L.U. 6 (c,i,st&u), SAN FRANCISCO, CA—Last year's earthquake in Haiti created such great destruction that the people of Haiti are still struggling to overcome the devastation, and members of Local 6 reached out to help. Volunteers ranging from retirees to apprentices traveled to Milot in Haiti to replace the electrical infrastructure at Sacre Coeur Hospital. Jeff Rodriguez, who organized the volunteers, and Justin Connolly, Clare Heitkamp, Brett Schembari, Phil C. Farrelly, Bill Donohoe and Ian Rodriguez are all commended for taking action to improve the lives of those ravaged by the disaster. Our SFECA (San Francisco Electrical Contractors Assoc.) industry partners at Rosendin Electric are also commended for coordinating a very generous donation of supplies and equipment necessary to perform the work.

Local 6 members marched in the 160th annual St. Patrick's Day parade. Our local's volunteers built a float depicting San Francisco's iconic Mt. Sutro tower. The float's lights and music were solar powered. Many of our retirees rode in a motorized cable car. The weather was fantastic and the event was a great day of camaraderie and pride for our membership. Parade committee co-chairs Barrett Stapleton and Lou Sullivan, as well as the volunteers, are congratulated for winning 1st place float honors.

Phil A. Farrelly, Pres.

L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH—The work outlook has seen some improvement with three big projects in our area: the Hollywood Casino in Rossford, the steel mill in Leipsic, and the GM Foundry.

The political arena in Ohio has been very intense over the past few months, with working families under attack. Many Local 8 members attended rallies in Columbus to protest state Senate Bill 5, which essentially abolishes collective bargaining rights for public employees. SB 5 passed in March but a petition drive is underway to get a referendum challenge on the November general election ballot. Gov. John Kasich also proposed the virtual elimination of prevailing wage, including raising the threshold for prevailing wage applicability from projects valued over $78,000 to $5 million and above. He also proposed prohibiting prevailing wage on all K-12, college and university construction, and he intends to render any state enforcement of prevailing wage meaningless.

Local 8 members are enjoying various summer activities. Local golf and softball leagues are in full force and upcoming IBEW bowling, softball and golf tournaments are scheduled for this summer. These activities offer a great way to spend time outdoors with your union brothers and sisters in a fun, relaxing setting. As always, work safe, play safe.

Terry "Shorty" Short, P.S.

L.U. 14 (i), EAU CLAIRE, WI—Local 14 recently added an additional photovoltaic array at our union hall to train our members in this ever-evolving technology. This 1.4 kW ground-mounted array compliments the 2.8 kW dual-axis tracking array that the local installed in November 2009. Both arrays were constructed with volunteer labor from the local. Local 14 also has two PV trainers who can instruct the members about photovoltaic systems.

An added benefit of having the solar arrays installed at the hall is that when not being used for training, they are producing renewable energy for the building. Our tracking array has produced more than 6,000 kilowatt hours of electricity since it was installed.

The PV market in Wisconsin continues to grow every year, despite challenges of the recent economy. Because of this growth, our members need to be ready when contractors look to enter this market to better diversify their businesses. Local 14 has continued to develop additional training opportunities for apprentices and journeymen to stay informed of continuing advances in renewable energy and other emerging technologies.

Kevin Kuderer, Instructor

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN—Dedicated members of IBEW Local 16 have been actively fighting back against the torrent of anti-labor legislation pushed on working people by right-wing extremists. Attacks have come on unemployment insurance, "right-to-work" (for less), project labor agreements and common construction wage laws. Union members have made phone calls, e-mailed, written letters and held personal visits with their representatives—and rallied repeatedly both locally and at the Indianapolis statehouse. It is imperative that everyone who benefits from a collective bargaining agreement do their part in these attempts to protect the hard-won standards enjoyed today.

Thank you to those who have agreed to serve the IBEW in an elected position. Congratulations to Judge Rick Koressel, and Tellers Rick Rush Jr. and Jeff Turpin.

Local 16 is indebted to the IBEW locals that have employed its members during the extended economic downturn.

Local 16's new Web site is now up and running. To access restricted information, you must enter your last name and card number. For the latest information regarding book status, work outlook, pictures, political news, upcoming events and related links, visit www.ibewlocal16.org.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 22 (i,rts&spa), OMAHA, NE—We send a big thank-you to our members who travelled to Wisconsin in March for the rallies. We were there the weekend that the 14 Wisconsin legislators came back, and the solidarity was impressive. It is extremely important to stand together against the anti-union, anti-middle class policies that are sweeping this nation. Solidarity will prevail, but the fight is not over.

Since 2009 we have trained more than 300 members (both local hands and from other jurisdictions) in our Utility Wind Training Program. We are waiting for that work to pick up again in the Midwest. Local 22 is also moving forward with plans to install a Green Energy Training Lab. This will include a solar pavilion, wind generating tower, building automation lab, and electric car charging stations. This new lab will be open to the public and industry to showcase the technologies and teach about the benefits of green power.

