L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws), ST. LOUIS, MO — On Thursday, Sept. 15, the Henry Miller Museum Open House will take place, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at 2726 Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, in St. Louis. The open house will include tours and refreshments. Delegates to the 39th IBEW International Convention will be able to access buses to the Henry Miller Museum from the Washington Street pickup area adjacent to the America's Center in downtown St. Louis. (Signage will direct guests to the pickup area.)

Scheduled for Sunday, Sept. 18, noon to 4 p.m.: IBEW Local 1 Open House, BBQ & Henry Miller Museum Tour. The Local 1 Open House & BBQ will take place at 5850 Elizabeth Ave., St. Louis. Local guests are invited to Local 1 for a barbecue and refreshments, with buses provided for guests to tour the Henry Miller Museum. Convention delegates and guests can also access buses to the IBEW Local 1 location, as well as to the Henry Miller Museum, from the Washington Street pickup area adjacent to the America's Center.

On a sad note, we mourn the death of the following members: Walter Mason Jr., Mark Stegall, Charles Reynolds, Michael Coyle, Dale Lopinot, Thomas Michel, James Dusin, Thomas Vogel, Lewis Kitchen, Walter Benwell and Ronnie McCutchen Jr.

Jan Bresnan, P.S.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — We are proud to announce that IBEW Local 15 and Exelon have been awarded the Leo Perlis Labor Partnership Award from United Way of Metropolitan Chicago. This award recognizes a union that excels in its support of United Way and the mission to improve lives in Chicagoland communities. The contributions of Local 15 members totaled an impressive $717,349.47 for the 2015–'16 United Way campaign. This generosity is instrumental to the success of our workplace campaign each year. We thank everyone who donated for helping us earn this prestigious award.

Pres. Dean Apple was present to accept the award at United Way's end-of-year All-Star Celebration on behalf of IBEW Local 15. Local 15 is proud of its ongoing commitment to United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, and our efforts to improve health, education and financial stability for working families throughout Chicagoland.

Annette Kisala, P.S.

L.U. 17 (catv,em,lctt,o&u), DETROIT, MI — Work has slowed a bit on our construction side. Currently, some of our journeymen and apprentices are traveling. Our Line Clearance books are clear and expected to stay that way for the foreseeable future.

As of this writing we are in negotiations with DTE Energy, our largest employer. We are not expecting a labor dispute at this time.

Local 17 has presented its Line Clearance Tree Trim Training Programs to several local unions and utilities across the U.S. It is our hope that these models can be used in organizing drives and for raising the living standards of tree trimmers in their respective jurisdictions.

We are saddened to report the passing of retired Bros. Bob Sigouin and Greg Olechnowicz. Bob, who was a former business manager, and Greg, a former assistant business manager and grievance committee chairman, were both well-known for their tenacious approach to defending our members, bargaining contracts and fighting grievances.

Our members often ask us: "What can we do to help?" One of the most important things you can do to help this great Brotherhood is to vote in this year's election! Union density is now at just 11.1 percent. How much can you afford to lose? At this writing, union workers are striking at one of Trump's casinos. Do you really believe he will help organized labor? The IBEW is fighting for pensions, health care, a living wage, safety, training, and a host of other things many of us take for granted. We are endorsing Clinton and asking for your vote because she stands with the middle class and the IBEW!

Dean Bradley, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 21 (catv,govt&t), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Lake County, Indiana, Emergency Call Center dispatchers who voted to join our local in June 2015 reached a historic first contract with Lake County representatives.

The tentative agreement, which affects nearly 100 Lake County Emergency Call Center dispatchers, was pending ratification by our members as of this writing. The IBEW 21 bargaining team, consisting of IBEW Local 21 negotiators and Lake County dispatchers, recommended that the members accept the agreement. Local 21 Bus. Mgr./Pres. Paul Wright stated: "We were seeking a contract that rewarded the dispatchers for their service to the residents of Lake County. This agreement achieves many of our goals." We thank everyone for their involvement.

Congratulations to our IBEW Local 21 Scholarship Award winners. Our committee awarded eight scholarships, to family members of Local 21 members. Our scholars were awarded based on their interpretation of the role union members play as a positive force in the community. Congratulations to the scholarship recipients: Jacob Bergman, Sarah Colberg, Natalie Cutrano, Katrina Kerr, Melissa Marcus, Samantha Reattoir, Amanda Rodriguez and Thomas Stancato.

Bob Przybylinski, R.S.

L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA — This past June, 27 journeymen and 17 apprentice power line technicians from IBEW Local 37 (NB Power) and IBEW Local 1524 (Saint John Energy) competed in the NB Power/IBEW37 Lineman Rodeo in Fredericton, NB.

Although it's a competitive and challenging event, the rodeo also strengthens brotherhood and provides a chance to show the skills required to perform line work safely. Spectators were treated with a barbecue, and kids had lots to enjoy — including face painting, a magic show, a crafts station, and a scavenger hunt.

Winners were announced that evening at the Rodeo Banquet. The title of Top Journeyman Team went to Local 37 members Mark McCann, Tyler Smart and Jordan Atherton. The Top Apprentice was Local 37 member Joel Pertin. We're pleased to congratulate them on their well-deserved victory.

A huge thank-you goes to members of the Steering and Competition Committees, the more than 50 dedicated volunteers, rodeo competitors, and spectators — it's your combined support and energy that ensure continued success!

The winners will head to Kansas City in October to compete in the International Lineman's Rodeo, joining other teams from across of North America.

We wish our members a safe trip and the best of luck in Kansas City!

Ross Galbraith, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Recently elected officers are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Matthew J. Moore, Pres. Walter Westfall, Vice Pres. Clay Davidson, Rec. Sec. Debra Perry and Treas. Julie Brandt. Members elected as International Convention delegates are: Bus. Mgr. Moore, Pres. Westfall, Treas. Brandt, Robert Colby Jr., Wes Heckman, Michael Holcomb, Roger Oakes and Bobby Wedell.

Dynegy Midwest Generation announced plans to mothball Baldwin Power Station Units 1 and 3 earlier this spring. This is in addition to the retirement of Dynegy's Wood River plant. As of this writing, Dynegy's plans have not changed. The company's decision on its coal plants has been driven by a poorly designed Midcontinent Independent System Operator Inc. (MISO) capacity market process.

Exelon announced its plan to shut down Clinton Power Station beginning June 2017. The local and Exelon are set to begin effects bargaining after the necessary information becomes available concerning the shutdown and the initial layoff.

Our annual Golf Scholarship Outing was a great success. We awarded college scholarships to: Mike Beardsley, Justin Dirr, Logan Knisley, Alexandria Lovel, Matthew Montague, Brandon Sparks and Daniel Walston. The winning golf team from Champaign consisted of Kyle Buhrmaster, Justin Scherbring, Kaleb Smith and Kyle Smith.

With so much at stake, it is imperative for our members to vote on Nov. 8. Donald Trump has made his intentions known, and fighting for unions is not one of them. Hillary Clinton will deliver real results for union members and our families. She is a proven fighter tough enough to get the job done on the issues that matter most: protecting pensions, safeguarding worker rights, bargaining collectively, and the right to organize. Vote your job — your family depends on it!

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY — Congratulations to apprentice lineman Lucas Ullman, who represented Local 97 well at the National Sisterhood United for Journeyman Linemen Rodeo (NSUJL) in Clearfield, PA. Lucas won multiple first-place awards as well as 1st Place Overall Apprentice Lineman.

In recent months we were successful in ratifying an effects bargaining agreement for Entergy Nuclear craft workers at the Fitzpatrick plant and we continue to work out an agreement for the security workforce as well.

In June, Local 97 members employed by PSEG in Glenmont ratified a four-year contract agreement that brought about yearly wage increases and changes to the medical plans.

Congratulations to Local 97 Bus. Mgr./Pres. Theodore Skerpon and his team on their recent re-election to office. This marks the first successful re-election for a third term in Local 97's history.

We look forward to seeing all the elected delegates to the 39th IBEW International Convention in St. Louis this September.

Jim Zabinski, V.P.

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — Local 103 electricians employed by the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) were recognized by the Federal Aviation Administration and Massport Operations and presented with Safety & Security Team Awards for electrical department Runway Status Light System upgrades at Logan Airport and for crane repair work at Conley Marine Terminal.

