The Electrical Worker online
October 2012

Local Lines & Retirees

Click here for a list of Trade Classifications

index.html Home    print Print    email Email

Go to www.ibew.org
Work Picture Steady

L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Hello, brothers and sisters. I hope everyone is enjoying the fall season.

Work has remained steady with the book hovering around 100 members. A few calls have also made it to Book 2. We have a few bigger projects going on including the reformer project at BP, the new addition at the Jeep plant, and work at Monroe Powerhouse.

Congratulations to our JATC apprentice graduating class of 2012. We are proud of these new journeyman inside wiremen. Now it's time to put all that knowledge to work and show everyone that IBEW members are the highest skilled electricians. Take pride in your work.

The political season is upon us. Please keep in mind which politicians have our best interest at heart; your livelihood could very well depend on it.

Remember to work safe.

Bryan Emerick, P.S.





Elect Pro-Worker Candidates

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The IBEW congratulates the class of 2012 JATC apprentice graduates. These new inside journeyman wiremen are: Joshua D. Adler, Joshua W. Adler, Jason R. Armes, John A. Bland, Roxie L. Brodie, Aaron M. Claybrooks, Anthony A. Etolen, Ryan J. Farthing, Brock T. Franzman, Chad S. Graman, Sean E. Jones, Joshua A. Kiefer, Joseph R. Kraemer, James S. Mersinger, Jacob M. Mills, Jason D. Moll, Matthew B. Mullen, Ryan J. Schnarre, Cody B. Schnautz, Eric C. Schulz, Jason E. Stoermer, Jesse J. Teeter, Joseph M. Vallar, Mark E. Weiss, Samuel E. Wilder and Wytoshie C. Winchell. This year's academic award winner is Joshua A. Kiefer, and the John D. Brenner Memorial Award went to Matthew B. Mullen.

Indiana will soon have the opportunity to either elect pro-labor candidates, or continue seeing its standard of living destroyed. This year's opposition actively promotes national so-called "right to work" for less and tax breaks for the wealthiest, while adamantly rejecting the benefits of the Affordable Care Act. It is imperative that everyone stand together by supporting President Barak Obama; U.S. Rep. Joe Donnelly, who is running for re-election; candidate for U.S. Congress David Crooks, former member of the Indiana House of Representatives; candidate for governor John Gregg, former member of the Indiana House of Representatives; and like-minded people — in their quest to take America back from the privileged few.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.





Picnic at Motorplex Raceway

L.U. 22 (i,rts&spa), OMAHA, NE — The Local 22 Annual Picnic was held June 30 at the Mid America Motorplex Raceway near Glenwood, Iowa. Even with temperatures in the upper 90s, there was a turnout of 250 to 300 people throughout the day. There was plenty of car racing to watch, and members could race their street cars against each other on the drag strip. The highlight was the kids games. The kid's smiles and laughs reminded us why we do this. The food was also excellent. Attendees enjoyed a doughnut machine, snow cones and various snacks — and a delicious dinner of featherbones (riblets) and potato salad was served, which made for a very complete day.

In Local 22 Area B, another signatory contractor picked up the $2.3 million electrical installation at the Grand Island National Guard Readiness Center. The Area B Code of Excellence Committee in Columbus, NE, has designated this as a Code of Excellence project. There are other projects on the horizon that we are watching. Work is still slow overall but seems to be picking up.

Chris Bayer, P.S.





JATC Apprentice Graduates

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — The Baltimore and Eastern Shore JATC Committees held their graduation completion ceremonies on Friday, July 13. Forty-three Baltimore apprentices and eight Eastern Shore apprentices were recognized for their completion of the five-year Inside Program. JATC Chmn. and 50-year IBEW member Joe Boddiford and Local 24 Bus. Mgr. Roger Lash were joined by new journeymen Tim Andersen and Chris Barry congratulating the graduates. Adam Scott received awards for highest total grades, and Charles Cossentino Jr. received awards for perfect attendance.

Congratulations also go to Bros. Mike Maksim and Dave Springham, both of whom graduated NTI in Anne Arbor in July.

Roger M. Lash Jr., B.M.


LU24

Local 24 JATC graduates are joined by JATC Dir. Dave Norfolk (second from right), Coordinator Neil Wilford (far right) and Bus. Mgr. Roger Lash (far left).


Union Activities & Solidarity

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — We held our two summer picnics and enjoyed great food, music and family fun in Manassas, VA, on June 16, and in Edgewater, MD, on Aug. 4.

The annual AFL–CIO Capital Area Sporting Clays Shoot was June 1. Local 26 was proud to be a major sponsor. The Local 26 team placed second in the A division and first in the B division.

In April, the Local 26 Motorcycle Riders' Club held its Poker Run Ride. The club plans to hold this event annually. Over 130 riders participated to benefit the charity Special Love for Children with Cancer. The club presented a check for over $8,000 to the charity. The next poker run ride will be in spring 2013. Both work and play unit our local as a tighter-knit "family." Hope you could participate in one of these activities.

Reminder: Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 6. It is extremely important that we help re-elect our friends in national, state and local races.

We mourn the recent passing of several members: James B. Scheff, Norman A. Arnott, Migel A. Parchment, Raymond W. Jones Jr., Richard N. Rosario, Ronald C. Pelkey and Joseph J. Licausi.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Charles W. Altman, Richard W. Bartlett, Mark A. Bridegum, James R. Coulter, Michael T. Lundregan, Christopher P. Swann, Lennox P. Dempster, Bruce H. Besmen, Terry Brown, Walter I. Carroll, Cleotis Doyle, James M. Fox, Michael E. Hughes and Frank E. Laddbush Jr.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.





Good Work Outlook

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — Projects like Fairview Hospital keep generating a good work outlook for our jurisdiction (see accompanying photo). The new emergency room is a $5.5 million electrical project that will employ additional Local 38 members as it progresses.

Currently, the new Cleveland Convention Center/Medical Mart job and the new Eaton World Headquarters each have over 100 members working on site with many man-hours to go on both projects.

ESI Electric was awarded the Thistledown Racetrack job, and US Communications & Electric will do all the data work on the project. Caesar's Casino is the new owner. The project includes adding slot machines and a total building renovation.

Contracts will be awarded soon for all build-out work inside the new 18-story Ernst & Young office tower.

If you haven't received an e-mail from me recently, that means we don't have your current e-⁠mail address. E-mail is a good way for us to send you information about job opportunities, political news, etc. We also send e-mail blasts for free give away items. To get on the e-mail blast list, contact Eileen at the hall or e-mail her at eponting@ibew38.org.

It is extremely important that you are registered to vote for the Nov. 6 election and that you support labor friendly candidates. Mitt Romney is anti-labor. He vowed to end PLAs, repeal Davis Bacon laws and support a national "right to work" (for less). I've shown the video at union meetings of him saying this to ABC contractors. For more information, visit Web site www.ibew38.org.