We were able to host some travelling brothers and sisters this spring at a nuclear plant shutdown north of Omaha. It is short term, but every bit helps as the economy recovers. Visit our new Web site at www.ibew22.org.

Chris Bayer, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD—Our work picture is still slow at this time.

One of our bright spots is a solar panel installation on the roof of the General Motors Allison Transmission Plant in White Marsh, MD. Union Electric Company was the successful contractor on the project. The job includes the installation of more than 5,300 solar panels generating 1.2 megawatts of power. The job started in March and is scheduled to be completed in mid-June 2011. The $1 million job peaked at 15 men, and Union Electric owner Glen Hastings said he was pleased the job was on schedule and on budget. He stated that he was bidding on other solar projects in the area and had landed a job at the Brandon Shores Power Plant.

At this time we are experiencing sustained record unemployment and our contractors are bidding on several large jobs projected for our area.

Roger M. Lash Jr., B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC—We have finalized plans for the Manassas picnic on June 18, and we hope you have your tickets and are planning to attend. The annual picnic in Edgewater, MD, will be Aug. 6. Be sure to order your tickets so you don't miss out on this day of brotherhood, health awareness and fun!

Thanks to all those who are participating in our Dollars Against Diabetes Golf Outing on June 6. This event is always a huge success and we are able to make a generous donation toward the fight against diabetes.

The Scholarship Committee should be announcing the winners of this year's scholarship awards soon. Congratulations to all the applicants on your outstanding academic achievements!

The following members passed away since our last article: Thomas A. Miller, Steven D. Pitkin, Kevin R. Nowakowski, Gary M. Hayre, George C. Starkey, Charles F. Mauer III and Raymond C. Mansfield.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Eugene W. Burroughs, Billy J. McGill, Gilmer E. Dowdy, Charles L. Dursee, Michael E. Ferguson, Christian T. Fitzgerald, Werner C. Grabner, Eugene R. Hord, James D. Horstkamp, Paul J. Trainor, John L. Jensen, Fred J. Merchant III and Clinton J. Wilson.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH—Thanks to all the IBEW members who have attended the Anti-Senate Bill 5 Rallies being held at the state Capitol in Columbus and across the state of Ohio.

This proposed anti-union legislation was recently passed by the Republican dominated Ohio House and Senate and signed by Gov. John Kasich.

Our next move has been to launch a referendum effort seeking repeal of Senate Bill 5—by crafting a petition and working to collect the signatures of approximately 231,000 Ohio voters to place the measure on the November general election ballot.

Senate Bill 5 is a right-wing initiative that strips public union workers of their collective bargaining rights. The governor has only just begun his anti-union campaign with SB 5. He is also writing into his budget the decimation of Ohio's prevailing wage law.

The IBEW is working to stop the right-wing agenda by gathering petition signatures. We are also speaking with and educating our state lawmakers about the detrimental effects of repealing prevailing wage—but we will also need the help of every IBEW member in the state of Ohio.

All members and their families need to sign the petitions being circulated. We also need all members to individually call, write or e-mail their state representatives and senators about these issues.

More information will be forthcoming on how you can help.

Dennis Meaney, A.B.M.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts&st), PORTLAND, OR—On Sunday, July 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Local 48 will host a special annual picnic at Oaks Park. Oaks Park is located on the banks of the Willamette River in Milwaukie, OR. With six exciting thrill rides and acres of fun, the park is a great setting for working families to meet in union brotherhood. Each IBEW family will receive four free amusement park tickets per child under 16. The food and drinks provided are prepared by an all-volunteer picnic staff. Please contact Nancy Cary at the local union office to volunteer. Plan to stay for the 2 p.m. gift drawing.

This will be a special picnic, as it begins the countdown to IBEW Local 48's centennial event in 2013. Bus. Mgr. Clif Davis looks forward to all members joining us to begin the Local 48 celebration.

Robert Blair, P.S.

L.U. 50 (u), RICHMOND, VA—A number of events have had an impact on the size of our bargaining units among the five employers where we represent working men and women. The voluntary separation package at Dominion, retirements, and promotions outside the bargaining unit reduced our membership numbers significantly in the latter part of 2010.

Thanks to the hard work of our business representatives and shop stewards, we have added well over 80 new members since those milestone events. By building relationships and educating new employees, we are restoring those numbers.

Reminder to members: As you see new employees reporting to your location, please introduce yourself, welcome them and let them know they are covered by a collective bargaining agreement. They can join our Brotherhood on day one!!

In addition, if you encounter unorganized groups in and around our areas, spread our message. If there is interest on their part for additional information, contact the local union office.