Many hours of planning and scheduling went into installing updated equipment, lights, cables and transformers. This project was completed with minimal impact to daily operations, using no outside contractors, and was completed in record time with no defects, downtime, or injuries! Credit goes to our Local 103 electrical team for a job well done! Congratulations on a great job go to: Jim Dee, Ralph Visconti, Ted Fullam, Rich Cruise, Matt Clogher, John Nigro, Noel Montesano, Rich Johns, Steve Breslin, Mike Jacobs, Glen Buchanan, Ed Casaletto, Angelo Bonaventura, Joe Clark, Anne Marie Raftery, Chris Bodensieck and Steve Coleman.

Louis J. Antonellis, Pres.

L.U. 109 (u), ROCK ISLAND, IL — Local 109 member Todd Lopshire, pictured in the accompanying photo, became a journeyman welder in April of 2016. Todd works out of the Rock Island Service Center for MidAmerican Energy Company. Congratulations to Bro. Lopshire on his achievement.

Presenting Todd with his completion certificate were Local 109 certified welder trainer Tim Harris and Local 109 certified pipeline welder Bryce Knapper.

Denise Newberry, R.S.

L.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER, CO — The Local 111 election of officers and delegates to the 39th IBEW International Convention took place recently and the membership has voted to elect the leadership of their local union.

Congratulations to: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Sean P. McCarville, Pres. Patrick Quinn, Vice Pres. Kristie Knudson, Treas. Robert Estrada, Rec. Sec. Edmond Roehre; Executive Board members William Ashley, Gene Baca, Julie Borger, Ron Geary, George Gurule, Carol "Kelly" Horn and Alfred "Denny' Wallace; Examining Board members Jeff Jablonski, Michael Moore and Jimmy Coslet III. Delegates-at-large to the 39th IBEW International Convention are: Eppie Martinez, Mike Kostelecky, Richard Meisinger, Kristie Knudson, Robert Estrada, Duane Lawlor, Nate Gutierrez and Gene Baca. Following officer training on July 8, all newly elected officers and Executive Board members were sworn in by Bro. Jerry King.

We also wish to acknowledge our members receiving their 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, and 75-year service award pins and certificates from the IBEW. Congratulations to our: 50-year pin award recipients — John Derrera, Don Moseley, Richard Saylor, Robert Steinbach, Harold Thompson and James Watkins; 55-year award recipient — Louis Zutman; 60-year award recipient — Ronald Draper; 65-year award recipients — Henry Baty, Milford Clark, James Grosshans and John Johnson; and 75-year award recipient — Leo Litt.

Mike Kostelecky, P.S.

L.U. 113 (catv,ees,em,i,mo&o), COLORADO SPRINGS, CO — On May 4, during the regular meeting, nominations were taken for officers of Local 113. Turnout was heavy and it was great to see the many faces getting involved in the process. Hats off to all who came out and participated. Here now are the election results.

Elected to office are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Mike Ham, Pres. Brian Bradley, Vice Pres. Matt Hall, Rec. Sec. Joe Collins and Treas. Ken Schauer. Elected to the Executive Board: Vern Kapu, Kevin Komp, Leon Mattsen, Hugh Smith, Glenn Kapu and Eric Kapu. Examining Board: Tobi Collins, William Decker, Bradley Hartman, Brett Jones and Richard Juarez. Our Building Association members are: Brian Bradley, Mike Ham, Brian Murray and Francis Vigil. International Convention delegates are Brian Bradley, Francis Vigil, Vern Kapu and Mike Ham. Congratulations to all who made this happen!

On the topic of elections, we do have another one on the near horizon. Please consider volunteering at the hall as we gear up for November 2016 elections. We will need much help manning the phones and walking precincts to help keep our friends in office and our opponents out. Please help elect friends of working people at the national, state and local level.

As always work smart, work professionally, and work safe. In solidarity.

Brian Putnam, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — The 20th Annual Benefit Golf Classic was held in Hood River, OR, on June 25. This annual event raises funds for the Oregon Burn Center at Legacy Emanuel Health Center.

It is fitting that the Benefit Golf Classic Committee honored Local 125 retired member Bill Quimby with the Sponsor of the Year Award in recognition of his hard work and dedication not only to the event but also to the OBC itself. Additionally, the Oregon Burn Center Foundation honored Quimby and Local 125 retiree Gene Daily for their 20-year commitment to and support of the OBC. Thank you to all participants, sponsors and volunteers for their support. Visit www.benefitgolfclassic.com for a list of golf classic winners and a donation total.

On June 8, Local 125 Election Judge Travis Hefely, along with tellers Jake Faulkner, Mike Pyatt and Kevin Townsend, certified the tally of votes for delegates to the 39th IBEW International Convention. The following Local 125 members were elected by the membership as convention delegates: Wade Anderson (PGE), Randy Bryson (PGE), Jeff Carson, Robert Clarkson, Raymond Cowell (Pacific Power), Marcy Grail, Joe Spears (PGE), and Tim Titus. Bus. Mgr. Travis Eri and Pres. Larry Browning will also attend the convention.

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 139 (i&u), ELMIRA, NY — IBEW Local 139 is proud to present its newest journeyman wiremen. These young men have been exemplary apprentices, both in the classroom and out in the field. They are an example of what's great about the IBEW and our future. The 2016 apprenticeship graduates are: Kimathi Arnold, Rob Bell, Shane Moore, Justin Sabins and Sam Schimizzi. Congratulations, brothers.

Ernie Hartman, B.M.

L.U. 145 (em,i,o,rts,se,spa&u), ROCK ISLAND, IL — We salute the hardworking men and women of this great nation, and especially the brothers and sisters of the IBEW, on the very celebrated Labor Day weekend. Like many other cities and communities across the United States, the people of labor join together in parades and community events to celebrate their toils and successes, their history of working together to make this great nation what it is today.

On May 18, many union members from across the state of Illinois joined together at the state Capitol in Springfield to rally against our current governor and his so-called "turn-around agenda." The governor's agenda severely weakens the middle class and the union's rights to collectively bargain. His actions hold the state hostage, and the lengthy delay in passing a state budget places the burden on the backs of hard-working men and women in Illinois.

Work has slowed down somewhat with the completion of several big projects. We are optimistic that other projects will come through and keep our work picture steady.

Work safe and support your local union! In solidarity.

Dan Larson, P.S.

L.U. 191 (c,i,mo,rtb&st), EVERETT, WA — Our summer was filled with many social activities; picnics, golf tournaments, ball games and a night at the races.

IBEW 191's Community Outreach Plan continues to grow. We have signs at local ballfields, malls, racetracks and ads on the radio.

Special thanks go to our organizers for conducting a very successful blitz under the direction of Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Joe Lorenzo. We received generous help from several of our sister locals: Locals 46, 48, 73, 77 and 89. A total of 167 homes were visited by a total of 43 IBEW members over the two-day event. These initial contacts with unrepresented workers help to portray the IBEW in a positive light.

Our work picture remains strong and we want to thank our members and travellers for manning the jobs and doing quality work.

Bill Mirand, P.S.

L.U. 229 (em&i), YORK, PA — The Local 229 construction group has full employment, with many travelers working in our jurisdiction. The work picture looks very good through 2016.

Reminder to all retirees: The Retirees Breakfast is held the last Wednesday of every month, at 8:30 a.m., at West Manchester Diner, 930 Carlisle Rd., York, PA.

The 2016 apprenticeship graduates performed various tasks on a Habitat for Humanity project in Red Lion, PA, on May 7. Tasks included electrical rough-in, building and insulating walls, wrapping the house to prepare for siding, and wrapping windows and doors with metal. It was great to see these men applying their skills for a good cause in service to the community.

Our local continues to make community service a priority through our relationships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, United Way, Junior Achievement, and the York County Food Bank. We hope that relationships like these will grow as we develop our newly chartered IBEW RENEW committee.

We are very proud of our members, such as the class of 2016, who recognize the importance of a strong community, a positive public image, and an engaged membership. Thank you and congratulations to all.

Timothy Griffin, P.S./Tr. Dir.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OH — The work picture at Local 245 is steady with a few new jobs on the horizon. All of the apprentices are working and the local will be looking to start some new ones soon.

Regarding contract negotiations, the Outside Construction 71/245 agreement is up, as is the Ohio/Michigan commercial agreement. The contracts for members employed by WTOL Channel 11 and the Bryan Wastewater Treatment Plant will be up for negotiation later this year.

There is an important election this fall. The next U.S. president will make a number of important appointments, and those appointments can have a huge impact that can last long after that president leaves office. It is important that we elect labor-friendly candidates, because their decisions greatly affect our ability to make a decent living. If we can't make a decent living, many of those other issues don't seem to be as important anymore.