Dennis Meaney, B.M./F.S.


LU38

A crew of Local 38 wiremen from Lake Erie Electric working at Fairview Hospital. From left: Foreman Mike Holztrager, Dave Audie, Steward Vince Conforto, Joel Rohfeld, Jim Toothman, Daryl Sinclair, Robin Roub, Mike Park and Dan Michaels.


Great Union Turnout

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 held its Chartered Fishing Trip, which was a success. We also held our Annual Family Picnic. We had 789 people attend this year. This was the largest turnout ever in Local 42's history of events.

In July, we had lots of storm work in Ohio, Detroit, Maryland and West Virginia. Thanks to all of our Local 42 brothers and sisters for safely restoring the power.

Local 42 was invited to Local 104's Annual Lineman's Rodeo held July 28 in New Hampshire. Our team was made up of three lineman apprentices: David Williams, Michael Chemerka and Shane Ezyk. They all did very well in the rodeo events. We thank them for all the hard work and lots of practicing they did for this rodeo. We also thank Local 104 for inviting us and giving us a fun-filled day and great food.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.


LU42

Local 42's team participated in the Annual Local 104 Rodeo in New Hampshire. From left are: Bus. Mgr. Milton R. Moffitt Jr. and lineman apprentices David Williams, Mike Chemerka and Shane Ezyk.


New Contract Ratified

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st) SEATTLE, WA — The Local 46 membership ratified a new Inside Construction contract. The new contract is a positive gain considering the economic climate, giving no significant concessions and gaining valuable language.

The economic package for this contract guarantees a $1.15 increase through 2012. Starting in 2013, the journeyman wireman wage and benefit package increases each year according to a chart reflecting total Inside Wiremen hours in the Local 46 jurisdiction from the previous 12 month period.

According to the chart, the increase rises along with work hours. If total hours worked are less than 3.5 million, the increase equals $0.50. Between 3.5 million and 4 million hours, the increase equals $1.00. Between 4 million to 4.5 million hours equals $2.00. If work hours total between 4.5 million and 5 million, the increase equals $2.25. A $3.00 increase is given for 5 million to 5.5 million hours, and a $3.25 increase is given for 5.5 million to 6 million hours. If total hours worked are between 6 million and 6.5 million, the increase equals $3.50. Should work hours exceed 6.5 million, an increase of $3.75 is triggered. Our average over the last 12 years is 4.36 million hours.

There will be an additional increase of $0.45 on Sept. 2, 2013.

Angela Marshall, Rep.





IBEW48.COM/VOTE

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts&st), PORTLAND, OR — Brothers and sisters, our new Web page for IBEW Local 48 voter/volunteer information went live in early August. The purpose of this site is to provide Local 48 members with relevant information — on campaign issues, ballot measures and political candidates — to make informed decisions that protect our middle-class, union way of life as we approach the Nov. 6, 2012 general election. We have videos from Bus. Mgr. Clif Davis, active members, and politicians who have proven themselves as true friends of the IBEW. Information posted includes relevant articles and a volunteer schedule.

Your local mailed a letter and voter registration form if you were shown as not being registered or if you have moved and not updated your registration. IBEW Local 48 views voting as part of our civic duty and we are trying to reach our goal of 100 percent voter registration. We believe Your Vote Does Count.

This informational Web page is a fresh attempt to engage you in the election process, and give you an opportunity to ask questions, give feedback and make suggestions. For more information visit Web site www.IBEW48.com. If you have any questions, please contact Joe Esmonde by e-mail at joe@IBEW48.com.

Robert Blair, P.S.





Labor 2012 Kickoff — 'Turn Out to Volunteer'

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Labor 2012 kicked off in style on Saturday, Aug. 25. Several good friends of labor spoke to start it off, including Colorado state Reps. Angela Williams and Mark Farandino.

Local 68 members in the crowd included Chris Boardman, Cliff Sterling, Jeremy Ross, Kurt Lieder, Tom Rutherford, Zack Esquibel, Joel Holden, Jim Perizzolo and Ed Knox. Also representing both Local 68 and her own union was Cris Kirschenman, an office administrative professional with Local 68 and president of OPEIU Local 5.

Please turn out for volunteer efforts — especially now. The Nov. 6 election is just around the corner. Phone banking and canvassing will become ever more important in communication!

Also, please watch your mailbox for endorsed candidates and issues. We always realize and respect that how you vote is your personal decision; but we'll nevertheless provide you with guidance regarding workers' rights and organized labor.

We extend our deepest sympathy to families of our recently deceased brothers: James O. Jeltema, Robert D. Choury, James D. Jeanelle, Harold S. Pranger, Robert E. Shelton, James E. Thompson, Hilmer "Gus" E. Swanstrom, James E. Massaro and Jacob M. McPhie.

Ed Knox, Pres.


LU68

Attending Local 68 Labor 2012 kickoff event are, front row, Chris Boardman (left), Zack Esquibel, Jim Perizzolo, Cris Kirschenman, Kurt Lieder; back row, Tom Rutherford, Ed Knox and Cliff Sterling.


Apprentice Graduation Banquet

L.U. 96 (i), WORCESTER, MA — At the annual apprenticeship banquet in May, graduating apprentices were honored. The presenter was Edwin "Ted" Coughlin, who ran Coughlin Constructions Services, a business that's served the Worcester area for over 125 years. Ted addressed the group with a focus on continuing their education and solar technology advancements.

This year's graduates are: Justin Beauregard, Adam Chaffee, Timothy Cote, Nathan Daniel, Corey Gustafson, Robert Mosher, Justin Nordquist, Benjamin Olen, Ekaterina Pashkevitch, Andrew Turcotte and Brian Valk. Congratulations!

The Local 96 election of officers was held in June. Thank you to all past officers and Board members for your service. Also, thank you to the Election Judge Harry Hart and the tellers for your assistance. Congratulations to all elected officers and board members: Bus. Mgr. Leo Miller Jr., Pres. Robert Fields, Vice Pres. John Horgan, Rec. Sec. Timothy West, Treas. Luke Carpenter; Executive Board members George Carpenter, Thomas Maloney, David Martinelli, Joseph Messier; and Examining Board members Sean Courtney, Kevin Fitman, Kevin Larocque and Zephirin Mondor.

This is a big election year and we need to show our support for the candidates who back working people and union causes. To learn more about the candidates the local endorses, or to volunteer as a supporter, contact the hall or visit us online at www.ibewlocal96.org.

Luke E. Carpenter, Treas./P.S.


LU96

Local 96 apprentice graduates joined by instructors Tim West (far left) and Lenny Ciuffredo (far right).