Mike Barclay, R.S.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO—In the accompanying photo, Cliff Sterling greets fellow IBEW Local 68 member Tom Rutherford prior to canvassing Denver's District 8. When Tom first decided to join the race for City Council, he was one of only three or four candidates. Within a week however, there were 39 write-in candidates! Tom had the endorsement of Local 68, along with Local 111 and the rest of Colorado's State Conference of Electrical Workers. Additionally, Tom had the endorsement of Amalgamated Transit Union's Local 1001; United Transportation Union; Pipefitters' Local 208; Sheet Metal Workers Local 9; Denver Area Labor Federation; Rev. Daniel Klawitter; and Colorado State Representative John Soper, a Local 68 retiree. Tom's enthusiastic devotion to his Denver District far outweighs not making it into the run-off in the election, and he'll continue to be our Local 68 registrar and political director. When you see him, please thank him for stepping up to the plate, and ask how you can assist next time in assuring his success.

Local 68 Summer Picnic reminder: Aug. 20—noon to 3 p.m.

Ed Knox, Pres.

L.U. 80 (i&o), NORFOLK, VA—At the March meeting, Pres. Kenny Bunting announced his resignation as president effective March 31, 2011, due to medical reasons. He has served as president since July 2002. Local 80 extends sincere gratitude to Bro. Bunting for his hard work and sacrifice for the good of the local. We extend best wishes for a smooth transition into his retirement.

Work in the jurisdiction remained steady through late winter and early spring, with nearly all members employed as of this writing. The Princess Anne Hospital project in Virginia Beach is almost complete. This project employed many members and showed that Local 80 provides the most skilled electricians, who give their best day in and day out.

With recent attacks on working class families and unions in Wisconsin, Ohio and other states, we must stand together as union members and let our voices be heard. We don't have the deep pockets like the businesses that are pillaging workers' rights for corporate bottom lines, but we do have the solidarity of our membership and that of all the unions in this great country. We must let our state and federal representatives know that we as union members will be heard and respected for our hard work—and that we will not let a politician strip our collective bargaining rights and hard-earned benefits under the lie of needing to do this to balance the budget.

W. Dennis Floyd, A.B.M.

L.U. 94 (lctt,nst&u), CRANBURY, NJ—Despite challenging times, Local 94 members have continued to work with no layoffs. Last year our membership united together and passed a contract extension that kept everyone working. Some jobs were moved around, and not everyone was happy, but we preserved jobs and decent wages.

We've also had some exciting social events. In February we had our annual ski trip to Lake Placid. Thanks, Ernie and Big Joe, for getting it all together and for another successful trip. The annual golf outing at Ramblewood Country Club was May 7. The usual suspects were there and as always everyone had a good time.

Family Day at the Races is June 18 at Monmouth Park. Please come out and join your union brothers and sisters for this family fun event. Who knows, we may even be playing a little softball in the Local 102 tournament again this year.

Wishing all our IBEW brothers and sisters a great summer.

Carla Wolfe, P.S.

L.U. 104 (lctt,o&u), BOSTON, MA—IBEW Local 104 wishes to congratulate Bro. Patrick Casey on being appointed as the new Second District apprentice coordinator for the Northeast Apprenticeship and Training (N.E.A.T.). He will be in charge of the training of apprentices for Local 104's and Local 42's outside apprentice program. His duties will include the subcommittee meetings for both locals, also scheduling of training classes and instructors for these classes, and the boot camps for new applicants for the apprentice program. Also he will be rotating apprentices to different jobs to make sure they meet all their requirements for the apprenticeship program.

Patrick Casey is a journeyman lineman from Local 104 and a graduate of the N.E.A.T. program. Good luck on your new position, Bro. Casey, and we look forward to working with you.

Chris Blair, P.S.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se&spa), KANSAS CITY, MO—Our nation is beautiful—the U.S. sets the standard for freedom and justice worldwide. Our unions are beautiful—we set the standard for the working class across our nation. Just as our nation is fighting foes abroad, we too are fighting attacks by those who wish to see unions crushed and defeated.

The union cause is the working-class cause, for both union and nonunion. The anti-worker Republican ideology is attacking working-class rights won by union members' struggle. Take a stand. Your union and your nation need you.

We remember deceased members: Leonard Baggett, Jackie Baldwin, Gregory Barber, Gustav Barnes, Joseph Bedsaul, David Briggs, William Brunsky, Frederick Davey, Donald Dolton, James Famuliner, Raymond Ford, Larry Gladman, Nigel Graham, Andy Gruver, Harvey Henry, Chesley Johansen, William Joyce, Thomas Lacy Jr., Eugene Merys, Kenneth Newhouse, Joseph Piranio, Stanley Ratliff, William Richardson, James Shaw, Harry Stockton, Jason Thornton, Kenneth Troutwine, Jay Tutorino, James Wacker, Delbert Walters, John Wetzig Jr., Glenn Williams and Kirby Woods.

