L.U. 2 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), ST. LOUIS, MO — IBEW Local 2, at the time of this writing, is working on the referendum petition to stop the so-called "right-to-work" law that is scheduled to take effect in Missouri on Aug. 28, 2017. We are working with the Missouri AFL-CIO on petition signature campaigns, including events at our training center in Saint Clair, MO. We will use stewards, social media and our website to communicate events throughout the process.

The local formed a RENEW Committee in February. The committee is meeting the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at our union hall in St. Louis. Some action items for the committee have included: gathering materials and signage to participate in career fairs, having poles and hardware donated to build an H structure at the local's training center, and putting together a float for the Labor Day parade in St. Louis and Jefferson City in September.

IBEW Local 2 congratulates members who recently retired this year: Joseph Riefesel, with 22 years of IBEW service; Raymond Zelle, 50 years of service; Kenneth Staples, 31 years' service; Kenneth Steinbeck, 44 years; Robert Radomske, 36 years; Jacob Weber, 28 years; Bill Lear, 39 years; Roy "Gene" Pippin, 33 years; and Brad Cameron, 37 years of service.

Greg Benton, A.B.M.

L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Hello, brothers and sisters. Local 8 is proud to be hosting the 73rd Annual IBEW Bowling Tournament. About 250 keglers will congregate in the Glass City on June 9-11. Toledo last hosted the tournament in 1956.

We would like to express our gratitude to former Int. Sec.-Treas. Salvatore J. Chilia, who recently retired, for all his years of service to the IBEW. All the best to you, Brother Chilia! Congratulations also to Int. Sec.-Treas. Kenneth W. Cooper on his recent appointment to fill Chilia's unexpired term of office. We also congratulate newly appointed Fourth District Int. Vice Pres. Brian G. Malloy.

Our work situation continues to flourish, with projects at Chrysler's Toledo North Assembly Plant, GM Powertrain, and multiple hospital projects in our area. We thank all traveling sisters and brothers for assisting us, hopefully for a long while.

Attend your union meetings — remember, an empty seat cannot vote.

Mike Brubaker, P.S.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — Local 12 hosted the Eighth District Quarterly Organizing Meeting on Feb. 7-8 this year. We had 14 locals represented as well as nine various international representatives attending. A very healthy Member to Future Member campaign concluded the second day's activities. On Feb. 9, a well-advertised Job Fair was very successfully orchestrated with over 100 applications taken that evening. Special thanks to the following for sticking aournd to help: Brian Bradley, Zack Esquibel, Jeremy Redman, Joe Maloney, Truett Thompson, Barry Tuttle, Guy Runco, Willie Kniffin and Les Thompson.

As we know, many seasoned journeymen will be retiring in the near future. The next generation needs to be training now. We are working with the area high schools to get the word out. We have 30 potential apprentices taking an aptitude test as of this writing. Luck is when preparedness meets opportunities. So, get ready — the time is now.

Susan Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — On Monday, March 7, wearing bright yellow hats, Local 24 ascended on the State House in Annapolis to let our legislators know that we are here and here to stay. We put them on notice that if they don't support working families we will work to replace them with legislators who will. We would like to thank the 250+ members who attended the rally.

The Maryland Electrical Industries LMCC held its annual drug screening program on March 16-18. We tested 314 journeymen, apprentices, construction electricians and construction wiremen. To encourage member participation, we simultaneously held a tool and Red Wing boot sale. The cost of the tools and boots was subsidized by our Labor Management Cooperation Committee fund. Third-year apprentice Bro. Markist Goode won the 55-inch flat screen TV. Carhartt work gear was also sold with a portion of the proceeds going to the Brotherhood group that helps members in need.

Live better — work union.

Gary R. Griffin, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Local 26 is extremely proud to have an historic event occurring on Sept. 23, 2017! This is the date of our 125th Anniversary Party and the event will be held at MGM National Harbor. To purchase tickets or for more information and sponsorship opportunities, please view our website at www.ibewlocal26.org.

