L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws) ST. LOUIS, MO — Local 1 would like to thank all of our members for supporting local pro-labor candidates and standing up against another anti-worker, right-to-work campaign in Missouri.

Special thanks to Local 1 member, state Sen. Tim Green, who is government affairs director of the St. Louis Electrical Connection, for his efforts educating people across the state about the damage right-to-work would do to working families and our communities.

Congratulations to Local 1 Business Manager Frank Jacobs on becoming the first organized labor leader to be appointed to the St. Louis Science Center Board of Trustees.

We mourn the death of the following members: Oliver Schmaltz, Daniel Senf, Robert Eckhardt, Bernice Westerhold, Robert Welker, Warren Eastman, Wesley Harris, Bruce Henning, James White, Jack Buol, Robert Guckes, Robert Birsinger, Othella Thompson, Christian Quernheim, Jerry Mott Sr., Eugene Harris, Michael Mikolay, John Keck, Donald Schneider, Campbell Collier, Billy Squires, Gerald Gassel, Eva Wisdom, Rodney Reynolds, Melvin Baumgartner, Donald Paulsell, Urban Abel, Richard Leahmann and Paul Lammert.

John Moyle, P.S.

L.U. 15 (u) DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Negotiations have started with NRG covering our four coal burning plants. We will be discussing the contents of the collective bargaining and the benefits agreements, set to expire March 31. They will be combined into a single agreement going forward.

Kincaid Generating Station's sale to Dynegy is expected to be complete by the end of the first quarter in 2015.

Local 15 sent eight members to the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus in Atlanta. During the first two days there, they participated in the RENEW Youth Conference, providing youth with various educational workshops and networking opportunities. We also had 10 delegates attend the 27th annual Nuclear Conference.

We held a stewards school in January for about 18 new stewards and have two more schools scheduled before the end of April. Eight of our members also attended an arbitration school at the University of Illinois, put on by the university and the Sixth District.

Our members raised over $4,000 in donations to help pay for experimental drugs for the son of a member fighting brain cancer.

Christine Watkins, R.S.

L.U. 21 (catv,govt&t) DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Union voters in Illinois are seeing the dark side of the man they elected governor. Upon taking office, Bruce Rauner immediately went on the attack to blame unions and their members for the state's problems. His first action was to sign an executive order and file a federal lawsuit banning "fair share" payroll deductions. He's now encouraging local governments to establish right-to-work zones and to opt out of prevailing wage agreements.

Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan issued opinions explaining his right-to-work zones violate federal labor laws and that project labor agreements must be honored because communities can't opt out of them. She emphasized they benefit workers and the communities. The billionaire disagrees and will continue his fight for the wealthy.

War has been declared against all of us. We will win if we all get involved today and fight in solidarity. In future elections we ALL must vote for the people who will work for us instead those who want to take our wages and benefits from us.

Bob Przybylinski, R.S.

The program has a simple but powerful premise: if we bring the best skills, highest quality of work, and best work ethic to the workplace every day, we benefit the union and the employer.

It renews our commitment to personal responsibility, professionalism and safety and gives members motivation to perform at the highest standard.

To survive in today's economy, we must continue to be the best at what we do, bring more value for the dollar, and make every hour at work count. At the end of the day, it's really about always doing the right things to ensure the IBEW is always "The Right Choice."

Members of Local 37 can expect an official launch of the COE program in the coming months.

Ross Galbraith, B.M.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u& uow) DIAMOND BAR, CA — This Memorial Day, remember those who gave their all so that we can enjoy the freedoms we have.

Local 47 is engaged in contentious negotiations with SCE. They came to the bargaining table with more than 150 proposals, and 100 were takeaways. At the same time, SCE replaced more than 500 non-represented, American information technology workers with H-1B visa holders from India. In December, SCE got the right from the California PUC to recover $3.3 billion from ratepayers to pay for the cost of the permanent shutdown of the nuclear power plant. Top SCE officials also cashed in millions of dollars in stock options.

The common theme is executive greed. The local is fighting back at the bargaining table, in the media, at the state capitol and in Washington, D.C.

We successfully negotiated contracts with Alta Gas and San Bernardino Special District, and we had a successful organizing effort at Abengoa Solar Generation.

We are sad to report the passing of Kevin Rowe, Melvin Johnson, Robert Padilla, Todd Tinder, Daniel Jaime and Ted Tibbs. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families and friends.

