signs and symptoms covered this month – those are the entry point for talking with someone your are concerned about. Again – consult consult consult!  
 

       Thank you for being there for your co-workers! You are all doing critical work! 

Bryan,

Bryan Hutchinson, M.S.

Recent Articles

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

IAM141.org

Federal Judge Strikes Down Massachusetts’ Paid Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers, Leaving Thousands of Workers Without a Vital Benefit

A federal judge has ruled in favor of a group of major airlines, blocking the enforcement of Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law for their flight and ground crewmembers. The ruling is a blow to thousands of workers who are denied the right to earn sick time and take care of their health and families.

The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Airlines for America (A4A), a trade association that represents American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and other carriers. A4A argued that the state law, which requires employers to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, was unconstitutional and preempted by federal law.

The judge agreed with A4A, saying that the law would impose an undue burden on interstate commerce and interfere with the airlines’ prices, routes, and services. The judge also said that the law would cause flight delays and cancellations and create a patchwork of different state sick leave requirements.

The ruling ignores the benefits of the law for workers and public health, especially during a pandemic. The law, which took effect in 2015, was passed by voters as a ballot initiative with overwhelming support. The law aims to protect workers from losing their jobs or wages when they are sick or need to care for a family member. The law also helps prevent the spread of illnesses and infections in workplaces and communities.

The ruling also disregards the evidence that paid sick leave laws do not harm businesses or the economy. According to a report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, paid sick leave laws have not led to job losses, reduced hours, or lower wages in states and cities that have adopted them. On the contrary, paid sick leave laws have been associated with improved productivity, reduced turnover, and increased consumer spending.

The ruling is a victory for powerful corporations and industry lobbyists who put profits over people. A4A has been fighting against paid sick leave laws across the country, including in Washington state, where it filed a similar lawsuit in 2018. A4A has also opposed other measures that would benefit workers and passengers, such as increasing the minimum wage, enhancing safety standards, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The ruling in Massachusets is expected to weaken similar rulings in every state that has enacted them. 

The ruling is a setback for working people and their advocates, who have been fighting for fair and humane labor standards. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, which defended the law in court, said it was disappointed with the decision and is considering its options. The office said it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and enforcing the law.

The ruling is not final and could be appealed or overturned by Congress or the Supreme Court. In the meantime, airline workers in Massachusetts will continue to face uncertainty and hardship when they get sick or need to care for their loved ones.

The Judge Who Oversaw the Case

The judge who oversaw the case was U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs. She was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014 and confirmed by the Senate in 2015. She is one of only two women judges on the U.S. District Court that includes Massachusetts.

Judge Burroughs has a record of ruling against workers’ rights and in favor of corporate interests. In 2019, she dismissed a class action lawsuit by former employees of Dunkin’ Donuts who alleged that they were misclassified as independent contractors and denied overtime pay and other benefits. 

In contrast, Judge Burroughs has sided with big businesses in several cases involving antitrust claims, patent disputes, and trademark infringement. She has also granted injunctions to prevent state regulations from affecting corporate operations.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling in favor of A4A is consistent with her pro-business bias and her disregard for workers’ welfare. She ignored the testimony of experts who testified that paid sick leave laws do not cause significant disruptions or costs for airlines. She also failed to consider the impact of her ruling on public health and social justice.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling is an example of how corporate power seems to reliably influence judicial decisions and undermine democracy. It shows why workers need to organize and fight for their rights at every level of government.

The Impact of the Ruling on Working People in Massachusetts

The court ruling that exempts airline workers from Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law has serious consequences for working people in the state. The ruling deprives thousands of workers of a basic benefit that is essential for their well-being and economic security.

Paid sick leave is a vital protection for workers who face health challenges, either for themselves or their family members. Without paid sick leave, workers may have to choose between going to work while sick or staying home without pay, risking their health, income, and job security. This choice can have negative effects on workers’ physical and mental health, as well as their financial stability.

Paid sick leave also benefits public health and the economy. By allowing workers to stay home when sick, paid sick leave helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and other infections. This reduces the burden on the healthcare system and saves lives. According to various studies, paid sick leave also boosts worker productivity, reduces turnover, and increases consumer spending.

Despite these benefits, many workers in the U.S. lack access to paid sick leave, especially low-wage workers, women, people of color, and part-time workers. The U.S. is the only developed country that does not guarantee paid sick leave to all workers at the national level. While some states and cities have passed their own paid sick leave laws, these laws vary widely in terms of coverage, eligibility, and generosity.

Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law is one of the most progressive in the country. It covers nearly all workers in the state, regardless of employer size or industry. It allows workers to earn up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year at their regular rate of pay. It also protects workers from retaliation or discrimination for using their sick time.

