L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

Local 8 retiree Jack Ulery has "retired" — again! Jack retired from the trade in 1982, but for the past 32 years he has held the Local 8 Retirees Club office of treasurer. At age 94, Jack stepped down as Retirees Club treasurer in June, and the club presented him with a plaque in appreciation for his years of service. Best wishes to you, Jack, on your "second retirement"!

Local 8 officers and staff wish all IBEW members and their families a Merry Christmas and a happy, safe and prosperous new year.

Mike Brubaker, P.S.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — Change is in the air at Local 12. A new organizer, Bro. Robert Armijo, was appointed in August. Bro. Armijo promises to be a great asset to our organizing efforts. Bro. Victor Tenorio resigned in July from the Apprenticeship Committee. He has been a dedicated participant since 2001. We thank him for his years of service.

There has been an increase in outside line work in the area recently. The work picture is steady for our local inside contractors.

Hope everyone takes time to enjoy friends and family this holiday season.

Susan J. Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — Sept. 7 this year marked the 129th anniversary of the Tri-State Labor Day Association's Annual Labor Day Celebration. Local 16 Bus. Mgr. Paul Green served as this year's grand marshal. Local 16 won the Labor Day Parade Award for its excellent showing. Bro. Ed Kiesel's daughter Taylor graced this year's Queen's Court. And afterward, everyone shared a delicious meal with other IBEW locals. Special thanks to Bros. Brandon Gretler, Ricky Rush and Charles Marler, and to all those who worked tirelessly making this event possible.

The Local 16 Family Picnic was Oct. 18. This event cannot happen without the help of the many volunteers, who prepare smoked pork butt with side dishes; obtain door prizes; set up tables, drinks and ice cream; check in members; procure and hand out gifts for members' children in attendance; sell raffle tickets and half-pot tickets; call bingo games; help with children's activities; and clean up after it all. Thank you to all.

The 22nd Annual Fantasy of Lights fundraising event should be in full swing by the time you read this article. This is the union's major charitable effort and anyone who can assist with nightly maintenance would be very welcomed.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — At the Sept. 22 union meeting, the IBEW Local 24 Scholarship Fund awarded scholarships. The 2015 scholarships are the first ever awarded from the Local 24 Scholarship Fund.

Ten scholarships were awarded in the amount of $1,000 each. Various union members in attendance randomly drew applicants' names from a hat to select the winners from among 45 eligible applicants.

The Local 24 Scholarship Award recipients and the schools they are attending are as follows: Asya Shaw - Towson University; Dylan Demchuk - University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Jill Flenner - University of Maryland, College Park; Stephanie Gold - Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University; Katlyn Pangle - Anne Arundel Community College; Steven Parsley - University of Maryland, University College; Samantha Ramsey - Community College of Baltimore County; Alexandra Siebenhaar - Anne Arundel Community College; Courtney Wilford - Towson University; and Christopher Wright - Saint Leo University.

Congratulations, scholarship recipients!

Gary R. Griffin, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — As this year concludes and you are doing your holiday shopping, please remember to purchase gifts made in the USA. It helps keep Americans working and strengthens our economy. It's also assurance that what you buy is safe and well-made.

I hope you plan to take an evening out for some brotherhood and sisterhood fun by attending one of our Christmas parties/meetings. The D.C.-area party/meeting will be Dec. 4; Front Royal will be Dec. 11; and Roanoke will be Dec. 12.

Our very active retirees, after a summer break, held their annual crab feast in October and their raffle drawing in November. The Retired Members Club will set sail in 2016 on a cruise to Bermuda, as well as Nassau and Coco Cay, Bahamas! If you are interested in going, please contact Rick Warner.

The officers and staff wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season.

Several members passed away since our last article: Raymond L. Smith, Wayne A. Wildman, Maurice I. Katz, Jason A. Hill, Paul F. Lehmann, William G. Enlow, Sidney G. Marsh, Peter M. Schroeder, Clyde V. Burkhart Jr., Jeremiah M. Banks and Michael L. Brummett Jr. They will be missed.

Best wishes to the new retirees: Steven H. Bettis, Michael E. Burke, Sheldon Johnson, Larry M. Bridges, Robert E. Deckow, Michael K. Donaldson, Frederick R. Gast, James T. Moseley, Larry F. McGlamary and Ralph P. Woodward.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — Departed Bro. Mark H. Ayers dedicated his life to the belief that all working men and women have the right to collectively bargain, earn a living wage, and have a quality retirement. Bro. Ayers fought for these rights first as business manager for Local 34, followed by his appointment to head the IBEW Construction and Maintenance Department by then-international president Edwin D. Hill, and finished up his illustrious career as president of the AFL-CIO Building and Construction Trades Department from 2007 until his passing in April 2012.

A list of Bro. Ayers' accomplishments and community service will not fit in this short article, but he will be honored once again here in Peoria, IL.

The City of Peoria has renamed part of Spalding Avenue as Honorary Mark H. Ayers Way. Additionally, on Oct. 9, the Peoria Labor Temple renamed its meeting room Mark H. Ayers Unity Hall. Many of us never had the pleasure of meeting Bro. Ayers, but we reap the rewards of his distinguished career and his lifetime of service, and can only hope to live up to the example he set.

Marc Burnap, P.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — We recently were awarded two major projects that will bring more than 500 new apartments to downtown Cleveland. These conversions of the Standard Building and the Leader Building will provide over 100,000 man-hours of work for Local 38 members.

The East Bank Flats, on the Cuyahoga River, just opened 250 apartments and multiple restaurants and entertainment venues, all built 100 percent union under a project labor agreement (PLA).

The newest addition to the East Bank development is the Punch Bowl Social, a 28,000 square foot, two-story structure that features a restaurant, four bars, and lots of old-school entertainment like bowling, darts, marbles, ping pong, shuffle board, vintage arcade games and karaoke. The rooftop area will be completed soon.

Be sure to come see the new development and patronize the businesses for building with union trades. It is great to see the resurgence of people in downtown Cleveland.

More projects are planned, including the new 20-story apartment building that is being built on University Circle. Plans are also going forward for the 54-story NuCleus mixed-use complex, to be built just north of "The Q" Arena.

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

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — After California Assembly Bill 1839, the Film and TV Tax Credit initiative, passed the legislature and was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown, work is steadily making its way back to California and Hollywood. A majority of productions have signed contracts, and we are working vigorously to get them all signed. Our contract with Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers and the stage managers' contract were seamlessly ratified by our members — and now the years ahead are looking up. Thanks to all members on the negotiation committees.

On July 22, our newly elected officers were sworn in. Congratulations to: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Marc Flynn, Pres. Don Easy, Vice Pres. Juan Rodriguez, Treas. Hector Burruel, Rec. Sec. Stephan Davis; Executive Board members Lawrence Boudreaux, Michael Courtois, Stacy Freyre, Robert Murphy and Matthew Gruber; and Examining Board members Jesus Barron, Eric Lefebvre and Nicholas Renteria.

Local 40 also wishes to congratulate newly appointed IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson.

At this season, we pause to remember the members we lost this year, particularly Bro. Alberto Penunuri Jr., who passed away July 27 at the Harry Potter project jobsite at Universal Studios. Bro. Penunuri was an enthusiastic member of the project and looked forward to its completion. Alberto had a big heart, a love for his family and a passion for the movies. He was known for his bold personality and his kindness. We thank electrical contractor Morrow-Meadows for halting the job when Bro. Penunuri passed away, and we also thank members Wendy Brefka and Mike Goodwin for their quick response.

Happy holidays to all IBEW members and their families.

Matthew Gruber, Exec. Brd. Mbr.

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 held its Annual Fall Trap Shoot at the Fin Fur & Feather Club in Chaplin, CT, on Oct. 3.

