L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws), ST. LOUIS, MO — On Tuesday, March 7, in keeping with over 70 years of producing more highly skilled and safe electricians and communications technicians than any other training program in Missouri, the IBEW/NECA Electrical Industry Training Center entered a partnership with St. Louis Community College for apprentices and journey workers to earn associate degrees from STLCC.

The college is offering the Associate of Applied Sciences (AAS) degree in Skilled Trades Industrial Occupations Technology Apprenticeship program, or Skilled Trades AAS program. This program is a joint effort to recognize apprenticeship training as postsecondary education to prepare the current and future workforce.

An associate degree will be awarded to a journey worker who successfully completes the approved U.S. Department of Labor apprentice program and 15 credit hours of general education courses at STLCC.

"Our educational partnership with St. Louis Community College will strengthen career paths for our apprentices and journey workers," said IBEW Local 1 Bus. Mgr. Frank Jacobs. "While the training center produces highly technical skills for the electrical industry, many of our members have entrepreneurial skills that benefit the business community. Many have founded their own companies."

For more info, please call the St. Louis Electrical Industry Training Center at 314-644-3587.

We mourn the passing of the following members: David Pelham, Frank Adams, John Gambaro, Henry Bargmann, John Sinovich, George Richardson, Wilbert Meyer, Charles Hooker, David Long and Arnold Herberts.

Jan Bresnan, P.S.

L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA — This past January, New Brunswick's provincial power utility experienced the worst weather event in its history. A major ice storm, accompanied by extremely high winds, cut power to over half the citizens of New Brunswick with more than 200,000 total outages. The ice was so severe that it coated power lines, transformers and poles up to four times thicker than the Canadian Standards Association's "worst case" scenario.

The damage was catastrophic with over 400 broken utility poles and thousands of ice-covered trees toppled onto power lines. A state of emergency was declared in the hardest hit communities, and the Canadian Armed Forces were called in for disaster assistance.

The massive restoration efforts required all hands on deck — and then some. Over 375 line crews from NB Power, neighbouring utilities, and contractors, many of which were IBEW members, worked the front lines. While busy rebuilding the system, they were supported by 234 military personnel, NB Emergency Measures, and hundreds of volunteers, many of whom were Local 37 members who normally work in other parts of NB Power. Those members provided significant help by delivering equipment and food, and performing other work to help our communities respond to the disaster.

These grueling efforts paid off after 14 days and nights of hard work when power was completely restored to all customers. In crisis, or calm, we're always proud of our members with their unwavering commitment to excellence and demonstrating SPARQ in all that they do!

[Editor's Note: SPARQ represents the core values of the IBEW Code of Excellence. The values are SPARQ: Safety, Professionalism, Accountability, Relationships, Quality.]

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

L.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY — IBEW Local 43 recently presented years-of-service pins to members employed with the Village of Frankfort Department of Public Works (DPW).

Members honored for their years of service were: Mike Irons — with 22 years of service, Marcus Perritano — 15 years, Richard Paugh — 11 years, Eric Conigliaro — 10 years and Chris Evans — five years.

Mayor Richard Adams and IBEW Local 43 Pres. Pat Costello attended the ceremony. Both Mayor Adams and Pres. Costello thanked the IBEW members for their dedicated service to the residents of Frankfort.

Gene Townsend, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Bro. Mike Fair, journeyman lineman, purchased 59 bicycles last Christmas to give to less fortunate kids he meets throughout the year in his service area. When Mike empties his pockets at night, he puts all his spare change into a jar and with that he purchases bikes at the end of the year. This was the eighth year he delivered these wonderful gifts to children on Christmas Day for a collective total of 320 bikes.

The local is in the process of developing a RENEW Committee. The mission of the Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers (RENEW) initiative is to inspire the next generation of IBEW workers to become active in their local union by focusing on issues important to younger workers, providing education about the IBEW and the labor movement, and fostering relationships with members and local union leadership. RENEW is for members age 35 or younger and encourages them to develop the skills necessary to become active in the local union and play a role in shaping its future. The local does plan to send members to the September RENEW conference in Pittsburgh.

The local's annual scholarship golf outing will be held June 3 at Piper Glen Golf Course in Springfield. Work safe and support your union.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 99 (govt&i), PROVIDENCE, RI — The job outlook continues to improve, with many new projects breaking ground, and with the total number of man-hours worked this year being the highest in nearly a decade.

Our Third Annual Solidarity Ride will be May 21 this year, with registration for all riders at our union hall at 9 a.m., and a scheduled departure time of 11 a.m. All monies raised will benefit the Tomorrow Fund, a local charity that provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer, and their families. As in preceding years, a cookout will follow in the rear of the union hall.

