L.U. 6 (c,i,st&u), SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Local 6 proudly participated in the 162nd annual San Francisco St. Patrick's Day parade on March 16. As always, we rode on an impressive member-built float, tossing beads and waving to the crowd as we made our way up Market Street.

The Asian American Cultural Society, comprising Local 6 members, recently celebrated the new lunar year, welcoming in the Year of the Snake. At the celebratory dinner, state Sen. Leland Yee was honored with the Community Leader of the Year award.

Local 6 also has a newly formed Latino Society Club.

On the organizing front, our efforts to reach out are off and running with the Member-to-Member initiative, the goal of which is to connect to each of our members in person.

Tom O'Rourke, A.B.M.

L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Hello, brothers and sisters. Work in our area is still slow, but hopes are high that things will pick up with the approach of summer. If you are looking for work, call the referral office. They are in contact with other locals across the country and keep a list of places where work is available. If you are currently working on the road, please contact the referral office and provide them with any information you have on traveling. You could save some travel time and expenses for your fellow local members.

Congratulations to recently retired Local 8 members: Thomas Beck, Phil Davis, John Dimaria, Harry Jung, James Lemble, Bruce McCance, Don Myers, Danny O'Kane, Rick Reiger and Diana Schwind. Thank you, everyone, for all your hard work!

Seven Local 8 members received wages, benefits and penalties as part of a $35,000 settlement with Fortney & Weygandt and MJR Electric.

Congratulations to all the IBEW members who recently worked on the Reformer Three Project at BP. John Schlagheck from the Northwest Ohio Building Trades received a letter from BP praising everyone for a job well done. Over 2 million man-hours were worked without a single lost-time accident. Thank you to everyone for working safe.

Bryan Emerick, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — On Palm Sunday with cold, wet weather threatening, Local 16 hosted its 5th annual Easter Egg Hunt. More than 100 people turned out for this fun-filled family activity. The 3,500 colorful treasures were quickly gathered, and the crowd retreated into the union hall for door prizes and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Thanks to Bro. Monquale Owsley for filling the suit, and to around 30 people who helped put it all together.

In early spring the membership held a barbecue fundraiser for two of its own. Around 40 people pitched in to smoke ribs and butts. Some of the brothers, including Agent Jeff Brady, worked through the night to ensure the sale's success. Hopefully more of these events can be held soon.

Evansville's office of The State Group Inc. (USA) recently celebrated multiple safety achievements with a meal for employees and honored guests. Among the prestigious awards received were: the Indiana Construction Association Gold Summit Award, the Thomas J. Reynolds Safety Award, and the National Maintenance Agreements Policy Committee's (NMAPC) Zero Injury Safety Award. Congratulations to State Groups' union electricians and management personnel for making this possible!

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Your local officers and agents have been extremely busy. We attended the IBEW Construction and Maintenance Conference in April. The Minority Coalition held its 9th Annual Black History Month Luncheon. Also scheduled are: a Dollars Against Diabetes golf outing on June 3; the Manassas, VA, picnic on June 8; and the Edgewater, MD, picnic on Aug. 3.

Local 26 election results will be announced at the general membership meeting on Friday, June 14. Newly elected officers will be sworn in at the general membership meeting on Friday, July 12, at the union hall, 4371 Parliament Place, Lanham, MD.

Bus. Mgr. Chuck Graham presented retired former business manager Robert McAlwee with his 65-year pin.

We are saddened by the recent passing of members Andrew Y. Tingen, Donald K. Rye and Lewis S. Orndorff. They will be missed.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Douglas Burner, Thomas Cave, Daniel Duvall, Jackie Friend, Edward Frejosky, John Long, Russell McCarty, Terrence Schlegel, Donald Wilson, Christopher Gillen, Gregory Haaser, Daniel Jones, John Magnanelli Jr., Wieslaw Porebski, Phillip Robinson, Richard Semler, Gary Stephens, David Rogovsky, Scott Bates, Michael Bell, Elvin Cavanaugh III, David Click Jr., Ernest Diehl, Raymond Gemmill, Allan Ng, Dennis Wallace, Robert Wooten and Larry Worrell.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — Local 34 elections are in June. With them, comes a new generation of leadership. We have been blessed with steady leadership for decades. This election season, however, sees many new leaders stepping up and the many longtime leaders stepping down. Among those planning to retire sometime later this year are: Quincy Bus. Rep. Rich Jones, Galesburg Bus. Rep. Mike Hall, and Rec. Sec. Denny Greiner.

Rich Jones began his service to Local 34 in 1998 as an Executive Board member. In 2002, he was appointed Quincy business representative, a tough market for union labor. Rich has served the Quincy membership valiantly and led Local 34 into the digital age. Thank you, Bro. Jones.

Mike Hall was elected to the Executive Board in 1992. In 1998, he was appointed Galesburg business representative. Mike has built Local 34's organizing program from the ground up while faithfully representing the Galesburg membership. Thank you, Bro. Hall.

The granddaddy of them all, though, is Denny Greiner. Denny began his service to Local 34 as vice president in 1989. When a recording secretary was needed in 1992, Denny shifted to that office. In 2011, Denny served as delegate to the Vancouver Convention. This June marks the conclusion of Denny's tenure in office. He is Local 34's longest-serving officer at 24 continuous years! Thank you, Bro. Greiner.

Mark McArthy, Sec.-Treas.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — A number of Local 38 members are working on a project at Marymount Hospital. The project consists of a three-floor surgery center renovation and expansion requiring permanent and emergency power equipment, as well as generator consolidation and upgrades. The Zenith Electric crew is pictured standing in front of the main power distribution for the newly added surgery center; at this writing, the crew is working on the fourth and final phase of the project. Work on the project started in January 2011 employing around 30 wiremen during peak times; project completion is scheduled for May 2013.