The court ruling that blocks the enforcement of this law for airline workers undermines the intent and purpose of the law. It creates a two-tier system of workers’ rights, where some workers have access to the states’ paid sick leave, and others do not. It also creates confusion and inconsistency for employers and employees who operate in multiple states with different laws.

The court ruling also sets a dangerous precedent for other industries that may seek to challenge state-paid sick leave laws on similar grounds. It opens the door for more lawsuits that could erode workers’ rights and benefits across the country.

The court ruling is a reminder that working people need stronger federal protections for paid sick leave. While some temporary measures were enacted during the pandemic, such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, they have since expired or been scaled back. A permanent national paid sick leave policy is needed to ensure that all workers have access to this essential benefit, regardless of where they work or what they do.

Working people deserve dignity and respect in their jobs. They deserve to be able to take care of themselves and their loved ones without fear of losing their livelihoods. They deserve paid sick leave.

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Corporate Judge Blocks Paid Sick Leave Law

June 5, 2023

Federal Judge Strikes Down Massachusetts’ Paid Sick Leave Law for Airline Workers, Leaving Thousands of Workers Without a Vital Benefit

A federal judge has ruled in favor of a group of major airlines, blocking the enforcement of Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law for their flight and ground crewmembers. The ruling is a blow to thousands of workers who are denied the right to earn sick time and take care of their health and families.

The lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Airlines for America (A4A), a trade association that represents American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and other carriers. A4A argued that the state law, which requires employers to provide one hour of sick leave for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per year, was unconstitutional and preempted by federal law.

The judge agreed with A4A, saying that the law would impose an undue burden on interstate commerce and interfere with the airlines’ prices, routes, and services. The judge also said that the law would cause flight delays and cancellations and create a patchwork of different state sick leave requirements.

The ruling ignores the benefits of the law for workers and public health, especially during a pandemic. The law, which took effect in 2015, was passed by voters as a ballot initiative with overwhelming support. The law aims to protect workers from losing their jobs or wages when they are sick or need to care for a family member. The law also helps prevent the spread of illnesses and infections in workplaces and communities.

The ruling also disregards the evidence that paid sick leave laws do not harm businesses or the economy. According to a report by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, paid sick leave laws have not led to job losses, reduced hours, or lower wages in states and cities that have adopted them. On the contrary, paid sick leave laws have been associated with improved productivity, reduced turnover, and increased consumer spending.

The ruling is a victory for powerful corporations and industry lobbyists who put profits over people. A4A has been fighting against paid sick leave laws across the country, including in Washington state, where it filed a similar lawsuit in 2018. A4A has also opposed other measures that would benefit workers and passengers, such as increasing the minimum wage, enhancing safety standards, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The ruling in Massachusets is expected to weaken similar rulings in every state that has enacted them. 

The ruling is a setback for working people and their advocates, who have been fighting for fair and humane labor standards. The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, which defended the law in court, said it was disappointed with the decision and is considering its options. The office said it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights and enforcing the law.

The ruling is not final and could be appealed or overturned by Congress or the Supreme Court. In the meantime, airline workers in Massachusetts will continue to face uncertainty and hardship when they get sick or need to care for their loved ones.

The Judge Who Oversaw the Case

The judge who oversaw the case was U.S. District Judge Allison D. Burroughs. She was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2014 and confirmed by the Senate in 2015. She is one of only two women judges on the U.S. District Court that includes Massachusetts.

Judge Burroughs has a record of ruling against workers’ rights and in favor of corporate interests. In 2019, she dismissed a class action lawsuit by former employees of Dunkin’ Donuts who alleged that they were misclassified as independent contractors and denied overtime pay and other benefits. 

In contrast, Judge Burroughs has sided with big businesses in several cases involving antitrust claims, patent disputes, and trademark infringement. She has also granted injunctions to prevent state regulations from affecting corporate operations.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling in favor of A4A is consistent with her pro-business bias and her disregard for workers’ welfare. She ignored the testimony of experts who testified that paid sick leave laws do not cause significant disruptions or costs for airlines. She also failed to consider the impact of her ruling on public health and social justice.

Judge Burroughs’ ruling is an example of how corporate power seems to reliably influence judicial decisions and undermine democracy. It shows why workers need to organize and fight for their rights at every level of government.

The Impact of the Ruling on Working People in Massachusetts

The court ruling that exempts airline workers from Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law has serious consequences for working people in the state. The ruling deprives thousands of workers of a basic benefit that is essential for their well-being and economic security.

Paid sick leave is a vital protection for workers who face health challenges, either for themselves or their family members. Without paid sick leave, workers may have to choose between going to work while sick or staying home without pay, risking their health, income, and job security. This choice can have negative effects on workers’ physical and mental health, as well as their financial stability.

