L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Congratulations to Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill on his recent retirement. We appreciate his dedication and years of service to the IBEW and wish him well in all his future endeavors. Also, congratulations and best wishes to newly appointed IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson, former Sixth District international vice president.

Our business office has been very busy this year with contract negotiations. Agreements were reached for new Inside and Residential contracts, as well as a new contract with manufacturing company Marathon Special Products.

The Local 8 hockey team once again competed in the IBEW Hockey Tournament this year in Toronto, Canada. The first time in the "A" division, we fell to Windsor, Local 773; Ottawa, Local 586; then to Sarnia, Local 530. Congratulations to Sarnia on becoming champs after a well-battled tournament.

Mike Brubaker, P.S.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — Madison Tatinski, the daughter of Local 12 journeyman Joseph Tatinski and granddaughter of retired member Larry Tatinski, has been making a difference in people's lives. She was chosen as Colorado's Youth Volunteer of the Year by the Prudential Spirit of Community awards program. Madison received national recognition in Washington, D.C., in May for her ongoing efforts collecting shoes for those less fortunate. She began the drive over a year ago and has collected over 350 pairs of shoes, which have gone not only to the needy close to home, but also as far away as Guatemala and Mexico. "When I started this, I never imagined it would grow like it did," Madison said. At 11 years old, she is humble and compassionate beyond her years. Great job, Madison!

And speaking of those who make a difference in people's lives, Local 12 office manager Kathie Runco will retire at the end of August. She has been the glue that holds it all together for over 23 years. We are planning an informal gathering for Friday, Aug. 14, after 5 p.m. at the union hall. Stop by and say thank-you for all her years of dedicated service. We will miss you, Kathie.

Susan Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — Local 16 congratulates new IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson on his recent appointment. Congratulations also to newly appointed Sixth District Int. Vice Pres. David J. Ruhmkorff. Both of these gentlemen have consistently promoted the highest values of the IBEW, and Local 16 appreciates their support over the years. Best wishes for the utmost success in their new positions.

The annual Turkey Testicle Festival was held in April. This event and the outpouring of brotherhood were once again successful in raising several thousand dollars for members in need. Many thanks to all who made the event possible and to everyone who attended this worthwhile function.

Despite overwhelming pressure from recent state legislative actions, the work situation for organized labor is still fairly strong in the Evansville area. However, many of the most prominent projects for the next few years will have specific licensing requirements. Every local member is strongly encouraged to check with the JATC or the union hall to make sure they meet the required criteria so that they will be fully employable when the time comes to man this work.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) rebranded in 2014 and transitioned into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — Early this spring we held our Annual Drug Screening event. We tested over 340 journeymen, apprentices, CEs and CWs. To encourage member participation, we simultaneously held a tool and Red Wing boot sale. The cost of the tools and boots was subsidized by our LMCC fund. Bro. Joe Mills Jr. won the flat-screen TV donated by tool supplier PCS.

Local 24 successfully negotiated a raise for the voice-data-video techs. We have also rejuvenated the VDV Apprenticeship Program, with classes starting this fall.

Effective Jan. 1, we were able to increase the Future Pension Credit Value by two dollars. Effective July 1 we were also able to increase all retiree pensions by $50 per month. This increase more than offset the retiree health care increase, enabling retiree's to maintain top of the line health care and a great pension.

Have a safe and fun summer and remember to attend the union meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

Gary R. Griffin, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Local 26 thanks IBEW Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill for his service and all his support. We extend to him our best wishes for a healthy and happy retirement!

Agreements were reached on both the Inside and Residential Agreements. The new contracts were ratified at special-called meetings in May. The new Inside and Residential Agreement books will be printed up and mailed to each member.

Congratulations to the 2015 apprenticeship graduates. Graduation ceremonies were June 6. It was a delight to see so many supportive family members and happy apprentice graduates! Best wishes to all!

The DAD's Day Golf Outing was a huge hit. Over 500 golfers participated and spanned over four courses. Thanks to all who volunteered, sponsored and participated! We were able to make a sizeable donation to Dollars Against Diabetes.

Both the Manassas, VA, picnic and the Edgewater, MD, picnic were a great success. The picnics provided fun for our members' families. It was great to see a fabulous turnout.

We mourn the recent loss of members Timothy A. Baldwin and Richard E. Hall.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Stephen Beard, Lawrence Fattorini, James Landen Jr., Juan Cadima, Mark Gates, Patrick Gleason, Bradley Houska, Gary Huff, Frank Johnson, James Laddbush, Aubrey Marlow III, Michael Phelps, Wayne Reep, Daniel Ruefly, Winston Smith, Charles Sullivan Jr., James Tomlin, Michael Valeika, Stephen Zimmerman and Gary Heath.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — Local 34 members have always been active participants in their local communities. This tradition of community service continues at Local 34.

We thank the members who participated in the Children's Hospital of Illinois Telethon or donated to it. With the help of IBEW members and the other trades, over $3,800,000 was raised for the hospital.

Participation by our members in the community is extremely important and enhances labor unions' public image. Countless political or commercial organizations try to discredit unions as greedy, self-centered or lazy. This could not be further from the truth. By participating in our communities as volunteers, contributors or civic participants, we portray the true nature of our unions and our members. We also thank our members who donated their time or money to assist with Bro. Daren Adams' benefit for his son Cooper.

