Unite Here Local 217 v. Sage Hospitality Resources

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In 2003 the hotel and the union entered into an agreement in anticipation of renovation of a dilapidated structure into the Renaissance Providence Hotel. The agreement allowed the union to organize hotel employees and seek recognition as their collective bargaining representative; the union would refrain from picketing or economic activity against the hotel. In 2010 the union requested recognition pursuant to the card recognition procedure described in the agreement; the hotel declined, claiming that the agreement had expired, and declined to participate in arbitration. The district court ordered arbitration. The First Circuit affirmed and awarded costs to the union. The meaning of the phrase "full public opening" in the duration clause of the agreement falls within the provision that "any dispute over ... interpretation or application" will be submitted to arbitration.