Paid sick leave also benefits public health and the economy. By allowing workers to stay home when sick, paid sick leave helps prevent the spread of contagious diseases, such as COVID-19, influenza, and other infections. This reduces the burden on the healthcare system and saves lives. According to various studies, paid sick leave also boosts worker productivity, reduces turnover, and increases consumer spending.

Despite these benefits, many workers in the U.S. lack access to paid sick leave, especially low-wage workers, women, people of color, and part-time workers. The U.S. is the only developed country that does not guarantee paid sick leave to all workers at the national level. While some states and cities have passed their own paid sick leave laws, these laws vary widely in terms of coverage, eligibility, and generosity.

Massachusetts’ paid sick leave law is one of the most progressive in the country. It covers nearly all workers in the state, regardless of employer size or industry. It allows workers to earn up to 40 hours of paid sick leave per year at their regular rate of pay. It also protects workers from retaliation or discrimination for using their sick time.

The court ruling that blocks the enforcement of this law for airline workers undermines the intent and purpose of the law. It creates a two-tier system of workers’ rights, where some workers have access to the states’ paid sick leave, and others do not. It also creates confusion and inconsistency for employers and employees who operate in multiple states with different laws.

The court ruling also sets a dangerous precedent for other industries that may seek to challenge state-paid sick leave laws on similar grounds. It opens the door for more lawsuits that could erode workers’ rights and benefits across the country.

The court ruling is a reminder that working people need stronger federal protections for paid sick leave. While some temporary measures were enacted during the pandemic, such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, they have since expired or been scaled back. A permanent national paid sick leave policy is needed to ensure that all workers have access to this essential benefit, regardless of where they work or what they do.

Working people deserve dignity and respect in their jobs. They deserve to be able to take care of themselves and their loved ones without fear of losing their livelihoods. They deserve paid sick leave.

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Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

IAM141.org

Amid the extensive damage caused by Super Typhoon Mawar, the District Vice President of the Machinists Union in Guam, is encouraging residents to seek help from the Machinists Union Disaster Relief Fund.

Vice President Sharon Sugiyama said the fund offers immediate support to union members and their families following natural disasters. Sugiyama has committed to helping affected Union Members find and complete the paperwork to apply for assistance.

Sugiyama underscored the high need for assistance among the approximately 800 United employees on the island, some of whom had suffered damage to homes, and many others prevented from working due to the storm.

“Right now, there’s an urgent need for things like gas and water, and especially electricity,” she said of the damage left in the wake of the storm. “Lines for gas are unbelievable,” she continued, adding that cars are waiting hours in lines more than four miles long. “We’re missing things like ice and water,” she added.

Established to provide swift assistance in instances of natural disasters, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund has been a lifeline for its members and their families in times of need. It assists those impacted by natural disasters, often before other sources of aid can react.

The Disaster Relief assistance program is funded by direct, voluntary contributions from Machinists Union Members.

The Pacific Island of Guam, a U.S. territory, is undergoing an extensive cleanup following last week’s devastation caused by Typhoon Mawar. When the Typhoon made landfall, its projected continuous winds of 140 mph led to the destruction of homes, upended vehicles, and caused the demolition of wind sensors at the airport, which recorded a gust of 105 mph. The breadth of the damage is such that only aerial images can genuinely illustrate the vast extent of the destruction.

The Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, said in a social media post that the island had endured “an alarming ordeal unmatched in over twenty years.”

In the Western Pacific, typhoons are tropical cyclones with intensity equivalent to hurricanes.

Nearly 98% of Guam experienced a power outage during the Typhoon. The governor told news agencies it took almost two days for the Guam Power Authority to fully restore power to the Guam Memorial Hospital. Workforces are operating on round-the-clock shifts to reestablish electricity throughout the island.

A National Weather Service meteorologist provided a disturbing description of the aftermath in a Facebook video update after the storm’s departure, saying, “As we observe from our doors, what once was a lush jungle now resembles a forest of splintered wood.”

Guam serves as an essential base for U.S. forces in the Pacific, with approximately 6,800 service members stationed on the island. In response to the storm, military officials executed evacuation procedures for personnel, dependents, and employees, dispatched ships to safer waters, and either relocated aircraft off the island or secured them in protective hangars.

United Airlines, a significant employer on the island, has approximately 800 employees in Guam and many hundreds more across national airports who hail from the North Pacific Island.

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Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

June 1, 2023

Amid the extensive damage caused by Super Typhoon Mawar, the District Vice President of the Machinists Union in Guam, is encouraging residents to seek help from the Machinists Union Disaster Relief Fund.