The Retirees Club wishes to formally thank all the brothers and sisters of Local 42, their families and friends who attended the local union's picnic Aug. 29. The club holds an annual 50/50 raffle every year, which is always a great success.

Please be advised that all Local 42 union meetings are the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. The meetings are held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1831 Main St., East Hartford, CT.

Winter is coming up fast on us. Remember to work safe and drive carefully.

Please join us for our annual Local 42 Members Holiday Party on Thursday, Dec. 10. Local 42 wishes everyone safe and happy holidays.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts,st&tm), PORTLAND, OR — Local 48 leadership is working to help make Oregon and southwest Washington even better. Local 48 Bus. Mgr. Gary Young has taken on new responsibilities that promise to bolster labor's position in Oregon's ever-shifting economy.

Oregon Gov. Kate Brown recently nominated Bus. Mgr. Young for a position on the Port of Portland Commission and the state Senate ratified the nomination. The Port of Portland owns four marine terminals, including Oregon's only deep-draft container port, and three airports. The Port also manages five industrial parks around the metropolitan area.

Bus. Mgr. Young has a longtime record of leadership skills. He has served as business manager since 2012. His career includes service as an inside wireman, union volunteer and longtime Executive Board member. As business manager, Gary is also a trustee on: the Harrison Electrical Workers Trust Fund, the Edison Pension Trust, the Cornell Hart Pension Plan, and NECA/IBEW apprenticeship training committee.

Bus. Mgr. Young is committed to being accessible to the members and emphasizes the importance of: a high level of commitment, professional performance and strong personal character. This has been his winning formula and we have a smooth running local to prove it.

At the 2015 Oregon Building Trades convention, delegates unanimously elected Gary as president of the Oregon Building Trades Council.

When interviewed, Gary thanked Local 48 members for their professionalism, work ethics, volunteer service and commitment as union members. With our membership's involvement and Gary's leadership, we are all working to make Oregon and southwest Washington an even better place for working people.

Bob Blair, P.S.

L.U. 50 (u), RICHMOND, VA — As we all know, finding a comfortable balance between work and family time can be quite challenging. Please take a few moments each day to recognize those who are important in your life. It is with deep regret that we report the loss of six Local 50 active members in 2015.

Our recently departed members include: Raymond Chamberliss, who worked as a tool keeper at Surry Nuclear Station; Jonathan Dressler, who was a lineman, Fredericksburg District; Phillip Morris, who was an electrician at SNS; Roger Sine, who worked as an electrician in the Herndon District; Robert Thomas, who was a meter servicer, Woodbridge District; and Richard Wilkins, who worked as an electric serviceman -1st class, Chuckatuck District.

Local 50 represents the hourly workers employed by Dominion, Monongahela Power, Virginia Natural Gas, BARC Electric Cooperative and Craig-Botetourt Electric Cooperative. The territories that we cover include most of Virginia, eastern North Carolina and part of West Virginia.

On behalf of Local 50 members, officers and staff, we send our condolences to the families, friends and co-workers of our fallen members.

John Albert, Treas./B.R.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Our work picture has slowed somewhat. We have 123 on Book I and 58 on Book II, with a few calls trickling in.

We met with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock on Aug. 5 in support of ballot initiative 2C - "A Smart Deal for Denver" to try and ensure that the National Western Center Stock Show Complex and Interstate 70 construction projects will be under best value contracting if the initiative passes. [Editor's Note: At press time, results of the Nov. 3 Denver ballot measure 2C were pending.]

In August, New Member Education saw 28 new members join Local 68. On Aug. 12, Eighth District Int. Rep. Guy P. Runco conducted an informative Code of Excellence class for 53 members. Our annual picnic on Aug. 15 with over 500 in attendance was a great success.

Sept. 7 saw a great turnout of members and contractors at the Louisville Labor Day parade. Also in September, our New Member Education class welcomed 20 new members to Local 68.

On Sept. 25, Local 68 hosted the 30th Biennial Colorado AFL-CIO Constitutional Convention at our hall. Union brothers and sisters from other AFL-CIO unions were under our roof for good meetings and great networking.

At the Sept. 25 Denver apprenticeship evening graduation banquet, 20 new journeymen and two voice/data/video technicians graduated. Congratulations to all.

May members and their families have a safe and happy holiday season.

We extend deepest sympathy to the families of recently deceased Bros. Douglas M. Legge and Duane E. Wiley.

Jack Cox, Pres.

L.U. 70 (lctt&o), WASHINGTON, DC — Miller Brothers is the union electrical contractor on a solar panel installation project underway in Frederick, MD. The project includes installation of 67 acres of solar panels, which will generate 19.5 megawatts of clean energy.

IBEW members from several locals are performing the inside and outside work on this joint project. Construction of a new overhead power line was ahead of schedule at this writing and covers miles of new lines and "underbuild" going through wetlands where no mechanized equipment could be used. Local 126 journeyman lineman Kevin Schutz is general foreman on that part of the project, with the help of members from Local 70. Good job, guys.

Steve Fiorito, a journeyman wireman out of Local 98, also is a general foreman on the project. With the help of journeyman wiremen from Local 24, that work includes running miles of wire and making countless terminations to the panels and other equipment. Looks great, guys. Good job.

James Keller, a member of Local 57, and his crews have worked very hard to keep the job moving forward. Good job, guys. We also had help from Local 37 members on the project. Thanks, guys.

With all union workers on the job working together, the project is looking great and is ahead of schedule. Thanks to all our union brothers on a job well done.

Jimmy Horton, B.R.

L.U. 104 (lctt,o&u), BOSTON, MA — On Saturday, Oct. 17, Local 104 joined in the competitions at the 32nd International Lineman's Rodeo in Kansas City, KS.

Local 104 retiree Claude "Cut" Levesque volunteered as a judge, and Local 104 journeyman Mick Van Natta, who is Northeastern Joint Apprenticeship Training area coordinator, accompanied our two teams — a team of four apprentices and a team of three journeymen — representing Local 104. On our local's apprentice team were Josh Dubois, Joe Spargo, Tyler Coutu and Kyle Lazaron; and on our journeyman team, Brian Lovell, Eric Bowden and Joe Jodoin. It was reportedly the largest turnout for the annual rodeo. Although our men did not take home a trophy, they had a real good showing for the IBEW.

"It was really amazing to see so many linemen from everywhere, including Jamaica, Canada, England and Alaska," Bro. Van Natta said. Congratulations to all the men who competed.

Brian T. Murphy, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 110 (em,i,rts,spa&u), ST. PAUL, MN — The brothers and sisters of Local 110 have done it again. On Sept. 24, they donated 51 units of blood at their third Red Cross Blood Drive of 2015. Total units donated for the year was 150 units. The efforts of the electricians of Local 110 have always been greatly appreciated, and their support of the community blood program will go a long way toward replenishing blood supplies and ultimately saving lives. Thanks, brothers and sisters, for your willingness to share this lifesaving gift. Our next drive will be on Jan. 20, 2016.

Jon "Jack" Buchal, Asst. P.S.

L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — At a special meeting, Bus. Mgr. Don Finn gave a "state of the union" address. His report covered the last year, current issues our local is dealing with and future issues we will be facing.

Our finances are in the best shape they have been in for the last 10 years. Our business agents are working night shifts and weekends monitoring areas where there is a nonunion presence. We have been successful in turning around some large projects. Project labor agreements (PLAs) have been signed on nine upcoming big jobs. Our apprentices and retirees have each been assigned a business agent to listen to their concerns.