There is a lot of big money in this election thanks to the Supreme Court's Citizens United vs. FEC decision, which allows unlimited campaign spending by big money corporate interests. Don't be fooled by all those commercials you see; go to a source you trust for information about a candidate or an issue. We have proved time and time again that, when working people are informed and politically active, common sense can beat big money every time.

Have a safe and wonderful fall season. I'll see some of you at the IBEW 39th International Convention in St. Louis. For those who are traveling, have a safe trip.

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — The Local 269 Annual Retirees Dinner is an event that honors members for their years of commitment and dedication to our profession and our union way of life.

The life of a construction electrician is not an easy one. Finding the optimum balance in providing an income for your family and giving enough of yourself to those who depend on you for love and support is not an easy task.

So when a member is awarded his IBEW years-of-service pin — be it for 20, 30, or 50 years of service — that time is not just represented in buildings built and projects completed. That time is also represented equally by little league games, graduations and walks down the aisle.

It is for all this and more that we acknowledge longtime members for their service and their achievements. Unfortunately, not all can be present to accept their accolades, so we bring the ceremony to them. Such was the case when Bus. Mgr. Steve Aldrich and Pres. Wayne P. DeAngelo, New Jersey Assemblyman, brought ailing retired member Eugene Kehoe Sr. his pin commemorating 70 years of IBEW membership, as his proud son Eugene Kehoe Jr. looked on. Times like these remind us that as many have depended on Bro. Gene, he may also depend on us.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — Happy Labor Day, brothers and sisters! Take a moment and reflect on how union membership has benefited you and your family. Are you better off? During the Industrial Revolution of the 1700s and 1800s, workers in Europe and the United States began to form organizations, called "combinations," to protect themselves. Almost every government outlawed combinations because of pressure from wealthy factory owners. Sound familiar? In 1741, thirty-five years before our country declared independence from Britain, bakers went on strike in New York City protesting how the city controlled bread prices. They were tried and convicted, but never sentenced. Fair wages and safe working conditions are not automatic or guaranteed.

Each one of us has the power to improve the lives of other working Americans, by purchasing USA-made products. Just say "no" to foreign made products.

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa), DES MOINES, IA — Happy Labor Day. The movement for the eight-hour day began in the late 1870s. Thousands of strikes were staged on the issue until the Workingmen's Party in Chicago called for a general strike in May of 1886. Two days later, during a rally, what is known as the Haymarket Square Massacre erupted when a bomb was tossed and the police began shooting wildly. Many of the police who were shot during the melee, were shot by their own. Eight defendants were indicted, tried and convicted. It can be proven seven were innocent. Four were executed.

Eight years later, the U.S. Congress approved Labor Day. Pres. Grover Cleveland, in an attempt to distance Labor Day in the United States from the Haymarket Square Massacre and the International Labor Day in May, declared Labor Day shall be observed in September. Yes, Virginia, people were actually killed for better working conditions.

On a happier note, work is still strong in Local 347. Preparations will soon be underway for the new and improved Make-A-Wish Jolly Holiday Light display.

Congratulations to recently elected officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Pat Wells, Pres. Scott Farnsworth, Vice Pres. Matt Carpenter, Rec. Sec. Matt DeAngelo and Treas. Kyle Overton. Executive Board members are: Jason Ballard, Adam Cassady, Tim Hawthorne, Tim LeClaire, Dave Reid and Doug Wolf.

Have a safe, enjoyable Labor Day.

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees&i), ALLENTOWN, PA — IBEW Local 375 celebrated Memorial Day by holding its Annual Family Picnic on Saturday, May 28, at Dorney Park & Wild Water Kingdom. We reached an all-time attendance record with well over 660 members and their families enjoying a fun day of food, beverages, rides and waves.

As another school year passes, we welcome 10 newly graduated journeymen to our ranks. They are: Nyechay Lawless, David LeBlanc, Eric Moore, David Moyer, James Newman, Zachery Pole, Islam Shakirzyanov, Gregory Simmons, David Walko and Joshua White. Good job and congratulations! Dave LeBlanc earner the top grade-point average for five years in his class. He was presented a cordless hammer drill for his accomplishments. Because of his scholastic achievements and his work with our 3DYC team, the local is proudly sending Dave to the National Training Institute (NTI) event this year as our Outstanding Apprentice. We also thank Milwaukee Tools for its support of our apprenticeship program.

Our local union elections were held June 8. The newly elected officers are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Paul Anthony, Pres. Craig Siegfried, Vice Pres. Lonnie Hill, Rec. Sec. Douglas Hall and Treas. Alan Rex. Elected to the Executive Board: David Harding, David Reichard, Steven Ringer and Joseph Shober. Elected to the Examining Board: Robert Franklin, Michael Hill and Todd Parton.

Healthcare and Retirement Trustee: Alan Rex. Vacation Trustees: Todd Jones and Ronald Widmann. Delegates to the International Convention: Bus. Mgr. Anthony, David Reichard and Craig Siegfried. Alternate delegate to the Convention: Brett Martucci.

Congratulations to all as you continue to serve the members of Local 375.

Dave Reichard, A.B.M.

L.U. 441 (as,i&rts), SANTA ANA, CA — This past June we had our local elections and would like to congratulate all the officers who were elected.

Our Local 441 elected officers are: Bus. Mgr. Richard Samaniego, Pres. Neal Lauson, Vice Pres.Jeff Gatlin, Treas. Mike Gale, Rec. Sec. Chris Solario; Executive Board members Dean Francis, Fred Young, Nick Sparks, Shane Levoit, Jeff Clark; and Examining Board members John Leyvas, Jim Galla and Joseph Newby.

Congratulations also go out to our recent graduates from the Orange County Electrical Training Trust. Over 400 people attended the ceremony at the Westminster Rose Garden celebrating the graduation of two Inside classes, two Sound classes, and one Disney Maintenance class. Congratulations, brothers and sisters!

Neal Lauzon, Pres.

L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, ID — We have been working hard to organize all the electrical workers in our area. With the work picture looking good, we could use the help from our traveling brothers and sisters. At press time we were making plans to hold a Career Fair in two different locations soon. As of this writing, one is planned for Twin Falls and one on the eastern side of the state, so that we can reach as many people as possible. With the success that we had the last time we did the career fair, we are certain we will have the same type of success again this time around.

The AT&T Direct TV campaign is going well. The local is excited to have these new technicians as members and looks forward to making their future brighter and the labor movement stronger.

With deepest regret, Local 449 announces the passing of Bro. Larry Jensen. We send our deepest condolences to his family. Larry will be missed but never forgotten.

Local 449 congratulates Bros. Billy Ray Garret, Joe Zavala and Kelly Norman on their retirement from Local 449. We also thank them for all the hard work and dedicated service they have given as local union members. Thank you, brothers!

Joe Maloney, Mbr. Dev. Rep.

L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — IBEW Local 481 was proud to welcome our newest apprenticeship graduating class this summer. Congratulations to these new journeyman wireman and journeyman installer tech graduates, and good luck to you all on your future career in the IBEW. Stay active and involved and do your part for our local union to continue succeeding in all we do.

We had our local union picnic in June and there was a great turnout from the membership. With bounce houses, face painting, exotic animals, catered food, live bands and giveaways, everyone had something to enjoy. A highlight for attendees was seeing old friends and meeting new friends. It is a truly great example of brotherhood and being involved in the local. To raise funds for our Local 481 Help Fund, Bus. Mgr. Steve Menser participated in a "Dunk the Business Manager" event, where members took a shot at dunking him, and some succeeded! A special thank-you goes to Bus. Rep. Jason Burcham and the Local 481 Picnic Committee (Terry Berg, Pamela Blume, Mike Hunter, Chris Madden, Logan Menser, Rick Saylor and Frank White) for all their hard work putting on a great event.

Blake Andrews, R.S.

L.U. 553 (i,mt,o&ws), RALEIGH, NC — On June 22, as Local 553's press secretary and office assistant, I had the privilege of attending presidential candidate Hillary Clinton's rally at the state fairgrounds in Raleigh. I was invited to the event by the North Carolina AFL-CIO and went as a representative of IBEW Local 553.

At the rally, Clinton stated, "I believe we should strengthen unions, which have formed the bedrock of a strong middle class."

"It should be easier to bargain collectively," Clinton told attendees. "That's not only fair, it makes workers more productive, it strengthens our economy."

Clinton said: "Unions are providing training programs that add value to the companies that employ their members. Union pension funds are already investing in infrastructure projects that have supported more than 100,000 jobs here in our country."