Vice President Sharon Sugiyama said the fund offers immediate support to union members and their families following natural disasters. Sugiyama has committed to helping affected Union Members find and complete the paperwork to apply for assistance.

Sugiyama underscored the high need for assistance among the approximately 800 United employees on the island, some of whom had suffered damage to homes, and many others prevented from working due to the storm.

“Right now, there’s an urgent need for things like gas and water, and especially electricity,” she said of the damage left in the wake of the storm. “Lines for gas are unbelievable,” she continued, adding that cars are waiting hours in lines more than four miles long. “We’re missing things like ice and water,” she added.

Established to provide swift assistance in instances of natural disasters, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund has been a lifeline for its members and their families in times of need. It assists those impacted by natural disasters, often before other sources of aid can react.

The Disaster Relief assistance program is funded by direct, voluntary contributions from Machinists Union Members.

The Pacific Island of Guam, a U.S. territory, is undergoing an extensive cleanup following last week’s devastation caused by Typhoon Mawar. When the Typhoon made landfall, its projected continuous winds of 140 mph led to the destruction of homes, upended vehicles, and caused the demolition of wind sensors at the airport, which recorded a gust of 105 mph. The breadth of the damage is such that only aerial images can genuinely illustrate the vast extent of the destruction.

The Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, said in a social media post that the island had endured “an alarming ordeal unmatched in over twenty years.”

In the Western Pacific, typhoons are tropical cyclones with intensity equivalent to hurricanes.

Nearly 98% of Guam experienced a power outage during the Typhoon. The governor told news agencies it took almost two days for the Guam Power Authority to fully restore power to the Guam Memorial Hospital. Workforces are operating on round-the-clock shifts to reestablish electricity throughout the island.

A National Weather Service meteorologist provided a disturbing description of the aftermath in a Facebook video update after the storm’s departure, saying, “As we observe from our doors, what once was a lush jungle now resembles a forest of splintered wood.”

Guam serves as an essential base for U.S. forces in the Pacific, with approximately 6,800 service members stationed on the island. In response to the storm, military officials executed evacuation procedures for personnel, dependents, and employees, dispatched ships to safer waters, and either relocated aircraft off the island or secured them in protective hangars.

United Airlines, a significant employer on the island, has approximately 800 employees in Guam and many hundreds more across national airports who hail from the North Pacific Island.

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Dragonomics: Unmasking the Dragon of Inequality

Dragonomics: Unmasking the Dragon of Inequality

Dragonomics: Unmasking the Dragon of Inequality

IAM141.org

When a provocative question posed in a viral social media post recently caught the public’s attention, it sparked a broader conversation on wealth distribution. 

The question was simple yet powerful: “What does it mean when real people are wealthier than a notorious, gold-hoarding dragon?”

According to Francis Woolley, who started off the debate over whether or not economies are better or worse off with a dragon hoarder like Smaug, the conclusion is simple: Nope.

“It is clear from a simple inspection of these two figures that the amount of gold coinage Smaug withdrew from circulation represents a significant volume of currency,” Wolley says in their post. “This would, inevitably, lead to deflation and depressed economic activity,” she concludes.

Frances Wooley is a Professor of Economics at Carlton University.

Let’s look at the argument. 

Once upon a time, in the fiery depths of the Lonely Mountain, a dragon named Smaug reclined on his mountain-sized hoard of gold. According to Forbes, Smaug was the second wealthiest fictional character, with an estimated worth of $15.4 billion. Smaug, however, wasn’t an innovative tech mogul, nor was he a benevolent job creator. He was a self-serving creature, accumulating his wealth at the expense of others and hoarding it away from the economy of Middle Earth.

What’s alarming is that this tale isn’t restricted to the realm of fiction. It mirrors an unsettling reality in our society – a stark economic disparity where an exclusive group of individuals possesses wealth far exceeding the dragon’s golden fortune. Fourteen Americans, in fact, have more wealth than Smaug. Put another way, there are 15 near-limitless mountains of gold taken from American workers, removed from the American economy, and locked away. 

Yes, you read it right. We live in a world where real people are wealthier than an evil gold-hoarding dragon – and they will protect with fire-breathing rage each and every one of the millions of coins they wallow in.

Wealth is not evenly distributed in the United States. According to economist Edward N. Wolff at New York University (2017), the upper class (the wealthiest 1% of households) owned more than a third (36.7%) of all private wealth in 2013. The next 19% of households (the managerial, professional, and small business stratum) owned more than half (52.2%) of all private wealth. This means that the wealthiest 20% of the people owned almost all (89%) of the personal wealth in the nation, leaving only a tenth (11%) of the wealth for the rest of the population (the wage and salary workers). The gap was even wider when it came to financial wealth (the value of one’s assets minus the value of one’s home). The upper class had almost half (42.8%) of all financial wealth, while the rest of the population had much less – only 7%.