We are in the political fight of lives here, along with all of our sister locals in Illinois, combating the anti-labor, so-called "right-to-work" agenda of our current governor. Our PAC fund is healthy and we are in 100 percent political mode mobilizing all of our members to become involved in the various political committees and voter registration campaigns being initiated.

Going forward, we will be talking with our contractors association to relax some work rules germane to our area, which will help us organize smaller contractors. With all the vertical construction occurring in the West Loop and the lack of parking, the needs of our membership have outgrown our building. Preliminary steps have been taken to relocate our union hall.

After the business manager's report, various questions were asked and answered and constructive suggestions given by concerned members. Overall, the meeting was very informative and positive. Our future has challenges but together we are prepared to face them all.

Frank Cunningham, R.S.

L.U. 136 (ees,em,i,rtb&u), BIRMINGHAM, AL — Local 136 continues to see work opportunities develop. We have several projects with our local powerhouses, an upcoming steel mill project, and more commercial work in our jurisdiction.

Our membership has increased by 23 percent in the past year as a result of organizing efforts by Local 136 staff and members, and our fellow organizers from 5-DOT (Fifth District organizing team) headed up by IBEW State Organizing Coordinator Jed Dunnagen, as well as surrounding locals. Local 136 thanks everyone involved in organizing efforts.

Since our last report in The Electrical Worker, we have signed two new contractors. We look forward to building a great relationship with these contractors and having them become prosperous in our jurisdiction.

We thank everyone who attended our Annual Labor Day Cookout. Approximately 300 brothers and sisters attended to celebrate together here at the union hall. It was a huge success and a great display of brotherhood among our members and their families. We also have great attendance at our retirees meetings; special thanks to Bro. Tommy Trenor and all of our retired members who attend these meetings and continue to support Local 136.

Our work outlook is very good through the end of the year and will continue looking up as we move into 2016. Local 136 wishes our members and their families a joyous holiday season and a happy new year.

Dennis "Pick" England, Organizer

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — Happy holidays from Local 146! May 2016 be a prosperous year for all of us.

Congratulations to Myra Walters on her recent appointment by the Executive Board as the Local 146 treasurer to fill a vacated unexpired term, and congratulations to Justin Martin for his appointment as the new Local 146 organizer.

All of our apprentices are working and back in class at our Midstate Electrical Training Center. There are now 62 indentured apprentices. With the beginning of classes, we also welcome new instructors Lionel Sanders and Drew Karr. Best of luck to everyone.

Our condolences go out to the families of recently deceased members John Ramsey and David Riley. Our departed brothers and their service to the union will never be forgotten.

Rich Underwood, R.S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — Local 158, like other locals in Wisconsin, is flush with work and in need of manpower. We had an outage at Point Beach Nuclear Plant in October, and we have another one scheduled for March 2016. Our signatory contractors have been busy and have also attained some future work. My hope is that this trend continues. We are taking in new members to supply help for these calls, but we need to also replace our members who are retiring. I also would like to thank the traveling brothers and sisters who have helped us man our work.

Our local, in partnership with our contributing contractors, is once again sponsoring our annual display for the Green Bay Botanical Gardens' Garden of Lights event. It runs from November through December during the holiday season. As in the past our display is the showpiece 60-foot-long, walk-through Caterpillar attraction with 20,000 LED lights. Last year more than 62,000 people attended this seasonal event.

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — As 2015 comes to a close, we look back on a year that was filled with many good things. Our work picture improved dramatically with many new projects underway and even more looking to break in the new year.

This year saw Local 164 continuing to move forward with many improvements and positive changes in our local and our apprenticeship training program, as well as the return of some of our most treasured traditions — our annual outing and our December dinner dance. All who attended these wonderful events had a great time.

With the holiday season upon us, Bus. Mgr. Dan Gumble, Pres. Tom Sullivan, all the officers and staff of Local 164 wish our members, all our fellow brothers and sisters, and their families a merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a safe, healthy and prosperous new year.

Warren M. Becker, V.P.

L.U. 222 (o), ORLANDO, FL — For the past three years, Local 222 has hosted an annual Labor Day Fundraiser Bike Ride. This year we are pleased to share the news of yet another successful ride. With the help from some of our sister locals, we were able to host the ride from Tampa to Daytona for approximately 60 riders. We kicked off the ride in Tampa, stopping for lunch at Lake Harris Hide-Away, in Leesburg, and wrapping up the day at Local 756 for barbecue and fellowship with ride participants and the members of Local 756.

Funds raised this year benefit St. Jude Children's Hospital and the Local 222 Children's Fund, and we're excited to say we raised over $5,600!

A special thank-you to our sponsors — IBEW Locals 177, 349, 627, 756 and 915; union contractors C&C Powerline, Heart Utilities, Henkels & McCoy and L. E. Myers — as well as our financial partner, PowerNet Credit Union, for all their support. Also a special thank-you to all who participated in this year's ride. It wouldn't have been nearly as successful — or fun — without you.

Bill Hitt, Pres.

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — Local 234 expects two utility-scale solar projects, each covered by a project labor agreement (PLA), to begin in early 2016.

Both projects will provide good, green construction jobs, including associated support, maintenance and operation positions after completion. The projects will also increase each respective county's standing as strong supporters of renewable energy. The Panoche Valley Solar Farm, at 147 megawatts, with over a million modules to be installed, will improve economically hard hit San Benito County's employment picture.

The California Flats Solar Project, at 280 megawatts in southeast Monterey County, is expected to provide nearly 500 direct construction jobs. The project's output will be split, with PG&E taking 150 megawatts and 130 megawatts going to Apple Inc., through Power Purchase Agreements. This project will produce the equivalent of powering more than 100,000 homes annually. We are proud to provide skilled labor for both of these solar installations.

On Sept. 29, the Salinas Union High School District Board of Trustees approved a building trades PLA for the construction of a new $75 million high school. This was after many months of combined intense efforts, spearheaded by Local 234 Bus. Mgr. Andy Hartmann. Thank you to Local 234 members who turned out to support adoption of the PLA. They included: Lamont Adams, Jon Agra, Wallace Barnes, Chris Burditt, Alex Costes, Andy Gattis, B.J. Heading, Randy Hill, Sean Kent, Daniel Lujan, Jose Moncada, Stephen Slovacek, Rip Smith, Luis Ortiz, Austin Pless and Manuel Valdez.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — Congratulations to the new business manager, Drew Lindsey, and Executive Board members elected by the Local 280 membership in June. While all of the officer positions were filled by members serving in their respective roles for their first time, their experience serving the local in other capacities makes us confident that we are in good hands.

The work picture was good this summer, with some inside calls going to book 2 and unfilled calls for sound & communications and residential work. The outlook for the coming winter and spring is good for book 1 hands, including the data center work in central Oregon. We have 150 on book 1 and 85 on book 2.

Our annual picnic was a great success with nearly 400 attending. A big thank-you to all who contributed to the success of the events. Numerous prizes were awarded and every member went home with a nice gift. Also, congratulations to Bro. Lynn McDonald and his son for winning the horseshoe tournament.

Mark Crenshaw, Pres.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Sometimes it's fun to look into our union's past. While looking through some of the historical articles published in the IBEW Journal in the early years, I found a particularly interesting Local 292 article published in the early 1900s.

In 1918, then-press secretary L.E. Anderson wrote: "We are in the grip of a severe winter with very little demand for our labor power. At present there are about 100 members out of employment, out of a membership of 250. All traveling brothers take notice. A few months ago the Fixture Hangers (L.U. No. 541) decided to affiliate with L.U. No. 292 which was accomplished a short time later, with great success. The struggle for better conditions, etc., is always on in peace as well as war and we should always remember that our fight is here in the U.S.A. and not in Europe. The president was elected because he kept us out of war. See to it that he does. Yours for world peace and working class solidarity."