Congratulations to recent retirees: Michael Alfrey, Daniel Avila Jr., James Beem, Steven Brucker, Charles Cole, Peter Cooper, Kenneth Cook, Gary Ethington, Steven Fabish, A. C. Haulmark, Dan Kiefer, Gary Kiefer, John Lozier, Kenny Lupardus, Elvin Lynn, William Malone, Grover Martin, Robert Martin Jr., Michael Muller, Shawn O'Donnell, Otto Rau, Peggy Resch, Bill Shepherd, David Titus and Charles Twenter.

Steve Morales, P.S.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL—We hope all are having a good summer and work is plentiful in your area of the country.

In recent months members attended rallies to show solidarity against assaults on union families in Wisconsin, Indiana and here in Illinois. We must win this fight!

We also represented Local 146 at the Illinois State Conference, the joint meeting of the statewide Building and Construction Trades and Illinois prevailing wage meeting, and the IBEW Construction and Maintenance Conference.

On May 7, Local 146 graduated the following apprentices to journeymen at our annual banquet: Ryan N. Bailey, Douglas R. Bierman, Craig M. Danneberger, Thaddeus J. Dittamore, Yancy L. Dittamore, Corey A. Hoene, James E. Howard, Alva E. Jordan, Clinton R. Robbins, Kurt T. Roley, Mark D. Shriver, Patrick F. Turner and Dennis W. White. Congratulations to all.

Congratulations to Bro. Curt Young, an 18-year member and former three-term executive board member, on his appointment as assistant business manager.

Also, congratulations to former assistant business manager Jim Underwood for his appointment as executive director of the Illinois Capital Development Board.

Our condolences go out to the families of recently deceased members Charles Weatherford, Jerry Chestnut and Robert Thompson. We are grateful for their longtime service to the IBEW.

Rich Underwood, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL—Don't forget that voting for delegates to the IBEW International Convention takes place at the June 2011 union meeting. Please be sure to attend and vote for the delegate of your choice. Mark your calendar: the Annual Picnic will take place Aug. 20 at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.

Recently one of our members was in the Tuesday Morning store. Tuesday Morning is a store that sells home accessories and decorations—most of which are NOT made in America. One of the store employees told our member to leave the store and that Tuesday Morning does not need any Local 150 members' business. I, for one, will never step foot in another one of their stores.

Please do not take any call for an employer unless you know you can fulfill the requirements to be hired by that company. Especially since you are not just wasting your time and the company's time, but you are also affecting every member who is on the out-of-work book. If you take a call knowing that you cannot fulfill the requirements you are not displaying brotherhood.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 180 (c,i&st), VALLEJO, CA—On May 6, the local celebrated 110 years. At our Old Timer's Award Night, we awarded 120 service pins for service ranging from 20 to 60 years. We also had a moment in memory for eight deceased brothers, who had from 40 to 73 years of service.

This is also a time to reflect and think not of what we want today, but rather how do we repay the debt to members who came before us. Thinking only of today and of one's self interest harms the next generation. It is a disservice to those who gave us what we have today.

That is why we keep fighting for our fellow working families and sharing our 110 years of institutional knowledge. Joining with others for the "We Are One" union march and working with our elected officials to support working families are all part of the effort. Working on project development and working with the end users. Working on the skills needed to stay one step ahead in the clean and green market.

When future generations review the great recession and the attack on unions, they must feel that the past supported their future. And thus we pass the desire to the next generation.

Michael Smith, B.A.

L.U. 196 (govt,mt,o,t&u), ROCKFORD, IL—As of this writing, there are several critical pieces of legislation at the Illinois state level that directly affect our members. We must remain politically active year round so that our legislators hear our voice when it needs to be heard.

One of the first things we (as union members) tell the nonunion we are trying to organize is that there is strength in numbers. Many voices have an impact, while a single voice goes unheard. We better start listening to our own principles and apply them in a political manner. By the time this is delivered I sure hope that we do what is best for the Brotherhood by supporting legislation that creates jobs for our members, our communities and our families. Here is a quote I wrote down at the Construction Conference from Jim "The Rookie" Morris: "You can either live up to or down to the expectations put upon you by those you choose to surround yourself with." Who are we surrounding ourselves with? Are we associating ourselves with "dream makers" or "dream killers"? We need positive change and it is up to each of us to make it happen.

Work safe.

Eric Patrick, B.M.

L.U. 222 (o), ORLANDO, FL—Our tree trimming group recently approved a two-year extension to its current agreement. While the gains were modest, we all feel good about the final results. This was our fifth collective bargaining agreement since the unit was organized in June 2002 and we are all pleased with the accomplishments of the last nine years.

We look forward to a busy and hopefully productive 2011; the two largest utilities in the state are projecting some good sized projects starting in late spring to mid-summer. We started negotiations on our Outside Line Agreement in May, our local elections are in June and the International Convention is in September.