Stan Stosel, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,rtb,t,u&uow) SPRINGFIELD, IL — Brothers Rod Adams, Matt Fricke and Don Putnam were awarded one of the highest honors in the IBEW, the Life Saving Award. On Aug. 6, 2014, they, along with Brother Joshua Simpson, were assigned to replace a 40-foot pole in a backyard easement.

Simpson and Putnam were working on the pole transferring the secondaries, or lower voltage lines. Simpson was attaching a residential service line to the secondary when he made contact with the energized secondary wire. He received an electrical shock and lost consciousness. Putnam freed Simpson from the energized secondaries, then performed a pole top rescue and safely led Simpson to the ground, with assistance from Adams. On the ground, first aid was administered until emergency personnel arrived.

Brother Simpson was fortunate that his IBEW brothers responded effectively and efficiently, or his injuries may have been a life-changing or life-threatening event.

Please work safely, and give eight hours of work for eight hours of pay.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U.53 (lctt,o,rts&u) KANSAS CITY, MO — Business Manager Steve White reports that work is looking good with some unfilled calls still available.

He would like to recognize organizer Jeanette DeLaGarza for her efforts signing on three new contractors. Jeanette is also working on agreements with two others. Her efforts are paying off.

The annual Local 53 crappie tournament is scheduled for June 6.

The local has ongoing negotiations with BPU, Independence Power and Light, WPC in Wyandotte County, and the city of Independence.

Be safe and spend it where you make it!

James Burks, V.P.

L.U. 57 (lctt,mo,o,t&u) SALT LAKE CITY, UT — After 60 years of operation, the Carbon coal fired steam generating plant will undergo a decommissioning process beginning in 2015. The plant was built by a union workforce and has been operated and maintained by Local 57 members since commissioning. The plant has provided at least 70 families at any given time during the 60-year history proud careers and competitive wages and benefits. We are sad to see this facility go. The Carbon plant will close five years short of its life expectancy, and could have generated reliable and economical electricity for another 20.

New federal guidelines and Environmental Protection Agency standards and rules about regional haze and mercury emissions are behind this early closure. Local 57 believes that coal must continue to be a major portion of the power generation solution in order to provide the reliable and economical electricity that residential and industrial customers have come to rely on.

Scott Long, P.S.

L.U. 99 (govt&i) PROVIDENCE, RI — It would seem to be difficult to be thinking about the summer when snow banks are taller than we are, but a dose of hope might warm us up; and the job outlook for the summer of 2015 is looking better than it has for quite some time. We have $918 million of new construction jobs on the books and $354 million of it is electrical work. Many Local 99 members may have a busy summer. Now we just need a thaw.

IBEW Local 99 and Cranston, RI, Local 2323 will be hosting our first spring Motorcycle Run May 17. The ride will benefit Pink Heals of Rhode Island, a 100 percent volunteer cancer support network. The rain date will be May 24.

The ride will start and end at Local 2323's union hall at 22 Amflex Drive in Cranston. We will have an after-ride event there, including a cookout and activities for children.

You do not have to ride to attend this event. Registration will start at 10 a.m.

William Smith, P.S.

L.U. 105 (catv,i&o) HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA — Happy 2015, brothers and sisters. This is my first entry as the new press secretary for Local 105. Reflecting back on 2014, Local 105 had a great year, with full employment and we were in the position to employ travelers. Thanks to our sister locals in Alberta and British Columbia for providing opportunities for our members to work in their jurisdictions.

We experienced growth in our membership numbers as well as our market share. The majority of our work was in the institutional, commercial and green energy sectors. Those projects include the new Oakville hospital, a 100-megawatt solar project — the largest solar farm in Canada to date — and the new Maple Leaf Foods plant. We are anticipating another busy and steady year in our jurisdiction. Our local PAC is preparing for the upcoming federal election, which will be later this year. We expect it to be a historic election for working families across Canada and we encourage everyone to educate yourselves on all of the issues. Be involved in your union and attend meetings monthly.

Kyle Nelson, P.S./R.S.

L.U.109 (u) ROCK ISLAND, IL — Business Manager Gary Greubel presented Larry Patrick of Ottumwa with a retirement watch and pin. Larry retired as a crew leader gas mainman journeyman with 34 years of service. Congratulations Larry!

Denise Newberry, R.S.

L.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u) DENVER, CO — Recently, PEAK Reliability, RC Training Department employees in Loveland, Co., and Vancouver, Wash., voted to join Local 111. Congratulations and welcome to this group. Negotiations are imminent.

Also, we would like to welcome Yampa Valley Rural Electric Association's employees. They voted on Jan. 9 to become members of the IBEW. We are preparing for negotiations, and wish to thank everyone who assisted.