These words ring as true today as they did almost 100 years ago. We must keep up the good fight, brothers and sisters. Remember to thank a veteran any chance you get!

Eric Peterson, B.R.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — Season's greetings, brothers and sisters.

Local 300 Unit 1 inside construction experienced a decent year of employment and again saw some growth in membership. Slow and steady wins the race. Unfortunately, the closing of Vermont Yankee Nuclear Plant is counteracting these increases.

On a positive note, at the time of this writing Bus. Mgr. Jeffrey Wimette and Bro. Louis Lacroix are in the midst of an organizing drive with the employees of a nationwide tree trimming company.

Our local's 2016 construction forecast seems to be looking more sunny than cloudy. A great deal of construction is anticipated; our contractors simply need to successfully bid the jobs and we need to deliver them on time and under budget.

All of us from Local 300 wish all of you a safe and successful 2016.

Tim LaBombard, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — Lately, we have enjoyed some success in securing work through project labor agreements, including a $55 million wastewater project, a billion-dollar wastewater project, and continued work on several school projects covered by existing PLAs.

However, our successes seem to elicit more creative opposition from our adversaries. Charter schools, once a way for parents to focus their child's education on a specific field of study, have lately been used as a way to circumvent prevailing wage laws and use lower building standards.

"Vertical construction" policies allow contractors to say they are "union," although they are only signatory to one or two lower-paid crafts that do everything, giving them an unfair advantage over fair contractors.

Another way nonunion contractors undercut our good local contractors is by bringing in workers from long distances where the pay scale is not as high.

This requires us to continually develop strategies around educating our city leaders and members of the public about the disasters these policies can bring. We cannot expect them to continue to advocate for us and our industry if we don't direct their attention to the true cost and true value a qualified and motivated labor force brings with it.

Bob Lilley, A.B.M.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — We hope everyone had a safe, happy summer. Work here in Akron has been slow but is improving gradually.

Throughout the summer and fall we had many opportunities to get together for fun and brotherhood. On Aug. 8 we held our family picnic at Sluggers and Putters with this year's added attraction of a new roller coaster.

On Aug. 22 we held our Local 306 Golf Outing at Paradise Lake. This year four of our retirees took first place: Glenn Sheller, Denny Henkle, John Hornacek and Leonard Eddy. Congratulations to them and all the other prize winners.

On Sept. 5 we held our 2nd Annual Car Show to raise funds for our sick or injured members. This year the weather was perfect and we were able to raise enough to help many of our brothers and sisters and their families. Thank you to all who attended and donated for this worthy cause and thanks to our Social Committee, officers, and E-Board for their help with all these events.

On Sept. 7 we marched in the annual Barberton Labor Day Parade. As always we had a great turnout and show of solidarity. We also thank the many contractors who brought their line trucks to the parade.

With sadness we report the passing of retired Bros. George "Pete" Miller and Ross Hammel. We send our condolences to their families.

Thomas Wright, P.S.

L.U. 332 (c,ees,i&st), SAN JOSE, CA — Work continues to be good, with several tech companies such as Apple and Nvidia building new campuses and remodeling older ones.

The work picture has been steady and reliable all year and we expect this to continue.

Our annual union picnic saw approximately 2,100 members and family in attendance. Thanks to all who helped to make it a success.

Congratulations to the 87 JATC apprenticeship graduates this year. Our JATC accepted 143 new apprentices in 2015, bringing the total to 521 apprentices currently indentured in the local. [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.]

Recent jobsite accidents remind us that safety must always be the top priority. When you see an unsafe condition, please stop everything and see that it is corrected. You may be saving the life or health of a brother or sister.

David Bini, Organizer

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — At the Oct. 7 membership meeting, I was proud and honored to report that Local 340 Rec. Sec. Ron Puleo was awarded a 2015 IBEW Founders' Scholarship.

Bro. Puleo currently has an associate degree in business administration. While he was pursuing a bachelor's degree in union leadership at National Labor College, the school closed. He then transferred to Penn State University to study organizational leadership with a minor in business management. Bro. Puleo's goal is to utilize the Founders Scholarship to serve the IBEW and the wider labor community in whatever leadership capacity he can. His dedication to union service is demonstrated not only by his role as Local 340 recording secretary, but also as an alternate trustee on our Health & Welfare Trust and as an active PAC committee member. I had no hesitation in recommending Bro. Puleo for this scholarship, and we wish him the best in his endeavors to help the IBEW continue to engage, represent and grow.

The work picture in Local 340's jurisdiction, and throughout the country, has picked up. The last nine months of 2015 have been very good to our members in that if they wanted to work, they definitely could. We look forward to a great 2016!

Local 340 members and officers wish everyone a happy holiday season.

Tom Okumura, B.M.

L.U. 352 (u), LANSING, MI — We have begun gathering items for an event called "Capital Area Stand Down For Veterans." This is our third year participating in the event, which is organized by Volunteers of America Michigan. Homeless veterans in the community are served lunch and granted access to: veteran services, haircuts, health screenings, legal services, Social Security and benefits information and assistance, vision testing and job assistance. Also provided are needed items such as clothing, shoes, toiletries and bus passes. This year's campaign is led by Bro. Dewayne Williams, who is a Vietnam veteran, with support by Sisters Honey Bentley and Fin. Sec. Lisa Faber-Ryan.

The number of homeless veterans in America was estimated at 49,933 in January 2014 according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Another startling statistic is that returning veterans are twice as likely to become homeless as other Americans, with female veterans four times more likely to become homeless as male veterans. More than 50 percent of these veterans suffer from physical, mental and/or emotional disabilities. These men and women risked their lives protecting our freedoms. In gratitude, Local 352 will have a table/booth at this event for veterans in the spring.

Maggie Rich, V.P.

L.U. 444 (i&mt), PONCA CITY, OK — Looking back, this has been a great year for our local. Much of that has been fueled by the big turnaround at the Phillips 66 refinery.

For the first time in more than two decades, the local powerhouse has consistently started using fair labor practices. That's good news, as it gives Local 444 a greater ability to help man the work with additional out-of-town brothers.

It's also been a year of change, with former business manager Robert Shelton retiring. He's done a great job with the local and for the IBEW as a whole, and we wish him a happy retirement for all his hard work. As your new business manager, I must say that I have some pretty big shoes to fill. But with the steady guidance and assistance of all who've helped me settle in to this new position — especially Brother Shelton — I am looking forward to the future with optimism.

We've also hired Shawn Howerton as our first-time organizer, and we anticipate strong results in the coming year. I know that additional progress we make will be a result of our members and contractors (new and old) working together to develop a community-wide understanding and deeper appreciation of the IBEW.

Thanks for a great year. Let's have another.

Micheal Leonard, B.M.

L.U. 494 (em,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — The IBEW Local 494 membership bid on and won a Lake Michigan charter fishing trip. The members then decided to donate the trip to a veterans' organization. We were able to get four veterans from the Veterans Administration out on Lake Michigan in the month of August.

We hosted Dallas Kobringer, a War World II veteran; his brother Jerome Kobringer, a Korean War veteran; Jim Kostuch, a Vietnam veteran; and Scott Flaugher, an Iraq War veteran and owner of Veterans Electric.

The charter, The Fishing Bug, was captained by Angelo Trentadue, a Local 494 retired member and his fist mate, Dale Johnson, an IBEW Local 430 retired member.

Dan Small from MPTV Outdoor Wisconsin was also on board along with a cameraman and a sound technician. After a productive and fun five-hour excursion, all four veterans came back with at least one fish apiece. Everyone on board had a great time and wished it never had to end. Before they went out, Bus. Rep Kurt Jante gave them a couple of the 494 fishing lures. Luckily for us they caught a fish on one. I would personally like to thank all of the members of Local 494 for their generosity.