Some of the work has begun on the former Ameritrust Bank site at 9th and Euclid. The site is being converted into a multi-use development consisting of apartments, retail and restaurants, as well as the new Cuyahoga County Headquarters.

When the county moves its offices from the current site next to the new Medical Mart/Convention Center, that move will open up the space for development. The county hopes to draw a hotel chain with 600 to 800 rooms and attach it to the new complex.

The Local 38 picnic will be Sunday, July 7, at Cedar Point. Details will be available on the local Web site at www.ibew38.org.

Dennis Meaney, B.M.

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — On behalf of Local 40, I wish to recognize all the hard work of our office staff — Bessie Capili, Shirley Boswell, Robyn Capili and Hilda Shinn — to help keep our union running like a well-oiled machine. Local 40 also thanks the staff on behalf of the membership for their commitment, which enables us to promote union causes and all the benefits associated with being in the union.

Bessie Capili has been our office manager since 2001. Shirley Boswell, our administrative assistant who is currently out on disability, was hired in 2000. Robyn Capili, administrative assistant, joined us in 2002. And Hilda Shinn, our newest administrative assistant, was hired in 2010. They work as a great team whether helping members with their dues, speaking to potential travelers, selling merchandise, providing information for soon-to-be retirees, or answering members' questions. They are a great asset to our union, and Local 40 is proud to have them representing us in the office.

Local 40 also congratulates our newest class of graduating apprentices: Rene Doratt, Brendon Harding, Jermel Jamison, Tim Lewis, Mario Monge, Anthony Mora, Michael Villasenor and Stephan Davis, Outstanding Apprentice of the Year award recipient, class of 2012. "Good job" to all the graduates for their hard work, and best of success in the future.

Marc Flynn, Pres.

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 held its Annual Dinner Dance & Apprentice Graduation on Saturday, April 13, at the Marriott Hartford Downtown.

We congratulate all the Local 42 members who graduated to become journeyman linemen: Mark Belanger, Cameron Chatham, Brian Cote, Ryan DiStefano, Matthew Ewers, Renee Gizzi, Joshua Joubert, Joshua Kiss, Jonathan Lachapelle, Markus Lestrade, Daniel Phillips, Lee Poggi, Justin Robbins, Martin Santulli, Eric Smith, Tyler Ursin and Joseph Van Gorder.

Congratulations also to members recently receiving pins for years of service. Award recipients are as follows. For 60 years of service — Herman Kristopik; for 55 years — Robert Basmajian, John Bullock and Francis Galica; and for 50 years — James Fields, Brine Fitzgerald, James D. Fraser and William McDermott.

Please save the dates for upcoming union functions: the Dinner Cruise on June 15; the Chartered Fishing Trip on July 13; and the Family Picnic on Aug. 24. The Motorcycle Run was held May 18.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts&st), PORTLAND, OR — Please plan to attend our special IBEW Local 48 Summer Picnic. This year's picnic is extraordinary because it continues the celebration of Local 48's 100th anniversary. The picnic will begin at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 14, at Oaks Park Amusement Park. Oaks Park is America's oldest continuously operating amusement park, and it is a great setting for IBEW families to celebrate our long-standing history in the community. The Local 48 picnic is well attended by members — and Bus. Mgr. Clif Davis expects record-breaking attendance again this year. Come enjoy the food and drink, rides bracelets* and entertainment!

All members and retirees will be given Grand Prize Raffle tickets at the door. Prizes this year will include: grand prize — vacation destination travel package within the IBEW Ninth District; 2nd prize — vacation on the Oregon Coast travel package; and 3rd prize — Portland City Bar and Grill coupon. Just bring your IBEW family and your spirit of brotherhood to the picnic at Oaks Park. Let IBEW Local 48 provide the rest!

Volunteers are needed! Please contact Kierstan Dodd at Picnic@IBEW48.com or by phone at (503) 889-3662.

*Four free ride bracelets per family (ages 16 and under). Bracelets for ages 17 and older: $5 Limited, $7 Deluxe.

Robert Blair, P.S.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Are you making a difference at your local union? At the general membership meeting on May 7, nominations for election to local union office were made and entered into the record. As you read this, the election results might already be posted. (At press time, a tally of the ballots was scheduled for June 8, with posting of results to follow.)

Are you making a difference in your neighborhood? We recommend you pay attention to other elections in addition to our Local 68 officer elections. The municipal elections are quickly coming up, to include School Board and City Council races. Could it be that you are the best person for one of these positions? Check with your locality to see whether you are eligible for the School Board or for City Council; and make a difference in your neighborhood!

Summer is upon us; please remember inherent dangers of high temperatures and overexposure to the sun; protect yourself by drinking lots of fluids and using sunscreen.

Our Local 68 Picnic will be Aug. 17 at the Westminster Elks Lodge from 12 noon to 3 p.m. (Horseshoe Tourney begins at 10:30 a.m.) Contact Bill Watters at (720) 563-7298 or bwattters@myrgroup.com for details and to help make it a successful event.

We extend deepest sympathy to families of our recently deceased brothers: Paul V. Clerkin, Daniel M. Friesen and Ken F. Carlson.

Ed Knox, Pres.

L.U. 80 (i&o), NORFOLK, VA — Local 80 congratulates the recent retirees and thanks them for their years of service to the IBEW and Local 80. They are: Thomas Bosio, Mark A. Frazier Sr., Edward Ferebee, Ronald Gustafson, John Hague, Charles Hembree, Lee Norton, Michael Parker, Joseph Thornton Jr. and Cornelius Turner Sr.

Local 80 mourns the loss of recently deceased members James D. Holloman Jr., retired, and Danny Ray Nanney. The local extends our sympathies to their families.