Election of local union officers will take place on June 12 this year, at the Local 99 union hall. It would be a welcome sight to see some new faces getting involved on our boards and committees. The Executive Board is losing one member to retirement, and others have a record of longtime IBEW service. Younger members working in the field on new construction projects should seriously consider stepping up and pitching in. The future belongs to you, and you may as well begin to learn how the local, district, and International offices interact to further the goals of the IBEW and strengthen its future. New blood is needed, and member participation is welcome.

William Smith, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — As indicated in other Local 125 communication, we are asking all members to review the IBEW Constitution and prepare to assist as we explore new organizing opportunities throughout 2017.

Thank you to everyone who attended Casino Night. In addition to raising $2,755 for our Brotherhood Fund, we also obtained donations for the SnoCap Food Bank. Please check out the April issue of the Labor Press for pictures and sponsor recognition from this year's event.

Please attend your union meetings. If you cannot make the meeting, check out your business rep's staff report at www.ibew125.com. You must register for access to this information.

The local is redesigning its shop steward training, which will be offered this year. If you have specific issues that you would like addressed or suggestions on topics, contact Marcy Grail. Let your business representative know if you are interested in attending training.

We looking forward to seeing you at the following events:

• Pacific Northwest Lineman's Rodeo — July 22
• IBEW Local 125 Golf Tournament — July 28
• IBEW Local 125 Softball Tournament — July 29-30

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 145 (em,i,o,rts,se,spa&u), ROCK ISLAND, IL — On Feb. 11, we held our annual blood drive and once again it was a big success! We thank our members and their families for participating in this important event that helps our entire community. We would also like to thank Jon Pohl for his hard work in coordinating our blood drive each year.

Thank you to all our members who volunteer their time and skills in the many community service projects throughout the year. One such example is the historic streetcar pavilion at Schuetzen Park in Davenport, Iowa. The pavilion was listed in 2011 as one of the top 10 most endangered historic structures in Iowa. Now the pavilion is again adorned with the colored lights that replicate those once found on the structure that was built in 1911. The restoration project was approved by the Davenport Preservation Commission, and with the skills of the Local 145 volunteers it is slowly making a "full recovery."

Work has been very good in our area and the future looks to be very promising, too. We would like to thank all the traveling brothers and sisters for giving us a much-needed hand. In solidarity.

Dan Larson, P.S.

L.U. 191 (c,i,mo,rtb&st), EVERETT, WA — Our most recent data shows IBEW 191's organizing plan is working. Under Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Joseph Lorenzo, market share and dollar volume is up. Special thanks go to Organizers Sean Osborne and Tim Kornelis, as well as Representative/Organizers Bob Gay and Chip Donaldson. Our plan uses a variety of methods, depending on the situation:

• Advertising to the community and to the unrepresented worker;
• Market Recovery focused on small and medium-size jobs with a requirement to call from the bench;
• Hosting Industry Nights/Job Fairs with our employers;
• Increased Community Service work;
• Mini blitzes by county using members who live in those counties;
• Associate Member Program to promote our training program to unrepresented workers;
• Attending city, county and school board meetings to testify on our issues;
• Member Volunteer Program to involve more members in our plan.

We are also planning for a busy summer of social events. Golf, picnics and ballgames are all planned. Check the website for dates and location.

Thank you again to our members and travellers for manning the work and providing a quality product to our customers.

Bill Mirand, P.S.

L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — As we are getting through winter at this writing, we are seeing that projects in our area are starting to take shape. We are happy to report we have been filling a few referrals with members who have been travelling on the road for quite some time. The work situation is sputtering a little in our jurisdiction, which is better than it has been. The McLean County Jail expansion is currently out for bid, which should bring some of our brothers and sisters home in the coming months.

By the time this article makes it to print, we will have elected local mayors and school boards. We have been working diligently to get labor-friendly candidates elected. We are proud of our Training Dir. Renee Riddle, who at this writing is running unopposed for the Tri-Valley School Board. We know with Renee's commitment to the community and organized labor, she will bring a strong voice for quality education along with protecting laws like prevailing wage on capital projects for our members. Also we are proud to report that our former business manager Lance Reece was elected in November to the Dewitt County Board. Lance is serving the residents of the county well and he will always look out for the middle class. We are under attack at every level of government trying to take away our rights to belong to a union. If you are interested in running for an elected seat, now would be a great time to step up.

Remember to get involved in the local and stay involved!

Mike Raikes, Pres.

L.U. 223 (em,govt&i), BROCKTON, MA — As 2017 moves forward we are anticipating another good year work-wise. As we go through the year we need to continue with our No. 1 objective, organizing. We need more contractors and members. We have had industry nights/job fairs and invited open-shop contractors to see our new training facility.

The outage at Pilgrim Station was just completed and Brayton Point Power Station is about to shut down for good. This gives us more reason to make sure we look toward renewable energy to keep our local moving forward. With solar being a top component, we also need to make sure our contractors are chasing the upcoming energy storage projects and off-shore wind projects to offset the job losses of the closed power plants. We need to focus on the future opportunities and not dwell on past projects. The future is bright, but only if we embrace it.