Local 34 congratulates Bros. Marty Clinch, Tom Keith, Berry Miller and Pat Carroll on their retirement.

Welcome to new members Darren Quick, Kyle McMurtry, Aaron Feit, Mathew White, Brian Schwind, James Martin, David Hudson and Jarod Brienen.

Our condolences go out to the family of Albert Mustain, who passed away on April 11.

Marc Burnap, P.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — Being able to report that Local 38 members are working on a John Marshall High School construction project is a huge victory for the IBEW. (See accompanying photo.) This job was originally awarded to a nonunion electrical contractor who started working on the site. When a lawsuit was threatened because of our contention that federal dollars should trigger Davis Bacon prevailing wages for the project, work was halted and rebid and the job was awarded to a union contractor. Since being turned around, this job has provided over 30,000 man-hours for Local 38 members.

We anticipate several large projects coming our way that are expected to start soon and provide many man-hours for Local 38. These jobs include the Critical Care Pavilion at Metro Hospital, the Thisledown Racino upgrades and the data center for Parker Hannifin. Awards for these projects are expected to be made soon.

We hope to see everyone with more than 25 years of service at the Old Timer's Picnic on Aug. 1.

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

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 held its Annual Dinner Dance & Apprentice Graduation on Saturday, April 25, at the Marriott Hartford Downtown. We congratulate the Local 42 members who graduated to become journeyman linemen: Kevin Panilaitis, Mitchell Gardner, Douglas Truken, Kyle Bryson, Chad Stoddard, Leon Finke, Jason Lockton, Wesley Vancour, Sean Coty, Ryan Koenig, Stephen Supina, Skyler Ryng, Anthony Kumiega, Micah Shea, Brandon Caron, Jason Joseph, Nicholas Delisle, Brent Von Edwins, Brandon Ames, Kevin Hartnett and Jeffrey Marschat.

On Saturday, May 2, Local 42 held a Trap Shoot at the Fin Fur & Feather Club in Chaplin, CT. It was a great success. In the accompanying photo Dana Foster and Marco Gagliardi are attired for what is called the Hat Round at the Trap shoot. Dana is shown sporting a coyote hat and Marco is wearing a jester hat.

The local's 11th Annual Bike Run was June 6. All proceeds from that event go to the Bridgeport Burn Center.

On June 27 we held our Dinner Cruise. On July 11 we had our Chartered Fishing Trip, and July 25 was our Annual "BA" Picnic at Lake Compounce.

Coming up Aug. 29 is the Annual "A" Picnic, at High Meadow Resort in North Granby, CT. Great summer fun for Local 42 members.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts,st&tm), PORTLAND, OR — "To whomever much is given, of him will much be required; and to whom much was entrusted, of him more will be asked."

Bro. Joe Esmonde — who serves as Local 48's political director, lobbyist and representative to various organizations — credits his Jesuit education with helping him take the above-quoted biblical Scripture to heart. He also serves as the local's representative to the Portland Business Alliance, Drive Oregon (a nonprofit trade association that advances the electric vehicle industry), and the Energy Trust of Oregon.

Congratulations to Bro. Esmonde on receiving the 2015 Wayne Morse Award for Integrity & Passion presented by the Democratic Party of Oregon. The award's namesake, Wayne Morse, was a four-term U.S. senator from Oregon respected for his belief in "principles over politics."

"Joe not only works as the lobbyist for Local 48, he also advocates for the building trades and all working people," Local 48 Bus. Mgr. Gary Young said.

I asked Joe what he is most proud of in his service to Local 48. He replied: "the fact that Local 48 has the respect and admiration of Oregon's labor, business and political community." Wow — unions, integrity and passion? IBEW brothers and sisters know that is business as usual!

Bob Blair, P.S.

L.U. 58 (em,i,rtb,spa&t), DETROIT, MI — Local 58 retired Bro. Ray Owen was born Dec 1, 1921, in Paris, IL, moving to Detroit in early 1922. There he grew up, attending Cass Technical High School. Following in his father's footsteps, he joined IBEW Local 58 in 1940. Ray joined the U.S. Navy in August 1942. After training as a naval aviator, he entered World War II as a fighter pilot assigned to the carrier USS Wasp in the Pacific theater. He saw action in the Philippines, Formosa, Okinawa, the China Sea, Iwo Jima and Tokyo.

After his final flight off the USS Wasp in April 1945, Ltd. j.g. Ray Owen returned to Detroit and wed Isabel Mahoney. Together they raised their three children while he continued working as an active Local 58 member. Over the years he has held the offices of Local 58 vice president and Executive Board member. For the past 24 years, he has served as treasurer for the Local 58 Retirees Club.

Bro. Owen recently received his IBEW 70-year service pin as a valued member of Local 58 and the Brotherhood.

Note: Thank you to Mary Streeter, daughter of Bro. Ray Owen, for providing information for this article.

Andy Dunbar, Pres.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

On April 28, Local 68 proudly hosted an OSHA Workers Memorial Day event here at the hall. We had close to 100 brothers and sisters from area trade locals and OSHA staff here to remember our fallen construction brothers and sisters.