We are just weeks away from the Fourth of July, our Independence Day. That is a day we celebrate for getting out from under a government of Royals and elitists who believed workers (the term back then was peasants) should be seen but not heard, and couldn't come and go without their permission. I hope as you celebrate with family and friends this July Fourth, you all agree that type of government is still not for us in the U.S.

William "Bill" Hitt, A.B.M.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR—With the assault on the working class going on in Wisconsin and other states, Bus. Mgr. Tim Frew and his staff are not taking this sitting down. Rallies at our state Capitol have been well attended, with Local 280 leading the way to fight for workers' rights. Discussions with Gov. John Kitzhaber and members of the state House and Senate have helped make clear that labor will not stand for any attack on middle-class workers and their families.

Clearly, those who promote the agenda of corporations and the wealthy want to blame unions for budget deficits—when in fact tax cuts for the rich, shipping of jobs overseas and lax banking regulations are what caused this crisis.

To blame the unions is just a diversion from the real reason for union-busting tactics—and this is a power grab, similar to what some 20th century dictators did. Power mongers do not like to negotiate on a collective bargaining basis; they would rather negotiate one-on-one so they have all the power. This is why unions came into existence in the first place!

Please volunteer for a union rally—and remember this attack at election time!

Jerry Fletcher, P.S.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT—Local 300 is proud to announce the completion of its new training facility equipped to train both inside and outside construction workers in renewable energy equipment. The training facility is equipped to train members in the areas of wind and solar construction, fall protection, certification in high voltage splicing, and other green energy initiatives. We are working with contractors, utility companies and sister locals to keep us busy. Inquiries can be made to Jean Watkins, training director.

Local 300 wishes everyone a prosperous and safe construction season. Cheers.

Jeffrey Wimette, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA—To quote Sir Winston Churchill, "We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give."

"Give" is what IBEW members did by stepping up to the call for volunteers to rewire the Willows Theatre. Union volunteers included: Ron Bennett, Bob Lilley, Jerry Phillips, Nicholas McDaniel and Rachel Shoemake.

The Willows Theatre had been closed for eight years with only the shell of the building remaining. The seats, lights and wiring had been removed. The electrical was a very challenging job. With IBEW workers on the job, the Willows Theatre received a first-class electrical installation.

Willows Theatre general manager David Faustino was so impressed by the Local 302 workers, he told his staff: "The IBEW people are so well trained they can do anything!"

IBEW Local 302 received wonderful press for a job well done by the union volunteers. The communities of Concord and Martinez, CA, expressed tremendous gratitude to IBEW Local 302. Our members' efforts along with 150 volunteers and 2,500 man-hours from both communities helped create a world-class theatre to be enjoyed by everyone.

Pete Smith, P.S.

L.U. 304 (lctt,o&u), TOPEKA, KS—We had a good winter, cold and wet, but most members have been employed and the work picture looks good. We have some major jobs starting and our wind generation is promising if we can keep it fair. Our two largest contracts are open, with Westar Energy and Outside Construction, along with some Rural Electric Cooperatives.

Congratulations to Ginger Smoot on her longtime service. Ginger has worked in the Local 304 office since 1984. She started with our sister Local 226 in 1971, for a total of 40 years of service. A surprise reception was held March 18 honoring her and thanking her for her dedicated service to the cause.

We lost a longtime member and good friend, Wallace Bow. May he rest in peace. He mentored many journeymen and apprentice linemen along with groundmen, teaching many the trade. He will be remembered and his touch will live on.

We have 80 apprentices working on construction, 40 or so in the utilities, and another 40 in our Rural Electric Cooperatives. We've had good participation and success in promoting the trade and making the job expectations known to the next generation of workers. Good reception has been shown by the trade schools, community colleges and most utilities.

Paul Lira, B.M.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH—On the political front, one-by-one city electrical inspection departments are closing and turning everything over to Summit County. Contractors love it—as they will only need one license to do work anywhere in the county and have only one permit fee schedule to deal with. Logistics still need work, but we shall see if this can satisfy everyone.

Ohio's new governor doesn't think voters need to know what is going on in Columbus. "Leave me alone," he chants. "You elected me to fix things." The effort to outlaw public sector collective bargaining (You can't strike against the King!) was Gov. John Kasich's first order of business. Prevailing wage, PLAs and Lord knows what will follow. It seems that Kasich, like the governor of Wisconsin and other foes of labor, knows no limits in his attacks on working people. Will Rogers once said, "Every guy looks in his pocket and then votes."

Several Local 306 members volunteered at Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary, Inc. For information about the rescue farm see www.happytrailsfarm.org.

We mourn the loss of Bro. Scott Roberson and retired Bros. Joe Vatovec, Ed Repp Jr. and Daniel Bocko. We also note the passing of Edmund Romit, who was an apprentice instructor and a driving force creating our Pension Annuity Plan. Our sincere condolences go out to the families of these brothers.