Please remember upcoming scheduled events: The Manassas, VA, picnic will be Saturday, June 24; and the Edgewater, MD, picnic will be Saturday, Aug. 26. Please update your calendars for these fun-filled events!

Thanks to everyone who participated in the Electrical Workers Motorcycle Riding Club's 6th Annual Poker Run for Special Love on May 6 and to all those participating in our Dollars Against Diabetes Golf Outing, scheduled for June 5.

Local 26 officers and agents attended the IBEW Construction Conference and the National Building Trades Conference in Washington, DC. At press time, they also were scheduled to attend the JATC apprenticeship graduation on June 3.

We mourn the following members, who passed away since our last article: Kevin A. Wheatley, Danny H. Blaylock, Frank Y. Smith, Kurt W. Fraser, Peter V. Parodi, James K. Davis, Charles S. Martin, Randy Chandler and John K. Jones.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Mervyn P. Burley Jr., James H. Deaner, Chris L. Fullerton, Michael B. Greene, Stephen D. Barkanic, Nathaniel B. Gollup, Richard L. Labonte, Lawrence D. Scott, Herby T. Greene, Johnnie P. Blankenship, Gregory P. Ginyard, Clifford S. Hughes II and Shawn F. Stancovich.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — Unfortunately, local and regional elections don't draw the voter turnout of federal or state elections. These area elections greatly and directly impact the amount of work available to union tradespeople.

Recently, elections in the Local 34 area made it possible to secure more project labor agreements (PLAs) and implement responsible bidder language in our communities. It is easiest to witness the impact of both on the local labor market when the action is in our own backyard.

Area school districts, with cooperation from the West Central Illinois Building Trades Council, passed a sales tax increase providing revenue for building maintenance and construction. Passage has led to entire districts signing PLAs and utilizing responsible bidder language to complete the bidding process. This is beneficial to all entities. Local 34 will take all the school work we can secure, especially after Caterpillar announced it no longer intends to build a new world headquarters in Peoria. Caterpillar is moving executive positions to Chicago. That announcement has caused a slowdown in new construction.

Congratulations to members who recently won election or re-election to public office as follows: Jeff Jenkins — ward alderman, Chillicothe, IL; Andy O'Neil — Bartonville trustee; Grant Debord — Princeville School Board member. Thank you to all our members who hold elected public office.

Mark Burnap, P.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — The old National City Bank of Cleveland, at the corner of Euclid Avenue and East Sixth St., is undergoing a transformation to become the anticipated Marble Room Steak and Raw Bar.

The site features solid marble staircases, chandeliers, rows of floor-to-ceiling pillars and a below-ground bank vault. Located inside the historic Garfield Building, it is a sprawling, high-ceilinged space that hovers around 10,000 square feet. Now in the hands of Frank and Malisse Sinito, who also own LockKeepers restaurant in Valley View, the historic lobby is undergoing a transformation into an upscale dining destination. The historic Garfield Building also is the location of a 125-apartment renovation being constructed in the 13-story main building.

Remember to mark your calendars for the Local 38 Cedar Point Family Picnic, scheduled for Sunday, July 2. Tickets are available at the hall.

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

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts,st&tm), PORTLAND, OR — We are happy to announce that Bus. Mgr. Gary Young has once again shown his commitment to the IBEW's goal of organizing "all workers in the entire electrical industry," by hiring three new organizers. They are: Christina Daniels, Randy Davis and Matt Smyth. Christina Daniels, journeyman wireman and past president of IBEW Local 970, has taken on our social media communications efforts. Randy Davis, journeyman wireman and former superstar salt, has taken on our salting program. Matt Smyth is a journeyman wireman and formerly served as a highly respected steward at the largest semiconductor project in our jurisdiction. All three started working at Local 48 in November of 2016 and have already shown their great work ethic and energy.