On May 2, I attended a round-table meeting with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock to find common ground in building the relationship between city government and organized labor from this area.

On May 28, we were honored to hold a barbecue for our Retirees Club and to award our 50+ year service pins. Service awards presented ranged from 50-year pins up to 70-year pins. In total, more than 475 years of IBEW service were recognized. Eighty retired members and their spouses attended the event and enjoyed themselves.

Our work picture has slowed down a little, but we are still hitting Book II on a weekly basis.

As you go through your daily routines, remember our fallen brother and sisters. Work safe out there and always take care of your fellow co-workers.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased members: Joseph H. Krantz, Tommy D. Thompson, Bobby L. Burger, Orville K. Roe II, Leah I. Bledsoe, Maynard Adams, Richard T. McAnally, Daniel A. Getz, Gary D. Rich, Joseph A. McNamara, Charles R. Terry, Jimmie D. Tregoning and Joseph M. Ferrari.

Jack Cox, Pres.

L.U. 70 (lctt&o), WASHINGTON, DC — Mica Penvose, a longtime Local 70 member, is a new area coordinator for ALBAT (American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training). ALBAT is a cooperative effort of the American Line Builders Chapter NECA and the IBEW Fourth and Sixth Districts.

Mica is a great union brother who has volunteered his time to help out our union hall. He attends all our union meetings and previously taught our Saturday school. He has spent his free time getting certified in many aspects of safety so he can teach and certify our apprentices and local brothers. Thank you, Mica, for all your hard work and loyalty. ALBAT has added a great member to its staff and we wish Mica the best.

Local 70's annual local union picnic was a great success again this year. Thank you to all our union members and their families for coming out to enjoy the event. The picnic is always a good time for our members and their families to get together with their union brothers and sisters.

We mourn the recent passing of Bros. Tommy Douglas and Bruce Harrell. They will be greatly missed.

Jimmy Horton, B.R.

L.U. 94 (lctt,nst&u), CRANBURY, NJ — In April, the IBEW Local 94 youth committee NxtUp94 donated over $6,000 of food, collected from the membership, to Rise Community Services food pantry. The food pantry is located next door to Local 94 headquarters in Hightstown, NJ. This was the second annual food drive run by NxtUp94.

Mayor Larry Quattrone expressed his gratitude to Local 94 and NxtUp94. "We are happy to have them as active members in our community, and we greatly appreciate all their efforts to support the less fortunate," Quattrone said.

Rise Exec. Dir. Leslie Koppel, township council vice president, said, "Giving at a local level is the most important component to building strong communities."

This donation is just one of the many successes organized by NxtUp94. Local 94 Bus. Mgr./Pres. Buddy Thoman noted: "In just two years of the committee's existence, NxtUp94 has participated in and organized community, social and political activities that support and further the goals of the local union and the labor movement."

"I commend my fellow IBEW brothers from Local 94 for putting together this much-needed food drive," said New Jersey State Assemblyman Wayne DeAngelo, who is president of IBEW Local 269. "It's a great way to help our community and get our young members involved."

Frank Brennan, P.S.

L.U. 100 (c,em,i,rts&st), FRESNO, CA — Congratulations to Local 100's recent apprenticeship graduates. The new IBEW journeyman wiremen are: Kevin Andrade, Keith Chastain, Ben Fierro, Johnny Garcia, Tim Garcia, Rick Merlo, Jorge Quinto, Matt Sullivan, Jack Tapp and Beau Wright. The Sound & Communications graduate is Lawrence Armijo.

Fifth-year-class competition winner is Tim Garcia, winning a prize of a four-piece, 18-volt tool kit and a $100 gift certificate. Tim will represent Local 100 at the western states competition in San Leandro, CA.

Local 100's new three-year NECA contract is effective 2015-2018. The contract includes a wage increase of $4.90 per hour, over three years. On June 1, 2015, $0.40 goes to H&W; on Sept. 1, 2015, $0.50 goes to wages; on March 1, 2016, $1 to wages; on Sept. 1, 2016, $0.75 to wages; on March 1, 2017, $0.75 to wages; on Sept. 1, 2017, $0.75 to wages; and on March 1, 2017, $0.75 goes to wages. With a JATC increase to $1 per hour, stewards identified by the hall will receive 115 percent of the JW scale. The NECA agreement also includes 19 more items of changes.

Work remains good in our jurisdiction. Thank you to the brothers and sisters from other locals who help Local 100 man our work!

Attend your general union meetings, at 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month.

Think safety always.

Michael A. Caglia, P.S.

L.U. 102 (em,govt,i,mt,o&ws), PATERSON, NJ — All of us at Local 102 wish Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin T. Hill a happy and healthy retirement and thank him for his years of dedication to the IBEW. We also welcome our new Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson and look forward to working with him.

On a much more local note, we congratulate two of our members on their recent election victories. Our Vice Pres. Matt Oswald, a proud member of Local 102 since 1990, won the June 2 primary for town council in his hometown of Riverdale. No one from the opposing party registered for the November election. Bro. William O'Connor was also victorious in his Dover, NJ, election for town alderman.

