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2018 April Issue

Area readies for the return of U.S. Steel workers

Some businesses left, others never lost hope during mill’s idling By DENNIS GRUBAUGH    GRANITE CITY — A business community that has lived on the edge the last two years waiting for the return of its largest employer is experiencing a sense of calm these days.    And yet, the anticipated callback or hiring of 500 workers…

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Health officials say opioids pose increasing threat to workplaces

By DENNIS GRUBAUGH    Opioids are threatening the lives and livelihoods of the local workforce like never before, and leaders agree they must work together to address the crisis.    That was the message of a recent presentation at OSF Saint Anthony’s Health Center, where more than 50 health care, law enforcement, civic and business professionals and…

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POINT: Should non-union members have to pay for union representation?

No. Fostering a healthy economy, not compulsory union membership, will bid up wages By MARK GLENNON     My first job experience illustrates many of the issues. Tens of thousands whose first work was bagging groceries can probably relate to this.    For me, it was at the Jewel in South Chicago Heights. After a couple days…

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COUNTERPOINT: Should non-union members pay for union representation?

Yes. In fairness, all workers who benefit from union’s gains should share the cost By ROBERTA LYNCH    When working people have the freedom to speak up together through unions, we make progress together that benefits everyone. But today — with a shrinking middle class and a growing gap between the rich and the rest of…

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Holland Construction Services, Fairview Heights Recreational Complex

By RITA DUCKWORTH    Swansea-based Holland Construction Services is managing construction of the Fairview Heights Recreational Complex. The firm broke ground in October 2017 for the $17 million facility that will benefit city residents of all ages.     “The 58,000-square-foot, two-story building is a ‘walkout’ style,” says D.J. Weymouth, Holland’s project manager. “You’ll enter on the…

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Contegra Construction Co., The Reserve, Edwardsville

By ROBERTA CODEMO    Construction is progressing on a new $27 million student housing project to meet the growing demand for premium off-campus living space close to Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Contegra Construction Company of Edwardsville broke ground in November 2017 and the project is scheduled for completion in July 2019.     Contegra is the general…

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Plocher Construction Co., Sugarfire Smoke House, O’Fallon

By RITA DUCKWORTH    Plocher Construction Co. Inc., of Highland, is helping bring Sugarfire Smoke House to the Metro East. The barbecue franchise specializes in smoked brisket, pulled pork and ribs, and is known for desserts made in-house. The Sugarfire franchise has locations in and around St. Louis and the O’Fallon location is its first in…

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IMPACT Strategies, Ameren Illinois Operating Facility, East St. Louis

By RITA DUCKWORTH    IMPACT Strategies Inc., of Fairview Heights, recently completed renovations of the Ameren Illinois operating facility in East St. Louis. The 29,000-square-foot, two-story building is approximately 60 years old. It was completely gutted and remodeled with a new design provided by St. Louis architects Burns & McDonnell. The project for the utility company…

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