Dean A. Warsh, B.M.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — On Sept. 7 Sarnia hosted its annual Labour Day Parade, and as always Local 530 made our presence known.

It was nice to see a large number of our members participate, as well as members from other locals who were working in our jurisdiction. Following the parade everyone was welcomed at the Polish Hall for food, drinks and activities for the children. As always a thank-you goes to members who brought their vintage cars to showcase our retirees (the people who fought to achieve what we enjoy today). This annual event would not happen without the efforts of our Recreation Committee. Thank you to all involved for their participation.

Local 530 is saddened by the passing of Bro. Harvey Jay. He will truly never be forgotten!

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — Local 558 was fortunate to participate in the Shoals Central Labor Councils' annual Labor Day events again this year. This event has been held annually for a record 93 years and is reportedly the nation's oldest Labor Day event. It is a pleasure to report that Local 558 was the top contributor for this event. We won first place in the float division and had the "top two" in individual donations for prizes.

Also, this summer we held two job steward classes with a great turnout. We thank the International Office for its assistance, along with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. We believe education is vital to our membership and this was demonstrated by the high turnout of our participants.

Congratulations to the 2015 NJATC journeyman lineman apprenticeship graduating class (see accompanying photo). The Apprentice Lineman of the Year was Bro. Chad Oliver. We are very proud of the graduates' accomplishments and dedication. We know they will be an asset to our local and the community they serve.

[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 send our best wishes throughout the holiday season and look forward to a great year in 2016.

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

L.U. 570 (i,mo,spa&u), TUCSON, AZ — Local 570 was proud to be part of the first Arizona-wide IBEW Solidarity Picnic held Oct. 3. There was a good turnout from all seven Arizona locals to join together to celebrate brotherhood and solidarity.

While the work picture appears stronger in other parts of the country, work is still slow in our jurisdiction. We are thankful for the work Sturgeon Electric and Spectra Electric had last year at Freeport-McMoRan Mine in Morenci, AZ. Things have slowed down in the mining industry with the drop in copper prices; however, Spectra still has about 20 members working on the site as of this writing. Some of our contractors have indicated they are starting to pick up some work. Stark Electric and Sturgeon recently were awarded a large project at Banner University Medical Center in Tucson, which should put some members to work sometime next year. Local 570 looks forward to a busier 2016.

Scott W. Toot, Pres.

L.U. 584 (ees,em,es,i,rts,spa&u), TULSA, OK — Several members represented the IBEW on the recent large data center project in Tulsa. Special thanks go out Bros. Curtis Merriweather and Don Shivers, Atlanta Local 613; Howard Day, Kenny Shivers, Harlan Saulsberry, Jacob Hille and Darrell Thompson, Tulsa Local 584; and Ralph Merriweather, International Representative.

The job provided many great work opportunities for many brothers and sisters. The project is a Seventh District Code of Excellence job, and has gone two-and-a-half years without a grievance. Thanks to everyone who worked on that project helping make it a success.

We are also ramping up our communications efforts, and we are pleased to announce our dynamic new website at www.ibew584.com. Check it out for all the news and happenings in the Tulsa area. Also, please "like" our Facebook page at www.bit.ly/ibew584. We have lots of announcements and current content to share with our membership.

Thanks for a great year, and we look forward to many more excellent opportunities in 2016.

Alan Shipman, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 640 (em,govt,i,mo,mt,rts,spa&u), PHOENIX, AZ — On Oct. 3, Arizona IBEW members gathered for a day of brotherhood at our first Arizona IBEW Solidarity Picnic. Approximately 2,500 members and their families from seven Arizona locals, as well as district international representatives, came together for a day of great food, kids' games and some first-class story telling on a beautiful day.

It was great to see how large our membership really is in our red state and to realize the possibilities that could arise if we all come together for a common cause.

Special thanks to the nearly 100 apprentice volunteers, as well as members from each local, who worked hard to help make this a special day of brotherhood. The picnic was a great success and everyone deserves a round of applause.

We also had our yearly service pin ceremony. It is always great to see the smiles of the pin recipients' family members. Among the recipients were Local 640 Bus. Mgr. Dean Wineur, who received his 20-year pin, as well as Sixth District Int. Vice Pres. Steven M. Speer, who received his 40-year pin. It was a true day of brotherhood here in Arizona.

Our condolences go out to the families of recently deceased members John Haggerton and Karl Michael. Rest in peace, brothers.

Jeff Sears, P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — On Friday, May 29, our local held a Retirement Party to honor new retirees. Honored were: Rodney Baker, Mark Baranek, Mark Bauer, Philip Bejcek, Mark Chaffin, Daniel Chomas, Daniel DeGroff, William Drayer, Michael Engwis, Dennis Federspiel, Michael Frantz, Grant Gehringer, Brian Hines, Richard Jasinski, Randy Johnroe, Terri Jurn, Mark Kerr, John Klele, Russell McLean, Timothy Ranck, Albert Render, Donald Renigar, Karl Shawl, James Shea, Hubert Snodgrass, Christopher Szeszulski, Craig Taunt, Roger Terry, Mark Thompson, Cary Trier, Kurt Vogel and Paul LeVasseur. We congratulate the retirees and thank them for their years of service. We wish them health and happiness in their retirement years.

We wish to recognize some of our members who participated in the Wireman's State Golf Tournament. Tournament results were as follows: Mark Baranek - low actual; Tom Theisen - low handicap; and Tom Theisen, Terry Ames, Terry Brandenburg and Phil Bejcekk — low team handicap.

We are saddened to report the passing of retired Bros. Frederick J. Schmidt and Donald G. Ahler. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families.

We wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year 2016!

Tammy Gottleber, 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 Sept. 3, in the re-run of the election for business manager, Steve Hughart was again overwhelmingly re-elected by a total of 818-269. Thank you to everyone who turned out to vote.

The 4th Annual IBEW Local 702 Solidarity Drawing was a huge success. Winners were: Brandon Keesee, who won $25,000; Aaron Suits - $10,000; The Law Firm of Schuchat, Cook & Werner - $5,000; Aaron Sarver - $1,000; Matt Conklin - $1,000; John Griffin -$1,000; Mike Cosimi - $1,000; and the Southern Illinois Central Labor Council - $1,000.

At the Southeast Missouri (SEMO) Labor Picnic, the local's Tug Of War team retained the top spot for the third year in a row, pulling through the brackets going undefeated, with no match lasting longer than 11 seconds.

Our organizing efforts in Missouri continue. We are currently in negotiations with Scott County for two new groups, the dispatchers and the county jail staff. A representation election for county sheriff's deputies was held Oct. 19 and the vote was 12-2 in favor of IBEW representation. At the City of Sikeston, we received voluntary recognition from the Council for the Street and Park Departments.

As of press time, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction — 67; Outside Construction — 1; Line Clearance — 6.

Mark Baker, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 704 (catv,em&i), DUBUQUE, IA — Dubuque's Annual Labor Day Parade was filled with individuals depicting the multitude of labor organizations in our community.

IBEW Local 704 was well-represented by members and family who marched down the Main Street parade route. The almost two-hour long event with over 100 separate units was well-attended by the Dubuqueland community. Company trucks followed the IBEW banner and marchers representing the electrical industry, who turned out to show that we are ready, willing and able to address all electrical needs from design and install to project completion. After the parade, a family picnic was held at Swiss Valley Park. Thanks go out to all who participated.

Recent recipients of IBEW service pins were recognized for service of 50 years or greater. Congratulations to the following brothers: 50-year members Wayne G. Gardner, Daniel J. Hammel and Thomas J. Mitchley; 55-year members Milton A. Avenarius and Stanley P. Thor; and 65-year member Lester W. Amenda. An achievement to be proud of!