Labor has always been well-represented on the political front in New Jersey. We're happy to see Bros. Matt Oswald and William O'Connor on that list of IBEW elected public officials. Congratulations, Matt and Bill!

Bernard T. Corrigan, Pres.

L.U. 110 (em,i,rts,spa&u), ST. PAUL, MN — Our membership recently overwhelmingly ratified our new three-year contract. The agreement includes wage increases of $2 in the first year of the contract, $1.90 the second year and $1.85 the third year. By far the biggest language change is that we now have as mandatory two paid breaks plus an unpaid lunch break. The solidarity among our members to ensure a strong contract was amazing to say the least. It was great to see all of our red shirts on jobsites as a show of solidarity.

Our refineries continue to be our largest jobs. Both have special requirements including NFPA 70E, TWIC, OSHA 10 and more. Please call the referral office to see what requirements are needed before taking a call.

We are having our Young Union Member annual outing in August. This is a great way for our apprentices to build solidarity outside of work. The number of apprentices attending our Local 110 monthly meeting is a good sign that they are the future of our local, and we need them to continue to be involved in the union and the labor movement.

Brian Winkelaar, B.R.

L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — A special thank-you goes to Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill for his longtime commitment to and distinguished leadership of the IBEW. We wish him the best of luck in his retirement.

Congratulations and best wishes to new IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson, as he prepares to lead us into the future. Int. Pres. Stephenson is from Illinois and previously served as Sixth District international vice president.

We know the IBEW will do everything it can to report on and help stop Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner's anti-labor agenda of establishing so-called "right-to-work" zones throughout the state. [Editor's Note: For more information on this topic, see the article "Rebuking Ill. Gov., Pro-Worker Lawmakers Go on Right To-Work Offensive," in the July issue of The Electrical Worker.]

We are optimistic about our work outlook and we hope that by the time this article is read the work picture will be strong. At this writing we were looking forward to the Local 134 Family Picnic on June 27, expected to be a great success. The local plans to make the picnic an annual event.

In other news, Bus. Mgr. Don Finn and Treas. John Dalton attended the American Legion Electric Post 769 Annual Memorial Day ceremony. Don addressed those gathered, and the Leathernecks Motorcycle Club acted as the honor guard.

With great sadness we report the sudden passing on May 11 of Bus. Rep. Tom Naumann, and also the passing of administrative assistant Joanne Weber in April after a long illness. They will both be dearly missed.

Frank Cunningham, R.S.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — Local 146 congratulates our Midstate Electrical Training Center class of 2015 apprenticeship graduates.

The recent apprentice graduates are: Cole Garriott, David Clauss, Josh Retzer, Markus Gillespie, Robert Roberts, Seth Richardson, Andrew Karr and Drew Higgason. Bro. Andrew Karr received the Academic Achievement Award.

We commend these brothers on their accomplishments and wish them all the best in their IBEW careers ahead.

Rich Underwood, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — Greetings, brothers and sisters! Summer is in full swing and I hope you all are enjoying it and being safe. The annual picnic was held and enjoyed by all who attended.

The Local 150 Golf Outing is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 22. It will be at Fox Lake Country Club. Registration will be from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. The cost is $55 per golfer. The cost increases to $60 per golfer after Aug. 7. You can sign up at the Union Hall.

There are update classes scheduled for fall and winter of 2015. Some of the courses available will be: Code Changes, Advanced Conduit Fabrication, OSHA 10, OSHA 30, NFPA 70E, Code Calculations, CPR with AED/First Aid, Electrical License Exam Prep, Building Automation/Temp Control, PLCs, Foremanship/Intro to Estimating, and the IMSA Work Zone Safety Prep Class. Many of these classes are required for employment in various areas of our industry. Take the time to check out the classes and sign up for a few.

We have been enjoying a slight uptick in our work scene. Let's hope it continues for a while. See you at the meeting.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — On April 25, Local 164 participated once again in Rebuilding Together's "National Rebuilding Day." Rebuilding Together is a national organization whose mission is to assist low-income homeowners in maintaining their homes, helping to keep them safe, warm and independent. We have been working with Rebuilding Together since 1991 and thanks to our members we were able to support the local chapters in all three counties in our territory again this year.

As always, our members gave generously of their time and provided much-needed quality electrical work to homeowners who could not afford to do it for themselves.

Bro. Manny Espinoza coordinated the Jersey City Chapter, Bro. Bill Watts and Sister Elaine Lampe coordinated Essex County, and I coordinated Bergen County. Thank you so much to all. We also owe a great deal of gratitude to the brothers and sisters who served as house captains and led each individual project with skill and professionalism. They did a fantastic job.

Thank you to all the members who came out and worked hard on Rebuilding Day as well as in the days before and after to complete the projects. It simply couldn't be done without them.

Warren Becker, V.P.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — On May 30, a graduation ceremony was held to honor the Tri-City JATC's class of 2015. Thirty-eight young apprentice graduates were honored as they became the newest journeyman wiremen of IBEW Local 236. We wish the class of 2015 the best of luck and hope they enjoy a long and prosperous IBEW career.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) rebranded in 2014 and transitioned into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

We also say goodbye to one of our longtime journeyman wiremen. Asst. Bus. Mgr. Maurice "Skip" Goyette, a 47-year member, has decided to retire. His longtime service, wisdom and knowledge will be missed. In 1968 Skip was initiated into the IBEW as a member of then-Local 166. He completed his apprenticeship and worked as a journeyman wireman until he was hired as an assistant business manager in 1980. Local 166 amalgamated into Local 236 in 1999.