Bus. Mgr. Matthew Yonka wishes to thank Bro. Warren Kilgore for his tireless work as a Local 80 organizer. Bro. Kilgore spent over four years working on the staff, spending long hours relentlessly working to organize electricians throughout the jurisdiction. Bro. Kilgore, your service is appreciated and you will truly be missed.

The Volunteer Organizing Committee of Local 80 meets the third Tuesday each month at the hall. Any member interested in working on the VOC should contact the hall for more information. Remember that each of us took an obligation to take an active role in the local. In order for our Brotherhood to grow, our entire Brotherhood has to make the effort to do more to "organize all workers in the entire electrical industry … into local unions."

W. Dennis Floyd, A.B.M.

L.U. 82 (em,i,mt&rtb), DAYTON, OH — It has been a long time since Local 82 sent in an article and we apologize. I can't think of a better way to get back in the swing of things than with this article.

IBEW Local 82 Bros. Charles "Chuck" Taylor and Jeremy VanDyne recently put their own safety aside to come to the aid of a fellow brother in distress. Second-year apprentice Adam Trefz was hooking up lights on a school project when he got hung up in the 277 volt circuit. Bro. Trefz tried to kick his ladder out but was unable to do so. Hearing the sounds of a fellow worker in distress, Bros. Taylor and VanDyne came to his aid. Chuck grabbed Adam by the legs and pulled him out of the ceiling, and Jeremy was there to catch him before he hit the ground causing further injury.

Without the quick reaction of these two gentlemen, I might be writing about the death of a member. Bro. Taylor and Bro. VanDyne received the IBEW Lifesaving Award from Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill. The award was presented at the Feb. 4 local union meeting by Fourth District Int. Rep. Donald W. Vidourek

Doug Searcy, P.S.

L.U. 94 (lctt,nst&u), CRANBURY, NJ — Local 94 is proudly endorsing state Sen. Barbara Buono in her election campaign for governor of New Jersey. Sen. Buono is a strong supporter of labor and working families.

Sen. Buono is fighting a tough, uphill battle; Gov. Christie has maintained a popularity rate that is unprecedented for a Republican in a Democratic state. Local 94 will support Barbara Buono for governor. She is the only representative who is willing to stand up against the current administration.

Although we are only one of 20 IBEW locals in New Jersey, we hope that we will make a difference by endorsing the candidate who will support all unions and trades.

Carla Wolfe, P.S.

L.U. 102 (em,govt,i,mt,o&ws), PATERSON, NJ — Matt Buckelew, a Local 102 member, approached us with a question — "I would like to do some work with Habitat for Humanity. Would Local 102 be able to help me out?" What has resulted is a partnership involving contractors, members, Habitat for Humanity, local communities, and of course the families who are blessed with the opportunity of home ownership due to the work of so many. Since that day we have worked on 11 homes, nine of them complete with solar.

The common factor is Matt; he coordinates and runs every job. We are proud of everyone involved and they will tell you Matt is the heartbeat of this effort. His work has directly impacted the lives of 11 families in New Jersey and that list will continue to grow. His passion to serve the community is easy to see; at each house dedication, you can see the smile on Matt's face as another family opens the door to their new home for the first time.

Matt, thank you for your dedication to Local 102 and Habitat for Humanity. Most of all, on behalf of all the families you and your volunteers have helped, thank you for providing a safe haven to those in need!

Bernard Corrigan, Pres./B.R.

L.U. 108 (ees,em,es,lctt,mar,mt,rtb,rts,s,spa,t&u), TAMPA, FL — 2013 is a busy year thus far. In January we started negotiations with Tampa Electric Company. Members voted to ratify the TECO contract on April 10.

In February, Local 108 participated in the Union Sportsman Alliance Clay Shoot in Lakeland, FL. Our team included members Chris Parsels, Brent Ruedeman, Bill Liles, Travis Hardy and Gary Green.

On March 23, we held our annual golf tournament to raise funds for Tampa General Hospital's Burn Unit in memory of our fallen brothers. Fifty-two teams participated and one of the teams sponsored by Local 108 came in first place. Team members were Chris Parsels, Bill Liles, Jason Davis and Eddie Jones.

IBEW Local 108 sponsored the Annual BBQ Cook-off contest held April 6 by TECO/IBEW Local 108 members to raise money for Operation Helping Hands, an organization that provides assistance for families of wounded active-duty military personnel.

We are organizing Young Workers of Florida in an effort to get our younger brothers and sisters more involved with the union movement.

Local 108 congratulates members who recently retired. They are as follows: from TECO — Warren Colhouer, William Crockett, Gregory Fowler, James Gentry, Carl Montalbano, Michael Peterson and Robert Shephard; from Peace River Electric Cooperative — Joe Mackay and Alan Southwell; and from Johnson Controls Inc. — James Markosen.

William Cate, P.S.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se,spa&t), KANSAS CITY, MO — Retired Local 124 member Joe Runions joined three other Missouri IBEW members who were elected to the Missouri House. We thank Joe and the others who stepped up to work hard for workers' rights. Although these wins didn't save Missouri from conservative super-majorities, we remain optimistic that they will raise awareness of the needs of working families within our state legislature. Unfortunately, the far-right agenda is the flavor of the week here, just as it is in many other Midwest states.

We remember the following deceased members: William D. Baxley, Wayne Burd, Steve Fennesy, Paul D. Foster, Lawrence D. Jewett, Johnnie J. Neitch, Robert S. Saunders, James C. Tripod and Donald E. Van Black.

Congratulations to recently retired members: Greg Carter, Bernard Gnefkow, Larry Goodman, Bobby Hyatt, Danny L. Knox, Robert N. Lindley, Stephen A. Milam, John B. Moreno Jr., Stephen Nolte, Richard M. Roberts, John Setter, Darrel Shackelford, Everett E. Shatto, Oliver Williams and Fred Wilson.

Steve Morales, P.S.