80% of all Americans share only 5% of the nation’s wealth. Put another way, Americans are being hit by inflation because 15 people took almost all the money away. There’s virtually nothing left in the rest of the (non-billionaire) economy. In another era, that would be called “Communism,” where everyone makes basically the same income no matter how hard they work or what they do for a living. And, if you were lucky enough to be working in that bygone age (the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s), you probably paid less than half a million dollars for your home. 

Many of today’s younger working people would be lucky to upgrade their apartment to a Buik with that kind of money (okay, dark humor, but.) 

For the record, the Soviet Union never achieved that level of income equality. They collapsed first.

Yet, aren’t these real-life wealth accumulators’ job creators’? Let’s delve deeper into the numbers and examine the dragon-sized footprint of such wealth. For all his worth, Smaug didn’t create jobs or drive the economic engine of Middle Earth. He just slept on his gold, causing suffering and despair for those around him. 

Similarly, when wealth is concentrated at the top, it doesn’t always trickle down to stimulate the economy or provide better wages for workers. It often remains dormant, like Smaug’s pile of gold, leading to stagnating wages, exploding inflation, and growing inequality. Fiefdoms don’t make great economies. 

According to a report from the Institute for Policy Studies, the wealth of U.S. billionaires surged by over 70% during the first year of the pandemic while the country grappled with economic devastation. Yet, the federal minimum wage has remained unchanged since 2009, rendering many hardworking Americans unable to afford basic needs, let alone build savings. For millions of working people, costs are at 2023 levels, and wages are stuck in the 2010s.

How does one justify this increasing gap? Some argue that these billionaires earned their wealth fair and square, similar to the mythical dragon who ‘earned’ his gold by destroying the dwarves who created it. But at what point does the hoarding of wealth at the expense of others become an issue of moral and economic justice? Is it really “fair” to ask everyone else to reach deeper and deeper into their pockets to keep 15 people in the U.S. flush with limitless, unused fortunes?

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s story, Smaug is the antagonist, symbolizing greed and destruction. He did not have the best interests of those he took the wealth from in mind as he hoarded it. Similarly, in our world, a system that allows few to hoard enormous wealth while many struggle to survive should make us question: are we putting people or profit first?

It’s high time we reconsider our perspectives on wealth and how much we deserve to make from our work. Let’s think critically about who ‘deserves’ such vast fortunes, especially when such wealth is accumulated at the cost of a fair wage and crushing inflation. 

Let us not glorify our real-life ‘Smaugs’ as heroes while overlooking the workers who create that wealth. Remember, every dragon’s hoard is a mountain of gold that isn’t paying a living wage. It’s time we ensure that wealth does more than just gleam in a dragon’s lair. It should fuel economies, create jobs, and ensure fair pay for everyone in our society. It can only do those things if it’s in the hands of the people who will spend it that way – working people.

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Dragonomics: Unmasking the Dragon of Inequality

MAY 29, 2023

When a provocative question posed in a viral social media post recently caught the public’s attention, it sparked a broader conversation on wealth distribution. 

The question was simple yet powerful: “What does it mean when real people are wealthier than a notorious, gold-hoarding dragon?”

According to Francis Woolley, who started off the debate over whether or not economies are better or worse off with a dragon hoarder like Smaug, the conclusion is simple: Nope.

“It is clear from a simple inspection of these two figures that the amount of gold coinage Smaug withdrew from circulation represents a significant volume of currency,” Wolley says in their post. “This would, inevitably, lead to deflation and depressed economic activity,” she concludes.

Frances Wooley is a Professor of Economics at Carlton University.

Let’s look at the argument. 

Once upon a time, in the fiery depths of the Lonely Mountain, a dragon named Smaug reclined on his mountain-sized hoard of gold. According to Forbes, Smaug was the second wealthiest fictional character, with an estimated worth of $15.4 billion. Smaug, however, wasn’t an innovative tech mogul, nor was he a benevolent job creator. He was a self-serving creature, accumulating his wealth at the expense of others and hoarding it away from the economy of Middle Earth.

What’s alarming is that this tale isn’t restricted to the realm of fiction. It mirrors an unsettling reality in our society – a stark economic disparity where an exclusive group of individuals possesses wealth far exceeding the dragon’s golden fortune. Fourteen Americans, in fact, have more wealth than Smaug. Put another way, there are 15 near-limitless mountains of gold taken from American workers, removed from the American economy, and locked away. 