During his IBEW career, Skip served in many capacities, including as a member of the Executive Board, JATC Committee and Negotiating Committee. He was also a fund trustee, unit representative and vice president of Local 236. I am certain that I speak for many, including the shop stewards who worked side-by-side with Skip during negotiations, in saying that he will be greatly missed. We all wish him the best in retirement.

Michael Torres, P.S.

L.U. 294 (ees,em,i,rts,spa&u), HIBBING, MN — Local 294 invites all current members and their immediate families to our 100th Anniversary Picnic.

This is a family-friendly event to be held from Aug. 14-16 this year at the Mesaba Co-op Park, 3828 Mesaba Park, Hibbing, MN. Located at the Intersection of Highway 37 and County Road 5 North, the park is right behind the Thirsty Moose Bar. RV and tent camping is available on-site.

There will be games and events for the kids as well as great food grilled on our local union-made cooker, entertainment and a ceremony for the adults.

Please come and join the fun. For more information, please call the Local 294 union hall at 218-263-6895.

Daniel Arvola, P.S.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONPELIER, VT — I'm writing this on a beautiful, sunny June day with temperatures in the high 60s and no humidity. A perfect day to be on a solar installation crew in the state of Vermont! We've been pleasantly busy filling calls for contractors visiting our jurisdiction, and also forwarding wage rates to future visiting contractors. These are very welcomed guests and we sincerely hope at least some find a second home in IBEW Local 300!

We've been consistently swearing in new members every month at our unit meetings, and membership involvement also seems to be increasing. I see many young, hopeful new faces and some faces I've not seen in a while — all are equally appreciated.

A great deal of work is being forecast for our jurisdiction in the near and not-so-near future. All we have to do is have our signatory contractors bid and successfully win the work. We are doing everything possible to be ahead of the projects, to ensure that our contractors are aware of the projects, and to supply quality electricians to the successful bidders.

Thank you to all members and signatory contractors making the effort to reach our shared goal of regaining control of our market.

Tim LaBombard, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — Too quickly, we cheer the "victory train" when we win an election or blame an ignorant and uninformed electorate when we lose, all without thinking about why.

Our recent defeat in the state Senate special election demands reflection.

The primary election pitted a "labor" Democrat against a so-called "corporate" Democrat. I hear stories about huge sums of money and where that money came from. But, to me, the real story is about who voted.

The good news is that IBEW 302 had the highest voter percentage among the building trades. The bad news is that it was only 20.1 percent!

That's right. Barely one in five IBEW Local 302 members who could vote in this election — an election that was described as do-or-die for labor — voted.

So, when the future of labor is on the line and an important election for our union and our industry is right in front of us, four out of five of our brothers and sisters stay on the couch.

We say "politics are important." We proudly display our political acumen on the job and in the union hall. It seems to me that we should work on some more fundamental skills — we need to learn how to vote!

Bob Lilley, A.B.M.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — On Friday, June 5, a banquet/awards ceremony was held to honor our 2015 apprentice graduates.

Residential graduates are: William Sizemore, Adam Stull and Benjamin Todd.

Commercial graduates are: Tyler Cammel, Justin Douglas, Andrew Drope, Paul Ehmer, Joshua Eva, Michael Foss, Michael Gaskill, Robert Gombeda, Michael Gordon, Nate Helms, Sebrina Jansen, Ryan Kercenneck, Brian Lundgren, Colby MacDowell, Tyler Mallory, Matthew Mansfield, Roger Mosley, Leif Olson, Joe Piacella, Nicholas Shemuga, Victor Shreve and Michael Walinski.

Recognized for perfect attendance were: graduates Cammel, Douglas, Drope, Ehmer, Eva, Foss, Gaskill, Gombeda, Gordon, Helms, Jansen, Lundgren, MacDowell, Mallory and Mansfield.

Achieving highest grade point average were: commercial graduate Michael Foss, with a 96.2 percent average; and residential graduate William Sizemore, with 93.3 percent.

Congratulations to all our graduates on successfully completing their apprenticeship.

With great sadness Local 306 reports the recent loss of retired Bro. Vern Saylor. Vern was a great union member — involved, selfless and always striving to make a difference. Over the years Vern served the local in many capacities. He was a chairman of the Executive Board, a convention delegate, an apprenticeship board member, a mentor to many apprentices and journeymen, and much more.

Even after Vern retired, he always participated — marching in the Labor Day parade, walking the picket line, or manning the phones to rally our members. Vern, you will be sorely missed but not forgotten.

Thomas Wright, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — The word veteran is defined as: "a person who has had long service or experience in a particular occupation or field."

Local 340 recently erected a permanent, beautiful new American flag in our parking lot. (Our thanks to Bro. Frank Albert and his young son Hunter, who devoted a weekend to working on this project.) This new flag honors all veterans, both members who have served in the U.S. military fighting for our freedom and members who have served the local for many years protecting and fighting for our rights. Thank you to all IBEW veterans for the sacrifices they have made for our country and for our trade.