She also expressed support for programs like the IBEW/NECA apprenticeship training programs. "I will support the union apprenticeship and training programs already out there," Clinton said.

To hear such words of support from a major political figure in a so-called "right-to-work" state is of great significance for working people. Attending the rally was an experience that simply can't be replicated. I was honored to have had this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear her speak, and to be there representing Local 553.

Josh Nixon, P.S.

L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa), SAGINAW, MI — With summer jobs in full swing at this writing, we are happy that our work has picked up for the summer months. This has allowed us to put some more of our members back to work in their home local. While we still haven't had as much work as we hoped, we have been able to bring some members home to work. With the rest of our members working neighboring locals throughout the state, it has been a better summer than others in the past.

We recently have had additional success with our RENEW — Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers — program. We were able to purchase another banner with funds raised through fundraisers held by our committee. This program is starting to gain success and forward motion in our local area. It has seemed to raise awareness about the greater good of unions and the members who make up our great local. We cannot wait for the future that is ahead of us. With a new apprenticeship class that has joined our already existing members, we have a bright and prosperous future in our local area.

Howard Revard, P.S.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — IBEW Local 569 recently wrapped up our local's elections, and we congratulate our newly elected leadership, including Pres. David Taylor and our new Bus. Mgr. Nick Segura.

We also congratulate Johnny Simpson, our former business manager, on his new position as an IBEW Ninth District international representative. Under his leadership, IBEW 569 nearly doubled our membership, signed a record number of project labor agreements, and spearheaded partnerships with environmental allies that resulted in thousands of IBEW members working on renewable energy projects. Thank you, Johnny!

Earlier this summer, IBEW 569 and NECA graduated 54 hard-working union members from our outstanding joint apprenticeship program! This is a strong next generation of certified electricians, power professionals and sound techs and we are proud of their work!

We also want to recognize our 2016 apprentice recipients of our IBEW 569 Union Strong Award, each of whom have stepped up to share their stories on how our apprenticeship program and opportunity to "learn while you earn" has strengthened communities and changed lives. Our awardees have also volunteered at countless union events and walked hundreds of miles to help elect candidates who support working families! Congratulations to the award recipients: David Johnson, Elizabeth Niemann and Evangeline McDonald!

Gretchen K. Newsom, P.S.

L.U. 595 (c,cs,govt,i,mt,o,se&st), DUBLIN, CA — June was an especially busy month for Local 595. Apprentices from San Joaquin and Calaveras Counties to Alameda County celebrated their accomplishments during the apprenticeship graduation ceremonies. Congratulations to all the new journeyman inside wiremen and the new Sound & Communications installers.

Negotiations were completed for the Alameda County Inside Wireman Agreement. The negotiations committee presented a joint recommendation that was ratified by the membership at our May membership meeting. The new three-year contract became effective June 1, 2016.

Local 595 wishes to recognize all the work Bro. Dave Brooks has done with the San Joaquin/Calaveras Counties JATC. He served as training director for 16 years and prior to that spent 24 years in the field. He has worked as a journeyman inside wireman, as well as foreman and general foreman, from California to Alaska and back. He provided a wealth of knowledge for everyone who worked with him or who was a student trained by him. His contributions to the electrical industry, the IBEW and Local 595 are invaluable.

Bro. Dave Brooks is retiring after 40 years of IBEW service and he will be sorely missed. We wish him all the best as he continues his journey. Thank you, Bro. Dave.

[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.]

Jason Gumataotao, P.S.

L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — On June 27, Local 617 members gathered to discuss the great work of RENEW members nationally and to kick off a RENEW Chapter of our own. This first meeting for the Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers group was well-attended, and Matt Ghilarducci, Leon Marshall, David Rupp, Eric Turner and Reina Vigil stepped up to comprise our Steering Committee. Thank you to Alex Caraballo (Local 332), Joshua Margolis, (Local 25) and Mia Rivas (Local 595) for joining us!

As we build for a bright future ahead … we proudly congratulate our Apprentice Graduating Class of 2016!

The recent apprentice graduates are: Daniel Blackmore, Mario Borg, Patrick Celentano, David Collins, Froilan Contreras, Steven Devlin, Dominic Dito, Phillip Dito, Sasha Doctor, Nicholas Ferraro, Louis Gardella, Kalvin Gatton, Eduardo Godinez, Brendan Goodman, Todd Guerin, Neal Hodgden, Steve Ingelfinger, Bennett Khoo, Leon Marshall, Antonio Paraiso, Nick Peneyra, Michael Watts, Daniel Semke Jr. and Samuel White.

Thank you to instructors — Glenn Arvin, Barbara Cox, Brian Gaines, Douglas Goldman, Dave Huston, Thomas Frenzel, Edward Murphy Jr., Long Nguyen, Dan Pasini, John Robins, Basil Romero, Donna "D.J." Siegman and Matthew Schlecht; and assistant instructors — Edward Flair, Joseph Grant, Joseph Savino and Eric Turner.

Dan Pasani, Pres. Jamie Thompson, P.S.

L.U. 639 (i&rts), SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — Congratulations to the apprenticeship graduating class of 2016. Graduation ceremonies were held June 4 at F. McLintocks in Shell Beach, CA.

Guest speaker at the graduation ceremony was Dawn Ortiz-Legg, candidate for the open seat to represent California's 35th District in the state Assembly. Dawn has a longstanding relationship with Local 639, facilitating training opportunities and acting as a liaison for First Solar Inc. at the Topaz Solar Farm.

Our new JATC Training Dir. Dan Miller started a community outreach program. Dan has been attending job fairs and making presentations to local high schools, community colleges and even our local prison, getting the word out to the community about organized labor, apprenticeships and the IBEW.

On Sept. 22, Local 639 will partner with Ideal Industries Inc. for the company's National Championships event to showcase the skills of electrical industry tradesmen. The company produces tools and equipment for the electrical and telecommunications industries. The championships event is part of the company's centennial celebration.

We will be hosting the Sept. 22 skills competition event and BBQ at an open house at our San Luis Obispo JATC apprenticeship training center, with cash and prizes totaling up to $500,000. The event is open to the general public and all are welcome.

[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.]

Kurt McClave, P.S.

L.U. 673 (catv,i,rts,spa,t&u), PAINESVILLE, OH — Congratulations to our newly elected officers. The Local 673 election took place in June, and officers were elected for a three-year term. Thanks to all for stepping up to make our local better. We wish the officers a successful three years ahead.

Elected officers are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Danny Lastoria, Pres. Joe Gamiere, Vice Pres. Scotty Sopko, Rec. Sec. Gretchen Bryan, Treas. Craig Egeland; and Executive Board members Don Ziemak, Rory Breedlove and Mike Kubacki.

Thank you to outgoing president Bobby Gamiere for his dedicated service to our local. He served as president for 12 years. We appreciate his dedicated service.

Dave Phillips, P.S.

L.U. 683 (em&i), COLUMBUS, OH — Renovations on our new union hall and offices have begun and will be completed by the time this is published.

Our final Bricker Hall Chuck Bland Fish Fry was a great success. There were a lot of younger members who attended for the first time and several retirees who haven't been for years.

In May we had our yearly dinner to celebrate the newly topped out journeyman wiremen. Attendance was great this year. Unfortunately, as of press time, photos from the party were not available. However, I hope to include a photo with my next article. Kudos to all the graduates.

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

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — The election season is in full swing and I am sure many of us look forward to getting past the Nov. 8 Election Day.

However, we must make every effort to engage and remind ourselves of the recent attacks on the livelihoods of working Hoosiers. If you or someone you know still needs to register to vote, the deadline to register or update your registration is Tuesday, Oct. 11. Early voting in the County Clerk's office and all satellite locations begins on Oct. 12. Absentee ballot requests (applications) must be received by the circuit court clerk's office by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 31.

Due to our unpredictable schedules at many of our worksites, carefully consider early voting at any convenient satellite location or via absentee ballot.

In the 2012 elections, nearly 265,000 union members and their families did not vote statewide, which resulted in our losses at the Indiana Statehouse on Common Construction Wage and right-to-work (or "Right to Wreck") legislation. Vote your pocketbook!

On another note, consider volunteering for Rebuilding Together. The core mission is to help disadvantaged people stay warm, safe and dry in their own homes.

Also, our Annual Awards Night is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 7 at the Avalon.

Dan Waldrop, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 773 (as,em,i,mo&o), WINDSOR, ONTARIO, CANADA — This past spring the IBEW 2016 OPC Hockey Tournament was hosted by Ann Arbor, Michigan. The tournament is an annual event.