Yes, you read it right. We live in a world where real people are wealthier than an evil gold-hoarding dragon – and they will protect with fire-breathing rage each and every one of the millions of coins they wallow in.

Wealth is not evenly distributed in the United States. According to economist Edward N. Wolff at New York University (2017), the upper class (the wealthiest 1% of households) owned more than a third (36.7%) of all private wealth in 2013. The next 19% of households (the managerial, professional, and small business stratum) owned more than half (52.2%) of all private wealth. This means that the wealthiest 20% of the people owned almost all (89%) of the personal wealth in the nation, leaving only a tenth (11%) of the wealth for the rest of the population (the wage and salary workers). The gap was even wider when it came to financial wealth (the value of one’s assets minus the value of one’s home). The upper class had almost half (42.8%) of all financial wealth, while the rest of the population had much less – only 7%.

80% of all Americans share only 5% of the nation’s wealth. Put another way, Americans are being hit by inflation because 15 people took almost all the money away. There’s virtually nothing left in the rest of the (non-billionaire) economy. In another era, that would be called “Communism,” where everyone makes basically the same income no matter how hard they work or what they do for a living. And, if you were lucky enough to be working in that bygone age (the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s), you probably paid less than half a million dollars for your home. 

Many of today’s younger working people would be lucky to upgrade their apartment to a Buik with that kind of money (okay, dark humor, but.) 

For the record, the Soviet Union never achieved that level of income equality. They collapsed first.

Yet, aren’t these real-life wealth accumulators’ job creators’? Let’s delve deeper into the numbers and examine the dragon-sized footprint of such wealth. For all his worth, Smaug didn’t create jobs or drive the economic engine of Middle Earth. He just slept on his gold, causing suffering and despair for those around him. 

Similarly, when wealth is concentrated at the top, it doesn’t always trickle down to stimulate the economy or provide better wages for workers. It often remains dormant, like Smaug’s pile of gold, leading to stagnating wages, exploding inflation, and growing inequality. Fiefdoms don’t make great economies. 

According to a report from the Institute for Policy Studies, the wealth of U.S. billionaires surged by over 70% during the first year of the pandemic while the country grappled with economic devastation. Yet, the federal minimum wage has remained unchanged since 2009, rendering many hardworking Americans unable to afford basic needs, let alone build savings. For millions of working people, costs are at 2023 levels, and wages are stuck in the 2010s.

How does one justify this increasing gap? Some argue that these billionaires earned their wealth fair and square, similar to the mythical dragon who ‘earned’ his gold by destroying the dwarves who created it. But at what point does the hoarding of wealth at the expense of others become an issue of moral and economic justice? Is it really “fair” to ask everyone else to reach deeper and deeper into their pockets to keep 15 people in the U.S. flush with limitless, unused fortunes?

In J.R.R. Tolkien’s story, Smaug is the antagonist, symbolizing greed and destruction. He did not have the best interests of those he took the wealth from in mind as he hoarded it. Similarly, in our world, a system that allows few to hoard enormous wealth while many struggle to survive should make us question: are we putting people or profit first?

It’s high time we reconsider our perspectives on wealth and how much we deserve to make from our work. Let’s think critically about who ‘deserves’ such vast fortunes, especially when such wealth is accumulated at the cost of a fair wage and crushing inflation. 

Let us not glorify our real-life ‘Smaugs’ as heroes while overlooking the workers who create that wealth. Remember, every dragon’s hoard is a mountain of gold that isn’t paying a living wage. It’s time we ensure that wealth does more than just gleam in a dragon’s lair. It should fuel economies, create jobs, and ensure fair pay for everyone in our society. It can only do those things if it’s in the hands of the people who will spend it that way – working people.

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CHARLOTTE, NC – Machinists Union Local 1725 hosted a Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser at the Harry Jones Golf Course in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, May 17. The event was buzzing with activity as golfers came together in support of Guide Dogs of America.

About 100 union members, predominantly from American Airlines, gathered at the event, transforming the tranquil golf course into a vibrant hub of camaraderie and compassion. Among the attendees were Mike Klemm, President of Machinists Union District 141, and Mark Baskett, Assistant Chairman at District 141.

Also present was the PDGC of Machinists District 142, John Coveny, along with General Chairs Ken Coley, and Bill Wise. EAP Director Chris Davis and Tony Blevins, Special Assistant to the International President. Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, was also present.

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The participants registered with $80 for singles and $320 for 4-person teams. But more than the game, it was the cause that attracted people. The registration fees, raffle proceeds, and other contributions were directed to Guide Dogs of America.

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The Machinists Union has a long history of supporting Guide Dogs of America, the official charity of the union. The union recognizes the organization’s exemplary work in assisting individuals overcoming PTSD, those living with autism, and those who are visually impaired. The union members understand the transformative power of a service dog, and this annual charity event is a testament to that.