David W. Fenton, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 229 (em&i), YORK, PA — IBEW Local 229 and York Division NECA Chapter are proud to announce the donation of 25 brand new 2017 National Electrical Code books to the York County School of Technology's Electrical Occupations Program. The trades programs at York Tech are vital to the industry because they prepare young people to be great entry level employees. The partnership provides the industry with a steady flow of young people who are interested in the hard work and rewards that come from being employed in the union construction trades. Over 35 York Tech graduates are members of IBEW 229 and employed with NECA electrical contractors in the greater York area. We are proud to have so many graduates making a successful career at IBEW 229 and look forward to supporting the school and its students for years to come.

Timothy Griffin, Tr. Dir.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OH — We have wrapped up negotiations and ratified new contracts with Hancock Wood and Bryan Municipal. The next contract scheduled for negotiations is WTVG-Channel 13.

On the outside, work is steady with no additional people being put on at this writing.

On the utility side, energy delivery pretty much remains the same while the generation side is in turmoil after First Energy's announcement that it wants out of the generation business and will either sell or close all its generating plants by mid-2018.

On the social side, we had a tremendous response to the annual Walleye Hockey game, which was held in March. With this outing behind us, Lisa Tracy and Amanda Parker are already working on our next social event, which is the Mud Hen's baseball game scheduled for July 30.

Until next time, please work safe and enjoy the spring weather.

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — While the construction industry still struggles to gain sustained traction, one sector of the electrical field has been a mainstay for our local's members. That steady source of employment has been none other than solar energy.

Solar installations have been providing needed jobs for our brothers and sisters over the last decade, and the trend shows no immediate signs of reversing.

Solar projects are an excellent way for apprentices to "get their feet wet" while working on a relatively safe jobsite, and they offer full wages for the journeyman — along with an opportunity for getting some fresh air and sunshine thrown into the bargain.

One can only hope that solar energy can withstand an assault by the current U.S. presidential administration. The president has signaled his intention to gut the Clean Air and Water Act, thus paving the way for huge profits for his billionaire "constituents," clearly a huge step backward for this country.

Solar technology is evolving exponentially. Viable storage and release technologies are here. The future of energy is now, and solar is lighting the way.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 291 (c,i,mo,o,rtb&rts), BOISE, ID — Greetings from the Gem State! Summer is in full swing and we hope you are enjoying the season wherever you are.

In March, we celebrated our graduating apprentices and Years of Service Pin recipients during our Annual Banquet.

Congratulations to our newest journeymen: Caleb Burke, Jason Edwards, Trevor Grill, Marc Halverson, Tony Hansen, Troy Holliday, Russ Martin, Tyson McGann, Josh Nugent, Robert Patterson, Jason Valdez and Paul Wheeler.

It was also an honor to recognize and congratulate all of our pin recipients including: 50-year member Kenneth Mahan; 55-year members Winston Cope and Jack Norton; 60-year members Marshall Kaldhusdal and Bobby Shafer; 65-year member Ralph Gibbons; and 70-year member William Lamm.

On the construction side, work has been very good in the Treasure Valley and continues to look good for the remainder of the year.

It is hard to believe but it has been almost one year that we have been representing our new units at the DirecTV Technician Garage and the DirecTV Call Center. The employees in these two units have been great to work with and are a welcome addition to our IBEW family. We look forward to a great, lasting relationship with these new members.

Nick Baumann, P.S.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — Negotiations will have already started with Ameren by the time of this publication, as the contract expires at the end of June.

Bus. Mgr. Tim Evans will chair the negotiations for Utility System Council U-05. The System Council consists of Locals 51, 309, 649 and 702.

Work for the inside wiremen and outside linemen remains steady. Hopefully the work picture will remain good through the year.

The race for Illinois governor in 2018 is already starting to take shape as two Democratic candidates have already announced.

Nominations for local union officers will be held May 1 and the election will be June 5. All members are encouraged to vote in this important election. Absentee ballots are encouraged for utility and line construction members as this is always storm season.

Work safe and have a great summer.

Scott Tweedy, A.B.M.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — Our work forecast continues to look pleasant for the summer. Larger projects are taking shape in both Mankato and Rochester. Smaller jobs and school work will round out the employment opportunities for our members and travelers.

The political climate may not be so tranquil. National "Right-To-Work" legislation is looming and we, as labor union activists, must be educated on the facts to counter the storm of misinformation that is imminent. One source of pro-labor, pro-union information is the "Label Letter," printed by the Union Label & Services Trade Dept., AFL-CIO. This bi-monthly newsletter, available in print or online, is free. Every electrician I know likes the word free. Subscribe online at www.unionlabel.org or come to a union meeting for a printed copy, free admission with a paid-up dues receipt.