Contract Negotiations

L.U. 108 (ees,em,es,lctt,mar,mt,rtb,rts,s,spa,t&u), TAMPA, FL — Greetings from IBEW Local 108 in Tampa! We have been quite busy lately and don't anticipate a break anytime in the foreseeable future. Pres. Chris Parsels and Unit 6 Rec. Sec. Bill Cate attended the Florida AFL-CIO Convention in Hollywood, FL. Convention activities included political phone banking to contact our fellow union brothers and sisters, meeting candidates, and voting for the candidates we would endorse for upcoming elections.

In July, Pres. Chris Parsels attended the IBEW Fifth District Progress Meeting in Orlando, FL, and got updates on the Duke Energy and Progress Energy merger, as well as the ITC and Entergy deal for the transmission grid spanning from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico.

At this writing we were scheduled to start negotiations with Tampa Electric Company, WEDU, and Seminole Electric in the next few months. Members should be sure to attend their unit meetings so they can stay informed.

We thank and congratulate the following Local 108 members who retired recently: Don Delancey, a 47-year IBEW member and former Sensor Systems employee; and former TECO employees Lee Service (42 years of IBEW service), Terry Sweat (40 years of IBEW service) Charles Mobley (38 years of service), Carl Montalbano (36 years), Sam Vasquez (30 years), Cecil Nedd (26 years) Steve Wade (26 years) and Mario Herce (17 years).

Bill Cate, P.S.





100th Anniversary Celebration

L.U. 110 (em,i,rts,spa&u), ST. PAUL, MN — Thank you to Bro. Joe Lubitz, chairman of the 100 Year Anniversary Committee, for providing the Local 110 article below. It was through his dedication that the anniversary event went so well.

"On July 28, IBEW Local 110 celebrated our 100 year anniversary in St. Paul. The weather was excellent and we had over 3,000 attend this family picnic. The 34th Infantry Division Red Bulls Honor Guard presented the flags, followed by a moment of silence. U.S. Sens. Al Franken and Amy Klobuchar along with U.S. Reps. Betty McCollum and Keith Ellison addressed the crowd. The tent we had for shade was the largest assembled in St. Paul (100' x 260'), just shy of a football field. We had a total of six Mississippi Riverboat cruises with about 300 people per cruise. All of our raffle prizes were made in the USA or hand made by our members. Mancini's restaurant served 2,000 steak dinners, 500 chicken dinners and 500 macaroni and cheese kid's meals. Schell's Brewery, the only union brewery in Minnesota, supplied Schell's beer, Grain Belt Premium beer and Nordeast beer. Thank you, brothers and sisters, for a family celebration that we will remember. Thank you to my committee, the office staff, officers of our local union, volunteers who helped that day, with a special thank you to my wife, Julie. It would not have happened without you all!"  – Joe Lubitz

Brian Winkelaar, P.S.


LU110

IBEW Local 110 celebrates its 100 Year Anniversary in St. Paul, MN.


2012 Graduation Ceremony

L.U. 112 (c,i&st), KENNEWICK, WA — On July 13, Local 112 celebrated 26 apprentices completing our JATC program and becoming journeyman inside wiremen. Local 112 was fortunate to have two very special speakers at our 2012 graduation ceremony.

First, Ninth District Int. Vice Pres. Michael S. Mowrey addressed the graduates. After congratulating them, Vice Pres. Mowrey spoke about the importance of honoring the oath they all took at initiation.

NJATC Exec. Dir. Mike Callanan then addressed the grads and challenged them to do three things: 1) Continue your education; take classes to improve your skills. 2) Teach your apprentice; remember your best journeyman and try to follow his/her example. 3) Go to the job with the right attitude, displaying the right behavior every day.

Local 112 thanks both Vice Pres. Mowrey and Dir. Callanan for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend our 2012 graduation ceremony.

As always, Local 112 is very proud of our graduating apprentices. This year, seven of the 26 grads achieved craft certification. Valeriy Gis completed the five years with a 93.6 percent grade point average; Rod Worthington had a 96 percent GPA; and Kris Tuura had a class high of 97.4 percent GPA.

Local 112 is blessed with two outstanding instructors, Greg Greiner and Greg McMurphy. Training Dir. Dennis Williamson and Office Manager Sasha Mshar also do an outstanding job at our Training Center.

Joe Legard, Organizer





Nov. 6 Election Day Choice

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se&spa), KANSAS CITY, MO — The Kansas City work picture is finally looking better, but there's not much work yet for book two. We are in the process of using the construction electrician/construction wireman classifications.

Our nation has an election coming up and the choice for labor has never been easier. Mitt Romney told the Associated Builders and Contractors that if elected he would end project labor agreements his first day in office. He also promised to end Davis Bacon prevailing wage laws and implement "right to work" (for less) at the federal level. Romney also has a record of outsourcing American jobs to low-wage foreign workers; one example is the massive steel mill in Kansas City that his company divested and offshored. Romney's stances make the choice easy for working families because his economic plan creates more jobs in China than in the U.S.

We remember recently deceased members: Ronald F. Adair, Frederick Brownlee, William L. Eckart, Gerald F. Fredericks, Hugh A. Gardiner, Charles C. Griffey, William J. Leary, Rick McEvoy, James B. Taylor, Phillip Thomas, Darwin F. Thompson and Steve D. Waisner.

Congratulations to newly retired members: Roy A. Carroll, Gary S. Enloe, Jack Feeling, Richard W. LeValley, Hrydorij Mychalczuk, Jack Oberndorfer, Max Ralston, Richard R. Raines, Raymond L. Schaaf. Harvey M. Stewart and Christopher H. Weber.

Steve Morales, P.S.





100th Anniversary Gala

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — Local 146 has powered the prairie since 1912 and on September 8 we celebrated at our 100th anniversary gala. It was a tremendous event and great to see so many IBEW members and guests attending.

Our annual Labor Day parade and picnic in September were themed "Rebuilding America's Past." The crowd was the largest in recent years and it was great to see so many apprentices participate. Thanks to all for your support. Journeymen and apprentices alike also volunteered at the Macon County Fair, Decatur Celebration, and Habitat for Humanity projects.

The Local 146 work picture was not favorable over the summer. The Taylorville Energy Center project never made it out of the state legislature — once again, another reason to elect labor-friendly candidates in November. Several Local 146 members have secured employment in sister locals, and we thank those locals.

Check out our newsletter at www.ibew146.com — and if you are in the Decatur/Mattoon area, see the Red Light and Green Light lists before shopping and support those businesses that support us. You can also find us on Facebook.

Congratulations to recent retirees: Terri Fraley, Darrell Weakly, Jim Clark, Jim Nance, Dennis Donoho, Bruce Harshbarger and Jim Bopp. Thanks to all for your years of service.

Our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased members: John Jones, George Hadley and Carl Moyer. These brothers will be remembered.

Please VOTE in November and support Pres. Barak Obama.

Rich Underwood, R.S.