Ron Heitzman, P.S.

L.U. 736 (rr), PRINCETON, WV — IBEW Local 736 communications workers employed by Norfolk Southern Corp. in Bluefield, WV, recently started a project to upgrade the microwave system, dispatch consoles and WI-FI wireless networks for the railroad in the Bluefield, WV, and Pocahontas Division.

These upgrades are essential to modernize the communications networks and provide faster data rates and more bandwidth within the microwave network, allowing more precise train detection and communications, and will also provide a network back to Atlanta for the upcoming Positive Train Control project.

New consoles and servers are being installed at the dispatch center in Bluefield and surrounding NS Railroad offices to modern IP based controls and touch screens. This will enhance the communications with trains and personnel in the field.

Norfolk Southern Corp. prides itself in using modern technology and a skilled labor force to advance into the future.

Thank you to Local 736 member Roland K. Harris, an employee at Norfolk Southern in Bluefield, WV, for providing information for this article.

Gareth L. Mills, B.M./Pres.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — In the spirit of promoting fellowship amongst our members, Local 760 of the IBEW hosted our first Membership Appreciation Day in September.

With many of our members being able to work in their jurisdiction, it was good to see the members and their families come out to the IBEW Training Center to share their experiences and "catch up" with each other. The inflatable slide and bounce house were a huge hit with the kids, and many raffles were held for various prizes and T-shirt giveaways. Thank you to all the volunteers who helped make the day a success. We hope to build on this event each year into the future and to make it an annual event. Volunteer pride was on display and the burgers and hot dogs were a great fit to go along with snow cones and popcorn on such a perfect day for the event.

Jason Leary, Organizer

L.U. 804 (i&o), KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA — Sept. 1, 2015, marked the beginning of a new era for Local 804. We have taken possession of a new purpose-built, state-of-the-art training facility and union office. Our new address is 5158 Fountain Street North, Breslau, Ontario N0B 1M0.

Local 804 is committed in showcasing the IBEW brand to the community with investment in skills and training, maintaining a long tradition that our contractors and owner/clients have come to rely on. Our focus to inspire the next generation of electrical professionals with modern equipment and skilled training staff will serve as our gratitude for the hard work and dedication of those members who came before us.

The brothers and sisters of Local 804 can be proud of their pledge of growth and development in the electrical industry. Together this marks a new foundation of a fraternal duty established in April 1942 and, as then, will deliver the best and brightest electrical workers in the trade.

Dino Celotto, P.S.

L.U. 1002 (o&u), TULSA, OK — Local 1002 completed three one-day steward/member-to-member seminars in August, with about 40 members stepping up to be even more effective on the job.

We're thrilled with the number of stewards who went through this training. We believe this will reflect in better member representation, as well as increased organizing through the member-to-member training.

We had solid representation from Public Service Company of Oklahoma, Southwestern Power Administration and Outside Construction. Plus, two of the stewards are from newly organized co-op Choctaw Electric, where employees overwhelmingly ratified their first contract in January. It was inspiring to see so much brotherhood on display, especially for the new members who are eager to have more of a voice on the job.

The local has also been increasing our communication efforts with a more robust social media presence and a new YouTube page at www.bit.ly/ibew1002youtube. If you haven't yet, please "like" our Facebook page at www.bit.ly/ibew1002facebook.

In solidarity,

Jeff Bolin, B.M.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — With our current contract ending Dec. 31 of this year, our local officers have been in negotiations with Tucson Electric Power and at press time have finished drafting a tentative new contract to be voted on by our members.

Due to the loss of many longstanding members to retirement this year, the local has worked to increase membership and has successfully organized 61 new members thus far in 2015. This organizing drive has been advanced as a result of creation of the Volunteer Organizing Committee (VOC) and the efforts of Lead Organizer Robert Sample. Thank you to Robert for his innovative ideas in recruitment and to Bus. Mgr. Frank Grijalva for his support of the VOC. A special thanks goes out to the boots on the ground, our VOC members, for their hard work in spreading the union message.

Roger Asplin, P.S.

L.U. 1466 (u), COLUMBUS, OH — On Saturday, Sept. 26, Local 1466 held our annual Fall Family Picnic. This event grows and gains in attendance every year, and 2015 was no exception! It was nice to see so many families join us for the festivities. Congratulations to all of those who won door prizes, and to Bros. Steve Long and Jesse McCain for placing first in this year's corn-hole tournament. Thanks to everyone who came out, and we look forward to seeing you again next year!

We would also like to thank everyone for working hard and looking out for each other this year. Have a safe and happy holiday season, and we'll see you in the new year!

Jimi Jette, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1, ST. LOUIS, MO — Greetings, from the Local 1 Retirees Club. I hope everyone had a great summer. Our Labor Day parade and picnic in September were terrific, with beautiful weather and warm camaraderie.

John Wozniak is our club's new vice president. Welcome aboard, John.

On Sept. 16 we had our Retiree Luncheon. On Nov. 18 we held our regular retiree meeting. Local 1's Health Fair took place Oct. 3. Thanks to all who participated in these various events and helped to make them a success.

A national election is approaching. Everyone should be registered to vote and stay informed. We need to elect men and women who are interested in improving the lives of working people.

Neal McCormack, R.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, NORTH NEW JERSEY CHAPTER — At this writing, we're enjoying a beautiful fall season! Members enjoyed our fall luncheon meeting at LaTerrazza Restaurant, where we enjoyed great food and camaraderie along with the meeting, led by Chmn. John McCormick.

Recent chapter activities included a bus trip to Mohegan Sun Casino and a three-day trip to the Villa Roma in Callicoon, NY; also several of us enjoyed seeing West Side Story at the Westchester Broadway Theater. Our annual picnic was held at Congers Lake in July and members enjoyed a wonderful catered barbecue, great camaraderie, and even a little music & dancing!

Our week at the Educational Center in Cutchogue was very well-attended (see accompanying photo) and we now know how to live to 100! We also enjoyed a delicious Tuesday pot luck dinner and a Wednesday evening barbecue, both provided by our members.

Several members attended the Labor Day parade in New York City and some joined the Westchester/Putnam Chapter at the homecoming Army/Bucknell football game at West Point! Plans are underway at press time for a holiday luncheon meeting and our newly formed activities committee is busy formulating plans for 2016! Happy holidays to all!

John Krison, Acting P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, SUFFOLK CHAPTER — We did not have our regular September meeting due to renovations at our meeting hall, however, this did not stop club activities. Thank you to Allan Eimer for obtaining grandstand seats for the New York City Labor Day parade.

Our end-of-the-season summer barbecue once again was a great success, thanks to Jim Joust and his hard-working committee. Attendees enjoyed plenty of food and lots of fun activities.

Our bus trip to Kykuit, known as the John D. Rockefeller Estate, and a special luncheon made for a very enjoyable day. The weather was wonderful and we made a stop at Stew Leonard's for a little shopping. Once again we thank Olivia Schmidt for making all the arrangements.

We will be having our Annual Food Drive and Toys for Tots campaign again this year. Remember to make your reservation for our Annual Holiday Party in December. Please contact John Schoenig for information about the party.

Harvey Goldman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER / PUTNAM CHAPTER — At our monthly meeting on June 9, our new chairman, David Torres, and vice chairman, John Baranski, were elected to the board. We welcome them both to the board and look forward to their leadership, energy and commitment. The remaining slate of officers ran unopposed.

In addition, Bart Vey has volunteered to undertake the newly created position of house chairman. We thank the membership for their continued support and the special camaraderie that we have in our chapter.