We have had regular unfilled calls since February and we expect to need 500 or more electrical workers for big jobs starting in our area soon. There will be opportunity for overtime and we welcome any help our travelling brothers and sisters can offer us in filling these calls. Check our website at www.ibew48.com for updated reciprocation and licensing information.

Our RENEW chapter and the Gus Miller Chapter of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC) continue to perform inspiring work in our communities and we are proud of their dedication.

Ray Lister, Lead Organizer

L.U. 58 (em,i,rtb,spa&t), DETROIT, MI — Each summer, over 100 golfers descend upon Glenhurst Golf Course — at 25345 W. 6 Mile Rd. in Redford, MI — to celebrate the life of the late Brother Gerry Gaudi, and the sport he loved. For nearly 20 years, this wonderful event has raised money for members who are unable to work because of catastrophic injuries.

This year, the event takes place on June 9, starting at 8 a.m. The Local 58 Benevolent Fund welcomes anyone who wishes to attend to do so. We are limited to 128 golfers, so please reserve your spot at the Local's Credit Union. There will be gift bags, raffles and cash prizes. For more information contact Paul Vanoss at (313) 354-5033 or Andy Dunbar at (586) 556-3007.

Andy E. Dunbar, Pres.

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

On March 8-9, Local 68 hosted letter writing campaigns against the "right to exploit workers" bill that went to a state House of Representatives committee on March 15.

Over the course of the two nights, we collected 233 letters to present to the House legislative committee. In addition to the letters asking for a NO vote on this bill, Local 68 members, along with other concerned locals and citizens groups, were present at the committee hearing to give testimony against this bill. Testifying on behalf of Local 68 were journeymen Ken Gavito and Adam Stewart, as well as two of our apprentices, Jason Brown and David Grosset. If you work with or see these brothers, be sure to thank them for their time and effort. The "right to exploit workers" bill was defeated in committee by a 6-3 vote. Thanks to all for your help in this effort.

Negotiations on a new Inside agreement continues, with nothing new to report as of this writing.

A "Better Know Your Legislature 201" training was presented at the union hall on Saturday, March 18, by Kjersten Forseth, Colorado AFL-CIO political and legislative director. Thirty people attended this very informative class.

Morgan Buchanan, Pres.

L.U. 70 (lctt&o), WASHINGTON, DC — Mirarchi Brothers Inc. is a new signatory contractor working on Pepco's distribution system. Founded in 2002, MBI started with one squirt bucket working out of a garage in 2002. The company has grown to become a very strong union contractor with an emphasis on safety.

With the help of the IBEW linemen from Local 70, it's looking like Mirarchi Brothers will be in our jurisdiction for a long time. They have helped with storm restoration, worked on danger poles or whatever Pepco needs. Mirarchi Brothers plans on growing its presence in our area. We at Local 70 appreciate the level of workmanship and focus on safety that they bring to our utility companies.

We thank our members for their hard work and dedication to safety and workmanship that they bring to our contractors.

Jimmy Horton, B.R.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — The work picture looks pretty good. We have a wind farm project, an outage at Clinton Power Station, with more capital projects there, and several other commercial and industrial projects underway in the area.

Fourteen inside apprentices and one telecom apprentice graduated in May: Jodie Botts, Zachary Buchanan, Nick Delahunty, Josh Flood, Darin Hill, Robert Jonquet, Christopher Leming, Dillon Lewis, Josh McLain, Tyler Pieszchalski, Kanen Reed, Brandon Reininger, Tyler Smock, Kaleb Swarts and Gregory Pruemer (telecom). The graduates were honored and received their certificates at a May 20 graduation ceremony.

Members Jim Carroll and John Heise recently retired and received their IBEW pensions. Congratulations to these two for a lifetime of hard work, and good wishes to them for many relaxing years to come.

We were saddened to learn of the passing of two brothers in late March: Jonathan Thompson, who was 70, and David Ward, who was 51. Bro. Thompson was a 50-year IBEW member, and Bro. Ward was a 21-year member. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families.