L.U. 130 (i), NEW ORLEANS, LA — Local 130 congratulates former business manager Clay Leon, who has taken a position with the IBEW Fifth District Office as International Representative. Bro. Chet Held was appointed business manager to fill the unexpired term. Bus. Mgr. Held has served in many capacities with Local 130, most recently as president. He will do a fine job representing the members and moving this local forward. Bro. Chad Lauga was appointed local president.

As of this writing, bids for the VA Hospital project were due April 10; the expected award date should be around June 23. We have two union joint-venture groups bidding against a nonunion military contractor that has been awarded multiple VA projects across the country.

We are also starting to see our contractors pick up more work recently, as a result of market recovery efforts and the use of CEs and CWs. I know many members don't like to hear those words — but WE, the IBEW, are now doing the jobs that nonunion contractors were typically doing just a year ago. Since 2010, we have taken 394,696 man-hours from the nonunion and paid over $3.5 million in members' benefits, just as a result of our contractors using these tools.

Chad Lauga, P.S.

L.U.134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — At this year's St. Patrick's Day PAC Party on Saturday, March 16, we did not beat last year's warm temperatures — but we did beat last year's attendance with well over 1,500 members and family participating. Doors opened at 12 noon and we had a steady flow of participants, especially after the downtown parade, in which many of our members marched. Numerous politicians visited us at Boyle Auditorium including: Illinois state senators and representatives, the Illinois speaker of the House, the president of Cook County, the mayor of Chicago, the Illinois attorney general, several city of Chicago aldermen, along with various local and township officeholders who had elections scheduled for April.

Lively dancers from the Dillon-Gavin School of Irish Dancing performed on our stage. We were also entertained by the Shannon Rover Marching Band and enjoyed plenty of food, refreshments and good spirits to warm us on a windy Chicago day. The following week many of our honored guests contacted Bus. Mgr. Terry Allen to thank him for being included in such a wonderful celebration.

Frank Cunningham, R.S.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — The Midstate Electrical Training Center 2013 Graduation Banquet was held Saturday, May 18 to honor our 28 inside apprentice graduates. The graduates were recognized for their accomplishment in successfully completing apprenticeship training.

Honored were: Jacob Berg, Aaron Bleavins, Cody Burns, Wayne Durbin, B.J. Durbin, Aaron Erlenbush, Josh Evans, Dennis Hanner, P.J. Hart, Travis Hendrickson, Brodie House, Mike Janssen, Justin Martin, Andy Murphy, Mike Nall, Tristan Nave, Justin Nave, Colby Peters, Dustin Plummer, Adam Pollard, Jerod Sarver, Doug Shafer, Kurt Slayback, Kyle Slayback, Jacob Songer, Josh Welch, Kalen Whitney and Cliff Wilson.

Congratulations to everyone!

Rich Underwood, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — On Wednesday, June 5, 2013, elections were held in our local. By the time this reaches you our new officers will have been chosen. Whether or not your candidate won or lost, please support our new officers. It is still a terrible time in our country and in particular in the construction industry and our local; we need to all remember that we truly are in this together. The words "I feel your pain" usually mean nothing when the person hearing them is in dire straits but I would like to believe that in Local 150 we do feel each other's pain. We wish to thank to all our members who are leaving office for their years of service.

This is just a reminder about our summer activities in Local 150. Saturday, June 29, 2013, is our local picnic. We will be in our usual spot at Lakewood Forest Preserve; always a fun day for the entire family.

We will be having a golf outing this year. On Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013, the golf outing will take place at the Fox Lake Country Club at 9 a.m. Please, no complaints about the weather as that is something that none of us have any control over, particularly the golf committee. Dress appropriately for the weather conditions!

In solidarity,

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — As was predicted in our last article, Local 158 became flush with work in March, and it happened all at the same time. We once again need to thank our traveling brothers and sisters and our members as well for helping us man all our work.

Calls came in for Bay Ship and Marinette Marine, two of our local shipyards. We filled calls for the Lambeau Field renovation, Schreiber's headquarters project in downtown Green Bay and Associated Bank's corporate office, as well as supplied manpower for an outage at Point Beach Nuclear Plant. We could not have done this without the help of others, both people looking for manpower for us and those who accepted the calls.

Our local celebrated its 94th anniversary at its annual banquet on April 27 at the Best Western near Lambeau Field. It was well attended and enjoyed by all. We gave out years-of-service and retiree pins to eligible members and also recognized our graduating apprentices. A great meal was served and lively music was played. The banquet is always a great chance to meet up with people you haven't seen in a while.

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 160 (lctt,o&u), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — There is still a great deal of work in Minnesota for outside line construction, and many travelers are being referred out to staff the various projects.

CAPX-2020, a large electrical transmission infrastructure improvement project, dominates the workload with large transmission line and substation upgrades and additions. Wind generation is also playing a big role in keeping IBEW members working. Minnesota is in the top five states in wind farm generation with over 2,700 megawatt available capacity and growing. There is also continuing work on the light rail line that will run between Minneapolis and St. Paul. The Minneapolis/St. Paul Central Corridor Light Rail is expected to be completed by 2014.

The Missouri Valley Line Constructors Apprentice training facility, which was housed in the Local 160 office building, is being relocated to Rosemount, MN, near the Rosemount area vocational college. The new facility offers classroom and outdoor structures onsite. Now all classroom and outdoor training, including pole climbing, will take place at one site.

Local 160 held its annual stewards training on March 2. Two law offices donated time to talk to the group. A refresher on Minnesota Workers Compensation was presented by law firm Gadtke & Brenna, PA. Also, labor attorney Dick Williams spoke about the stewards system and how important stewards are to a union.

James P. Brereton, P.S.