IBEW Utility Conference: Infrastructure & Work Force

L.U. 160 (lctt,o&u), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The 2012 IBEW Utility Conference was held in Houston, TX, in June. Local 160 had a delegation present. IBEW Utility Dept. Dir. Jim Hunter and his staff put on a wonderful conference. Houston Local 66 did a great job hosting the conference and welcoming attendees. It was good to compare our issues in the Midwest with the other areas of the U.S. and Canada. One topic discussed was the aging work force. Companies seem slow to realize they must start hiring replacement workers. There was discussion about coal-fired power plant closings and the potential building of nuclear plants. People who work in the power industry understand that renewable forms of energy are important sources for generating electricity, but they can't replace coal or nuclear. Thankfully, the IBEW is out front leading the way, working with utilities to try to find solutions to extending the working lives of aging power plants.

"This is the most important election ever" may sound cliché — but in 2012 it's true. If the labor movement doesn't stand up to "Citizens United" and the big money which that infamous court ruling on campaign finance ushered in, we may never get another opportunity. So it's time to vote for those who stand with labor. And when labor friendly people are voted into office, we have to hold them accountable. So get involved for the sake of the labor movement and the middle class. Make sure your voice is heard on Election Day Nov. 6.

James P. Brereton, P.S.





'Cast a Vote for Workers'

L.U. 196 (govt,mt,o,t&u), ROCKFORD, IL — As we head for fall, the work picture here has been very steady and the outlook is promising. A bad decision by the Illinois Commerce Commission in May on the new formula-based rate increase for ComEd has slowed the planning a bit, but work should continue to improve in our area.

Local 196 recently participated in the third annual Northern Illinois Sporting Clay shoot through the Union Sportsmen's Alliance (USA) and we enjoyed a day of brotherhood while breaking a few targets. Participants had a good time and I hope support for the USA continues to grow in the IBEW; they do a great job at their events.

In July we received a very good decision for the IBEW Outside Branch from the National Labor Relations Board on a jurisdictional issue that went to a hearing back in December of 2011, but it was well worth the wait.

As all of organized labor is under attack by some very opportunistic radical conservatives, our only chance is to put feet on the street, educate our members on the real political issues — and actually walk into the booth and cast a vote for the labor friendly candidates in our area. No vote equals no future. Get on it.

Eric Patrick, B.M.





Apprenticeship Graduates

L.U. 222 (o), ORLANDO, FL — Greetings to all. Our June meeting was well attended and Bus. Mgr. Mike Bell was pleased to present Bro. Butch Goff with his 50-year service pin. Bro. Goff has been a journeyman lineman, assistant business manager and company owner in his 50 years of service. He has served in each of these roles with a sense of dedication and integrity that makes you proud to have worked with and for him. We hope Butch has many more years of IBEW service in him.

We also congratulate our members who recently completed their SELCAT apprenticeships: journeyman linemen Steven Eggers, Eric Estrada, Randy Maxwell Jr., Daniel Wamsley and Underground Technician Thomas Pitts. Local 222 wishes these members the best in their IBEW careers.

Southeastern Line Constructors Apprenticeship & Training (SELCAT) is an educational partnership between the Southeastern Line Constructors Chapter, National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and local unions of the IBEW.

Bill Hitt, A.B.M.


LU222

Local 222 Bus. Mgr. Mike Bell (left) presents 50-year service award to Bro. Butch Goff.


2012 Apprentice Graduates

L.U. 226 (em,i,rtb,rts&spa), TOPEKA, KS — Congratulations to the Local 226 apprentice graduating class of 2012. The graduates, joined by Instructor Greg Whitworth, gathered for the photo in front of the local's 3.6 kW solar array that they helped install in October 2011.

Graduate Josh Price received the 2012 Coleman Morris Outstanding Apprentice Award. Local 226 is proud of all the graduates and wishes them success in their IBEW careers.

Robert Bausch, Organizer


LU226

Local 226 congratulates the class of 2012 apprentice graduates. From left: Jason Patterson, Luke Thompson, Nathan Dickson, Jared Brock, Jacob Wilson, Brian Carlson, Daniel Courter, Neil Olejnik, Brent Varney, Kevin Norton, Instructor Greg Whitworth and Josh Price.


A Salute to 2012 Graduates

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — Our local has the honor and pleasure to introduce to the construction industry our 2012 Graduating Class of Inside Apprentices.It is especially noted that Joaquin Correa-Mickel and Jesus Ramirez both had perfect attendance for all five years. Jeff Flippin distinguished himself as our Outstanding Graduating Apprentice, and has earned the honor of attending NTI this year. We recognize and salute all the graduates for their years of dedicated hard work. They make us proud to commend them to an industry that is constantly growing and changing. We look forward to working side by side with them.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.


LU234

Local 234 inside graduating class of 2012: Daniel Lujan (left), Ricardo Rubio, Enrique Lara, David Espinoza, Berardo Trujillo, Matthew Kulich, Joaquin Correa-Mickel, Jeff Flippin and Kasey Jeska.


Kudos to JATC Graduates

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — As the fall season is upon us, we wish to look back and say congratulations to our 2012 apprentice graduates. In June, we held a graduation dinner to honor 33 men and women who completed the JATC apprenticeship program to become Local 236 journeyman wiremen.

We also recognize our newly elected officers, who were sworn into office at our July meeting by past president Phil Clemens. Congratulations to: Bus. Mgr. Donald Rahm, Pres. Mark Lajeunesse, Vice Pres. Skip Goyette, Rec. Sec. Paul Fitzmaurice, Treas. Michael Torres; and Executive Board members Randy Angerosa, Richard Boyd, William Bulger, Kerry Chesterfield, Eric Folmsbee, Geoffrey Hayden and Steven Rifenburg.

We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable summer, and we urge everyone to get involved as we prepare for the very important Nov. 6 presidential election.

Michael Torres, P.S.


LU236

Local 236 congratulates the Tri-City JATC class of 2012.


Welcome to Newly Elected Officers

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — The Local 280 election is over and we welcome our newly elected officers: Bus. Mgr. Tim Frew, Pres. John Close, Vice Pres. Jeremy Bate, Treas. Tim Miller, Rec. Sec. Larry Fisher; At-Large Executive Board members Julie Emmett, Matt Forsberg, Lynn McDonald; and Examining Board members Mike Eastland, Travis Johnson and Jeremy Kroon.