Saying goodbye isn't easy. We wish to extend our thanks to Brother Rich Sisneros, who recently retired from PSCO. Rich wore many hats for this local. He was a very active member of the IBEW for 38 years and served our local union in multiple capacities (chief steward, functional joint apprenticeship committee, subject matter expert, advancement committee member, field area rep, and other committees). He was elected to the executive board in 2007 and remained a board member until his retirement. We wish Rich the best of luck and greatly appreciate his years of service to Local 111. He will be missed.

Mike Kostelecky, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u) PORTLAND, ORE. — The local union recently held its 13th annual Casino Night. More than $1,000 was raised for the Brotherhood Fund, which provides assistance for members in need. We also donated approximately 900 pounds of food to a local food bank. And many members registered for our death benefit fund. With the support of our sponsors, it was another successful event. Thanks to all who attended this annual tradition.

Shop stewards are reminded to register for this year's shop steward training classes. Classes will be in Portland and Pendleton on April 23 and May 19 respectively. You must pre-register with approval from your business representative. With ever-changing policies and increased scrutiny from management, shop stewards continue to provide an invaluable service. If you are not currently serving as a shop steward and want to learn more, talk with your shop steward about attending this training.

Throughout our jurisdiction, members are facing a variety of frustrations on the job. Please work with your shop steward and/or business representative to address issues, especially those involving other members.

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 145 (em,i,o,rts,spa&u) ROCK ISLAND, IL — Local 145 had a successful blood drive again this year. We extend a heartfelt thank-you to the members, family members and retirees who donated. Because of your participation, once again we surpassed our projected goal! We thank and congratulate Jon Pohl, our blood drive coordinator, for his dedication to this great community cause.

Congratulations to our 41 new apprentices sworn into IBEW membership at our annual "Pack the Hall Night" in March. We had a large turnout — standing room only — as members and retirees gathered to celebrate the success with our newly sworn members. It's always great to witness the brotherhood and sisterhood coming together!

The spring's warmth has started to energize our long awaited construction season despite the many weather delayed projects. We anticipate another good year in our jurisdiction.

We are proudly celebrating the 90th anniversary of Local 145 commencing in April with a few special events being held throughout the year!

Dan Larson, P.S.

L.U. 177 (bo,ees,i,mo,o&pet) JACKSONVILLE, FL — Fifth District International Vice President Joe Davis and the president of the Florida AFL-CIO, Mike Williams, visited for Brother Eddie Dedmon's retirement sendoff. In his 44 years in the IBEW, he served as president, organizer/assistant business manager and business manager. He also served as president of the North Florida Building Trades and the North Florida Central Labor Council.

In 2005, International President Ed Hill called on Dedmon to serve as Fifth District international representative and later as the Fifth District organizing coordinator. We wish brother Dedmon a happy, healthy and much-deserved retirement.

Jacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Kahn presented the city with a plan for developing the shipyards with 1 million square feet of office space, 100,000 square feet of commercial space and more. We will be competing with nonunion contractors with substandard wages and little or no benefits. Business Manager Russell Harper has already been in communication with the mayor, and meetings are being planned.

Employment in the Jacksonville area has gotten better but isn't where it needs to be yet. Thanks to locals that have been able to employ our traveling brothers and sisters.

Alan Jones, P.S.

L.U. 193 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u) SPRINGFIELD, IL — Elections matter. Gov. Bruce Rauner is promoting his "right-to-work-for-less" agenda in certain areas in the Land of Lincoln — a threat to working folks everywhere. Rauner also signed an executive order nullifying all project labor agreements statewide. Over 100 projects that would have had PLAs are now open to nonunion, out-of-state contractors.

Local 193 will not be moving forward with the Future Gen. 2.0 project. Funding is not available; therefore 2,000 local trade jobs are not going to happen.

Area schools will be having several projects this spring. Several IBEW jobs are in the projects.

Central Illinois just experienced its 11th coldest February on record. It needs to warm up and start looking like spring. We must get ready for the Cardinals, White Sox and Cubs. Be safe.

Our condolences go the family of our member, Marion Jewell.

Donald Hudson, P.S.

L.U. 231 (i,rtb,spa&u) SIOUX CITY, IA — We recently had elections for new officers. We already have also organized two new committees. The Brotherhood Committee, consisting of members from various age groups and classifications, will focus on rebuilding local solidarity and be responsible for purchasing T-shirts, planning family events and boosting local morale. The Centennial Committee will plan the celebration for Local 231's 100th anniversary in 2016, which will include a banquet, live band and dancing.