Showing our pride and commitment in caring about our communities, the chapter chartered a bus for transportation to the 2015 Labor Day parade in New York City. The event was thoughtfully arranged by Local 3 Pension Dir. Tom Gallagher, and included sandwiches and refreshments. The parade, joined by union members numbering in the thousands, marched up Fifth Avenue, beginning at 44th Street and terminating at 67th Street. We demonstrated that we are still a united force and the labor movement is alive, healthy and strong in New York City and beyond. God bless America.

John Rich, P.S.
Bob Cuneo, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 26, WASHINGTON, DC — This year we broke our own record, with over 500 dues-paying members! If you are over 50 years old (retired or not), please join our meetings, travels and events (crab feast, cruise and raffle drawing.) If you plan to visit in the area on the second Saturday of the month, call the local for details and join us.

Our 2016 cruise will be to Bermuda and the Bahamas, departing June 9. For details call our travel coordinator, Rick Warner at 240-472-0438.

Our bus trips often sell out quickly. If interested in future fun trips, please let Bro. Warner know. September's trip to QVC and October's Delaware Park Casino trip were sold out!

In December we will visit the National Christmas Center. In March 2016, we may attend a live biblical show in Pennsylvania. And we plan more Delaware Park Casino trips.

On Oct. 10, some 119 people attended the Retired Members Club Crab Feast in Annapolis, MD. At this event, we honored Bro. Michael Acree (who traveled from Arizona) and presented him with his 40 year service award. We also celebrated Bro. Steve Walker's birthday with cake brought by his wife, Dodie. Mark your calendars for Oct. 8, 2016!

At our Thanksgiving/November meeting we pulled raffle winners. We are always thankful in November for the tickets sold to raise funds that support our medical equipment program! We are grateful for good health and every holiday season our members are with us.

Susan Flashman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 35, HARTFORD, CT — I would like to thank Dennis Machol and Charlie Rose for their dedication in participating in the Alliance for Retired Americans.

The Retirees Club wishes to thank Local 35 Bus. Mgr. Bruce Silva for attending our Annual Retirees Luncheon held at Adams Mill Restaurant in Manchester on Oct. 21. Thanks to Local 35 for their generosity in hosting the lunch.

On Veterans Day in November, we remember all IBEW members who served our country. We appreciate our veterans' service.

Best wishes to everyone for a happy and healthy holiday season.

Kenneth R. White, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 42, HARTFORD, CT — Happy holidays! The Retirees Club thanks the Local 42 office staff and members for all their help at Local 42's annual family picnic.

This year's raffle was a grand total of $3,554. Congratulation to the winner! The winner was able to bring home $1,778.

Attention Local 42 Retirees: Come and join the Retirees Club, which meets bimonthly at the Local 42 union hall. We are located at 379 Wetherell St., in Manchester, CT. It's a great time to get together with old friends, share great stories and enjoy free refreshments. The annual dues are only $12. If you are interested in joining the club please feel free to contact us at (860) 646-7297.

Retirees Club Pres. John Shane and the club thank all the members for their support.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 60, SAN ANTONIO, TX — After the summer break, the club met on Sept. 10, with 40 members present. Planning the events for 2016 was on the agenda, along with forming various committees and naming committee chairpersons.

Our Christmas project once again will be the Wounded Warriors project. The collection of personal items will be delivered to the WW headquarters after our Dec. meeting.

The date of the Golf Tournament Fundraiser for 2016 will be determined most likely right after Fiesta, which will be April 14-24. Location will be determined by the Golf Committee.

The Retirees Club is excited to announce its new website www.lu60retiredmembersclub.com. The site offers a variety of information and a walk down memory lane with pictures of club members. An informational page for active members was added regarding how to start the retirement process (phone numbers and address of pension plans along with documents needed.)

The Retirees Club meets the second Thursday of each month. The club takes a summer break from June through August. Meetings start at 12 noon; after a short business meeting lunch is served with 10 games of bingo following. The club meets at the Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship Bldg., 3630 Belgium Lane. The club is open to all Local 60 retirees or honorary members as well as their spouse or widow/widower. Please join us.

Sandy Rogers, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 90, NEW HAVEN, CT — On Oct. 1, Local 90 held its annual retirement dinner at the WoodWinds in Branford, CT. We gathered to honor the most recent group of new retirees. They are: Ronald Bodle, Richard Bohan, William Braver, Louis Cifone Sr., Russell Cooper Sr., John Fainer, Kenneth Lavoie, Brian Maher, Dennis Mangiulli, Steven Natale, Joseph Piazza, Donald Ruef, Robert Tomei, Gene Toro and the late Peter Canning, honored posthumously. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service to the IBEW. We invite you to join our club.

Our Retirees Club's annual holiday luncheon is scheduled for Dec. 1 at Fantasia in North Haven, CT. At press time we are looking forward to the event. The food, the service and especially the company are always great.

We wish all IBEW members and their families a joyful holiday season and a happy, healthy and safe new year.

Richard Launder, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 113, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO — As I write this, Colorado's high mountain peaks glisten under a layer of newly fallen snow and the golden aspen leaves are beginning to carpet the ground around us.

As the chill autumn air compels us to complete our preparations for the coming winter, we find ourselves raking leaves, draining irrigation systems, cleaning rain gutters and looking for a caulking gun to slow a coming winter draft. Some may be preparing for an elk or deer hunt, or waxing skis or dusting off snowmobiles in anticipation of winter fun. Whatever your winter activities, be sure to pencil in time for our monthly Retirees Club luncheon.

If you were absent due to travel this past summer, come and share your travel adventure with us. Please know we miss you when you're gone.

Isn't it great that the IBEW has provided us with great pensions so when we do set our tools aside, we still have an income to enjoy life? We have so much to be thankful for! Merry Christmas to you and a happy, healthy new year!

Can you identify the class of 1966 apprenticeship graduates pictured in the accompanying photo?

Bill Campbell, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL — Gov. Bruce Rauner is waging war against organized labor. On his so-called "turn around" agenda, Rauner wants a series of changes to benefit corporations and weaken unions in Illinois. This would bring down the wage rate all across the state, and it would bring down the standard of living for middle-class working families.

Gov. Rauner's demands for provisions to weaken collective bargaining and prevailing union wages do not promote the dignity of work and the rights of workers.

All unions in Illinois have to stand together in opposition to Gov. Rauner's agenda. If labor had stood together in fraternity and solidarity at the voting booth last election, we wouldn't be contending with a governor who makes no bones about his attempts to break the back of labor.

Always vote if you want your voice heard. Otherwise, only the 1 percenters will be running your state and country. A depressing 36 percent of registered citizens voted in the last Illinois election. That dismal percentage indicates that Rauner does not have "the people's mandate," but he does have the power of office to ruin the middle class and harm the lives of disadvantaged families and seniors. Your vote counts!

Our September luncheon meeting was delicious as always. We also had a speaker from Mayflower Tours, who presented travel ideas for our club for the future. If you are interested, contact Gerry White.

Louis Rodriguez, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 212, CINCINNATI, OH — Many military veterans and their spouses miss out on pensions available to them through the Veterans Benefits Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

There are three types of VA pensions available to veterans who served even a single day, during wartime: Basic, Household, and Aids and Attendance (A&A). Depending on income, assets and other circumstances, A&A is a tax-free benefit designed to provide financial assistance to help cover the cost of long-term care in the home, an assisted living facility or in a nursing home. This benefit is for those veterans and surviving spouses who require the regular attendance of another person or caregiver in at least two of the daily activities of living such as transportation, dressing, bathing, cooking, eating, grooming, homemaking and maintenance. Maximum compensation can be sizeable ranging from $1,700 for a qualified veteran, $1,100 for a surviving spouse, and $2,000 for a married veteran. Disability is not a requirement. If you don't qualify for A&A, you may be eligible for another type of pension. For more information, go to website www.va.gov or apply at a local VA office with your DD214. It could be worth your time. The VA office is very helpful.