This has been a good summer for Local 340 members. Work has picked up and any Local 340 member wanting to work is working. Thanks to all of the traveling members who have signed on to our books and gone to work in our jurisdiction. Their help in manning these jobs is greatly appreciated.

Local 340's referral policy changed as of July 1, 2015. This new referral policy implementing the "strike system" is posted on the local's website at www.ibewlocal340.org.

Rest in peace to Bros. Richard Brown, Leroy Flint, Waldo "Wallie" Gayton and Michael Masters. They will be missed.

Tom Okumura, B.M.

L.U. 352 (u), LANSING, MI — In May, Local 352 members travelled to the Michigan AFL-CIO Community Services School in Black Lake, MI. Sitting alongside members of the UAW, CWA, IAM and others, we learned how to assist union members during strikes, layoffs and retirement by linking them with agencies to get services they may need. Facilitators encouraged us to take tools back to share in our workplace and our communities to improve the lives of everyone.

We talked about turning perceptions of unions back into something positive. All locals give to charities and perform work in our communities, but it doesn't get the media coverage it should. We learned about the history of the labor movement and were reminded of the importance of preserving unions. We held our breath as the controversial TPP (Trans Pacific Partnership) trade deal proposal was negotiated, hoping not to be forced to compete with laborers in other countries making $0.12 an hour. This hammered in our need to be politically vigilant and how important it is to find ways to help organize people globally.

We are honored and humbled to have been a part of this training. We were given priceless tools to help elevate our locals and our communities.

Maggie Rich, V.P.

L.U. 494 (em,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — Good things happen in threes.

First, Local 494 congratulates new IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson on his appointment as successor to Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill. As former Sixth District international vice president, Bro. Stephenson has shown his support for many of the progressive ideas that Local 494 has implemented in past years and has attended our career fairs and some of our membership meetings.

Second, former Local 494 business manager John Bzdawka recently was appointed international representative for the IBEW Sixth District. His stewardship of the local revitalized the membership and created a role model for other locals to follow. His guidance will be greatly missed, but we know that Local 494 will always be close to his heart and his support will continue.

Third, and last but not least, the Local 449 Executive Board appointed Bro. Dean Warsh as local union business manager to fill the unexpired term. Bus. Mgr. Warsh previously served the local as business representative and worked closely with Bro. Bzdawka to help advance Local 494. The transition will progress smoothly with Dean as business manager.

We wish all three the best in their future endeavors. Local 494 offers them our full support.

Kurt Jante, B.R.

L.U. 520 (i&spa), AUSTIN, TX — Good times, unity and great food were abundant at the end-of-school-year barbecue for the Austin Electrical JATC apprentices and staff.

This gathering was a well-deserved celebration of all the hard work and dedication that our brothers and sisters put forth in successfully completing another year in their apprenticeships. If looking forward to a summer break and enjoying delicious food did not put a smile on attendees' faces, the presentation of special awards and prizes did. The apprentice with the highest grade-point average was presented with a drill. Twenty-three apprentices with perfect attendance received tape measures. Apprentices with highest GPAs in each respective class year also received gift cards.

The room had a cheerful vibe as brothers and sisters enjoyed beef brisket, sausage, beans and potato salad together in festivity. It was an impressive sight to see all the Austin Electrical JATC apprentices and staff gathered in one very full room to close out one successful school year and look forward to the next. Gatherings like this, which allow everyone to celebrate our collective triumphs, are a meaningful way to grow our brotherhood and sisterhood.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) rebranded in 2014 and transitioned into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Thank you to Bro. Kasey Lansangan, a second-year apprentice and RENEW (Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers) Committee member, for providing information for this article.

Lane Price, Pres./P.S.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — Once again Mother's Day weekend last spring saw Local 530 members hit the streets to sell carnations to benefit multiple sclerosis research. This year we raised $4,089. A big thank-you goes out to all the volunteers, especially Bro. Darren Vail for organizing this annual event.

May 14 saw Sarnia's annual Big Bike for Heart & Stroke event. Bros. Jake Thingstad and Rickey Gorton organized our team and a total of $3,000 was raised. A big thanks goes out to all who participated.

Local 530 thanks Locals 993 (Kamloops), 424 (Edmonton) and 1687 (Sudbury) for continuing to employ our members. At the same time we'd like to thank our closer sister locals for supplying manpower in our time of need.

Local 530 is saddened by the recent passing of Bro. Hank Visser. He will be remembered.

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

Our 6th Annual Spring Picnic on May 16 at Spring Park in Tuscumbia was enjoyed by all. We had plenty of good food from our second annual spring picnic cook-off. The cook-off featured two categories — ribs and barbeque.

Nine teams entered the cook-off this year. Winners were as follows: for first-place barbeque – Grant "Flash" Gordon; second-place barbeque – Billy Wix; first-place ribs – Toby Hargett; second-place ribs – Grant "Flash" Gordon; first-place overall – Grant "Flash" Gordon; and second-place overall – Toby Hargett.

Congratulations to all who participated in the cook-off. We extend our appreciation to everyone who helped make the picnic a success. This annual tradition, which we hope will continue for many years, would not be possible without the support of our membership.