John DiBerardino, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u) TOLEDO, OH — At the time of this writing, Local 245 is still engaged in negotiations with the Sinclair Group, the owners of our NBC affiliate, Channel 24. They are hoping to have these negotiations concluded very soon. Hats off to our brothers and sisters over there for their patience while this process keeps moving forward.

On the nuclear side, Business Manager Larry Tscherne sat as a panel member and spoke at a Nuclear Matters event at the Davis Besse plant. Nuclear Matters is a bipartisan campaign that engages and informs policy makers and the public of the importance of preserving U.S. nuclear plants because of the reliable, affordable and carbon free electricity they produce. Tscherne spoke in regards to our members and the local economy, and the impact it would have if Davis Besse were to be shut down.

In an effort to get our minds off of the cold and bitter weather, Local 245 is turning its attention to planning some warm weather events, such as a motorcycle run and a Mud Hens ball game. More information on these events can be found on our Local 245 website at www.ibew245.com.

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o) TRENTON, NJ — Despite a stubborn winter that seemed to overstay its welcome, there was plenty of green to be seen around central New Jersey and eastern Pennsylvania as our members marched in the local St. Patrick's Day parades in Mercer and Burlington counties in Jersey and Bucks County in PA. For the crowds, it's not only a chance to "get your Irish on" — it's also an opportunity to connect with the organizations and workers they share their community with. For our local, it is a chance to show our sense of pride and commitment that we take in our profession and in the towns and cities that we call home. As for the kids that line the parade route? Well, let's face it: it's all about the free candy!

On the work front, projects continue at The College of New Jersey and Princeton University, providing employment. The project labor agreements on these sites ensure that local unions will provide the labor. Our thanks go out t o those working hard behind the scenes to put our membership in the best possible position to secure ongoing and upcoming jobs.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 295 (em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u) LITTLE ROCK, AR — About the time you are receiving this publication, Local 295 will be having its annual picnic for active and retired members! As we enjoy the good food and even better fellowship, we would like to congratulate the following brothers for a lifetime of service to the IBEW: George Alberson, 55 years; Robert Bowers, 55 years; Homer Buck, 55 years; Wayne Dunnahoo, 55 years; Wendell Williams, 55 years; and Henry C. Warren, 60 years.

David Stephens, A.B.M.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u) COLLINSVILLE, IL — In the recent past, work in the inside branch had improved. But over the last few weeks, we have experienced a slowdown again with layoffs from various contractors. We have been waiting on a certificate of need vote from the governor-appointed committee regarding the proposed St. Elizabeth Hospital project.

We welcome Steve Duft, who will represent the utility branch. Steve worked at the City of Highland as a journeyman lineman. In addition to Ameren, he will represent the cities of Highland and Waterloo plus Monroe and Clinton counties.

It didn't take our new governor long to begin attacking the working class. At this point, all I can say is cheer up because it will get worse.

Local 309 recently lost two active members to retirement. Mike Faust, journeyman tree trimmer, had served on our executive board since 1996. He also had served on numerous tree trimmer negotiating committees. Scott Nicholson, journeyman wireman, served on the wiremen's pension committee and numerous wiremen's negotiating committees.

Both members served selflessly and always rolled up their sleeves to work when asked.

Scott Tweedy, A.B.M.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st) LE SUEUR, MN — Happy May Day, brothers and sisters. May Day, a cultural celebration of spring, is also known as International Workers Day, a day to honor laborers, the working class, and the labor movement. "Mayday" is also the distress signal used worldwide to broadcast a life-threatening emergency.

With negotiations concluding in June, we as a local are addressing some distress signals. We need to maintain the job conditions our forefathers earned and in their honor improve on them for future generations.

A labor union is a labor movement. Together we will move forward. Attend, participate, and vote at the upcoming negotiation meetings. Be proud of the Brotherhood we belong to.

If it's not made in America, you don't need it.

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa) DES MOINES, IA — It has been announced locally that the JATC has selected Brother Steve Hansen to be the new training director. We are sure you will prove to be an asset to the electrical education of the entire local.

There is a pin party scheduled for March 14th. After that the next social event on the calendar is the summer picnic at the Labor Park on May 30th.

Labor is always strong on a work site but when the brothers and sisters get together on their own time, the unity engendered through these engagements is superb testimony to the basic strength of the union. Solidarity is beneficial in all aspects of work and play. So, "plan the play and play the plan."

The work outlook remains strong through all of 2015.