[Editor's Note: To read more about a national right-to-work bill, see news article "Protect Your Paycheck: Fight Back Against National Right-to-Work," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Keep Americans working, buy Made In USA.

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa), DES MOINES, IA — Iowa workers, and especially State of Iowa employees, have just been assaulted and dissed by the state Legislature and executive branch. The attack has been promoted and executed by the same forces that tore up State of Wisconsin workers' rights to bargain — the radical right wing of the Republican Party with corporate backing from the Koch brothers. The Iowa Legislature took a page from the Steve Bannon (Breitbart News) playbook, "go big go fast," and reversed Chapter 20 of the Iowa code that allowed for collective bargaining for State of Iowa workers. These worker-friendly laws were originally signed into effect more than 40 years ago, in 1974, by a revered Republican governor, Robert Ray.

The recent anti-worker legislation was introduced in the Legislature on Feb. 3 and allowed public input for two hours on Feb. 13 — the day of a massive labor rally in the rotunda of the State Capitol. The legislation passed into law Feb. 17, and the governor signed it on Feb. 20. This all transpired in three weeks. The current governor signed the new law into effect in a closed-door event with only the Koch brothers' lobbyist in attendance.

Approximately 184,000 State of Iowa employees are affected, including teachers, nurses, DOT workers, social workers, workers at three state universities, prison workers, court system workers, support staff at all state offices, and others. At this writing, the next target for this rogue Legislature is gutting workers' compensation laws.

The following quote has been attributed to a truly great Republican: "If any man tells you he loves America, yet hates labor, he is a liar. If any man tells you he trusts America, yet fears labor, he is a fool." — Abraham Lincoln

[Editor's Note: See news article "Besieged by GOP Attacks, Iowa Workers Fight Back," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV — We want to thank all those who helped turn Nevada blue this last 2016 election cycle. Now we need to keep up the hard work as we head into local and state election cycles. Everyone can help, whether by door-knocking, helping register voters or phone banking. Each vote matters!

Jennifer Tabor, P.S.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees&i), ALLENTOWN, PA — In the last few years the Lehigh Valley has experienced not only a revitalization in both Allentown and Bethlehem but also in the region as a whole. Thanks to efforts such as Allentown's Neighborhood Improvement Zone, we have seen an increase in the construction and transformation of downtown. Residential complexes with luxury amenities such as Strata 2 and Strata 3 are currently underway, with 67 and 71 units, respectively. Also in progress is Allentown's 12-story Tower 6, which is designed for businesses to be located in Pennsylvania's hottest professional region.

Other such targeted projects are located within Bethlehem's City Revitalization and Improvement Zone. The first of these being the construction of a three-building complex, Greenway Commons. A mix of retail and 110 residential units looks to bring young professionals to the hotbed activity on the East Coast.

Aiding in this ever-growing expansion in the Lehigh Valley have been Nestle, Fed Ex, and B Braun. Nestle Purina is currently in the midst of a major 53,000-square-foot addition to its production. Fed Ex has begun construction on its largest distribution hub in the United States, and B Braun continues to expand and grow its facilities. All of these projects have provided a positive impact to the region and to the members of Local 375 currently employed in their construction.

Christopher Kaufman, B.R.

L.U. 441 (as,i&rts), SANTA ANA, CA — Work continues to pick up throughout Orange County as some of the larger projects are hitting their stride and others are getting started.

Some of the more notable projects are: Broadcom in south Orange County, which currently has over 150 IBEW members working on it; and the new Disneyland expansion for "Star Wars Land," which is underway with crew expectations to reach as high as 200 IBEW members at its peak.

We recently hosted "IBEW Night at the Monster Jam" at Angel Stadium. The local handed out 400 tickets to local members and their families to enjoy a night of camaraderie, family, and monster trucks. All tickets were free to those members who signed up. This was part of the continual effort by Bus. Mgr. Richard Samaniego and his staff to create opportunities for our brothers and sisters to come together and enjoy quality family time with the IBEW.

This past February saw the local's flag football team bring home another championship in the 5th Annual Southern California IBEW Super Bowl, held at Woodbridge High School in Irvine. This is the team's fourth title, with a gritty defensive performance and a high-flying offense in their five games on the day. Thank you to Locals 11, 47, 440, and 477 for bringing out some very tough competition, and we hope to see even more locals participate in next year's event.

Neal Lauzon, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, ID — Greetings, brothers and sisters. The work picture for both our inside and outside branches is better than it has been for quite some time. Calls were steady through the winter and we are already getting into Books 2 and 3. The new Naval Reactors Facility project is set to kick off this spring as well as some other good-sized projects.

All the graduating apprentices have passed the state test on their first try again this year. We congratulate them and the instructors, who are doing a great job.