L.U. 196 (govt,mt,o,t&u), ROCKFORD, IL — Congratulations to Local 196 lineman apprentice Darrell Holmstrom, who was selected as IBEW Hour Power "Apprentice of the Year" for 2012! Bro. Holmstrom is a deserving recipient, who has represented the IBEW, our local, and the ALBAT program in a positive manner from the day he was indentured. He received the award in April at the 2013 Construction and Maintenance Conference in Washington, D.C. Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill made the presentation and it was a moment Bro. Holmstrom will never forget. Great job, Darrell!

Work continues to be very good in Northern Illinois mostly due to the fact that Com Ed, with the assistance of several Outside and Utility locals of the IBEW, helped pass legislation in 2011 (and again in 2013) to allow a formula-based rate structure to recoup the costs of updating an out-of-date system to a new "smart grid." The update was way overdue and will help draw industry and jobs to Illinois to take advantage of a healthy, secure electric system. The legislation has already created over 800 jobs in Illinois and will, at the peak of construction, create more than 2,000 new jobs for our industry. Cooperation is the key — power in numbers.

As always, work safe every minute of every day and attend your monthly meeting!

Eric Patrick, B.M.

L.U. 222 (o), ORLANDO, FL — Greetings from Local 222 officers and members.

We are enjoying full employment currently and looking forward to a very busy summer.

Local 222 is also planning our first annual Labor Day Bike Ride for Saturday, Aug. 31 and Sunday, Sept. 1. On that Saturday we will ride from Local 349 in Miami to Local 915 in Tampa. On Sunday we will ride from Local 915 to Local 222 in Ocala, where we will have our end of ride celebration. Anyone who wishes to participate should contact Willy Dezayas at (305) 324-1215, or visit our Web site at www.ibew222.org.

We had a great turnout for the March meeting in Jacksonville where we had the opportunity to present Bus. Mgr. Mike Bell with a plaque honoring his 40 years of service to the IBEW. Congratulations, Mike.

We wish everyone a safe summer, and remember to participate in your local union activities.

Bill Hitt, Pres.

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — We are proud to have recently commissioned over a half megawatt of solar PV for the City of Watsonville in Santa Cruz County, CA, supporting the county's efforts to embrace renewable energy. The project, which put 20 members to work, was spread over three sites, utilizing various types of ground and roof mount systems.

The installed roof arrays are: an 89.2 kilowatt system on the Water Resources Administration/Lab LEED Platinum building; 84.3 KW on City Hall; and 145.1 KW on the Waste Treatment Building. In addition, a ground mounted array of 225.5 KW was installed at the Water Resources Center.

There are two notable elements for the Water Resource Center. First, the roof array offsets all the Administration/Lab electrical requirements. Second, the ground array offsets the annual electrical requirements for a 350 HP recycled water pump. This helps local farmers reduce their coastal well usage, thereby reducing aquifer overdraft and resultant saltwater intrusion.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — We have spent the last few months discussing several projects that we hope will bring our membership many great employment opportunities for some time to come. By the time you read this, we hope that these projects are well underway and we are experiencing full employment.

As we waited for these projects to break ground, we hosted a solar power installation workshop. Staff from American Solar Partners came to discuss the latest developments and benefits of solar power. Around 80 local members participated. ASP presented a discussion of the tax incentives and grants available, the equipment used and the solar installation process itself. After the workshop, many attendees signed up for site evaluations — and I am sure several will be enjoying the benefits of solar power before the summer is over. We look forward to hosting another workshop to hear our own members discuss their solar installation experience.

Another important event that kept us busy this past spring was the negotiation and ratification of a new three-year contract for our members at Fairpoint Communications. Congratulations to those members, and may everyone have a safe and enjoyable summer.

Michael Torres, P.S.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — At this early spring writing, work is really starting to ramp up in central Oregon. The "Pillar" project in Prineville has been going into Book II steadily, and we thank the traveling brothers and sisters from around the country for their fine work and union brotherhood. These large projects require a very short notice when quality craftsmen are needed and Local 280 has been fortunate to have available the best trained wireman ready to hit the ground running.

We are also thankful of the volunteerism that our local members have given along with the travelers. Upcoming events like our picnic, political actions, Habitat for Humanity, fair booths and organizing are just some of the activities that need your help and thought. Local 280 is very involved and respected in Oregon and it is because of your dedication and commitment. Now that summer is almost upon us, there are many events that will need your help. You will find that it is not only fun, but also helpful to all and well worth the effort. Come to the union meeting to find out how to help or ask for volunteers to help you!

Work safe and enjoy the summer!

Jerry Fletcher, P.S.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — IBEW travelers have helped us man the work at the Monticello nuclear power plant, and we thank them and their locals for supporting us during this outage.

In February Local 292 took first place in the North Dakota IBEW Ice Fishing Tournament for the third year in a row. This fun event is organized by Locals 714 and 1426.

A stewards training session was held at our newly remodeled office's main conference room, less than a month after the open house. The Guy Alexander Conference Room, named after one of Local 292's founding fathers, is designed to serve both as a board room and as a training room. The room is furnished with USA Made/Union Made furniture and also is used to host the History Committee's movie night on the first Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m.

The work picture is improving with more projects throughout the jurisdiction. Our organizing is going full strength — including bannering of a national retail chain that hires nonunion contractors, signing a nonunion shop and bringing experienced electrical workers into our JATC.

We have several brotherhood events this summer: a MS150 Bike Ride from Duluth to Minneapolis, a Retirees Spring Picnic, a Fishing Trip, a Golf Tournament and a Family Picnic.

Carl Madsen, P.S./B.R.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — Congratulations to IBEW members at the Vermont Electric Co-op, who successfully pulled off their first safety summit without a hitch. It is planned as an annual event. More than 70 members took part in the all-day summit at the headquarters in Johnson, VT. Guest speakers were invited to talk to members to reinforce safety in the workplace.