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se) LAS VEGAS, NV — It is with great sadness that we announce the death of retired Brother Joe Fleig, on Feb. 8. Brother Joe moved to Las Vegas in 1958 and became an apprentice in 1960. He was an apprenticeship instructor from 1965-85, and training director for three years. In 1992 he became an assistant business manager and retired in 1996. His son, Jack, and grandson, Jonathan, are both wiremen of 357. Brother Joe will be missed.

Jennifer Tabor, P.S.

L.U. 369 (em,es,i,lctt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u) LOUISVILLE, KY — Local 369 members did a fantastic job installing the lighting for the "Big 4" pedestrian bridge across the Ohio River.

The Waterfront Development Corp. awarded the job to Advanced Electrical Systems. Foreman Mike Lilly and the crew from AES installed the nearly $2 million display, including approximately 1,500 computerized lights capable of producing every color of the spectrum. The bridge was converted from a railroad bridge about two years ago. It has turned into a popular attraction downtown with over 1 million visitors making the two-mile trek across the border to Indiana and back.

Not pictured but also worked on project: Ron Dean, Terrence Goodlett, Bob Eiler, Daniel Miles, Matt Klein, Tanner Allen

John E. Morrison Jr., P.S.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees&i) ALLENTOWN, PA — On Feb. 25, Craig "Ziggy" Siegfried became the 11th member in our 100-year history to receive the prestigious Harry B. Parks Sr. award, honoring his service to the IBEW. Parks served as Local 375's business manager for more than 40 years.

Siegfried became a journeyman wireman in 1977. He has served as a steward, foreman, and general foreman on projects throughout his career. His service also includes over 15 years on the JATC, executive board as well as serving as vice president. We offer our thanks for his dedication to the IBEW.

Our local's 3DYC youth caucus held a clothing drive to benefit a local charity, the Neighborhood Center. The 3DYC also participated in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters "Bowl for Kids' Sake."

We held an Industry Day to recruit new members and contractors on Feb. 20. We wish to thank all the sponsors who helped make it happen.

Dave Reichard, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u) POCATELLO, ID — The local has been throwing around the idea of signing a staffing company here in Local 449. We have been building a relationship with the owner of one of the companies here. The thought is that we have a great organizing tool by showing the nonunion contractors our skills without them feeling they have to sign an agreement with the IBEW. Then, when we have IBEW members working side by side with nonunion workers and making better money and benefits, this will bring nonunion contractors to the table to sign with us. The next theory is that when the contractor likes our manpower and the work we do, we can then go to the contractor and save them money by signing with the IBEW as opposed to using the staffing company. This is just one of the out-of-the-box ideas that we are trying here at Local 449.

We would like to wish Brothers Steven Jones and Scott Davis a happy and well deserved retirement! We also mourn the deaths of Brothers Eugene Pickens and Harold Kapp. They will never be forgotten!

Joe Maloney, Mbr. Dev. Rep.

L.U. 479 (i&u) BEAUMONT, TX — Apprentices have been hard at work volunteering to give back to the community.

Work on the Nederland Little League "Field of Dreams" baseball complex not only provided youth with a place to play baseball, it gave our apprentices additional on-the-job training. Thanks to each apprentice involved and also to training staff for allowing such a project to happen.

Members acknowledged that in order for this local to survive, it needs the younger generations to step up. In January a RENEW group was formed and three delegates were sent to the Chicago RENEW Conference in March. They returned with ideas on how to carry the group further along.

Christopher Reeves, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s,spa) INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Congratulations to IBEW 481's newest class of journeyman wiremen who topped out in December 2014. Great job on making it through your apprenticeship, and best of luck as you start your new careers as journeymen. Remember to continue to be active and involved with the local union.

In February, the IBEW 481 Basketball League hosted the 5th Annual Cornhole Tournament with all proceeds going to the IBEW 481 Help Fund. Congratulations to winners Chad Jackson and Matt Wilkerson. Local 481 members always step up to help their fellow brothers and sisters when the opportunity arises. Thank you to all who participated.

Also in February, our local union completed the latest installment of our 481 Forums. These meetings educate the membership on the current activities of the local union, and inform them about future plans. A special thanks to Business Manager Steve Menser and staff on a job well done.

Blake Andrews, R.S.

L.U. 551 (c,i&st) SANTA ROSA, CA — Greetings from Northern California.

This winter has seen a slow start in getting our members to work. Some of our brothers and sisters travelling to our sister Bay Area locals are picking up calls until work breaks here this summer.

Marin General Hospital just went to bid last week. It will be all union under a project labor agreement, and we are getting word that the Casino Hotel may start later this year as well. Thanks to our sister locals for employing our members. I know when we had our big casino job we kept a lot of travelers busy and we appreciated the help.