Several IBEW locals participated in organizing and/or running the 2016 tournament, which was dubbed by some the IBEW Motor Cities hockey tournament. Those locals included: Ann Arbor Local 252; Toledo, Ohio, Local 8; Detroit Local 58; and Windsor Local 773. My sources tell me Local 773 Bros. Barry Ball and Norm Ball were in the thick of the "war room" taking care of schedules and statistics and keeping a tight ship. A team from Winnipeg Local 2085 also competed in the tournament, which is normally held in Ontario. Local 2085 will host the 2017 tournament.

In other news, a new high school construction project in Leamington, Ontario, was awarded to Pare Electric. The W. F. Herman High School rebuild and additions project went to Tucker Electric.

Rorison Electric has been working on the Windsor Armouries, built in 1902, now in the hands of the University of Windsor. Renovation will transform this historic hall into a school of music and visual arts.

These are a few projects that will put Local 773 members to work during these slow times.

David Spencer, P.S.

L.U. 777 (u), READING, PA — Annually for more than 25 years, Local 777's Unit 4 has been holding a memorial golf tournament at various area golf courses throughout the area.

The majority of Unit 4 is set in Berks County, PA, enveloping a part of our membership working at line operations and warehouse shops in Bethel, Boyertown, Hamburg, and Reading.

First and foremost, the tournament is about the remembrance of our brothers and sisters we have lost to sickness or accident throughout the years.

The golf! It's a scramble. Some take it more seriously than others, but all have fun with it. After the match, participants enjoy an informal awards presentation, lunch and refreshments. To quote Bro. Glenn Harting, who has organized the event for many years: "It's a day of fellowship mixed with golf."

The group includes both active members and retirees. Swapping old war stories about times past, the politics of the day, and even sometimes golf. It's sad, but over the last several years, we have seen the number of tournament participants drop.

Our thanks to Bros. Dave Marsh and David Yatsko for taking on managing the event this year. Hopefully they can keep this tournament, this day of brotherhood, thriving for years to come.

Mark Power, P.S.

L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL — Local 915 was proud to recognize our Electrical Training Alliance Program Dir. David McCraw as a recipient of the 2015 National Award for Excellence in Training plaque for our training program. The plaque was sent to Bus. Mgr. Randall King by IBEW Fifth District Int. Vice Pres. Joseph S. Davis. Recognition was given to Bro. King for his continued involvement in the success of the training program. Vice Pres. Davis conveyed his thanks to all involved in the membership training and let them know that the IBEW is proud of them for their dedication.

Local 915 is also proud to recognize Sister Theresa King, who was assigned by Int. Vice Pres. Davis to be the Fifth District representative to the newly formed IBEW Women's Committee. Sister King attended the 2016 IBEW Women's Conference, where the first meeting of this committee was held. We know she will represent Local 915 and the Fifth District honorably while working to build a strong sisterhood within the Brotherhood.

With the election season upon us, we all need to remember our oath taken upon joining the IBEW and make certain that we do not sacrifice our union's interest in any manner, and that includes at the ballot box.

Theresa King, R.S./P.S.
Michael Weeks, Pres.

L.U. 1055 (u), PENSACOLA, FL — Local 1055 congratulates Bro. Donald E. Miller for 50 years of dedicated IBEW service.

Bro. Miller began his IBEW career serving as an apprentice for four years followed by eight years as a construction electrician in Local 676, working in locations from Seattle, WA, to Ft. Myers, FL, and dozens of locations in between. In 1977 he moved from Local 676 to Local 1055 when his career changed from construction electrician to that of maintenance electrician working for Gulf Power Company, an affiliate of Southern Company. Bro. Miller has numerous extended family members who have served the IBEW, most notably his father, Bro. E.E. "Double E" Miller, who is also a longtime IBEW member and a Local 1055 retiree.

During his 50 years of service to the IBEW, Bro. Don Miller served his local in several capacities including job steward, executive board member, and negotiations team member.

Bro. Mike West, steward, presented an IBEW 50-year service pin and certificate honoring Bro. Don Miller for his distinguished service to the IBEW.

Michael J. West, P.S. pro tem

L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,t&u), VACAVILLE, CA — Thanks in large part to an aggressive grassroots campaign driven by IBEW Local 1245 members, the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant will remain open and operational for the next eight to nine years, until its license expires in 2024-2025. Local 1245 negotiated a generous retention package for IBEW members at the plant, which includes a generous 25 percent annual bonus, followed by a severance allowance (for employees who do not bid out).

"I do not believe there can ever be a sustainable energy economy that is based on a disposable workforce, said Local 1245 Bus. Mgr. Tom Dalzell. "That's why we fought so hard to protect our members. Together with the long transition and the very strong retention package, we will be able to keep our members on the job for as long as possible. This is a victory in our ongoing struggle to make sure middle-class jobs are a central part of the emerging clean energy economy." [Editor's Note: See "Nuclear Power On Path to Extinction in California," August 2016 issue of The Electrical Worker and posted online at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Local 1245 released a new history book, "Fist Full of Lightning: Workers, Power and the Invention of a Union." Authored by Local 1245 Communications Dir. Eric Wolfe, it graphically portrays several IBEW inspired utility strikes that shook the West Coast, including street car strikes in 1906-1907, the PG&E strike of 1913, and more. The story describes the rise of a new industrial union movement at PG&E in the 1940s that finally forced PG&E to the bargaining table. Wolfe explores how IBEW 1245 became a labor powerhouse representing working people.

In outside construction, the work picture is steady. In addition to the work that has been contracted out through the utilities in Local 1245's jurisdiction, additional projects — including large solar, Caltrain electrification, high-speed rail and the trailer park modification pilot projects — should provide good jobs for members for several years. In addition to the construction work, members are also performing inspection services, locating and support service work throughout the jurisdiction.

Rebecca Band, P.S.

L.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), SYRACUSE, NY — IBEW Local 1249 Vice Pres. Henry Westbrook III had a special message for the membership in June:

"I would like to give special recognition to a Harlan Electric crew that preformed a heroic act," Westbrook said.

He reported that while the Local 1249 outside construction crew was cooking outside on the grill after work at their hotel, they heard someone from the hotel shout for help.

The crew ran inside to find that the clerk behind the desk was lying on the floor. That was when members Richard Hack and Scott Peterson went behind the counter and realized the young woman was unresponsive and not breathing. They immediately started to administer CPR. After a few breaths and chest compressions, she started to respond. The rest of the crew called 911, kept people back and out of the way, and made a clear path for the paramedics. The paramedics took over and took the young woman to the hospital.

Kudos to the Local 1249 Harlan crew members who took action to assist in the emergency situation: Robert Grant, Richard Hack, Scott Peterson, Brian Nordberg, John Cougler and Paul Hardesty.

We are proud that our very own IBEW members were able to help.

Jennifer Schneider, P.S.

L.U. 1393 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Some things are common in families. Maybe it's that quirky trait, or it might be a shared hobby such as hunting or fishing that is so irresistible; others might say it's just in your blood.

For the Breeden family, it's all about being IBEW linemen. The family tradition began when Frank Breeden joined our local's predecessor, Local B-9, in 1935. Our records indicate that Frank retired from Local 1393 in 1970. In 1952, Frank's son, William, started with our local and retired in 1990. William's son, Michael Breeden, was a lineman with Duke Energy from 1974-2012. Michael has two sons, Jay and William, who are linemen in our local. Jay passed his exam on June 8, 2015. And William passed his exam on May 16, 2016. William also took over duties as steward for the Loogootee District Office (Duke Energy).

William's brother, his father, and his grandfather were all present for the moment that Will passed his examination and earned the title journeyman lineman. It was a special moment for all to witness. To see such dedication to both the craft, and to union ideals, is quite a sight. We hope to see family traditions such as this continue for many years to come.

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

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE, MD — Bus. Mgr./Pres. Dion F. Guthrie ran for delegate, in support of presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, to the 2016 Democratic National Convention. The convention took place July 25-28 in Philadelphia. Bus. Mgr. Guthrie ran in Maryland's 2nd Congressional District, and he had enough votes, but the democratic process kept him from attending as a delegate due to various other factors.

Bus. Mgr. Guthrie has met with candidate Hillary Clinton on several occasions and was a delegate for Clinton at the 2008 Democratic Convention in Denver. He was pleased to have Clinton visit our members at the Goddard Space Flight Center a few years ago. She was impressed with the work our members are doing. "For decades, Hillary Clinton has demonstrated her commitment to fighting for labor unions in both deed and action," Bus. Mgr. Guthrie said. "She is a proven leader with a long record of working for everyday people and getting the job done. She has been a remarkable colleague and friend who I know and trust."