Members with the Morristown Police Department signed a new three-year contract with the town. Congratulations to members at the department who negotiated the agreement securing increased benefits. Don't forget to practice for your fitness bonus.

Vermont Yankee successfully completed RFO 30 in April. More than 90 electricians from Local 300 assisted in the refueling outage at the plant. IBEW members at Vermont Yankee did an outstanding job as usual. Congratulations on a job well done.

Local 300 is planning a motorcycle ride sometime this fall to commemorate members of the IBEW and Local 300. Stay tuned for dates, times and locations. We hope to raise money for Local 300 members who are in need of assistance during times of loss and hardship.

Make safety a priority. In solidarity,

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

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill addressed the IBEW Ninth District Organizers Conference in Las Vegas about our industry and our union.

His message was simple: IBEW Ninth District market share has fallen to 30 percent. Union membership is falling. Our old, ineffective methods of promoting our union must be replaced with new tactics and new ideas.

Gone are the days when we could count on jobs being union jobs. We must embrace and include input from our membership. We can no longer rely on others to do our work for us, whether it is local politicians, our contractors or our neighbors.

Being a union member means more than driving around with a union seal on the back window of your pickup truck. It means getting back to the ideals of our union — skilled and knowledgeable craftsmen performing an honest day's work in a safe environment for a fair rate of pay.

Pres. Hill delivered this sobering message that holds us all accountable — from the highest officers of our local to the newest apprentices.

No one is born into the union — we are all "organized." Hopefully, we can return our Brotherhood to a path of success before it is too late.

Bob Lilley, P.S.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — Second generation IBEW Bro. Chris Genet recently traveled to Yixing, China, to compete in the "Tian DiLong Cup" 2013 China Yixing Shuai Jiao International Invitational Tournament. Throughout the tournament, challengers from 28 countries and six continents competed for medals in Shuai Jiao, a wrestling style of Kung Fu. Chris won second place in the 100 KG weight class, beating several competitors including those from Hong Kong and Brazil, while earning international respect and gaining valuable experience for future competition. Congratulations, Chris!

On Saturday, March 23, the annual Local 306 Easter Egg Hunt was held at the Uniontown Community Park. Despite the low temperatures, there was a high turnout and everyone had a great time. Thanks again to our Social Committee and everyone who helped.

Work in the area continues to improve with new and ongoing projects — including the Children's Hospital addition, Giant Eagle stores, First Energy Data Center and the new Hard Rock Café Racino — due in part to a project labor agreement recently negotiated by our local union representatives.

Please remember to patronize the businesses and stores that help to employ us, and be sure to let them know that's the reason you shop there.

Work safe; vote smart.

Thomas Wright, P.S.

L.U. 320 (catv,t&u), POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — Graham E. Kelder Sr. of Cornwall, NY, passed away on Feb. 19 this year. Born Aug. 15, 1927, Bro. Kelder was an IBEW Local 320 member for more than five decades.

In 1957 he became a Central Hudson Employee and IBEW Local 320 member. He started as a maintenance worker in Central Hudson and worked his way up to chief control operator. He worked for Central Hudson for 32 years, and during that time he was strongly involved in the union and held several local positions. Graham was the recording secretary, Bylaws Committee chairman and Clam Bake chairman. He was a longtime, dedicated union member and will be missed.

Allison Morris, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — In 2012, the Sacramento Area Electrical Training Center/JATC was awarded the Energy Star Award by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Since then, our Training Center has undergone construction in phases to increase its energy savings by installing advanced lighting controls and a PV/Solar Parking Canopy. Local 340 is "walking the talk" by showcasing the many benefits of electrical energy improvements to its industry partners and customers. We also installed two electric vehicle charging stations; one is used regularly by one of our JATC instructors who owns a new Volt and is enjoying major savings!

I wish to thank the various Local 340 committees and clubs: the Local 340 Sportsman's Club, EWMC, Safety Committee, Women's Club, EIAP Committee, the Local 340 Softball Team and our Community Service Committee. They are active throughout the year representing Local 340 and the IBEW at events to better our communities. Members of these clubs are also politically active by volunteering during election season to walk precincts, phone bank and get out the vote for labor-friendly politicians regardless of party.

The work picture is still very slow. I thank the locals that are providing work to our traveling members.

Rest in peace: Bros. Carl Monroy, Rudolph Nobriga, Richard Painter and Alton "Al" Porter. They were great electricians and very proud union members — and they will be missed.

A.C. Steelman, B.M.

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Local 364's distinguished former business manager Bro. Darrin Golden made a great and positive impact during his decade in office. He recently was appointed by Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill as an International Representative assigned to the IBEW CIR/Bylaws and Appeals Department at the I.O.

Bro. Golden's legacy is profound. Under his leadership we upgraded, renovated and doubled our union hall's size; upgraded technology systems; and implemented internal policies and procedures to serve the membership more effectively. We now occupy a completely modernized, updated hall.

Additionally, under his leadership we've upgraded our training center and transitioned from night school to a day-school model, which is now accredited and degree granting. Our local celebrated Bro. Golden's last day here, fittingly, during a union meeting.

Toward the meeting's end, Bro. Golden supportively passed the reigns of leadership to Bro. Tom Sink, who was unanimously appointed as business manager by our Executive Board to fill the remainder of the unexpired term.

Cast from the same mold as Bro. Golden, Bus. Mgr. Sink brings 30 years of union loyalty and dedication to the office of business manager. He pledges to continue to add and build on the positive qualities of Local 364 and to determinedly serve our members.

Charlie Laskonis, B.A./Org.

L.U. 520 (i&spa), AUSTIN, TX — The work picture in our area has greatly improved since our last report, getting our members back to work. The Flextronics project, with signatory contractor KST, and other projects have manned up recently.

With the increase in the calls, we have also recruited new members and last month brought the JATC's first-year class into the local as new members.

