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IBEW Scores at Scoreboard Manufacturer

September 25, 2006

Far-reaching sponsorship and neutrality agreements between IBEW and Trans-Lux Fair Play (TLFP), a newly-organized Des Moines, Iowa, manufacturer of scoreboards, have increased the Brotherhood's membership and its profile in communities across the nation.

In 2003, San Mateo, Calif., Local 617 started purchasing scoreboards from TLFP, a dealer in their jurisdiction.  The local installed over 45 scoreboards, carrying their local union's logo at participating schools, colleges, universities, parks and recreation programs.  The efforts have been applauded by business and political leaders, teachers, parents, students and school officials.

Local 617 and Ninth District International Vice President Mike Mowrey notified President Hill of the program's success and asked about spreading it elsewhere.

President Hill assigned the IBEW Construction and Maintenance Department to contact TLFP representatives.  A neutrality agreement covering the company's nonunion workforce in Iowa and sponsorship agreement was negotiated between the parties.

The neutrality understanding set the stage for an August 11, 2006 NLRB representation election at the company's manufacturing plant in which an overwhelming majority of TLFP's workers voted to be represented by Des Moines Local 347.

"The partnership with TLFP not only provides work opportunities for our construction members and employers, but is an excellent way to market the IBEW, JATC and NECA in your communities in future years," says President Edwin D. Hill.

The sponsorship agreement between TLFP, the National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee provides for local unions, NECA chapters, JATC's and LMCC's to separately or jointly purchase all or a portion of scoreboard equipment at a discount for participating institutions.  In return, the beneficiaries are obligated to promote the sponsors on the scoreboard sign which has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. 

The agreement includes the establishment of joint training programs for apprentices, journeymen and employers in the installation and maintenance of the scoreboards.

Gerry Granberg, business manager of Local 347 has started talks with a 50-year IBEW employer, to promote TLFP by giving away one scoreboard every month.  Granberg encourages other locals to explore similar community-based efforts to spread IBEW goodwill and influence and provide work for the local's new members.

TLFP is an industry leader in scoreboard technology and wireless sign controls.  Virtually every aspect of their products, from design, manufacturing and customer service is performed from their division headquarters in Des Moines. TLFP has a nationwide network of dealers throughout the U.S.

All local unions, JATC's, NECA chapters and LMCC's are encouraged to participate in the new marketing program.  Anyone interested should contact Jeff Reeser of TLFP at 1-800-247-0265 ext. 1023 or via e-mail: jreeser@fair-play.com for purchases or local dealership information.