We are excited to be working with Oswego Creative this year as we strive to reach out to our communities to let people know what the IBEW is doing to build a strong, career-oriented workforce that gives back to our communities, and how we can provide opportunities to those who would like to join our ranks.

It is with deep sorrow that we report the passing of our Bro. Sam Knox, retired journeyman wireman.

Congratulations to Bro. Merle Thoele on his retirement.

Ned Jones, A.B.M.

L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In January, IBEW Local 481 held our first official RENEW meeting. There had been a lot of discussion from the younger members wanting to start our own chapter, and with the blessing of Bus. Mgr. Steve Menser, the committee was formed. At the first meeting, the members present elected their RENEW leadership, and they are as follows: Kendrick Carpenter — president; Sean Eagan — vice president; Antwaun Armstead — treasurer; and Bobby Tekulve — recording secretary. We are excited about the education and opportunities this will bring to the younger generation of our local union. Good luck to 481 RENEW and your committee!

In April, members of IBEW 481 once again donated their time, tools and talents to the community for Rebuilding Together. The members volunteered their weekend to help those in the community by making necessary home improvements ensuring the safety of the residents. Thank you to all those who volunteered — your commitment to IBEW Local 481 and our community is greatly appreciated. IBEW 481 is a great community partner and takes pride in the work we can do. A special thank-you goes to Jim Webb, who volunteers a lot of his own time in researching homes for the Rebuilding Together project.

Blake Andrews, R.S.

L.U. 553 (i,mt,o&ws), RALEIGH, NC — IBEW Local 553 welcomes Tina O'Meara to our office in Durham, NC. She will begin working as our office administrator. We celebrate her joining our team and we have great confidence that she will be an asset to our membership. Welcome, Tina!

Work continues to pick up throughout our jurisdiction, with calls into Book 2 regularly. We anticipate more work ramping up as the year progresses.

Josh Nixon, P.S.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — IBEW 569 is continuing to power up the green economy with robust projects and policy actions.

Our philosophy on climate action is that environmental and economic sustainability must go hand-in-hand. We support solutions to the climate crisis that address inequality and lift up working families, and IBEW 569 has long supported climate action and clean energy.

Our union hall and training center are solar-powered and we've recently partnered with a local utility to install additional electric vehicle charging stations. Plus, we're advocating for policies that create more renewable energy and local jobs for our members. And, we're training our members on next-generation green technologies.

California's increasing reliance on solar energy means utilities need to find new ways to store excess power. That's why advanced battery storage facilities are so important to our energy future, and IBEW members are leading the way. Check out this IBEW video featuring a recent battery storage project that our members completed in Imperial Valley: www.bit.ly/BatteryStorage.

Let's continue addressing climate change in the immediate future by investing significantly in renewable energy and creating good local jobs. This is our vision and IBEW 569 is here fighting with you as a strong community partner.

Gretchen K. Newsom, P.S./Organizer

Local 589 (rr), JAMAICA, NY — As spring approaches we wanted to take a moment and acknowledge our members for the work they do. As everyone knows the weather in the Northeast U.S. can be unforgiving with cold winds, snow, ice, freezing rain.

During storms and other state-of-emergency situations, our members put themselves and their families aside to weather the storm and keep the Long Island Rail Road infrastructure intact.

Yes, they do get paid for what they do and it is the job they have chosen, but to sacrifice time away, and sometimes the safety of their loved ones at home, to keep the nation's largest commuter railroad running isn't an easy task. Local 589 would like to recognize our members for their hard work and dedication. Please work safe, and have a good summer.

Augie Maccarone, R.S.

L.U. 595 (c,cs,govt,i,mt.o,se&st), DUBLIN, CA — School is back in session for all Inside and Sound and Communications apprentices in our jurisdiction and with our completion ceremonies scheduled for early June, the spring session is full of excitement.

Bro. Carey Matsumura received the IBEW Local 595 Business Manager Award for his continued dedication and exemplary service to our local and the electrical industry. He is one of our ninth bracket apprentice instructors and a journeyman inside wireman. Carey committed an abundance of hours to ensure the Building Automation Lab would be available to our fall-session apprentices and for all apprentices and journeymen in the future. Thank you, Bro. Carey.

Jason Gumataotao, B.R./Organizer

L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — In March the local started putting in calls for the much-anticipated Facebook Data Center construction project. As of March there were about 50 to 60 men on the project, and at this writing it was expected that starting in late March there would be daily calls through May until the project ramps up to about 450 workers.

In February, LeeAngelo Valencia, a Local 611 journeyman lineman, qualified to compete in the BMX World Championship, a cycling competition, which will be held in Rock Hill, SC, on July 23-30. LeeAngelo is a U.S. Marine veteran and has been racing since 1991. We wish him luck and success in the competition.

