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In today’s economy, it’s hard to get ahead, especially if you’ve had hard luck or faced difficult circumstances. But OPCMIA apprenticeship programs, like the model effort run by Cement Masons Local 633 in New Brighton, Minnesota, open doors of opportunity to many people who’ve found themselves locked out in the past.

On June 27th, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that all public sector unions will now be forced to represent “free riders” — workers who want the benefits of collective bargaining without having to pay for it.

As we head into the summer, temperatures will be climbing, the sun will be searing, and in many parts of the country, humidity will be soaring. These factors — individually and together — pose threats to the health of OPCMIA members, because they put strains on the body’s ability to get rid of excess heat to maintain a stable internal temperature, especially given the intense physical activity required on the jobsite.

If you like to hunt or fish, shoot or just enjoy the great outdoors, we’ve got two great opportunities for you to connect with fellow OPCMIA outdoors enthusiasts.

This Sunday, May 13th, is Mother’s Day. And flowers are a perfect way to let your mom know how much you love and appreciate her. And as an OPCMIA member, you have a special advantage in doing so. Because thanks to OPCMIA’s partnership with Union Plus, you’re eligible for union savings of 25 percent on beautiful flower arrangements from Teleflora.

Kevin Sexton of Local 518 was recently sworn in as OPCMIA General Secretary-Treasurer, replacing Roger Bettermann, who retired. In addition, Rob Mason of Local 600 and Mike Hubler of Local 592 joined the General Executive Board, Joel Santos of Local 514 and Chester Murphy of Local 66 were named Vice Presidents, and Deven Johnson of Local 72 was appointed International Representative. Vice-President Mike Moylan joined GST Bettermann in announcing his retirement.

Fifty years ago, on April 4, 1968, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated, a tragic and devastating blow to the cause of economic and social justice.

Marissa Goodsky is a concrete mason apprentice and member of OPCMIA Local 633 in Roseville, Minn., who was recently interviewed in The New York Times.

On March 13th, Conor Lamb rocked the political world by winning a narrow upset victory in the special election for Pennsylvania’s 18th Congressional district. This is a district that Donald Trump won by 20 percent in 2016.