Bob Sallaz, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA—On Monday, April 4, Local 340 members wearing red shirts, IBEW stickers and holding IBEW signs were joined by Ninth District Int. Vice Pres. Michael S. Mowrey and his wife, Nanci, at a "We Are One" rally in Sacramento. We rallied to show support for working people in Wisconsin and 21 other states where well-funded, right-wing corporate politicians are trying to take away our basic right to collectively bargain.

Rallies were held across the U.S. that day and we proudly stood with fellow trade unionists to show we have just begun to fight and that "We Are One" in this fight to keep unions alive. We cannot lose our basic right to bargain collectively. We cannot let them win. It will take greater member participation in the months and years ahead to get our message across, but we will!

With the sunny California weather, we have had a little movement on our out-of-work Book 1, but not much. Like many other locals, our work picture is very slow. We are climbing to 400 on our Book 1 and we don't see too many big jobs coming. Hope it turns around soon for all of us. Thank you to the locals that are helping our traveling Local 340 members.

We mourn the passing of retired Bros. Bert Harbert and Al Romitti. Rest in peace, brothers!

A.C. Steelman, B.M.

L.U. 388 (em,i,rts&spa), STEVENS POINT, WI—If you have been watching the news, you know what is going on in Wisconsin regarding Gov. Scott Walker and his so-called "Repair Bill."

IBEW Local 388 along with thousands of union members and their families have protested to put an end to this union busting bill.

The March on Madison was something I will never forget. We witnessed the greatest protest since the Vietnam War. One phrase says it all: "Gov. Walker and his right-wing minions have awoken a sleeping giant not only here in Wisconsin but across this great country."

Local 388 is saddened by the death of Bro. Dave Iverson, who passed away at age 52 on March 31 after a sudden illness. Dave was a proud member of Local 388 for many years. He enjoyed racing motorcycles and was active in various clubs revolving around his love for motorcycles and was also involved in many charitable ride events. Dave was a pleasure to work with. He was a great electrician and frequently took classes to better both himself and the IBEW. Dave will be missed by all.

Guy LePage, P.S.

L.U. 412 (u), KANSAS CITY, MO—On March 18, 10 apprentice mechanics turned out. The new 2011 journeyman mechanics are: Kelly Grogan, Eric Downs, Ryan Bennett, Shawn Edwards, Chris Dame, Shane O'Bryan, Rick Swart, Jeff Brownsberger, Bryan Nold and Matt Kramer (not pictured).

We currently have nine apprentices in training.

Congratulations to you all!

Debi Kidwiler, P.S.

L.U. 440 (i,rts&spa), RIVERSIDE, CA—Local 440 has had a softball team for quite a few years now, and they have participated in the International Softball Tournament. Though they have never brought home the trophy at the International level, they did take first place in our local Reid Park Major League Softball Fall 2010 season. Congratulations, fellas. Keep supporting the local and putting the IBEW name out there.

Bernie J. Balland, Organizer

L.U. 490 (i&mt), DOVER, NH—IBEW Local 490 is proud to announce that we showed solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Wisconsin at a rally on Saturday, Feb. 26, in the fight to keep our collective bargaining rights.

More than 100 members of our local, as well as several hundred more tradesmen, firefighters and police showed up at Market Square in Portsmouth, NH. We had a great turnout, and many who passed by showed their solidarity with us.

The right-wing, partisan war on the working class was dealt a blow in our state thanks to Local 490 members, the community and several Wisconsin union members who joined our cause.

[Editor's Note: For articles on the union fight against a so-called "right-to-work" bill in the state, see "New Hampshire: The Toughest Fight Yet," The Electrical Worker, April 2011; and "New Hampshire Activists Defend 'Fair Share' Dues Check-Off," on the IBEW Web site www.ibew.org. In late April the New Hampshire Senate passed a "right-to-work" bill, which previously passed in the House in February. As of press time, Democratic Gov. John Lynch has pledged to veto the anti-union bill, which would send it back to the House.]

Jaye P. Yanovitch Jr., P.S.

L.U. 520 (i&spa), AUSTIN, TX—IBEW Local 520 hosted its first Electrical Contractor Business course in January 2011. The three-day course was presented by Matt Kolbinsky, president of Pro Union Consulting ( www.prounionconsulting.com).

Matt is also a member of IBEW Local 212. The presentation included an in-depth course on becoming an electrical contractor.

Included in the course were speakers from the banking industry, inspections, insurance and bonding, accounting, as well as personal experiences from a local contractor. The course presented the positive aspects of "growing our own contractors" and regaining market share. Congratulations to the 26 IBEW members attending this course.