Congratulations and welcome to all of our new IBEW Local 520 members. Our New Member Orientation as well as the Seventh District Code of Excellence sessions are held monthly and are open to all members.

Lane Price, Pres.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — IBEW Local 558 proudly celebrated our 95th anniversary on Feb. 28 this year. The local was established on Feb. 28, 1918.

In 1918, Local 558 was located on Tennessee Street in Florence, AL, above The Pool Room and later relocated to Court Street in Florence above the old Lamar Furniture Store. In 1938, the local moved to 3325 Jackson Highway in Sheffield and purchased the building in 1940. The local remained at this location until Jan. 29, 2007, when it moved to 1803 E. 17th St. in Sheffield. We are fortunate to have a 30,000 square foot facility, which is also shared by the North Alabama Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center.

We will never know what our founding fathers would have expected this local to evolve into, but I do believe they would be very proud of what it has become today. The membership is the backbone of the local and we are thankful to have a strong, proud, and dedicated membership. May our next 95 years be as rewarding as the last.

Mac Sloan, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 570 (i,mo,spa&u), TUCSON, AZ — Local 570 moved the annual picnic to the spring this year and had one of our best turnouts of members and their families. Thank you to all the members who volunteered to make this a great picnic.

We extend a special thank-you to Bro. Tom Berry — who has served for more than 20 years as local union president and almost 40 years as a member — for all his hard work and dedication. Tom was elected president in July 1992. He plans to retire in July this year. Best wishes on your retirement, Bro. Berry.

Scott W. Toot, Organizer

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — Bus. Mgr. Bob Carr awarded 40-year pins to members Jimmy Darby, Butch Cox, Al Brower, Dave Donat and Local 606 Pres. Jimmy Singletary. We are all proud of our brothers who reached this prestigious milestone in their career. Congratulations and thanks to them for their outstanding service.

Congratulations also to Jim Sullivan and Taylor Skipper for volunteering in the Cure for Diabetes effort.

Thanks to member Clay McNeely, who has spearheaded the "RENEW" program for Local 606. Clay has reached out to younger members and has made face-to-face contact with 150 apprentices in getting this program off the ground. Clay and Local 606 are committed to ensuring that a new generation of IBEW members is active and engaged in the future.

Fernando Rendon, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 636 (as,catv,em,spa &u),TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA — Following the lead of Corporate America, Corporate Canada is nurturing (and financing) a movement that promotes the politics of envy — making others jealous of what unions have fought so hard to win for our members, and encouraging them to support efforts to strip such rights and benefits away.

Witness the escalating attacks on the rights of working people by governments at every level, choosing austerity over prosperity. With the middle class already on life support, the right wing wants to now pull the plug. So, how will we respond to this "Code Blue"?

In his White Paper on "Flexible Labour Markets," Tim Hudak sees what's happening in America as a model for building a "Conservative" Ontario. Among other things that means: elimination of the Rand Formula, introduction of "right-to-work" legislation, privatization, cuts to health care, education and pensions, and tax cuts for corporations and the wealthy only.

Brothers and sisters, no one can do everything, but we can all do something — and the time has come for us to act. The losses in Michigan, Wisconsin and elsewhere in the U.S. are our losses too. We must change the narrative from, "Why should union members have that?" to "Hey, why can't I have what union members have?"

This is our time. We didn't start this fight, but we can certainly end it on our terms. In the battle for justice, fairness, dignity and respect, we cannot back down — Carpe diem!

Paddy Vlanich, P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — This spring work picture is better than during much of the last few years. The book is moving, but we are still far short of full employment. The practice facility for the Redskins is moving along. Also, by the time you read this, we will hopefully have finished one data center project and started the next; at press time, we are still waiting to hear who is awarded the job.

As summer progresses, we will need help with canvassing for the fall election, as well as volunteers and participants for charitable events. Come help out and spend a good day with some of your brothers and sisters!

Just a reminder: You can pay dues with your credit or debit cards now as well as cash or checks.

Congratulations to Bros. Lawrence A. Temple Jr. and W. Frank Gifford on their recent retirement. Apologies go to recently retired Bro. Horace N. Trower, whose name was inadvertently misspelled in the Local 666 article in the April issue.

Charles Skelly, P.S.

L.U. 684 (c,i,rts&st), MODESTO, CA — Shown in the accompanying photo are proud Local 684 members at the Black Oak Resort in Tuolumne, CA. This five-story, 119,000-square-foot hotel was wired by a 12 man crew utilizing the CE/CW program. Collins Electric out of Modesto did a design/build for this project.

The local was able to obtain the new Amazon distribution center project in Patterson. This is a 70,000 man-hour private project that would have gone nonunion if not for the CE/CW program. It is giving us the ability to become very competitive and put our members to work.

Save the date for Local 684's annual picnic. It will be held at Yosemite Lake in Merced, CA, on July 27. Plans include a horseshoe tournament, games, food and a raffle. Bring the whole family; it is always a great time. Hope to see all our members there.

Bobby Stutzman, Organizer

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — We are in need of members to join the Democratic Party in their area to help make our union strong. The annual memberships start as low as $20. If you are already a member, we thank you for that and we encourage you to encourage friends and family to also join. This is one of many things you can do to help the union, to help our livelihood and the livelihood of our children and grandchildren. If you wish to learn more about what you can do to help make our union stronger, please call the union hall. We know times are tough financially for a lot of our members, so please remember that volunteering and donating time is very helpful.

Bus. Mgr. Mark Bauer reported that our work situation looks good for this year and we should be putting out Book 2.

We wish everyone a summer of working in the trade and safe travels!

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

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's Annual Retiree Luncheon was held April 9 at the Rend Lake Resort Convention Center. A total of 178 retirees and spouses attended. The luncheon is a great way for retirees to catch up with former co-workers and enjoy good food and conversation.