Tony Quillen, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — Over the past year, there has been a construction boom in our jurisdiction, and our NECA signatories have secured much of that work.

We have picked up several large projects in Orlando and in the surrounding areas. Ermco Electric has started the "Avatar" expansion at Disney's Animal Kingdom. This project will increase the size of the theme park to include a major ride, shops and restaurants.

At Orlando International Airport, a major expansion is planned, and Cleveland Electric has secured the new people-mover tram that will connect the new terminal with the existing airport.

Miller Electric completed work on two 200,000-square-foot research and administrative buildings for Northrop Grumman and the contractor anticipates that it will be awarded more work with NG.

All this new construction has given Local 606 an incredible opportunity to go on a major organizing drive. As of this writing we are planning a massive blitz of the central Florida area culminating in an Industry Night where we will be organizing significant numbers of new members. With the help of State Organizing Coordinator Jonathon Dehmel, Local 606 Pres. Clay McNeely and his RENEW (Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers) committee, we predict that this organizing drive will be a huge success.

Is is with great sadness that we report the deaths of several Local 606 members: Tom Bowers, Spence Sullivan and retiree Walter Heminway. These brothers will be sorely missed.

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

L.U. 654 (i), CHESTER, PA — We congratulate Bus. Mgr. Paul Mullen for winning endorsement as a special election candidate for District 161 of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The special runoff election will take place Aug. 4, to fill the seat left open following former state Rep. Joe Hackett's resignation. Bus. Mgr. Mullen also serves as president of the Delaware County AFL-CIO.

This is a very significant election for Local 654. When Bro. Mullen wins the special election, it will be for the highest public office that one of our local members has ever held. Our membership will be out in force to help Bro. Mullen win election and make history.

While there are many great things taking place in our local, we regret to announce a tragic death on the largest job in our territory. An inspector was struck and killed by a large section of pylon that was cut and fell in the opposite direction as intended. This was a huge wake-up call and adversely affected many of our members who were nearby when the accident occurred. This tragedy could have been easily prevented. Never get complacent with your work area. Always be mindful of what is going on around you and communicate with the other trades. Jeffrey Shannon was 49 years old and is survived by his wife and two sons. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family at this difficult time.

James Thompson Jr., P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — Our work picture was great this spring, with everyone working and travelers helping out. Now that we are entering the summer season, things have slowed a bit as some projects wind up. IBEW craftsmanship continues to shine through, even though so many of these projects are fast tracked with very demanding timelines.

Many thanks to Local 666 members who serve our membership and the local union as job stewards. Their job is often difficult, but the work they do makes our local stronger.

Our recent Rebuilding Together effort was a success, as it has been in years past. We had members volunteering for community service every weekend in April, putting their skills to use for a good cause. Thanks to everyone who helped out!

Congratulations and best wishes to our newest retirees: Ashley Seay, John Shimchick, Roland "Butch" Vest and Phillip Bullock.

Charles Skelly, P.S.

L.U. 684 (c,i,rts&st), MODESTO, CA — "Business" as the saying goes, "is good!" Between the Quinto solar project now in full swing and a couple of key industrial jobs, which have taken off lately, our Book 1 is fairly empty. Yet another large solar project is coming around the corner. Our future work projections look positive. Our thanks to the many traveling brothers and sisters who have come from all across the country to help us man these projects!

Our recent effort to reach out to area nonunion electricians at our Industry Night event was very successful. Between door-to-door contact, a radio blitz and numerous fliers sent out, we had more than 50 individuals come in and talk with our local contractors and union leaders. A few attendees were key personnel at nonunion shops, which is creating a ripple effect because they are coming into membership with the local.

Special thanks to Int. Rep. Victor Uno, Int. Rep./District Organizing Coordinator Greg Boyd, State Organizing Coordinator Hank Lewis, local contractors and members — who all showed up for Industry Night to aid in our effort to provide information and speak with our nonunion counterparts. A lot of nonunion rhetoric and beliefs got dispelled that night. Again, thank you to everyone.

Local 684 eagerly anticipates its return to the Ninth District Softball Tournament in August, being held at San Diego Local 569. Though underdogs to our brothers to the west and south, watch out, brothers … we're coming!

Dave Jones, P.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), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — On June 12, members overwhelmingly re-elected current Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart to a second consecutive full term in leading the local.

We are holding our annual Solidarity Drawing once again. Prizes are $25,000, $10,000, $5,000, and five $1,000 prizes. The drawing will be on Labor Day in September at the DuQuoin Fair Labor Pavilion.

At the City of Fairfield, we won a major arbitration rejecting the employer's unilateral changes to the health insurance plan that were harmful to our members. We are in contract negotiations with Dynegy and Alcoa, and we have a new agreement for the clerical group at Ozark Border Electric Cooperative that includes a defined benefit pension plan.

We invite all members to attend the Southeast Missouri (SEMO) Labor Picnic in Cape Girardeau on Sunday, Aug. 30, where the local will defend and go for a "three-peat" in the Union vs. Union Tug of War event.

Our Outside Construction and Line Clearance work is steady and looks promising. As of this writing, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction – 72, Outside Construction – 9, Line Clearance – 2.