Recently we completed a big solar winery project because of the CW/CE classification. Had we not had this mix of six JWs, six CWs and five apprentices, this project would have gone nonunion. We expect to pick up more work for our brothers and sisters with the help of the CW/CE classification and the willingness of our contractors to use it.

We remove our hard hats for brothers that have passed: Edwin Tapley and Robert McKusick.

Denise D. Soza, B.R./P.R.

L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa) SAGINAW, MI — Some good news for our state is that there have been many major projects going on. Many people have been put to work near their homes and are going to remain working for a while. These big jobs that have come up are helping renew the economy all over Michigan and are putting many men and women to work, which is a great thing.

Our local is now looking for new apprentices to enter our industry. With many of the members retiring in the next 10 years, we need new, trained people to help fill these positions. The only way to survive is by gaining a strong, skilled and intelligent younger generation of electricians to continue the heritage of organized electrical labor.

We recently have had three of our members retire with their international pensions. We would like to congratulate Jenine Eastman, Gregg Iles and Bob Orr. Congratulations on retirement and the hard work and commitment you have put toward our trade. We wish you a healthy and happy retirement.

Howard Revard, P.S.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa) SAN DIEGO, CA — In recognition of excellent community outreach, San Diego City Council proclaimed February 24, 2015, "IBEW Electrical Workers Minority Caucus Day." Our members have facilitated apprenticeship career days that engaged hundreds of community members and provided information on our opportunities to earn while you learn.

The City of El Centro also recently recognized Local 569 members for donating 500 hours of labor to provide lighting at a local park.

Local 569 is also engaging with our members and communities to speak out against the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) fast track legislation, a trade proposal that threatens our jobs as well as democracy and the environment. We've participated in "Stop TPP Fast Track" rallies, press conferences and light brigades, and we encourage our members to take action today: http://bit.ly/1CiBiL6.

Thanks to the members that joined us at the 2015 Mardi Gras Light Parade in El Centro, and the MLK Parade in San Diego. We had a great time with beads, balloons and IBEW pride!

We hope to see all of our members and their families at the picnic on June 20.

Gretchen Newsom, P.S.

L.U. 595 (c,cs,govt,i,mt,o,se&st) DUBLIN, CA — Local 595's executive board has appointed David Thoni as president. Brother Thoni has served on the executive board, and was a past vice president and instructor at the JATC. At 6 feet, 8 inches, he will be seen from the podium from any seat at the hall as he chairs our membership meetings. The position opened when Greg Bonato accepted a business representative position from Business Manager Daniel Chivello.

February was Black History Month; Bridget Hall was honored at our 2nd annual Appreciation Dinner. Sister Hall is the past president of our local Electrical Workers Minority Caucus chapter, tutored and mentored countless apprentices, is lead electrician for the University of California Berkeley's high voltage division and a JATC trustee and executive board member.

Bob Tieman, B.R.

L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u) ALBUQUERQUE, NM — This year's 60-day legislative session in Santa Fe ended on March 21. Most of the session was spent trying to pass an anti-union public works bill and a so-called "right-to-work" bill.

The public works bill would have allowed nonunion contractors to pay the survey rate instead of the prevailing wage rate for any state job that was $60,000 or less. The union-busting right-to-work bill was passed in the House but was stopped in committee in the Senate.

Throughout the 60-day session, union members showed up at the Roundhouse to support killing the bills. On Sunday, March 8, so many of our members showed at a Senate hearing that it was requested the meeting be moved to a larger room. Unfortunately, the request was denied.

We have three more years of this SO GET OUT AND VOTE!

If anyone is not registered to vote, call the hall and someone will get you signed up.

We send condolences to the friends and families of Percy Kirk, Jerry D. Turner, Franklin D. Mize and Arthur Velarde.

Don't forget: the union meeting is on the third Saturday of the month.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

L.U. 625 (c,ees,em,i,it,mar&mt) HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA — The work picture in Unit No. 1 is good at this time with about 170 members working at the $400 million infrastructure renewal project at the shipyard in Halifax. Unfortunately, only one member from Unit No. 2 has been dispatched to this site. Other projects are the 34 wind turbines at the South Canoe site and the convention centre, which is still running very slowly.

The precipitator at the pulp mill in Unit No. 2 is the only significant project going on in that area. Even if the fish oil plant in Mulgrave goes ahead, there will not be nearly enough work for all the members in that unit. We are trying to secure travel calls from busier locals.