March 18, 2017, was the end of the legislative session for the state Legislature and, as usual, a so-called "right to work" bill was introduced. House Bill 432 fizzled on Feb. 25. According to the Albuquerque Journal, the House Labor and Economic Development Committee voted 6-5 along party lines to table the measure, with Democrats voting in favor of tabling the bill. It looks as if we won't have to worry about right-to-work for another year.

This is an election year for our local. In June we will be voting for all officers of the local. Don't forget to send in your ballots.

Local 611 extends condolences to the families and friends of recently deceased members: David A. O'Brien, Earl D. Eddy, John G. Moore and John E. Redvelski.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

L.U. 625 (c,ees,em,i,it,mar&mt), HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA — Two members completed their apprenticeship program and were granted their certificate of qualifications for Red Seal Construction Electrician. They are Ryan Parks and Steve Boye.

Recently retired members include the following brothers: Ron Bond, who retired in October; Larry Connolly and Fred Chisholm, in December; Sean O'Malley, Graham Atwell, Eric Kennedy and Bernie Forrestall, in January; Lee Conrad and Russell Boucher, in February; and Keith Horne and Harding MacPhee, in March. Mark your calendars for the Sept. 23, 2017, Retirees Reunion.

We sadly lost a couple of retired brothers in February: Reg Robicheau, who was 73, and Gordon MacKenzie, 72. Our sympathies to their families.

Our Next Gen Committee is organizing hockey games and tournaments, renting skyboxes at the Mooseheads hockey games, and planning various other events. Please support their efforts by attending. By all reports, the events are a lot of fun.

It is local union election time again. Mail-in ballots are due in before June 20, 2017. Remember to return your ballot right away. Thank you to all the members who are offering their service for various positions.

Tom Griffiths, A.B.M.

L.U. 627 (u), FORT PIERCE, FL — Hello, brothers and sisters. The refueling outage at the St. Lucie Power Plant is finally complete. There were no serious injuries during the numerous evolutions required to make this refueling occur. I want to thank all of you who worked on the project for watching out for the other guy. Please continue your diligence, while on the road during vacation, or in the back yard. Safety!

The Local 627 "adopt a street" crew, met the mayor of Port St. Lucie, Gregory J. Oravec, while picking up litter on Port St. Lucie Boulevard in February. Mayor Oravec thanked the IBEW volunteers for taking responsibility and initiative in respecting our city.

At this writing contract negotiations were scheduled to begin in April 2017 with Florida Power & Light. Be prepared for the worst, and hope for the best.

Bus. Mgr./Pres. Mark MacNichol asked me to remind everyone who reads this that the Local 627 Annual Bike Run is May 6.

Stay safe!

Ray Vos, P.S.

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — Let us all thank and recognize all of our local brothers, sisters and family members who participated in our most recent spring activities: the Annual Spring Blood Drive, 3 on 3 Charity Basketball Tournament, and March for Babies Walk. A wonderful evening of camaraderie was had at our Annual Meeting of the Local 697 Credit Union.

For the following upcoming events, check our website for specific dates: nominations for local union office, Local 697 election of officers, Union Night at the Gary Railcats Steelyard, IBEW Local 697 Picnic, American Heart Walk, and the Lowell Labor Day Parade. Mark your calendars for all these events. You don't want to miss out.

Ryan Reithel, B.M.

L.U. 743 (em&i), READING, PA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. On Nov. 16, 2016, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, the Reading Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Center hosted an Open House event as part of the second annual National Apprenticeship Week. Local business leaders, government officials, contractors and members of the community were treated to tours of our training facility, which included presentations of our blended learning curriculum as well as many of our hands-on-lab activities. The night was topped off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony where the trustees cut a symbolic copper conductor to rededicate our newly improved Training Center. A special thank-you goes out to the fifth-year apprentice class for their help in the event. The apprentices were on hand to answer questions and help give lab demonstrations.

In other event news, more than 170 members and their families had a good time for a great cause when they recently attended the Reading Royals (our local minor league hockey team) "Pink in the Rink" hockey game. The annual event helps raise money for the American Cancer Society and Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County.

Mark Pinkasavage, P.S.

L.U. 777 (u), READING, PA — Graduation season is near. Another class of apprentices with line and substation training will soon be joining us at Local 777. The "newbies" will be stepping into a two- to three-year apprenticeship in numerous shops throughout the Med-ED operating system.

The new apprentices come to us with an associate degree from Reading Area Community College and some hands-on training from company field instructors involved in the joint educational program. The students are looking forward to jumping in and getting their hands dirty, so to speak. They will be working with crew chiefs and journeymen with respect to their chosen field.

Local 777 congratulates the students on their community college graduation and welcomes these new men and women to their apprenticeship within our ranks.

Mark Power, P.S.

L.U. 827 (catv&t), EAST WINDSOR, NJ — Hard work paid off as the Local 827 organizing committee, headed by Bus. Agent Joe Lambert, landed a huge victory when the employees of Altice (formerly Cablevision) voted "Union Yes."