For tickets for the Solidarity Drawing or additional information, please contact the union hall at 618-932-2102 or visit our website at www.ibewlocal702.org.

Mark Baker, B.R.

L.U. 704 (catv,em&i), DUBUQUE, IA — Giving back to the community you live in via volunteer efforts is vital. Volunteering time as an electrician for worthy causes demonstrates our commitment to the health and well-being of the community we call home. The construction season is in full swing, yet several of our members took time out of their lives to participate in preparing a home to be designated as Mary's Inn Maternity Home. Mary's Inn is a maternity home dedicated to the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being of single, pregnant mothers and their developing babies. It is a safe haven where they can stay while learning the skills they need to make a better life for themselves and their babies. Special thanks to the volunteers: Bros. Mike Sisler, Charlie Sisler, Matt Droessler, Alex Willenbring, Shane Hargrafen, Miles Wille, Ron Heitzman, Don Rausch and Dave Bushman.

As of June 1, our work situation has improved. Work continues on the Intermodal Parking Ramp, Finley Hospital expansion, and projects at John Deere Dubuque Works and the Dubuque Millwork District.

Thank you to all local and traveling brothers who have manned the dormitory remodel project at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville for Nichol's Electric.

Ron Heitzman, P.S.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — On May 4, IBEW Local 760 brothers and sisters celebrated our local's 90 year anniversary.

Many generations have endured in Tennessee under so-called "right-to-work" laws. Men and women have joined Local 760 to work together for a better quality of life. Over the years, state and federal legislation has stripped worker rights and benefits, and the struggle goes on today.

The IBEW and Local 760 stand for the highest safety and training standards and encourage members to demonstrate a quality work ethic and maintain excellent job skills.

The new IBEW training center, which opened in 2013 in Knoxville, helps members gain a better standard of living, achieve their personal goals and learn a hands-on trade. Booker T. Washington once said: "The world cares little about what a man knows; it cares more about what a man is able do."

Local 760 remembers the past and looks forward to the future. Local 760 goals are to: continually build a strong membership where brothers and sisters look out for one another, stand up for better wages and benefits, and elevate the moral, intellectual and social conditions of our members, their families and dependents, in the interest of a higher standard of citizenship.

Local 760 has stood tall for 90 years and will continue to stand strong with fellow members in the years ahead. Local 760 will meet every challenge and leave no members behind … because solidarity is our greatest strength.

Jason Leary, Organizer

L.U. 1316 (i&o), MACON, GA — On May 19, Local 1316 welcomed seven new journeyman wiremen into the fold. This year's apprenticeship graduates are: Matt Holcomb, Chris Truman, Thomas Yeary, Chris Gassett, Jeff Kuhn, James Thompson and Jack Bergman. Bro. Bergman also received the Morgan Bowen Award for Outstanding Performance.

This class weathered the tough times of a recession and remained steadfast. We are very proud of these men and wish them the best of luck in their careers.

Harry Murray, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 1516 (em,i&o), JONESBORO, AR — Congratulations to the 2015 apprenticeship graduating class at IBEW Local 1516.

The recent graduates are: Jeremy Williams, Brad Bolar, Kevin Thomas, Christian Latanich, Tyler Woods, Jamie Westmoreland and Price Johnson.

We commend these brothers on their hard work and successful completion of the apprenticeship program. We wish them all the best in their IBEW careers.

Shawn Phares, B.M.

L.U. 2150 (em,govt,lctt,o&u), MILWAUKEE, WI — IBEW Local 2150 member Dave Peschman received the Milwaukee Area Technical College apprenticeship program's Academic Excellence Award.

Dave, an Oak Creek Power Plant electrician, began his career with We Energies in fleet services as a fleet technician at the North Service Center. In 2011, he accepted the position of power generation plant electrician and entered the Industrial Electrician Apprenticeship program.

Dave completed his apprenticeship with a perfect 4.0 grade point average and received the Academic Excellence Award on April 30 this year. He has been a model apprentice throughout and has already gained the respect of plant operations and maintenance as a trusted electrician.

Prior to selection of awards recipients, MATC administration and faculty review the academic records of all the apprentices who complete the program within the year. This year there are over 100 graduate apprentices. One of many programs offered at MATC, the Industrial Electrician Apprenticeship program has a notably rigorous curriculum.

Congratulations, Dave!

Nancy Wagner, P.S.

L.U. 2324 (t), SPRINGFIELD, MA — IBEW Local 2324 member Tammy Munn was confronted with a frightening medical diagnosis in October 2013. She had been suffering from headaches for a month when doctors discovered a meningioma brain tumor detected by a CAT scan. Tammy had surgery in December 2013 to remove the tumor.

This life-changing experience made Tammy want to look forward to every moment and make the best of every day of her life. She took up running for the first time to challenge herself. She was so inspired, she decided to run her first 5-kilometer race in May 2015.

Tammy signed up for the Moving Toward a Cure 5K sponsored by the Brain Tumor Alliance. She went to Boston for the race and was surrounded by fellow survivors. She found it rewarding to be around people who also had experienced what she went through. Tammy raised over $400 for the cause. Tammy recently went for her yearly MRI and is happy to announce she is tumor free!

Christine Casino, P.S.