From voting rights, to health care, education, reforming our criminal justice system, eradicating poverty and helping the working men and women of our country, the need for a proven and time-tested leader is more clear today than ever before.

The basic American principle of equal treatment under law is in many ways still under attack. We need a leader who has stood up and spent time working on our behalf even when it wasn't popular. Clinton has used her life to fight for others and not just to make promises. For working families, minority communities, millennials and our seniors, there is too much at stake in this election to give it away. All of our unions will need Clinton in the White House.

Thomas J. Rostkowski, R.S.

L.U. 1505 (em), WALTHAM, MA — The officers, members and staff of Local 1505 are deeply saddened to announce the unexpected passing of then-Bus. Mgr. Dave Johnson.

Bro. Johnson passed away on July 10 as a result of complications after undergoing heart surgery. He was 58. Bro. Johnson had served as Local 1505 business manager since 2007. Before he became business manager, he served the local as a steward and assistant business manager.

Following Bro. Johnson's untimely death, the Local 1505 Executive Board appointed Harry Robbins as business manager to fill the remainder of the unexpired term.

Bro. Dave Johnson's dedication to the IBEW and his commitment to the members of the Local 1505 will be sorely missed.

Harry Robbins, B.M.

L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Always remember, Labor Day is the workers holiday and should never be treated as just another day. It should be celebrated in tribute with rest, relaxation, fellowship and time spent with your family. Local 1579's annual Labor Day barbecue is a great celebration with several hundred members and their families in attendance. It is always very nice to see the brotherhood enjoy time together in fellowship and kindness.

The 2016 IBEW 39th International Convention takes place in St. Louis, MO, this month. Local 1579 will send three delegates to the September convention and they will represent the local well. Convention delegates also elect the leadership of the IBEW.

2016 is also a U.S. presidential election year. We will elect a president as well as our national, state and local leaders. The presidential election is very important this year, and every election year is important for organized labor. In our local, it could mean the difference between having an abundance of work or having very little work at all. This local has a total of five project labor agreements (PLAs), and we should support candidates who support PLAs and organized labor. Simply said, our Democratic nominee will continue to support organized labor and the Republican nominee will not.

Until next time, God bless.

Will Salters, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1837 (rtb&u), MANCHESTER, ME — Union members working at the Sea-3 Inc. propane terminal facility in Newington, NH, voted to ratify a two-year contract. The agreement will run through June 30, 2018.

All terms and conditions in the previous contract will continue without change. The 10 members of the IBEW Local 1837 bargaining unit will receive wage increases of 2½ percent each year of the contract.

Sea-3 has indicated that it has not been profitable in recent years. A proposed expansion of the Newington rail facility that could expand the work there has been put on hold by Sea-3's parent company, Trammo.

Local 1837 Bus. Mgr. Dick Rogers and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Tom Ryan appreciate the work of their fellow negotiating team members: chief steward Steve Paine and steward Al Newton.

"Our team felt going in that if we were able to secure a reasonable wage package, our members would be satisfied," Ryan said. "We're glad that we were able to maintain the rest of the contract as is. We hope that the company decides to complete their expansion plans to provide more work for our members in the future."

Matthew Beck, Organizer/B.R.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1, ST. LOUIS, MO — Hello from St. Louis. I hope everyone has enjoyed a good summer season.

We had our annual Retiree Golf Tournament in June. The weather, camaraderie and reminiscing were uplifting.

Check out the progress on the Henry Miller Museum in St. Louis at website https://nbew-ibewmuseum.org/index.php/2015-10-02-12-24-26/live-stream.

Remind your family and friends to be sure they are registered to vote and informed for the November 2016 election. All the Republicans running for governor of Missouri vow to bring so-called "right to work" to the state. [Editor's Note: To read more, see news article "What's at Stake in Missouri Governor's Race? Everything," of this issue and posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

The last two Local 1 Retirees Club meetings this year will be Sept. 28 (luncheon) and Nov. 16.

Neal McCormack, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, NORTHERN NEW JERSEY CHAPTER — As of this writing, we're enjoying a wonderful summer in the New York/New Jersey area, as we continue our monthly meetings. So it's great to keep in touch with each other even during the summer months.

In May several members joined another group on a four-day bus tour of Washington, D.C., and the Baltimore Inner Harbor. It was a great trip and we had a wonderful time visiting our nation's capital!

Also in May, was our spring luncheon at Bolzano's Restaurant in Congers, NY, where we enjoyed great food and camaraderie along with the meeting led by Chmn. John McCormick.

We enjoyed our annual picnic at Conger's Lake in July. It was a great time getting together with everyone and enjoying the delicious, catered barbecued food and accompaniments! A great job done by those on the picnic detail!

A bus trip to Mohegan Sun was August's outing, and we're all looking forward to our September trip to the Educational Center in Cutchogue, NY.

Additional activity plans are in the works for the fall season!

John Krison, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER-PUTNAM CHAPTER — On Sunday, May 1, officers and members of the Westchester/Putnam Retirees Chapter attended the 81st Catholic Council of Electrical Workers Communion Mass at Saint Patrick's Cathedral, and the Communion Breakfast at the Sheraton New York Hotel in Manhattan.

Honored at the event as this year's "Man of the Year" was Local 3 Asst. Bus. Mgr. Paul Ryan. Paul became a member of IBEW former Local 501 in 1973 and served that local in many capacities including foreman, general foreman, business representative and treasurer. In 1993 then-Local 501 merged with Local 3. In 2008, Paul was appointed assistant business manager for the Westchester-Fairfield jurisdiction of Local 3.

Paul has been a great friend of the Westchester/Putnam Retirees Chapter since its inception, providing us access to the Local 3 headquarters to hold our monthly board and membership meetings. We appreciate all he does for us and we applaud the Catholic Council's choice of Paul as its 2016 "Man of the Year."

Dick Mills, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 22, OMAHA, NE — It has been a long time since the club submitted an article. Since then, Local 22 has remodeled our meeting room and provided us with new padded chairs. A health reimbursement account was started for the retirees to draw upon for medical expenses not coved by insurance. We thank the working members and officers of Local 22 for their support of the retirees.

We recently had a Years of Service Pin Dinner to honor our retirees. Fifty service award pins, ranging from 25- to 75-year pins, were presented. Our 75-year member, Bro. Phil Monaco, was unable to attend due to recent health problems; however, his pin was presented to him at a later date.

Our Retirees Club is working to increase its membership by specifically reaching out to the new retirees. A pamphlet describing the benefits of club membership has been designed. It will be given to members as they apply for retirement. Hopefully, our newer retirees will discover the fun to be had by joining us for good food, good friends and good conversation.

Chris Bayer, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 26, WASHINGTON, DC — Our club is growing and staying active.

In July, 100 members and their families attended Labor Night at the Washington Nationals baseball stadium. Although the Nationals lost, it was a great night of sisterhood and brotherhood!

Also in July, we had our annual bus trip to Annapolis to visit the Amish market and then traveled on for a Maryland crab feast!

If you like Maryland crabs, join us for our own annual crab feast on Oct. 8. If interested, please contact our press secretary by email at flashmanbissell@aol.com, or call 301-277-5923, for cost and location. Deadline for reservations is Oct. 1.

Congratulations to new Local 26 Bus. Mgr. George Hogan. We appreciate the local's continued support of our club's activities.

For our June cruise to the Caribbean Islands, we had over 60 people in our group!

Next year we plan to cruise in Europe with stops in Barcelona, Spain; Nice, France; Venice, Italy and elsewhere. Down payment of $250 per person is due with the reservations. Please contact our travel coordinator, Rick Warner, at 240-472-0438.

In August we enjoyed the annual Local 26 picnic in Maryland.

Regular club meetings resume Sept. 10, at noon. Please stop by!

In August we held our annual raffle ticket mailing. With the mailing, we also sent information about the October crab feast to all members, working and retired. The raffle supports our club's medical equipment program for members.

Susan Flashman, P.S.

RETIREES CUB OF L.U. 35, HARTFORD, CT — As Labor Day approaches, we should all be grateful for the sacrifices our union brothers and sisters have made in the past. Their commitment and dedication have laid the foundation that allows us to provide for ourselves and our families with decent pay and benefits.