Join us in welcoming the new IBEW brothers and sisters. We look forward to bringing the 100 Oakland, NJ, workers the fair contract they deserve. Other organizing efforts are continuing throughout the state.

Suzanne M. Wallin, R.S.

L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL — The 2016 graduating class had 30 apprentices top out to journeyman status. The graduates who had perfect attendance for all five years were Mark Aguilar, Steven Cohen and Salvador Villarreal. The August 2016 graduating apprentice of the year was Salvador Villarreal.

Local 915 would like to recognize Dylan Chamberlain, who not only had perfect attendance all five years, but also was awarded as the April graduating apprentice of the year and received the Brad Felkner Award. The commitment to quality and professionalism shown by this brother represents the IBEW standard for excellence and dignity in our craft.

Congratulations to all the apprentice graduates. Local 915 wishes for you all a long and prosperous career.

Local 915's RENEW Committee and the volunteers who donate their time for activities and events representing their local union are doing amazing projects across Tampa Bay. This includes attending our annual work party, where we retrofitted our assembly hall lighting to LED lighting. Such projects are made possible by those who give back their time to their union and volunteer on their days off for the betterment of our industry. Many thanks to all, and keep up the good work.

Theresa King, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 1049 (lctt,o,u&uow), LONG ISLAND, NY — We are fortunate to be experiencing a very high level of employment. In our Utility Division both employers, National Grid and PSEG LI, have recently filled numerous job vacancies, with both internal postings and new hires.

Employment in our Outside Division has never been higher. At a recent general meeting, we swore in over 150 new members, many of whom work under our newly expanded Flagging Agreement. Our Outside Division members also have opportunities to work for some of our newly signed contractors. We welcome Ferreira Construction, Florence Construction, and Posillico Tree and Landscaping to name a few.

Bus. Mgr. Ron Bauer is presently in Local 1049 contract negotiations with Green Velvet Landscaping Inc. and MidSun, having reached tentative agreements with both contractors. As of this writing we are preparing to negotiate a new contract on behalf of our Gas Craft Division members. The current agreement expires June 1.

In his new role as business manager/financial secretary, Ron Bauer looks forward to continuing Local 1049's legacy of growth, prosperity and the enhancement of our members' lives.

Thomas J. Dowling, R.S.

L.U. 1141 (em,i,mow,rts&spa), OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — Hello, brothers and sisters. With summertime around the corner, we have several opportunities ahead for you and your loved ones to soak up the sun and enjoy time with your Local 1141 extended family.

On May 20, we will host our Family Day at Frontier City. Also, our annual summertime family picnic at the local union hall is only a couple months away. If you've never attended one of our picnics, why not make this one the first? We'll have delicious food, games for the kids, live music, and more. Please check www.ibew1141.org as these dates get closer for more details.

On another topic, if you or one of the brothers or sisters you work with are getting ready to retire, please check out or direct them to a new page on our website that includes information about how to plan for a successful retirement: www.bit.ly/1141 retirement. From determining health care plans to applying for local, international and NEBF pensions, there's a lot of paperwork and a lot of questions you might have. Fortunately, we're here to make it as easy as possible. Get in touch with us, and we will take care of all the odds and ends to make sure your retirement plan is as strong as it can be.

I hope to see many of you at our upcoming events and at our monthly local union meetings. Work safe, and have a great summer. In solidarity.

Dewayne Wilcox, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,t&u), VACAVILLE, CA — IBEW Local 1245 members were hard at work during the particularly wet, windy and snowy winter, restoring power to hundreds of thousands of customers impacted by storms that walloped the Northwest. [Editor's Note: See news article "Record Snow Turns Out Calif. Lights; IBEW Turns Them Back On," on IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Local 1245 recently hosted a delegation of leaders from the utility union in El Salvador (STESEC). The five-person delegation spent a week visiting with Local 1245 leaders and members, touring training facilities and learning about the union. "One of the most important lessons of this exchange was when [Local 1245 Bus. Mgr.] Tom Dalzell reminded us the union is not a business — it is struggle and sacrifice," said Felipe Hernandez, a member of the STESEC delegation. Local 1245 looks forward to continuing to cultivate this sister relationship with STESEC.

Local 1245's cutting-edge Organizing Steward Program continues to grow and flourish. In January, 85 organizing stewards were sworn in, the largest class to date. "My experiences as an organizing steward have taught me the importance of solidarity, sacrifice and struggle in defending and building our labor movement," said Organizing Steward Samson Wilson, a lineman who works at NV Energy. "There is a strong sense of excitement in seeing how many new organizing stewards have joined us in this critical time."

Four members of Local 1245 travelled to New Hampshire in February to help defeat "right-to-work" legislation in that state. The energy and experience they brought was an integral part of the successful campaign. "We did it! We stopped right-to-work cold in its tracks of the New Hampshire snow," said Local 1245 Organizing Steward Steve Marcotte. "It was awesome!"