A tentative agreement was reached and ratified by the members at Illinois Consolidated Telephone.

After approximately one year of negotiations with Frontier Communications, a tentative agreement was reached; at press time it was being voted on by the members.

Local 702 currently has 92 on Book I-journeyman wireman, and 111 on Book II. Please go to our Web site for all the latest job information on work in other locals.

We have eight journeyman lineman on Book I and nine on Book II. Their work remains steady.

Thanks again to all our members who walked door-to-door for our labor-friendly candidates.

Marsha Steele, P.S.

L.U. 704 (catv,em&i), DUBUQUE, IA — Local 704 members extend condolences to the families of recently deceased Bros. Bob Wirzbach Sr. and Fred Galliart. Longtime Local 704 members, they both were World War II veterans.

Bob Wirzbach Sr. passed away on March 8. Bob will be remembered by many as a longtime apprenticeship instructor. He was employed by United Electric and Westphal Electric. Initiated in 1946, Bob was an IBEW member for 67 years. He retired in 1985. Bob's father, Herman Wirzbach, was a charter member of Local 704. Both of his sons, Bob Jr. and Tom, are continuing the family tradition as third-generation journeyman electricians who are also active IBEW members.

Bro. Fred Galliart passed away on March 15. Fred will be remembered for his sense of humor and his unique way of passing on his knowledge of the electrical trade to apprentices. Fred was initiated in 1951, and he retired in 1984. He was a Local 704 member for 62 years.

The work situation has had a slow start this year. Many members were working out of town. Thank you to our sister Local 14 for helping to employ several of our members last winter. Hopefully our work outlook for this summer will bring all our members back home.

Ron Heitzman, P.S.

L.U. 776 (i,o,rts&spa), CHARLESTON, SC — We have been blessed with work recently.

This didn't just happen by chance or luck. It has been an ongoing campaign to build relationships and encourage our NECA contractor partners to come bid work in our jurisdiction. We have spent money and energy to weed through loads of potential bids and send them to individual contractors in each ones' niche. We gave 8 for 8 on the job and proved we can get the job done right the first time. Trust is not built overnight. It takes years to build the foundation of trust … but it only takes one day to destroy it. Our name means a lot to us at Local 776.

Because of our work, we have welcomed all of our unemployed brothers and sisters to come sign our Book II and to work alongside us. But recently we have had those come who want to pick and choose jobs, or not even show up for referral after committing to it. If you are not interested in going to work, by no means feel pressured to sign our "out of work" list. We promised we would be there when our contractor partners called us, and that is what we will do. Thank you to those who are here helping us grow — we couldn't do it without you.

Chuck Moore, B.M.

L.U. 898 (i&o), SAN ANGELO, TX — More than 100 IBEW members came together from 23 states to build a transmission line in west Texas.

Working for Michels Corp. and led by Gen. Foreman Rodney Garcia, these crews are building 52 miles of new double circuit 345 kilovolt line and 35 miles of new single circuit 345 kV line in an area dominated by a nonunion work force.

The crews, including linemen, operators, drillers and groundmen, have persevered in the face of months of triple-digit temperatures, high winds and other challenges. Says Gen. Foreman Garcia: "We've got a great team out here; everyone is looking out for their fellow workers and getting the job done, every day."

In fact the outstanding performance of NECA contractor Michels Corp.'s IBEW crews was recognized by the line developer, and Michels was asked to take on the stringing of an additional 34 miles of double-circuit bundled 1590 ACSR conductor — work that had previously been assigned to a nonunion contractor.

"Michels [Corp.'s] support has been top-notch, from the equipment, to the tools, to the personnel both onsite and offsite," notes Garcia. "It's some of the best I've seen in the industry."

The lines are part of a 380 mile Competitive Renewable Energy Zone (CREZ) project near Midland, TX, built to enable future wind farm development and reinforce the Texas power grid. The project is scheduled to be energized in summer 2013.

Bobby Colvin, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Our continuing goal is organizing — which is part of what our union stewards and officers are doing when they sit down and explain the benefits of being union to all new hires.

Members have asked why we have not tried to find a local office in a building owned by our local union that will give us our own identity like other IBEW locals in the state (something that our current and future members can call home "IBEW Local 1116 style"). There is a process that has to be followed to accomplish that and it includes approval from the I.O.

Thank you to the new union faces within the TEP Joint Safety and JAC committees, union members equally voicing input regarding safe working conditions and holding apprentices to a higher standard of craftsmanship.

Best wishes to our recent retirees: Bros. Larry French, Clayton Carson, Michael McClelland, Daniel Wynn, Wally Brumfield and Gary Bruins. Congratulations to all!

Even with the summer heat, many members continue promoting family values and giving their time through weekend volunteer activities or by assisting those dealing with tough times. There's never a dull moment for this local and its members. Have a safe summer.

Richard "R.C." Cavaletto, P.S.

L.U. 1466 (u), COLUMBUS, OH — Local 1466 will hold our election of officers this month. This is your chance to voice your opinion and help decide who will lead our local for the next three years. Please watch your mailbox for your individual ballot. A return envelope and stamp are provided, so all you have to do is cast your ballot and send it back in. If you do not receive your ballot, please call the hall immediately at (614) 866-6411.

Many of you may have heard the news that the wage offer from AEP was approved by the majority of locals on the System Council. We will receive a 2.5 percent raise, which will go into effect in July. This was an increase from the 2 percent raise that we voted to accept in 2012. Thanks to all who cast their ballots and made their voices heard.

The Executive Board is planning our annual Fall Family Gathering, scheduled for the last week in September. This event has been well received the last few years, and we look forward to seeing many members and their families in attendance. Information will be sent out to the Union Boards closer to the date.

Finally, be sure to stay safe in the coming summer heat, and always look out for your fellow brothers and sisters.

Jimi Jette, P.S.