We also congratulate the following new journeyman, who completed their JATC apprenticeship: David Anderson, Jeremy Bate, Clint Burgess, Billy Burress, Kevin Carlile, Shawn Ceniga, Jerry Clowers, Jason Cook, Matthew Crowl, Kevin Cryer, Ryan Davis, David Dixon, Ross Ellis, David Fahlgren, Alfred Fleming, Matt Forsberg, Nicholas Frye, Robert Giles, Matthew Gilmore, Stephen Goodman, David Hammang, Luke Harris, Vicki Horton, Ryan Johnson, Joseph Jorgensen, Chet Kendall, David Kikendall, Garret Lane, Sean McAllister, Justin McKay, Adan Mendoza, Richard Meyner, Brian Mohatt, Michael Popish, Joshua Powell, Trase Privratsky, Charles Read, Carlos Rivera, Curtis Rutherford, Reza Shahparast, Adam Simpson, David Slack, Ryan Stroup, Rick Sturgess, Donnie Thompson, Curtis Towns, Vernon Unruh, Christina VanLeeuwen and Matt Vohs.

Thanks to JATC Dir. Dave Baker for making our welding class a reality! Instructors Tom Mann and Ty Winegar have done an outstanding job of preparing students to certify.

Work safe and vote for candidates who support labor and working families on Election Day Nov. 6!

Jerry Fletcher, P.S.


LU280

Local 280 welding class students train to certify. From left, welding students David Fahlgren, Mike Popish, Ryan Covey, Kevin Scavera, Mark Davis, Troy Grant, Rick Sturgess; and instructors Ty Winegar and Tom Mann.


November Election & Solidarity

L.U. 292 (em,govt,irtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The general election in November is about defending our standard of living and way of life in Minnesota, our jobs, children's education, health care and our future. We need to ensure friends of labor get elected and gain a majority in the Minnesota Legislature so we can take so-called "right to work"(for less) off the agenda.

"The most important word in the language of the working class is solidarity." That quote from the late labor leader Harry Bridges (1901-1990) has much deeper meaning now. The legendary Bill Bailey added: "In unity there is strength. We can move mountains when we're united and enjoy life — without unity we are victims. Stay united."

Over 120 members attended the IBEW 292 Golf Tournament at the Fox Hollow Golf Club in Rogers, MN. Thanks go to Fox Hollow for taking care of our members during the excessive heat. The putting contest was successful, with large contributions made to our food shelf by our winning members. Bus. Mgr. Rodger Kretman is pleased we were able to bring the IBEW 292 Golf Tournament back to the membership.

The first half of our office remodel is complete. We are staying on the same floor of the United Labor Center in Minneapolis, moving across the hall. The entire office space will be completed in October, at which time we will hold an open house.

We thank all our members for respecting the work rules of neighboring locals, especially during contract negotiations. By supporting other unions, and especially IBEW local unions, we reinforce the ideals of brotherhood and solidarity.

Carl Madsen, P.S.





Vermont Utilities Merger

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — During the month of June, Gaz Metro, parent company of Green Mountain Power Corp. (the second largest electrical utility in Vermont), purchased Central Vermont Public Service Corp. (the largest electrical utility in Vermont). Both companies will combine assets to form the largest utility in Vermont — servicing approximately 70 percent of Vermont's electrical needs. Both groups are represented by IBEW Local 300 and have separate and distinct bargaining agreements. GMP and the union are engaged in the task of formulating and negotiating a single agreement. We wish both groups well.

Members employed with Vermont Yankee ratified a one-year extension on their agreement with the owner, Entergy Corp. The union and Entergy will have continued discussions to create alternative medical plans that meet the needs of both parties.

The new apprenticeship year is under way and we wish all members of the apprenticeship a productive training season. We encourage all apprentices to take control of their own destiny. The union allows you a voice — utilize it.

Local union officers encourage those members who are not registered to vote to please do so. Exercise your right to the democratic process.

Please keep in mind that safety is first.

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





Annual Golf Outing

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — On Saturday, July 7, our annual Local 306 Golf Outing was held at Paradise Lake Country Club. Despite the record-breaking heat, everyone had a good time. The 1st place prize was awarded to Bob DeGeorge and Dave Nutt. The 2nd place prize went to Jim Bush, Tim Meighen, Dan Martin and Norm Yanik. Congratulations to all, and a big thank you to Local 306 Pres. Mike Kammer, Cyndy Colley, Jim Deckert and Bob Latham for helping set up and run the outing.

During any election year there are many polarizing issues that divide us as voters. But fair wages, safe working conditions, affordable health care, and the right to collectively bargain are issues that we can all agree on and that should be of the utmost importance to everyone. The attack on the working class grows each day. If we are to continue fighting against the attacks, we must elect like-thinking friends and allies. It's up to us to help those who would help us. This will no doubt be a close election, so please make every effort to "Get Out the Vote." Remember, every vote counts.

With sadness we report the loss of Bro. Ronald Keller and retired Bros. Stephen Marshall, Howard Wood and Kenneth Mong. We send our condolences to their families.

Thomas Wright, P.S.





Brothers Helping Brothers

L.U. 320 (catv,t&u), POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Shown in the accompanying photo are Local 320 members, joined by family members of Bro. Tony Roberts, as they pause while sheet rocking and installing heating equipment in the Roberts' house.

Bro. Tony Roberts, a 20-year IBEW member, works at the Dynegy Northeast Generation Roseton and Damskammer power plants as a 1st class yardman. He has faced some difficult times in the last two years.

Bro. Roberts suffered a serious motorcycle accident on his way to work; at that time, doctors found that he needed major heart surgery. After recovery from the accident, Bro. Roberts had the heart operation.

Only three weeks after his surgery and while he was recovering at home, the family house caught fire, destroying the second floor and heavily damaging the first floor. Due to many complications and unforeseen delays, the rebuilding stretched on.

Subsequently, Local 320 Bus. Mgr./Pres. John Kaiser, with the help of shop steward Mike Hichak and local member Frank Canino, organized the sheet rocking party. Approximately 15 members participated during the course of the day lending a hand carting, cutting and installing sheetrock while others installed the heating system. Pres. Kaiser said: "This is what a local is, helping our fellow brothers and sisters during their tough times. Some of the members came to the job site directly from completing working the midnight to 8 a.m. shift. They are there for each other."

John P. Kaiser, B.M./Pres.


LU320

Members of IBEW Local 320 gather with the Roberts family.


A New Outlook & New Contractor

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — Local 340 had a busy summer — teaching and learning!

We held three Member-to-Member classes. Afterward, local officers, staff and rank-and-file members who attended the classes went house calling. We visited our own members as a way to re-energize the local membership.

This new Ninth District class, which teaches a one-on-one approach to union members, was actually the idea of a Local 340 member several years ago. While attending a Comet Class, Bro. Tom Davis concluded that members sometimes become complacent about their union and thought it would help to reach out to members on a personal level to share ideas.

This class and this approach have been well received. We intend to continue monthly member-to-member action, as we have seen members we visited getting more involved with the local. They attend meetings, help at the annual picnic, volunteer to get out the vote in the November election, which is crucial for unions, etc. Success!