As a companion to the "Fist Full of Lightning" history book released last year, Local 1245 unveiled the first installment of a seven-part video series detailing the local's storied history. The next installment will be released soon. The videos can be viewed at www.ibew1245.com/historyvideos.

Rebecca Band, P.S.

L.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), SYRACUSE, NY — It was a long winter, as it always is, and it is nice to be finally heading into summer! New Yorkers must take advantage of the short summers, and no one knows that better than Local 1249.

We look forward to Local 1249's Annual Bobby Shutter Memorial Golf Tournament and the ARC Club Pork Barbeque on June 3. This year the Active Retirees Club (ARC) is changing things up with a barbeque instead of a pig roast. I am sure this will not be a disappointment for the members, and they will still leave happy with full bellies!

Local 1249's largest event, the Annual Clambake, is also this summer. It will take place on Aug. 5. The "bake" is always a great success with food and beverages flowing and lots of chances to win some great prizes. Hopefully we will be blessed with fantastic weather for all events! We can't wait for members from all around the state to get together and enjoy the outdoors.

Jennifer Schneider, P.S.

L.U. 1253 (i&mo), AUGUSTA, ME — After a few slow years, Local 1253's Book 1 should be clear when this article is published. With work at two Jackson Laboratory projects, the Colby College projects in Waterville, and the paper machine rebuild at Sappi Paper in Hinckley, work should be good for a while. Local 1253 looks forward to the organizing opportunities this will afford the local plus helping put Book 2 sisters and brothers to work.

Local 1253 wishes to thank the locals throughout the country that have employed our traveling sisters and brothers during our slow times.

Local 1253 then-Training Dir. Chris Trider retired Nov. 13, 2016. Chris was training director for 14 years and the local thanks him for all his efforts in bringing the JATC into the 21st century.

If you see the following brothers, give them a hearty congratulations for having received their IBEW pension benefit in 2016: Steve Cook, Ken Cowing, Pete Fish, Pat Guimond and former business manager Jeff Rose.

Local 1253 is saddened by the passing of the following brothers in 2016: Eddie Brissette, Dwight Wheeler, Bill Pooler, Ray Kenworthy, Carol Prosser and Fred Schuerman.

Scott Cuddy, P.S.

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE, MD — Members of IBEW Local 1501 are working on the James Webb Space Telescope at the NASA facilities at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD.

Bro. Fred Richards, vice president of Local 1501, provided a tour of the new telescope to IBEW Int. Rep. Gina Cooper and Local 1501 Bus. Mgr./Pres. Dion Guthrie during a recent visit to NASA.

Bro. Richards is working on the James Webb Space Telescope and states that this "core area" is a critical juncture where all four elements — spacecraft, sunshield, telescope and instrument module — mechanically, electrically and thermally intersect. The "core area" includes hardware from each major observatory element; a duplicate flight-like thermal test article is assembled and tested in the Goddard Space Flight Center thermal vacuum chamber by members of Local 1501.

The new James Webb Space Telescope will replace the Hubble Telescope and will travel millions of miles farther in space beyond Hubble.

James Boyd, F.S./P.S.

L.U. 1837 (rtb&u), MANCHESTER, ME — Members from Local 1837, active and retired, helped defeat a New Hampshire "right-to-work" bill in the state House of Representatives. The bill was defeated by a vote of 200-177. With this success for workers, the Granite State's labor movement overcame tremendous odds in thwarting a top policy priority of new Republican Gov. Chris Sununu.

Even though Republicans control the House by a 226-173 margin, some of them are union members or supporters of collective bargaining rights who recognize the true purpose of these union-busting bills. In the end, 32 Republicans joined Democrats in the House and voted against "right-to-work."

Two IBEW Local 1837 members from Eversource testified in opposition to "right to work" before the House Labor Committee: Rebecca Johnson, a control room operator from Schiller Station, and Pat Moran, a troubleshooter from the Hooksett AWC.

"To work beside someone who is enjoying the benefits I am paying for is not right and you know it," Sister Johnson said, referring to "free riders" who are protected by the contract but choose to pay nothing in "right-to-work" states.

Bro. Moran echoed her sentiments, stating: "I don't understand why you would vote to effectively require union members like me who are more than willing to pay our dues, to subsidize representation and benefits for company employees who choose to pay nothing. It's just not fair."

Other IBEW Local 1837 members called, emailed or met personally with their state representatives to voice opposition to the union-busting bill. Those personal contacts were key to convincing undecided legislators to stand with workers and their unions by voting "no" on the deceptively-named "right to work" bill.

[Editor's Note: See news article "In Win for Working Families, New Hampshire Says 'No' to Right-to-Work," in April 2017 issue of The Electrical Worker and on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/articles.]

Matthew Beck, Organizer/B.R.