Renovations are ongoing in the office space of our new career college. We hope to move our office sometime this summer. The new building will house four trades and the Mainland Building Trades Council office. Once moved, we will start setting up to deliver our current JATC programs as well as apprenticeship core programs and block theory training. This is truly a big step forward.

Tom Griffiths, A.B.M.

L.U. 627 (u) FORT PIERCE, FL — With an optimistic outlook, I hope the refueling outage at the St. Lucie nuclear power plant is complete by now. The publication deadline requires a little forward thinking, to remain relevant.

June 13 is the date, so prepare for the annual Ironman fundraiser. Clean up your clubs, sharpen your darts and get some chalk on your cue stick. The dollars raised by the Ironman event go to support our community affairs fund and returns to the community and our children. Brother Mueller has emailed the forms for you to complete. Please take a few minutes, and fill out your entry forms. Your participation will truly make a difference.

The inaugural motorcycle run was a big success for our local, with approximately 100 participants in attendance. Special thanks to all the members who made this event a memorable day.

Be safe at all times and watch out for the other person.

Ray Vos, P.S.

L.U. 673 (catv,i,rts,spa,t&u) PAINESVILLE, OH — We want to thank our sister locals for supplying the needed manpower for the recent refuel outage at the Perry Nuclear Power Plant. For this outage, they have added "Fukushima modules," plant modification required in the aftermath of the catastrophe at the Fukushima nuclear facility in Japan. Due to this added work we will have at least 100 electricians on site.

Jim Braunlich, P.S.

L.U.683 (em&i) COLUMBUS, OH — Hopefully by the time you are reading this the snow is melted, because Local 683 is proud to be hosting the 44th Annual IBEW Softball Tournament Aug 7-9. Any locals or teams requesting information, please contact Brother Jeff Hinton at hinton38@yahoo.com.

We also are looking forward to our local Union Sportsmen's Alliance walleye trip to Lake Erie in May.

Members are encouraged to attend union meetings and voice their thoughts and opinions. This is how we will become stronger, building solidarity and unity within our union.

Tracy Starcher, V.P./P.S.

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se) GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — We are all looking forward to the warm months ahead but always use good judgment while enjoying the summer. Taking your kids to that favorite lake or pond? Check the water before jumping in. Using powered water craft? Stay aware. We often get distracted during the summer: longer daylight, less rest, planning activities, vacations etc. Don't let these distractions compromise your safety on the job either. Yes, we hear about it daily on the job, but don't get complacent. Statistics consistently show an increase in injuries on the job during the summer months.

Municipal elections will be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5. Visit IndianaWorkersVote.com to check your polling place. It is imperative that we show up to the polls and vote. The politicians who seek to oppress working people, especially organized labor, know if we are active voters or not. It is all that many of them pay attention to. Have a great summer! Be safe.

Dan Waldrop, B.M.

L.U. 915 (i&mt) TAMPA, FL — We had our annual work party on Valentine's Day but that didn't stop about 20 faithful members from leaving their sweethearts for a few hours to do some routine maintenance around the hall. It was a cold day but the fellowship was well worth the time. From trimming the palms to doing minor repairs, we took care of business in record time. We were also glad to have Brother Lindy Wooten feeling well enough to cook for us. Thank you to those who came and donated your time to take care of your hall.

The Union Sportsman's Alliance held another successful clay shoot in our area. Over 120 trade craftsmen, contractors, end users and clients attended. This event has been very successful in bringing union trades together with the industries in our area for a day of fun and building relationships. It is growing larger every year and we are proud to have this event in our jurisdiction. We are looking forward to doing it again next year.

Theresa King, P.S.

L.U. 995 (i,o,rts&spa) BATON ROUGE, LA — Last year, the Louisiana State Workforce Commission announced an increase in industrial facility expansions between Baton Rouge and Lake Charles to take place in the next five years, costing over $84 billion. This figure did not include the much-needed transmission and distribution construction needed to support these industrial expansions. Our local union is already seeing more employment opportunities for our members to man these jobs.

To accommodate the need for more members to fill these positions, we are doing several things. First, we have spent money to air the IBEW-produced commercials on all of our local channels. This has proven to be a great success in organizing and apprenticeship outreach. In fact, we have organized over 100 new members in 2014, and we hope to top that number in 2015 by utilizing both the commercials and the efforts of our organizers, our officers and our members.

In the last few weeks we have organized two new contractors: Lynch Construction, which is in one of our area paper mills, and Turn Key Technical Solutions, which has signed inside and outside letters of assent.

Keith W. Brand, P.S.