Organizer Scott Steelman arranged to have Bro. Matt Kolbinski, Pro Union Consulting, teach the New Contractors class this summer. It was well attended by interested members. After completing the class, Bro. Leonardo Velasquez became an IBEW Local 340 inside signatory contractor. Welcome to Four ACE Electrical Services Inc.! Two other members are interested in signing up also. Again, success!

Reporting the loss of members is never easy. Retirees Hiram Jones, Elmer Kunz, Wes Rhodes and Lou Roberts, former lineman, have passed away. We also lost active member Bro. Danny Roberts.

Don't let anyone silence our union voices. Vote in November!

A.C. Steelman, B.M.


LU340

Local 340 members attend a New Contractor class. Among attendees are: Organizer Scott Steelman (fourth from right, white shirt); new contractor Bro. Leonardo Vasquez (far left, green shirt), owner of Four ACE Electrical Services; and Matt Kolbinski (front row, fourth from left, light blue shirt), Pro Union Consulting.


Work Picture Picks Up

L.U. 354 (i,mt,rts&spa), SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Fortunately, during the spring and summer months, the work in Utah increased enough that we were able to put a large number of traveling brothers and sisters to work.

To that fine group of skilled men and women who travel around the country helping man the work in areas where the work picture is picking up, Local 354 says thank you for a job well done.

The Annual Service Award Party in July was well attended. The local started a new tradition of presenting a gold watch to retirees when they reach 50 years of service. It was great to see members enjoying the camaraderie, food and drink — and listening to some of the stories shared is always a highlight. Notably, retiree Peter Spangenberg received his 65-year pin and gold watch. Congratulations to all the service award recipients. Thank you to everyone who helped make the pin party a success.

Bus. Mgr. Rich Kingery was appointed last spring by Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill to sit as a representative of labor on the Council of Industrial Relations. It is a great honor for this local to have our business manager chosen to preside with fellow business managers over the cases of locals that are fighting to keep their standard of living as high as possible even in tough times. Thank you, Rich, for accepting another huge responsibility.

Manya Blackburn, R.S.


LU354

Local 354 Bus. Mgr. Rich Kingery (right) presents 65-year pin and gold watch to retiree Peter Spangenberg.


Appointed to Labor Post

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Congratulations to Bus. Mgr. Darrin Golden on his recent appointment as a vice president of the Illinois AFL-CIO. Bro. Golden was appointed to serve out the term of a board member who retired and he will run for re-election in the fall. He is the first person from the Rockford area to hold the position of state AFL-CIO vice president.

The general election is fast approaching and we are pulling out all the stops to elect friends of working families such as: Pres. Barack Obama; Cheri Bustos, candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives from the 17th Congressional District of Illinois; Steve Stadelman, candidate for the Illinois Senate; Illinois Sen. Mike Jacobs, who is running for re-election; and Carl Wasco and Mike Smiddy, candidates for the Illinois House.

When union people get out and vote, usually union candidates win. And when union members get out and work campaigns for friends of working families, our chances to elect those candidates grow exponentially better.

Local 364 Bros. Charlie Laskonis and Ty Hillman recently traveled to Philadelphia to represent Local 364 joining thousands of union members who participated in the labor-wide Worker's Stand for America rally. The focus was to bring the message of America's Second Bill of Rights to the public and focus national attention on jobs, economic opportunity and restoring the American dream for all.

Charlie Laskonis, B.A.


LU364

Meeting after a press conference are: Local 364 Bus. Agent Charlie Laskonis (left), U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, U.S. House of Representatives candidate Cheri Bustos and Local 364 Bus. Mgr. Darrin Golden. At the press conference, Bustos vowed to fight for working families and Sen. Durbin noted that she will deliver on that promise.


Officers Sworn In

L.U. 388 (em,i,rts&spa), STEVENS POINT, WI — IBEW Local 388 is saddened by the death of Bro. James Joseph Blonien. James passed away April 28 at age 54. I had the privilege, like many other members, to have worked alongside Jim and can honestly call him a brother and a friend. Jim leaves behind a wife and daughter. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

At the time of this writing, our Biomass Energy Project is extremely slow at manning up; as far as manpower goes, we are not sure how far into book one it will get or if it will get into book two at all. It appears that other projects are starting up around the country; hopefully traveling brothers and sisters found employment somewhere over the summer.

Local 388 held its election of officers and Dean Miller was sworn in at our July meeting as our new business manager/financial secretary along with our other newly elected and re-elected officers. Congratulations to all of our officers. The members and I also wish to say thank-you to former business manager Dave Northup for serving this local for so many years in so many capacities.

Local 388 officers are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Dean Miller, Pres. John Danczyk, Vice Pres. Stephen Parrott and E-Board members Jeff Starr, Jason Kay, John Klosinski and Robert Cyran.

Guy LePage, P.S.


LU388

Local 388 newly elected and re-elected officers are sworn in. From left: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Dean Miller, E-Board members Jeff Starr and Jason Kay, Vice Pres. Stephen Parrott, E-Board members John Klosinski and Robert Cyran, and Pres. John Danczyk.


75th Anniversary Celebrated

L.U. 412 (u), KANSAS CITY, MO — Happy 75th birthday, Local 412!

On Aug. 11 this year, Local 412 celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding. From its humble beginnings, Local 412 has represented members working in the electrical utility industry since 1937. Currently, Local 412 has more than 800 members working under its agreement. The members work in fossil fuel plants, combustion turbines, and wind turbines in the states of Missouri and Kansas.

Debi Kidwiler, P.S.





Annual Pancake Breakfasts

L.U. 424 (as,ees,em,es,i,mo,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA — July marked the 25th annual Local 424 Members Pancake Breakfasts in Calgary and Edmonton done by the respective Unit Retirees.

Calgary held their pancake breakfast for about 200 Unit 2 members on the first Friday of the 10-day Calgary Stampede festival. After the breakfast, they served a lunch menu featuring Bro. Dave Handley's own smoked, spice-rubbed roast beef, and barbecue fare. They raised $153 (through donations) for the Unit 2 Retirees. A salute to "Executive Chef" Dave Handley, "Sous Chefs" Asst. Bus. Mgr. Ron Davis and Unit 2 Chm. Darcy Duthie, and the Calgary Retirees for a job well done.

On July 20, the opening of Edmonton's 10-day exhibition, Unit 1 Retirees did a full breakfast, and later a lunch menu, serving about 260 members and raising $671. Thank you to the retirees and spouses who helped out. Special thanks to BBQ Chefs Dick Owen, Dennis Unguran and Bob Hunter.

On July 14, Tina Stevenson, wife of member Scott Stevenson, once again did her usual exemplary job organizing the Unit 1 Kids Picnic with the help of a few members and retirees. Kids enjoyed cotton candy, BBQ goodies, juice drinks, games, face painting and a "bouncy house."

July was a busy, fun month in this local … and the weather cooperated for all three venues!