Local 520 opened negotiations in February 2010 since the collective bargaining agreement expired May 31, 2010. Out of 42 signatory contractors, eight have signed new CBAs, eight NECA contractors opted not to have NECA represent them, and NECA is representing the remainder. Arbitration continues with the seven independent NECA contractors. At press time, Local 520 has concluded two arbitration cases, one with an independent and one with NECA. At this writing, the local has not received a ruling. For more information on the Local 520 negotiations/arbitration and the arbitration process, visit our Web site www.ibew520.org and click on the Special Announcement page.

Lane Price, P.S.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA—With work in Sarnia very slow at the time of this writing, there is not much to report. We are currently looking forward to working on two new solar farms this summer, another 40 megawatts of green energy, and the several construction jobs that go with it.

With our slow times Local 530 would like to thank Locals 2038 Regina, 804 Kitchener and 303 St. Catharines for continuing to keep our members employed on the road.

Local 530 is saddened to report the loss of Bro. Don Ostrum and Bro. Brent Merrick.

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 570 (i,mo,spa&u), TUCSON, AZ—Congratulations to the graduating 5th Year Apprenticeship Class. Local 570 and the Tucson Electrical JATC are proud to present our 2011 graduating class. Top honors of "Apprentice of the Year" go to Kevin Wolstenholme.

Scott W. Toot, Organizer

L.U. 636 (as,catv,em,spa&u), TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA—As our sisters and brothers "South of the 49th" continue their struggle for justice, dignity and respect against legislators targeting not only unions but the middle class as well, we encourage our members to do whatever we can to let them know we are standing with them in solidarity.

As we have seen, gains earned on the struggles and sacrifices of generations can be lost in the stroke of a pen held by the wrong government—and no passport is needed for such actions to cross the border. For those who do not believe in political action—we ask you to consider the cost of inaction. To protect our members in battles that may lie ahead, the Executive Board is looking into the viability of a strike fund; be sure to let your representative know where you stand.

In other news, we said goodbye to a person we were proud to have in our corner to stand up for workers' rights and social justice. After serving with honour at Hydro Ottawa and as our local's recording secretary, the time has come for Linda Larocque to turn the page. We know Linda will remain a friend of labour. We thank her for her many years of dedicated service and support, and we wish her happiness and success wherever her journey leads.

Paddy Vlanich, P.S.

L.U. 654 (i), CHESTER, PA—Changes in our Blue Cross policy are aimed at educating members on the importance of getting a free, annual physical. Knowing your cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels and blood pressure numbers can provide insight into your overall health. Early detection and treatment of a developing condition can often prevent the onset of a serious illness. The new system requires you to record those basic numbers on the confidential Blue Cross Web site in order to maintain your lower copayment. If you do not get a physical and input the information on the site, your copayments increase. Not everyone's, just yours. Schedule a physical today.

I can't stress enough the significance of obtaining a TWICS card. You cannot work in our refineries without it and it can take a few weeks to receive it. Registration can be done online to speed up the process, and photo centers are nearby. Register today.

The local economy has seen improvement this year and should provide some opportunities for our members leading into summer.

Jim Russell, Pres.

L.U. 684 (c,i,rts&st), MODESTO, CA—A couple of projects in our area have allowed us to put some of our members to work who have been unemployed for up to 24 months. The jobs are not big and will not last long periods of time, but it is good to have something.

We will have our fifth-year apprentice graduation dinner June 24. Congratulations to our new journeymen: John Bargas, John Baughman, Chris Bowden, Kyle Ensmenger, Joshua Grider, Matthew Hay, Peter Jeffery, Benjamin Lopez, Jason Overton, Jeremy Quinnett, Derek Schell, Justin Terry and Edward Yap.

Our yearly picnic will be July 23 at Lake Yosemite in Merced. It's always a fun time for the kids. Make plans to attend.

Richard Venema, Rep.

L.U. 702 (as,c,catv,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo,mt, o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts,se, spa,st,t,u,uow&ws), WEST FRANKFORT, IL—Local 702 Bros. James Sanchez, Wes Edwards, Adam Brinker and Kerry Howton organized a fundraiser for young Tyson Kretz, the 11 year-old son of Local 702 member Wade Kretz. Tyson has been hospitalized in an induced coma since January. A total of $10,000 has been raised for the Kretz family. This money comes from individual contributions and the sale of 600 sides of ribs cooked and prepared by volunteers. We thank the numerous volunteers and contributors who helped with this endeavor of support for one of our own.

Our local is blessed to have work for our brothers and sisters and a great membership who reminds us what being in the IBEW is all about.

Marsha Steele, P.S.

L.U. 756 (es&i), DAYTONA BEACH, FL—Floridians are facing the same attack on the working class as is happening in the Midwest. The politicians in our state capital city Tallahassee have put job growth on the back burner for "more important" topics that have nothing to do with benefitting workers. First, newly elected Gov. Rick Scott squashed the high-speed rail, which was expected to create more than 24,000 jobs. Then the Tea Party-run legislators, who have a super majority, quickly jumped on drafting anti-union bills. Their argument is these bills are needed to stimulate the economy and balance the budget, but in reality they do the very opposite.

