NILES Macali's alleges unfair practices by store union

NILES -- Deli workers and meat cutters remained on the picket line today at Macali's Giant Eagle on Vienna Avenue after their union rejected a contract offer from the grocery-store owner.
Store officials said they filed a charge of unfair labor practices with the National Labor Relations Board against the United Food & amp; Commercial Workers Union, Local 880.
They complained that the union unilaterally set aside a tentative agreement on recall rights and made a new demand to avoid reaching an agreement.
Gary Weitzel, area coordinator for Local 880, said the union asked for an extension on recall rights because members are concerned about job security. He said the local has filed several charges of unfair labor practices against the store.
The walkout by 18 unionized workers began April 30.
The store remains open with more than 100 nonunion workers still on the job, store officials have said.
Weitzel said the union is holding out for a 30-cent hourly raise for all its members. Deli workers now earn between $5.15 and $7.35 per hour, and meat cutters earn $11 per hour.