L.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u) SYRACUSE, NY — In response to the IBEW's youth initiative Reach out and Engage Next-Gen Electrical Workers' (RENEW) efforts to get members involved in their communities, Local 1249 hosted a toy drive at the union hall for Toys for Tots and helped the CNY Food Bank at state Sen. David Valesky's electronic recycling event. The toy drive was a huge success, collecting toys for more than 30 children. At the recycling event, members helped collect and sort over 100 tons of electronics. We thank everyone who has been involved in helping Local 1249 help others, and hope that as our group grows we can expand our efforts throughout the state.

Jennifer Schneider, P.S.

L.U. 1393 (catv,lctt,o,t&u) INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The local will be gaining an additional 111 members through organizing Asplundh Tree Expert Co. employees who are working in AEP's service territory within Indiana. The election was won in February with a 67-8 vote. The local is working with tree trimmers at multiple employers throughout Indiana as others are seeking to join our organization.

Our contract with Duke Energy is set to expire on May 1. The local has been negotiating with the company since February to protect the interests of our membership. Our negotiations committee has a diverse background of multiple job classifications, each bringing their unique experience and perspective to the table.

We have been seeking candidates for our apprenticeship programs at ALBAT. We have had a long history of opportunities to bring in apprentices for electric line construction and traffic signal work. We are in the process of adding apprenticeships for substation and tree trimming jobs. These are all highly demanding careers that require our members to hold true to our focus on safety and craftsmanship.

Robert C. Fox, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t) BALTIMORE, MD — Great news: Amtote was awarded the tote contracts for all of the California racetracks, contracts that we had over 25 years ago. Now we have them back, to go along with the resigning of all the New York Racing Association racetracks, which we also had some 25 years ago. We will be taking over the contracts from SportTech in September 2015. This should add up to about 50 new members from the California area and possibly jobs for members who may want to move there.

Things are looking up in 2015 for Local 1501 as, in addition, we have a new contractor at our NASA location in Greenbelt, Sierra Lobo, and they have taken the union contract in total. We have some medical issues we are working out with the new contractor and I can't thank Vice President Fred Richards and his committee enough for getting us up to the final settlement.

Thomas J. Rostkowski, R.S.

L.U. 1579 (i&o) AUGUSTA, GA — The IBEW chairs the Augusta Central Labor Council, an active group that includes building trades unions, postal workers, transportation workers and the teachers union, among others.

The CLC does a very good job at bringing in our mayor, members of Congress and others to discuss issues that matter to working families. Local 1579 is always at the table communicating the concerns of the IBEW. If you have any concerns that the council or any of these politicians can help you with, let me know.

Work projections for 2015 are outstanding. The manpower throughout the jurisdiction is expected to increase; the manpower on the Vogtle Project alone is expected to double. The Salt Waste Project, Mixed Oxide Project (MOX) and Eisenhower at Ft. Gordon will all increase in numbers as well.

Local 1579 is getting ready for another apprenticeship graduation. If you are fortunate enough to work around these new journeyman, encourage and help them in any way you can. They are the future of the IBEW; we wish them well in their new journey.

Will Salters, A.B.M.

L.U. 1759 (u) CASPER, WY — Greetings brothers and sisters. We would like to recognize Kermit Klepper on his retirement March 25. Kermit was a member of the IBEW for 33 years and his attitude and expertise will be missed in the Rocky Mountain region. Congratulations Kermit!

We would also like to welcome the new members of 1759: Vance Brown, Jonathan Taylor, Patrick Winstead, Mitch Gates, Mike Morris, Chris Longaker and Jeff Albertson. At press time spring has started in most areas and most of 1759 and other utility locals are getting ready for their busiest time of the year. We remind everyone to look out for each other and stay safe out there.

Jason Mengwasser, F.S.

L.U. 2325 (t) WORCESTER, MA — Aug. 1 marks another milestone for IBEW Local 2325 and Verizon as our current contract expires. We have begun ramping up efforts to mobilize and prepare for what could be another protracted round of bargaining. In 2011 bargaining lasted for 15 months with Verizon attempting to whittle down the benefits our contract provides to union membership.

Under the leadership of Business Manager Dave Keating we are preparing our members for another fight by implementing new ideas for mobilization. We will start informational picketing and morning rallies earlier than usual, showing solidarity in our workplaces. We have a new mobile database of members with contact information. With it, we can distribute information and bargaining updates. We will be eliciting public support as to our goals and the roles our members play in the community.

The bargaining process takes resolve, commitment, dedication and solidarity.

Mike Tortora, R.S.