Wishing all a happy, healthy Christmas season.

Bob Schaefer, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Retirees Club met Oct. 27 at one of our favorite places for family style fried chicken and country ham, Claysville Store Restaurant in Claysville, MO. This restaurant is owned by Local 257 member Mark Hooibrik and his wife, Laura.

Summer was a busy season. In August our group went to the Lyceum Theater in Arrow Rock, MO, and saw "Driving Miss Daisy." In September we began the month with the Labor Day parade in Jefferson City. The Retirees Club decorated a float from which they gave out candy and balloons to the kids. Emil Fischer and grandson followed driving his 1950 Studebaker, five-window coup. There was a good turnout with many labor unions participating and Jefferson City residents watching.

Also, Local 257 had its annual picnic at a park in Jefferson City. As usual, everyone enjoyed the afternoon visiting, playing games and eating good barbecue. A few of our retirees were recognized with service award pins. They were: for 60 years of service - Paul Gallatin; for 55 years - Donald Cessna and Emil Fischer; for 50 years - Herman Grothoff, Bob Kauffman, Richard Owens and Jerry Rehagen; and for 45 years - Phil Butts and Bill Jurgensmeyer. Congratulations to everyone!

Delores Melloway, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 349, MIAMI, FL — As 2015 comes to a close, we can reflect on the many activities we have enjoyed this year. In January we traveled to St. Augustine, FL, for a few days of fun and sightseeing in that historic city. In April we went on an Everglades airboat ride. At the time of this October writing, we were looking forward to the union picnic in mid-October, our Thanksgiving luncheon at Calder Racetrack and our Christmas luncheon at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino.

We congratulate Ben Makofsky, who was awarded his IBEW 65-year pin by Local 349 Bus. Mgr. Bill Riley at our Oct. 8 meeting.

The Local 349 Retirees Club meets at noon on the second Thursday of each month at the union hall. The meeting is followed by a potluck luncheon. We invite all retirees to join us. Spouses are also welcome. We are in the planning stages for next year's annual trip, so come on out and join in the fun.

Doyle Rutland, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 530, SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — Our club had a wonderful summer, filled with warm sunshine and great get-togethers. In July we travelled to Huron County Playhouse to see the live stage play "Chicago," arrangements made by George Mathieson. In August, after our regular Thursday meeting, we enjoyed a fresh pickerel lunch at Purdy Fisheries, arranged by Kathy Coates.

Several of our members take responsibility for various events we attend throughout the year, thereby lessening the burden of one person needing to do all the work.

Every September we hold our Annual Retirees Golf Tournament, held at the beautiful St. Clair Parkway Golf Course. After the tournament, golfers and non-golfers alike gather together to enjoy a feast of chicken and ribs in the spacious dining room overlooking the course. This year we had 29 golfers out on the links, and a total of 42 members who enjoyed the meal following the round of play.

This year the trophy for lowest score went to the team that comprised: Tom Schliehauf, Phil Schliehauf, Kent Wilcox and Chuck Nisbet. The tournament was well-organized again this year by Bob Friedrich and Herb Burdett.

Nancy Stinson Philbin, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 586, OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA — Our Retires Club remains very active with newer members joining monthly as they retire from the electrical trade. The monthly meetings are well-attended and always end with a luncheon. We have wonderful participation in the annual Labour Day parade where the Retirees Club organizes our float and dresses our participants. Three times we have received the "Best Original Float" award and trophy. This year we had two horse-drawn wagons, decked out with signs, banners and balloons, carrying our retirees.

Our group has developed a yen for travel, and in addition to monthly trips of one to three days by bus, we have travelled farther afield with up to seven-day trips to Atlantic City, NJ, and New York City; Washington, D.C.; Boston, MA; and Las Vegas, with a tour of Hoover Dam. We also enjoyed a week touring Alaska and a seven-day cruise back to Vancouver, BC, to attend the 38th IBEW Convention. Additionally, we enjoyed a seven-day bus trip tour of the three Maritime Provinces. In the past year we have had a total of 1,590 participants at our events. Who says retirees don't enjoy themselves or get around anymore? Our entire group has now become one family.

Often we tend to forget that these retirees suffered during some of the worst unemployment periods and sacrificed during strikes for better working conditions, wages, pension and benefits plans, and shorter work weeks. We thank the local union officers and members for their union support and financial assistance for these retirees.

Bill Warchow, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 611, ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Local 611 retirees are still helping with food bank distributions to needy families each month. The event has moved to the AFSCME parking lot through December and still takes place the last Friday of each month. We welcome a first-time volunteer, retiree Ralph Cochrane, and encourage all retirees who can to help in this worthwhile project.

We retirees must remember to be cautious about giving out our personal identity information. Take notice in parking lots and in stores, and be wary of potentially dishonest, fraudulent people at our front doors, on the telephone, or online. If in doubt as to what safeguards to look for, contact your local AARP, which has free publications and can answer questions about scams and identity theft. Related information is also available at the U.S. Bureau of Consumer Protection, FTC, website www.consumer.ftc.gov/scam-alerts.

We offer our condolences to the families of retirees who recently passed away: Hildon O. Simmons, Vernon Clark, John Solar, Ivan J. Johnson and Anthony "Tony" Negri. Bro. Negri, who passed away last June, retired from a New York local, lived in Rio Rancho and attended Local 611 Retirees Club functions. Condolences also to the families of Bros. Philip J. Garcia and Jose D. Renteria.

Although we don't have regular Retirees Club meetings, remember that regular Local 611 meetings are the third Saturday of each month, and the Local 611 history book of current events is always on display at union meetings.

Wishing everyone a merry Christmas and a happy, healthy new year.

Tracy Hall, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 702, WEST FRANKFORT, IL — The Retirees Club met on Aug. 6 and Oct. 1. At both meetings, club Pres. Gary King called the meeting to order. Financial Reports were approved and recent deaths were noted, followed by a moment of silence.

At the August meeting, Pres. King announced he is working with Local 702 Pres. James Sanchez to acquire merchandise from the local. Furthermore, the need to help staff the pavilion at the fair was discussed and assignments were made.

At the October meeting, special guest Judge Brad Bleyer asked for and received the club's support in the upcoming election. Also, the club recognized Bro. Ival Maxwell and his wife for 64 years of marriage, and Bro. Sam Jones for his 100th birthday. A thank-you was extended to all who helped out at the state fair, including Bruce Dallas, Bob Caby, Jim Nolen, Dave Cosimi and Charlie May. The club is looking into having retiree license plate frames produced. Bro. Jim Campbell invited club members to view his holiday house for the next meeting.

At both meetings, the drawing was held and the deposit for the club was announced, then the meetings adjourned.

Mark Baker, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 756, DAYTONA BEACH, FL — We wish you all a happy and healthy upcoming 2016. This past year has gone by so quickly.

Our fall meetings were very well-attended. As usual, all the food was delicious, and we are very grateful to all of our cooks, who spend many hours making it so wonderful! Our meetings would not be the same without them and everyone else who pitches in!

With sadness, we report that since our last article several members have passed away. We extend our condolences to the families of our late brothers: William F. Dudley Sr., Raymond F. Drozd, James W. Merrick Jr., William W. Parke and Robert C. Rawlins.

We invite any retired or unemployed brothers and sisters and their spouses who are in the area to come and join us. Our meetings are the second Thursday of each month, 11:30 a.m., at the Local 756 Union Hall, Port Orange, FL.

Diane Gibbs, P.S.