Dave Anderson, P.S.





IBEW Members Restore Power

L.U. 466 (em,es,i&rts), CHARLESTON, WV — The derecho of June 29 hit the wonderful state of West Virginia with a crippling blow. It was followed by multiple storms hitting the state for the following three weeks. Power outages were reportedly the worst ever in the state's history. Most of us were out of power for a week and many were out two weeks. Thank goodness for our many brothers from other states who came to our aid in the miserable weather that was well over 90 degrees every day. Surrounding states were hit hard also making it extremely difficult to get help fast. I met and personally thanked two groups, one from Florida and one out of Ohio. IBEW brothers from other neighboring states, including Alabama, also traveled here to help restore power. We are extremely grateful for all the IBEW brothers who came to our aid.

I am truly proud to be a member of an organization whose many members are true brothers, not only to their union members but to all mankind! Local 466 active and retired members as well as all of West Virginia salute and thank all the IBEW members for their assistance.

With regret we acknowledge the passing of the following brothers: Clyde Edelman Jr., Larry Angle, Ken Balsom, Mickey Moore and 71-year member Jack Craze, who was age 91. They will be missed.

Larry Fogarty, P.S.


LU466

Charleston, WV, Local 466 thanks all the fellow IBEW members from sister locals outside the state, including the brothers pictured, who helped restore power after fierce summer storms.


Steps to Recover Market Share

L.U. 520 (i&spa), AUSTIN, TX — Newly elected Local 520 officers are: Bus. Mgr. Chris Wagner, Pres. Lane Price, Rec. Sec. Ann Pannell and Treas. Mark Sherrell. Elected Executive Board members are: Gaynell Wilson, Mike Barnes, David Grossman, Eddie Kincaid, Billy Payne, Dale Slaughter and Terry Tindall. Elected to serve on the Examining Board are: Gabe Flores, Philip Lawhon and Tommy Williamson. Congratulations to all.

Bus. Mgr. Wagner reported meeting with Central Texas NECA, Local 72 and District representatives regarding ways we may recover our market and promote use of organized labor in the central Texas area. To show signs of cooperation, the LMCC jointly approved an advertisement in the Construction News monthly periodical for the central Texas area. We look forward to the challenges before us and rely on the strength of all our brothers and sisters as we move forward in all our endeavors.

Lane Price, Pres./P.S.





'Thanks to Fellow Locals'

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — Aug. 10 marked Local 530's annual golf tournament. Unfortunately rain that day forced the cancellation of the golfing event. Those who stayed enjoyed the afternoon in the 19th hole with cold beverages and a steak dinner.

With limited work over the past few months and nothing in the foreseeable future as of this writing, Local 530 would like to thank the following locals for employment opportunities: Ottawa Local 586, Sudbury Local 1687 and Regina Local 2038.

Local 530 is saddened by the recent passing of Bro. Rick Davidson.

Al Byers, P.S.





Apprentice Graduating Class

L.U. 540 (i), CANTON, OH — Local 540 extends congratulations to the 2012 JATC Apprentice Graduating Class.

The recent graduates are: Mike Gordon, Jeff Trissel II, Chad Rumbold, Tim Sawyer, Andrew Kline, Andrew McCarty, Charles Williams, Scott Thomas, Nathan Istnick and Logan Schmidt.

We are proud of the graduates and wish them much success in their IBEW careers.

Jerry Bennett, P.S.


LU540

Local 540 class of 2012 JATC apprentice graduates.


Organizing Blitz a Success

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — At this writing, work across the jurisdiction is somewhat slow, but the fall outage at the TVA Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant will begin Oct. 26 and will be a boost for our members as well as some travelers.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama, Inc. located in Huntsville has begun groundbreaking on its expansion, but we do not expect calls until early spring 2013.

In other news, Local 558 hosted an Organizing Blitz in August with organizers from Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama assisting, as well as state organizing coordinators from the Fifth District. Thank you, brothers, for all your hard work and dedication on a successful blitz.

At Local 558's August union meeting, a presentation of service pins was held; eligible members received service pin awards for 25 to 70 years of service. Special congratulations and thank you to everyone for their longtime IBEW membership and for making this local what it is today!

Mac Sloan, Mbr. Dev.


LU558

Among Local 558 service award recipients are, from left: former business manager Lance Blackstock (50 years of service), former apprentice director Bud Blackstock (55 years of service), P.E. Wesson (60 years), James I. Beavers (65 years) and Grant Azbell (70 years).


A New Meeting Hall

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — The regular meeting on July 13 was held in our newly opened meeting hall at 1400 East Nine Mile Road in Richmond. The new facility is fantastic. Please join us on the second Friday of each month to attend a meeting and check out our new home.

Newly elected officers were sworn in during the July meeting for a three-year term. Congratulations to: Bus. Mgr. James H. Underwood, Pres. Harry F. "Freddie" Zahn IV, Vice Pres. James A. Bell, Rec. Sec. John C. Gandy, Fin. Sec. Larry R. Jarvis and Treas. Maynard E. Dowdy.

Newly elected Executive Board members are: David L. Clarke, William M. Faina, Jason "J.D." Jenkins, Christopher S. Phillips, Omar A. Rafey and Henry W. White.

Examining board members are: Anthony L. Coleman, Brad Bullock, Christopher Hitchcock, Phillip Bullock and Jarod Clouse.

Thank you to everyone putting their energy into working for our local!

Charles Skelly, P.S.





75th Anniversary & Retirement Celebration

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — Our local held a joint 75th Anniversary and Retirement Celebration at the Double Tree Hotel on Friday, May 11. Notably, the electrical wiring at that hotel was done by our IBEW members with skill and union pride.

We congratulate all the retirees and thank them for their years of service and dedication to Local 692. Members honored for their retirement were: Mark Allen, Wayne Diveley, Ronald Ervin, Richard D. Hubert, Donald Jezewski, Wayne L. Lewis, Milton Simmons, Thomas Theisen, David Varner, Raymond Vermeesch, Albert E. Casey, Kenneth Cislo, Dennis Gandy, Douglas Harshman, Alan Haynes, William B. Koenig, Gary Koenig, Timothy Lappin, Michael Loll, Dennis Moore, Mark Pawlak, Tim R. Peil, Nathan Shawl, Roy Trumble, Charles Voisine, Grant Williams, Michael Chaffin, Daniel J. O'Leary, Ronald Eurich, Donald Martin, Charles Miller, Michael Potter, Thomas Ryder, Michael Schutt, C. Gil Archambo, Thomas Barbeau, Thomas Bejcek, Gregory Bentley, Patrick Bouchard, Terry Brandenburg, Matthew Gottleber, Jerry Potter, Carl Ruffertshofer, Douglas Stickley, Gerald K. Stranaly, Dennis Voisine, Kenneth Kaczmarek, Arthur Archambo, Robert Calkins, Bobby Hulon and Janet Wisniewiski.