Congratulations to newly elected Local 35 officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Bruce Silva, Pres. William Moriarty, Vice Pres. Cameron Wood, Rec. Sec. Richard Bonadies and Treas. John Lurate. Also congratulations to re-elected Local 35 Executive Board members Kevin Czarnecki, Michael Nealy and Brian Woodhouse; and elected Examining Board members Curtis Dynak, Jonathan "Toby" Schnetzer and Timothy Schnetzer.

Thanks to Retirees Club Pres. Dennis Machol and retired member Charlie Rose for attending the Alliance for Retired Americans meetings. Their dedication and input are greatly appreciated.

Kenneth R. White, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 43, SYRACUSE, NY — About 12 Local 43 Retirees Club members from the Syracuse and Utica area attended a tour of the F.X. Matt Brewery, home of legendary Utica Club beer, on June 15. It was interesting to learn about the history of the second oldest brewery in the United States, and one that has employed our union brothers and sisters for many years. Our group toured the site for a couple of hours, and afterward enjoyed sampling some of the finest brews to come out of the city of Utica. Shown in the accompanying photo is Retirees Club Pres. Dave Wierowski sitting at a tour center display desk "restoring order" at the F.X. Matt, Utica Club brewery.

On July 9, before the start of the Local 43 clambake, members of the Retirees Club re-elected the current club officers. Continuing tradition, re-elected Retirees Club officers are: Pres. Dave Wierowski, Vice Pres. Fred Henecke, Rec. Sec. Jim Southard and Treas. Jim Pagano.

Local 43 Pres. Pat Costello was our guest speaker. He told us how he and Local 43 were involved in the relighting of the newly restored 'Utica Club' sign that now shines atop the F.X. Matt Brewing Co. The LED illuminated sign can be seen from all across Utica. It was an exciting moment when the switch was thrown to power up the sign.

Jim Corbett, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 60, SAN ANTONIO, TX — At the May 2016 meeting, those retiring as club officers were awarded appreciation plaques for their outstanding leadership over the years. Receiving plaques as outgoing officers were treasurer Bobby Wolff, vice president Tommy Huckelba, recording secretary Betty Cannon and president Gene Chamberlain, as well as Jenny Hall, for decorations.

The Sept. 8, 2016, meeting will be called to order under the guidance of newly elected club officers: Pres. Coy Rogers, Vice Pres. Tim James and Treas. Betty Cannon. As of press time the positon of recording secretary was vacant. Our club's sergeant-at-arms is Don Nichols, and Executive Board members are John Farris, Al Reina, Owen Ray, Bob Hall and David Gonzalez.

In May, the Local 60 Retired Members Club held their annual Golf Tournament fundraiser at the Devine Golf Club. The event was another huge success. Congratulations to the first-place team members: John Gray, B. Gray, C. Lorenz and Larry Duke. Without the help and support of everyone involved, the fundraiser would not have been as successful. Thank you to all!

The Local 60 Retired Members Club meets the second Thursday of each month, except June, July and August, when we are off for summer vacations. Meetings are held at the Plumbers and Pipefitters training building, 3630 Belgium Lane, at 12 noon. After a short business meeting, lunch is served followed by 10 games of bingo. Local 60 retirees, please join us.

Sandy Rogers, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 90, NEW HAVEN, CT — On June 7, the Local 90 Retirees Club held its last meeting of the current season. As we do every June, we held our election of officers at that meeting, followed by a pizza party.

Because we don't meet in the months of July and August, our new year begins on Sept. 6, 2016, which is the date of our next scheduled meeting, at Two North Plains Industrial Rd., Wallingford, CT, at 1:30 p.m.

Retirees Club officers were all unanimously re-elected. Club officers are: Pres. Robert Mantovani, Sec.-Treas. Hugh McGuire and Vice Pres. Jerry Asplund.

We hope all IBEW members and their families had a safe and enjoyable summer.

Richard Launder, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 99, PROVIDENCE, RI — The Local 99 Retirees Club held its Annual May Breakfast on May 17, 2016, at the West Valley Inn in West Warwick, RI. The event was attended by 80 members. Retirees Club Pres. Robert Pierce gave the invocation and prayer.

The retirees would like to thank Local 99 Bus. Mgr. Michael K. Daley, local union Pres. James Jackson and Local 99 for support in keeping the Retirees Club active. We also thank Kenny Marandola for organizing two fishing trips for this summer.

Local 99 retirees wish everyone a happy, healthy and safe season. See you in September.

Frank J. Colucci, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 124, KANSAS CITY, MO — The Local 124 Retirees Club met Wednesday, March 16, for the first luncheon of the year. Fifty-six retirees enjoyed barbecue, good fellowship and reminiscing. We thank club Pres. Dale Allen for stepping up and guiding the club for another year.

We invite all Local 124 retirees to join us in camaraderie. Tell old stories and make new ones. We recently enjoyed a successful game night at the Retirees Hall, and we have four luncheons a year. Our June 15 potluck luncheon was also a great success. Come join us!

We are grateful to have an active Ladies Auxiliary. The ladies meet at 9:30 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month to play cards. All newly retired members' spouses are welcome to join in. We thank the ladies for their help in making our luncheons enjoyable events.

The Retirees Club is making a special effort to support several Local 124 members running for state and local office this year. We have members running in both Missouri and Kansas. The club is honored to have a retired Local 124 member, Missouri Rep. Joe Runions, serving in the state legislature. Let's all get out and vote for elected officials who support our issues and values. Some members don't drive anymore and may need a lift to the polls.

The Retirees board is always open for suggestions for future activities.

Thanks to Local 124 officers for supporting our Retirees Club.

Ken Starr, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL — Summer is nearly over, but here in Chicago we look forward to our changing seasons.

As of press time, Local 134 has plans to move from its home at 600 W. Washington Blvd., to the former Drake Elementary School building at 2722 S. Martin Luther King Blvd. in Chicago. Local 134 Bus. Mgr. Donald Finn said the newly purchased building is a "perfect fit." This move will bring greater opportunities for the membership. As of press time, the relocation was planned for late 2016.

At our June 8 Retirees Club meeting, we honored club members who have 50-, 55-, 60-, 65-, and 70 years with the IBEW. A delicious catered lunch was served, and singer Mary Anne Riehl provided entertainment. Among honorees present were: Tony Filippello, Frank Markiewicz, Robert Haas, Roy Murray, Fred Seidel, Jack O'Keefe, Charles Sembenini, Ralph Spears, Leroy Herrick, Walter Felde, Richard Folena, James Tregay, Richard Polyak, Paul Somerstorfer, Vincent Passi, Ralph Massett and John Klus.

The Annual Memorial Day gathering was held May 30 at Mount Emblem Cemetery to honor veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice. Sadly, the Local 134 retiree who for years represented our Retiree Club at this event was no longer with us. We lost Bro. Vito Alberotanza in April. Vito was a Local 134 E-Board member for 20 years. His is dearly missed.

Please get out and vote on Nov. 8! Our unions, our wages and our benefits depend on it.

Sue Kleczka, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 212, CINCINNATI, OH — With sorrow, I report the passing of several IBEW brothers: Ralph Stalf, who had 60 years of IBEW service; Gerald Smith, 47 years of service; Michael Malott, 46 years' service; George Evers, 38 years'; and James Harney, 25 years' service. May God grant them eternal rest.

Neither transparent nor sensible campaign financing rules exist following the 2010 Supreme Court's "Citizens United vs. FEC" decision, which allows unlimited campaign spending by big money corporate interests. Money is power — and right-wing conservative foes of working people use this power to blatantly discredit unions and workers. Anti-worker puppet candidates depend on billionaires' dark money. We cannot match this "legalized bribe money," nor undo the lies it produces.

These calculating bullies call us "un-American, unpatriotic, socialist." Really? We have served, fought, and lost loved ones in the military. We volunteer at churches, schools, hospitals, Habitat for Humanity projects, food pantries, etc. We are guilty of being well-trained, hard-working, law-abiding, tax-paying citizens of every community. We want a piece of the pie, and we expect fairness and respect. Why vote for someone who doesn't respect you?

Stacking the Supreme Court with right-wing ideologues could happen, and that would be disastrous for us. Don't take the bait of the wedge-issues. Vote as if your future depends on it, because it does.

Bob Schaefer, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Our Retirees Club enjoyed the luncheon/meeting at the Lion's Club in Hartsburg, MO, on June 28. We had a great turnout. Several members had good summer gardens (even with all the rain and heat) and brought in produce to share.