The event was not just about golfing and fundraising; it was an opportunity for the union members and the larger community to understand the profound impact of their contributions. Stories of individuals who have benefited from Guide Dogs of America’s programs were shared, painting a picture of how the proceeds from events like these change lives.

“She is an amazing guide dog, leading and guiding me everywhere I need to go,” said Teresa Blevins, a Guide Dog recipient of her service dod Delilah. “She navigates stairs, elevators, and even crowded rooms, making sure I can move around independently and with ease,” she continued.

The Machinists Union Local 1725’s Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser was not just a day on the green; it was a day of coming together, embracing a noble cause, and making a difference. As golf balls soared through the air, so did the hopes and aspirations of those present, all striving to contribute to a world where everyone has the companionship and support of a guide dog, increasing their confidence, mobility, and independence.

Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines provide guide dogs to individuals at no cost, thanks to private contributions. They breed, raise, and train these dogs at their impressive campus in Silmar, California, which spans 7 acres and includes a dedicated puppy department.

The school relies on the invaluable assistance of volunteer puppy raisers who take in the puppies at a young age. These dedicated raisers teach the dogs important house rules, socialize them with the public, and expose them to various environments like shopping centers and doctor’s offices. Thanks to the raisers’ efforts, the dogs are well-behaved and comfortable in different settings.

The campus is also home to instructors and trainers who ensure students become fully mobile and independent before leaving the school. The instructors provide support and assistance if any issues arise after students return home. The organization’s success depends on the collective effort of volunteers, supporters, and donors, who form a village of compassion and dedication. The impact goes beyond providing guide dogs to the visually impaired, as the organization now extends its support to children with autism, veterans with PTSD, and the needs of police departments and courtrooms through Tender Loving Canines.

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MAY 17, 2023

CHARLOTTE, NC – Machinists Union Local 1725 hosted a Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser at the Harry Jones Golf Course in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, May 17. The event was buzzing with activity as golfers came together in support of Guide Dogs of America.

About 100 union members, predominantly from American Airlines, gathered at the event, transforming the tranquil golf course into a vibrant hub of camaraderie and compassion. Among the attendees were Mike Klemm, President of Machinists Union District 141, and Mark Baskett, Assistant Chairman at District 141.

Also present was the PDGC of Machinists District 142, John Coveny, along with General Chairs Ken Coley, and Bill Wise. EAP Director Chris Davis and Tony Blevins, Special Assistant to the International President. Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, was also present.

Their presence added a touch of gravitas to the occasion.

The participants registered with $80 for singles and $320 for 4-person teams. But more than the game, it was the cause that attracted people. The registration fees, raffle proceeds, and other contributions were directed to Guide Dogs of America.

Guide Dogs of America is a non-profit organization that has been transforming lives through partnerships with service dogs. They breed, raise, and train guide dogs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. They also provide service dogs for veterans and children with autism. Moreover, the organization places facility dogs with professionals in hospitals, schools, and courtrooms, where these highly skilled canines serve as trusted companions, enhancing people’s confidence, mobility, and independence.

The Machinists Union has a long history of supporting Guide Dogs of America, the official charity of the union. The union recognizes the organization’s exemplary work in assisting individuals overcoming PTSD, those living with autism, and those who are visually impaired. The union members understand the transformative power of a service dog, and this annual charity event is a testament to that.

The event was not just about golfing and fundraising; it was an opportunity for the union members and the larger community to understand the profound impact of their contributions. Stories of individuals who have benefited from Guide Dogs of America’s programs were shared, painting a picture of how the proceeds from events like these change lives.

“She is an amazing guide dog, leading and guiding me everywhere I need to go,” said Teresa Blevins, a Guide Dog recipient of her service dod Delilah. “She navigates stairs, elevators, and even crowded rooms, making sure I can move around independently and with ease,” she continued.

The Machinists Union Local 1725’s Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser was not just a day on the green; it was a day of coming together, embracing a noble cause, and making a difference. As golf balls soared through the air, so did the hopes and aspirations of those present, all striving to contribute to a world where everyone has the companionship and support of a guide dog, increasing their confidence, mobility, and independence.

Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines provide guide dogs to individuals at no cost, thanks to private contributions. They breed, raise, and train these dogs at their impressive campus in Silmar, California, which spans 7 acres and includes a dedicated puppy department.

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The campus is also home to instructors and trainers who ensure students become fully mobile and independent before leaving the school. The instructors provide support and assistance if any issues arise after students return home. The organization’s success depends on the collective effort of volunteers, supporters, and donors, who form a village of compassion and dedication. The impact goes beyond providing guide dogs to the visually impaired, as the organization now extends its support to children with autism, veterans with PTSD, and the needs of police departments and courtrooms through Tender Loving Canines.