Please, everyone, do your patriotic duty and vote in November.

Tammy Gottleber, P.S./R.S.


LU692

At Local 692's celebration in May, Pres. Brian Klele (right) receives a U.S. flag, which was flown over the U.S. Capitol, presented by Dusty Houser, staff member for U.S. Sen. Carl Levin.


Getting Out the Vote

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 — Our local union election was held June 8. We congratulate Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart and all officers elected by our members.

Bus. Rep. Tate Wright graduated from the National Labor College on June 23. The dedication it takes to successfully complete a bachelor's degree while working reflects Tate's commitment to better represent our members.

At press time, negotiations continue with Ameren and Frontier Communications with very little movement.

The Labor Day celebration was Sept. 3, and thanks go out to all those who turned out to participate.

We will be busy with the upcoming elections and the scheduling of door knocking, phone banks, and whatever it takes to make sure President Obama is re-elected to office.

Marsha Steele, P.S.


LU702

Newly elected Local 702 officers take oath of office.


November Election

L.U. 716 (em,i,lct,rts&spa), HOUSTON, TX — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Local 716 wishes you and yours the best. By the time of this publication, the long hot summer here in Houston will be another memory. We are hopeful the work picture will have improved by print time. After very difficult inside contract negotiations with NECA that resulted in a trip to the CIR in Washington, D.C., the work picture should be improved. Many thanks go to all the locals that have been able to put our members to work during these troubling times.

We have some bad news to report regarding our two GE facilities. In the past few months we have had a transfer of work and a closure.

Please remember the importance of the upcoming November elections. Encourage your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers to vote to protect the rights of working Americans, who deserve a decent way of life and a retirement with dignity.

On a lighter note, our Labor Day celebration was a success, as always, and special thanks go out to the Labor Day Committee for their hard work. The holidays will be upon us all before we know it. Please celebrate responsibly, be safe, and God bless you and our troops serving to protect our great nation.

John E. Easton Jr., B.M./F.S.





2012 Apprentice Graduates

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — Congratulations to Local 760's newest journeyman wiremen.

The brothers topped out under the watchful eye and guidance of Training Dir. A.J. Pearson. Our union's future is truly secure and bright with men such as this leading the way.

George A. Bove, B.M./F.S.


LU760

Local 760 apprentice graduating class of 2012, joined by Training Dir. A.J. Pearson (seated, center).


Service Awards to Retirees

L.U. 852 (i,o&u), CORINTH AND TUPELO, MS — At our August monthly meeting, we recognized the following retired members for their longtime service to the local union and presented service pin awards:

Recognized for 50 years of service — Robert O. Dickerson, Benny E. Grimes, James M. Hardin; for 55 years — Ernest E. Choate, Lowell G. Tucker; for 60 years — Leo C. Cremeen, Larry W. Landrum, James J. Tapp; for 65 years — Charles F. Benson, James D. Harris [see photo], Marvin R. Harwood; and for 70 years of service — Guy E. Watts.

We thank these brothers for their many years of dedicated IBEW service.

Jim Hubbard, B.M.


LU852

ILocal 852 retired Bro. James D. Harris (right) receives 65-year service award presented by Pres. Randy Sumler.


Three-Year Contract Ratified

L.U. 910 (ees,i&t), WATERTOWN, NY — The IBEW Local 910 negotiation committee and the Northern New York Chapter of NECA reached a tentative agreement proposal on March 22 this year. The tentative agreement was presented to the membership at the April 3, 2012, regular meeting. After reviewing the proposed changes and wage increases, the membership voted to ratify the new agreement, which took effect retroactively to April 1, 2012.

The three-year agreement includes increases of $1.05, $1.25 and $1.35, respectively. After a presentation by fund manager John Love on the status of our funds, the membership also voted to allocate this year's increase in both the Inside and Residential Agreements. The Inside increase was split with $0.83 to Health and Welfare, $0.20 to Pension, and $0.02 to LMCC (labor management cooperation committee). The Residential Agreement is in its second year and its scheduled increase was voted to be allocated to Health and Welfare ($0.75 — Group 1, and $1.00 — Group 2). There were also a few language changes and additions to the Inside Agreement, which will be summarized for the membership's reference and posted on our Web site www.ibew910.org.

The 2011-2012 apprentice school year is complete and congratulations go out to the recent graduates: Ryan Blanchard, Nichole Bricker, Matthew Dillabough, Kenneth Heater, Daniel Johnson, Loudon Kent, Craig Lamoy, Andew Menke, Donald Peloquin, Miles Pencke, Tyler Tynon and Neil Willmart.

Roger LaPlatney, P.S.





Legrand Contract Ratified

L.U. 1040 (em), HARTFORD, CT — IBEW Local 1040 successfully negotiated and the membership ratified a new three-year contract with Legrand/Wiremold Company of Hartford in April.

Negotiations were conducted with the skilled leadership of IBEW Int. Rep. John L. Faria and a great Local 1040 team.

Congratulations and thanks to Int. Rep. Faria, Local 1040 Bus. Mgr. Lorraine Tinsley, and all officers and members involved for achieving successful negotiations.

Don McNamara, P.S.


LU1040

IBEW Local 1040 team, joined by Int. Rep. John L. Faria (back row, right).


Organizing is Key

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Our Southwest Energy Solutions and Tucson Electric Power members at the Springerville Generating Station have been very successful in their internal organizing efforts. These members have been spreading the word of the union's importance and why we should support the organization that watches over our benefits, pay and workplace safety.

Our IBEW officers applaud our Springerville members and thank you for your trust, support and dedication; we appreciate your tireless efforts to further the purpose of our local union by serving on the safety committee, serving as a union steward or by being a union member, all of which … "Make Us a Stronger Union."

Welcome to new members: Charles Lee, Joseph Hargett, Ethan Myers, Jeffery Glazer, Juan Lopez, Joshua Slade, David Stanneart, Stephanie Klontz and America Martinez.

R. Cavaletto, P.S.


LU1116

Local 1116 Bro. Rick Ryan, Springerville Unit chairman, is all smiles with recent organizing success of new members.


Election of Officers

L.U. 1634 (em), CORALVILLE, IA — An election of officers for Local 1634 was recently held.

Elected were: Bus. Mgr./Pres. Charles Holder, Vice Pres. Stephanie Bails, Rec. Sec. Sue Miles, Fin. Sec. Shelley Anderton, Treas. Sue Gerlits, and Executive board members Jeremiah Sinnwell, Doug McColl, Jessica Trimpe, Freedom Sims and Dan Holub.

A special thank-you goes to the election committee: Judge Bert Heitman and tellers Mary Kennedy, Jeff Miller, Raejean Fairbanks and Jean Sheppard.

Stephanie Bails, V.P.