Local 756 has secured work at the Space Center that looks promising but is getting off to a slow start. We hope to obtain full employment as the work down there unfolds. We recently signed a company, TP Electric, which is securing work building Super Wal-Marts. This is a market the local hasn't been in for some time and the relationship with this new company is coming along well. Our Apprenticeship Dir. Scott Jarvis has just recently started a "boot camp" hands-on training course for CWs. This will give them a preview of first-year apprenticeship expectations.

Dan Hunt, P.S.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN—We are pleased to announce the launch of Local 760's new Web site www.ibew760.org.

Also please visit the new Web site for the Electrician Training Academy of Knoxville at www.etaknox.org. The ETAK is jointly sponsored by IBEW Local 760 and the East Tennessee Chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA).

Local 760 also recently sponsored new television commercials that ran on WBIR Channel 10.

George A. Bove, B.M.

L.U. 776 (i.o,rts&spa), CHARLESTON, SC—On March 12 the labor unions of South Carolina supported our state educators at the "Rally for a Moral Budget."

Approximately 2,500 people marched onto the Statehouse lawn to let our governor and legislators know that the budget is not just about cuts but about people's lives and how they are affected, in every sector and day to day.

The IBEW as well as all other Building & Trades locals had a good showing. Local 776 thanks Columbus, SC, Local 772 member Jamie Steele and Charlotte, NC, Local 962 member Jerry White for their solidarity by participating with us.

Chuck Moore, B.M.

L.U. 910 (ees,i&t), WATERTOWN, NY—In late February Bus. Mgr. Dennis Affinati was approached by officers of the U.S. Army 3rd Brigade Combat Team with a request to provide some basic electrical training for maintenance and support elements of the brigade, which was scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan in March. The soldiers' mission will take them to remote parts of Afghanistan and they will maintain temporary operation centers. They will be running nearly entirely off generators and will need to be self-sufficient regarding electrical installations and problems.

Two groups of 40-plus soldiers participated in the training, which included basic safety, wiring techniques, and some hands-on applications. With very short notice Bruce Rosebrook, John O'Driscoll, Ben O'Brien and Vinnie Degennaro from City Electric put together an excellent program of instruction with demonstration board, test equipment and hand-out materials the troops could take for reference while in the field.

The soldiers were enthusiastic and their feedback was extremely positive. Our local is proud that we could assist our troops. By sharing our expertise, we played a part in aiding the soldiers' safety. We hope the brigade leadership at Fort Drum will continue to call on us if needed.

The Local 910 membership voted at the March regular meeting to allocate the scheduled April 1, 2011, wage increase as follows: $1 to pay, $0.25 to Health and Welfare; and $0.25 to Annuity.

Roger LaPlatney, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ—We are constantly talking to the company about manpower throughout the entire company because we feel there is a need for hiring people before we lose the knowledge of our retiring members. The Corporate Safety Committee has a new charter and things seem to be progressing; this local feels a union worker is a safe worker.

The UniSource Division Safety Award was presented to TEP Energy Resources Department for their safety improvement; the Sundt Generating Station has more than 450 days without an accident and the Springerville Generating Station cut their number of accidents in half. Congratulations to our members at those stations for their hard work, which earned them the UniSource Energy Division Safety Award for 2010.

SGS Chmn. Rick Ryan thanks everyone for their great efforts in making SGS a safer place to work.

UNS Gas Chmn. Frank Gillis congratulates the local union and its membership for their tremendous victories in the 2010 and 2011 arbitrations regarding health care and working rules.

Local 1116 wishes to thank Bro. Jeff Martin for his years of service as president, as he recently announced that he will not seek to run for president in this year's election.

R. Cavaletto, P.S.

L.U. 1466 (u), COLUMBUS, OH—On March 18, the local unions that make up System Council U-9, including Local 1466, gave final approval to accept American Electric Power's wage offer of 3 percent, across the board. For our local the new wage rates will take effect June 30 for Units 1 and 2, July 15 for CSP and April 1 for the newly organized Dolan Chemical Lab.

In other news, we plan to conduct a steward's training session at the union hall sometime in June. This will be beneficial to our newly appointed shop stewards. Hopefully the training will also give veteran stewards a chance to share their experiences and maybe gain some new insight as well.

Preliminary discussions with AEP began in May regarding our full contract, which expires in 2012. Be sure to try to attend your local union meetings, to stay updated and have a say in what issues we want to address. Thanks for all you do and as always, be safe out there.

James Jette, P.S.

L.U. 1908 (u), COCOA, FL—I saw the sign pictured below on the back of a GMC pickup truck in Titusville, FL. The truck was being towed by a motor home heading back to New Jersey and it really hit home and made me think about all the jobs and money that have been lost to countries outside the USA. Buy American products.

Michael D. Holland, F.S.