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According to estimates from ALPA Spokesman Captain Michael Williams, about 3,000 Pilots participated in the rallies, representing about 20% of the 15,000 Pilots at the carrier. Over 400 Pilots, Fleet and Passenger Service, Mechanics and other workgroups attended one rally in Houston.

Pilots at United have been working without a raise for over four years while contract talks seem all but stalled.

According to Williams, the protracted negotiations have left Pilots at United all but last in line among workgroups at the carrier. He also stressed that the longer Pilots go without an updated agreement, the longer the airline will be at a competitive disadvantage as it attempts to attract new pilots.

“United management’s vision of “United Next” cannot happen without a Contract First,” he told a group of media outlets and reporters covering the Houston event.

The demonstrations are happening just before what could be a record-breaking but nightmarish summer travel season.

This summer is expected to be among the most frustrating for air travelers since airlines were deregulated in 1978. Airlines are raising fares, overselling flights, and lacking critical staff to load and unload passengers and baggage onto planes. According to industry watchers, airlines are struggling to keep up with the post-pandemic surge in demand. The staff shortage is already causing flight cancellations and delays, notably Southwest, whose Christmas meltdown saw thousands of cancellations and delays and cost the carrier more than $500 million.

The leader of the United Airlines Pilots’ Union, Garth Thompson, said in a recent interview that the airline is refusing to match new benchmark pay rates for the aviation industry.

They also want their new contract to have equal or better work-life balance. He said that any proposal from the airline that does not meet these expectations will not be ratified.

In March, the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA) negotiated a massive 34% pay increase at Delta Air Lines, improving wages and benefits by $7 billion. The deal helps to establish Delta as a more attractive employer amid a nationwide pilot shortage.

“We expect our contract to raise the bar from Delta’s contract,” Thompson said in an interview with Reuters this week. “We’re not just looking for more money, we’re looking for several areas of improvement that we’ve been waiting a long time to achieve.”

The Union stated that a tentative contract proposed last year failed to meet the minimum requirements of Pilots, resulting in an overwhelming rejection by the Union.

United Airlines is touting an optimistic growth plan called “United Next.” However, the pilot group is pointing out that without an industry-leading agreement, management won’t be able to expand in the way they want unless the company can hire and retain the best pilots. The failed deal and a new high bar at other properties have unified the pilot group.

“We’ve all heard of or witnessed United executives claiming they’re ready to conclude negotiations toward an industry-leading agreement,” Thompson said. “Having noted the increasing boldness and frequency of their assertions, it’s time for them to prove the extent of their sincerity.”

Thompson noted the increasing boldness and frequency of their assertions and said that it was time for them to prove the extent of their sincerity.

In addition to ALPA, the rallies were attended by The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the Professional Airline Flight Control Association (PAFA), and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.

Members of IAMAW Locals 811 and 2198 pose for a group photo following a rally that drew over 400 Union Members near Bush Intercontinental Airport. The rally was one of ten held at major airports around the nation. 

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According to Williams, the protracted negotiations have left Pilots at United all but last in line among workgroups at the carrier. He also stressed that the longer Pilots go without an updated agreement, the longer the airline will be at a competitive disadvantage as it attempts to attract new pilots.

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The leader of the United Airlines Pilots’ Union, Garth Thompson, said in a recent interview that the airline is refusing to match new benchmark pay rates for the aviation industry.

They also want their new contract to have equal or better work-life balance. He said that any proposal from the airline that does not meet these expectations will not be ratified.

In March, the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA) negotiated a massive 34% pay increase at Delta Air Lines, improving wages and benefits by $7 billion. The deal helps to establish Delta as a more attractive employer amid a nationwide pilot shortage.

“We expect our contract to raise the bar from Delta’s contract,” Thompson said in an interview with Reuters this week. “We’re not just looking for more money, we’re looking for several areas of improvement that we’ve been waiting a long time to achieve.”

The Union stated that a tentative contract proposed last year failed to meet the minimum requirements of Pilots, resulting in an overwhelming rejection by the Union.

United Airlines is touting an optimistic growth plan called “United Next.” However, the pilot group is pointing out that without an industry-leading agreement, management won’t be able to expand in the way they want unless the company can hire and retain the best pilots. The failed deal and a new high bar at other properties have unified the pilot group.

“We’ve all heard of or witnessed United executives claiming they’re ready to conclude negotiations toward an industry-leading agreement,” Thompson said. “Having noted the increasing boldness and frequency of their assertions, it’s time for them to prove the extent of their sincerity.”

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