The club had a busy summer. Juanita Fischer has been lining up a trip to a show at the Lake of the Ozarks for September, and a few more trips for the fall. Attendees enjoyed the Local 257 annual picnic on Aug. 3. The Labor Day parade will be Sept. 10.

I am saddened to report that member John L. Sullivan passed away in May. He will be dearly missed by all. John was 92. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, as a bombardier/navigator with the 93rd Bombardment Group of the 2nd Air Division in England. He retired as a major from the Army Reserves in 1985. For his service, he was awarded the French Legion of Honor medal. John was a member of Local 257 for 74 years. He taught apprentice electricians and conducted electrical code classes for many years. The local apprenticeship training center is named in his honor. Our thoughts and prayers go to his wife, Bee, and his entire family.

Congratulations to Local 257 Bus. Mgr. Don Bruemmer on his re-election. We look forward to continue working with him for another three-year term.

Delores Melloway, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 291, BOISE, ID — We had a beautiful, warm day for our summer retirees' potluck picnic, with a good turnout. Our president, Greg Oyama, manned the barbecue while the retirees visited together and caught up with one another, discussing their plans for the summer season.

Ken Penn, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 530, SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — For this article, I wish to write about Local 530 retired member Tom Coates and his wife, Cathy.

Tom joined Local 530 in 1971 and retired in 2012. He spent his entire working life in and around Sarnia and Lambton County. Tom and Cathy have been married for 40 years and have two grown daughters. Tom's father, the late Tom Coates Sr., was also a Local 530 member, who joined the IBEW in the early 1950s and retired in 1974; he continued to work as a consultant for Dow Chemical for some time after.

Cathy joined our Retirees Club with Tom when he retired. She graduated as a registered nurse in 1977. Since joining our club, Cathy has been an avid organizer of our activities, putting together two riverboat cruises aboard the Duc d'Orleans to the River Crab restaurant in St. Clair, MI, for dinner. She also planned four successful outings for lunch at Purdy's Fisheries in Point Edward, for the catch of the day from Lake Huron. Cathy, we appreciate all you do on our behalf.

Since March, we have lost four Retirees Club members: John Weeke, Frank Dechet, Bob Smith and Jake DeJong. Our condolences go out to their families.

Nancy Stinson Philbin, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 595, DUBLIN, CA — Hello from sunny California! Exciting times are ahead for the IBEW as we prepare to celebrate our IBEW International Convention in St. Louis, and to elect a new U.S. president in November. The economy out West is definitely on an upswing, with the union hall empty and cranes at work everywhere in the Bay Area.

Our Retirees Club enjoyed lots of summer activities, including our annual 595 Day at the A's Baseball Game, where Bus. Mgr. Dan Chivello surprised everyone by proposing to his girlfriend on the big screen at the game. That got a big roar from the crowd. Congratulations, Dan!

Our retirees annual summer barbeque was held at the Fremont Elks Lodge. The union picnic was at a new venue, the Pleasanton Fairgrounds. And we've enjoyed many fun day trips.

Our 10-day cruise to Alaska departs Sept. 8. Our four-day trip to Las Vegas in November is accepting sign-ups. Lots of awesome opportunities to meet fellow retirees and make new friends. Our monthly themed lunches are the second Friday of every month, at the union hall in Dublin, 11 a.m. We have a short meeting and happy hour prior to our catered lunch, all for 10 bucks, and the first lunch is on us. Sign up to join the club or just come by for a test drive.

Please get out and vote in November! Support candidates who believe in unions, families, and the right to bargain for fair and honest wages and benefits.

Tom Mullarkey, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 611, ALBUQUERQUE, NM — We're still going strong with events and projects.

The University of New Mexico interviewed several Local 611 members to collect stories about their past work experiences for a labor history project.

We are still helping with food distribution to needy families once a month.

On April 28, approximately 35-40 members from numerous labor unions, including members from IBEW Local 611, participated in the annual Workers Memorial Day event at Workers Memorial Park in Albuquerque. Central New Mexico Labor Council Pres. Santos Griego, Local 611 assistant business manager and dispatcher, was master of ceremonies.

Workers Memorial Day is observed internationally to remember and honor workers who have died or been injured on the job. Let's never forget those before us who helped make the unions and our lives what they are today.

In May, several Local 611 retirees and working members attended the annual Rank & File Banquet sponsored by the Central New Mexico CLC. At the banquet, certificates were presented to union members who have notably supported the labor movement.

The Central New Mexico CLC installed a memorial marker, a park bench and a tree in tribute to workers. If you haven't participated in the Workers Memorial Day event, it's never too late to start. As the saying goes, "I'm too old to be young and too young to be old."

We extend condolences to the families of Local 611 members who recently passed away: Jose L Crespin, Robert B. Chavez, Joseph L. Erb, Felix C. Marquez, Nevin P. Scott and Thomas E. Martinez Sr.

Tracy Hall, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 640, PHOENIX, AZ — Our eight-month breakfast schedule concluded in May, resuming Oct. 21. Our club takes a break for the summer months.

The May election of Retirees Club officers resulted in no change in the board; however, we did fill a vacated post when Don Shaw volunteered for the position. Don is also the keeper of the memorial to our deceased brothers.

In mid-May, Local 640 held their annual picnic, which featured a service-pin ceremony. It was great to see many of our club members receive awards. The star of the show was Bernarr "Barney" Broeder, who was awarded his 70-year pin. Barney and his wife, Charlotte, are regulars at our meetings, and it is always a pleasure to re-live the "old days" of work in the electrical field. Pushing the mid-90s is not an easy task, but they handle it well, and still drive. Last year Barney and Charlotte drove back to Chicago to visit relatives. I jokingly asked Barney, "All those older than you?" He just smiled and replied, "Some are!" Then he flashed me a glint from the diamond set into his service pin!

Our board is trying new ways to increase our membership. We are instituting easier ways to communicate with us, and expediting ordering meals for the breakfast meetings. Details will be included in our October newsletter.

Daryl Knupp, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 702, WEST FRANKFORT, IL — The Retirees Club met on June 2 at Bennie's Italian Restaurant in Marion, IL, at 11:45 a.m. A motion was made to skip the reading of the minutes of the last meeting, which was seconded and approved. The Financial Report was read, followed by a motion and second to approve, which carried. Lunch orders were taken and the meeting resumed.

Under old business, it was reported that the April 6 Retirees Luncheon at Rend Lake was a great success and the meal was outstanding. A big "thank-you" to IBEW Local 702 Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart and the local staff was recorded.

Under new business, it was announced that the DuQuoin State Fair is coming up soon and the Retirees Club is seeking volunteers. Jim Nolen, Dave Cosimi and Jr. Marlow committed to helping. Fair dates will be confirmed at the next meeting.

The meeting was suspended for the meal and subsequently resumed.

Deaths for the months of March through June this year were read, with a moment of silence for all.

In the drawing, Roger Stilley won $33. The total deposit of $168 for membership dues and 50/50 money was announced.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Mark Baker, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 804, KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA — Since our last article for the Electrical Worker, Ken Woods, our Retirees Club president since the club's inception, had to resign due to health issues. Bro. Woods formerly served with distinction as an IBEW First District international vice president. Our good wishes and thanks to Ken for all his years of great leadership.

Our club continues to interact with other clubs from Ontario. We enjoy trips to the theatre to see live performances, such as this summer to St. Jacobs. We host Oktoberfest celebrations in Kitchener, and other clubs join us. Our members also volunteer at Habitat for Humanity.

We have a guest speaker at most of our meetings. Speakers have provided information on topics including: political action, preparing family members for retirement homes, assistance with hearing aids, workers comp, first-aid, CPR, AED training, financial planning, wills, power of attorney, etc.

Last year an apprentice, James Wyllie, tragically lost his life on the job and left behind a 15-month old daughter, Charlotte. At the suggestion of member Ralph Roussel, our club took on a fundraiser for Charlotte.

We are proud to announce that our members donated $6,415 to go toward young Charlotte's education fund. Also, a retired member, who wishes to remain anonymous, offered to donate a small monthly pension he was receiving from a Detroit local.

Jerry Wilson, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 995, BATON ROUGE, LA — We had our Annual Retirees Club Luncheon, with spouses invited, the first Monday in June. Each member was to bring a dish, and the food was great as always. With some of the local staff attending, we had about 60 participating this year.

It is with regret that I report the recent loss of several of our retirees: Donald G. Burns, John Darryl Hargis, Peter Constantino, Clarence Pourciau and Alvin Broussard. Our brothers will be missed.

W. Roland Goetzman Sr., P.S.