Steve Tilford, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — Summer is here and with its arrival all the attendant Local 150 activities. We will have our picnic on June 24. Our golf outing will be on Aug. 19. You can sign up at the Hall for the golf outing. The annual Jubilee Days Parade in Zion is on Labor Day in September and we are looking for a committee chairman.

e legally have to report an accident. It was very informative. Illinois has some of the best workman's compensation in the country and we definitely want to keep it that way. By no means is anyone going to get rich off of it, but we don't want to lose what we have. That is why it is so important to keep a close eye on our state legislators and what they are doing (and not doing) in Springfield. Hold their feet to the fire. We elected them and we pay their salaries. They are there at our behest. Let's not have them ever forget that.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — Our local has been very busy for the last few months in regard to work. We had 75 Local 158 members and travelling brothers and sisters working at Point Beach Nuclear Plant for the plant's scheduled spring outage. We had calls for manpower for projects at Lambeau Field, home field of the Green Bay Packers, as well as the Titletown District projects adjacent to Lambeau Feld. We had calls for several hospital projects in our jurisdiction as well as calls for various jobs in the southern part of Local 158's jurisdiction. The contractors are busy, which is good for our members. The summer brings high hopes.

Local 158 celebrated its 98th anniversary at our annual banquet on April 8. Once again the event was well-attended and everyone had a good time. We awarded IBEW years-of-service pins and recognized our apprentices, retirees and officers.

We are preparing for and looking forward to our local's 100th Anniversary in 2019.

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — We recognize and congratulate all graduating apprentices.

With each graduating class from Local 234, our spirits are elevated knowing the graduates are prepared to meet ever-increasing industry challenges. Such challenges include the pressures of rapidly declining, outdated infrastructures requiring repair or replacement; and multiple social demands that the many newly developing electrical technologies be rapidly deployed. The best examples today are lighting controls, demand response, facility-based storage, micro grids, solar, and other green energy developments.

Our members recognize and honor the achievements of our newly minted colleagues, who devoted the past five years to fulfilling rigorous apprenticeship requirements, both on the job and in the classroom. Sacrifices were demanded and equally met. Soon we shall know the graduates not by their past performances but through their future efforts as they build a better world.

To the recent graduates — Chris Olsen, Corey Cardenas-Perron, Gilbert Sanchez, Juan Palacios, Ryan Porter, Steve Rios and Trudi Teller — we look forward to you leading our workforces to meet head-on the challenges of the 21st century. You are well-prepared and appreciate the need to prudently maintain that stock and trade of skills you have learned.

Everyone here at Local 234 — fellow members, family and friends — congratulates the graduates and salutes their achievements of today and into our future. Congratulations.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.

L.U. 254 (ees,em,mo,o,rts&u), CALGARY, ALBERTA, CANADA — Congratulations to Sister Jacqueline Skelton, winner of the 2016 City of Calgary Public Safety Communications Board of Governors' Award honoring her work at Calgary 9-1-1 as an emergency communication officer and recognizing her dedication to public service.

After 20-plus years practicing mostly family law, Jacqui closed her law practice and emigrated from the U.K. to Canada in 2011.

In her six years at Calgary 9-1-1, Jacqui has made a strong impression on all who have had the pleasure to work with her. Not only does she demonstrate a high level of competence in her work, she is never shy to take it to the next level.

Jacqui is a Sentry Systems subject matter expert. Her dedication to making the transition to a new record management system and helping her teammates overcome challenges with Sentry is commendable. She also provides recommendations to the "super users," and communicates helpful information to her team.

Jacqui was invaluable during a night-long Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) outage last May. She quickly came up with great ideas to ensure levels of service were upheld. She then used lessons learned from that situation to support the leads during the Sentry outage in November.

Jacqui volunteers her time as a shop steward and serves on the Employee Satisfaction Committee, the Critical Incident Stress Management Team and the Peer Support Team. She coordinates fundraising nights and food nights. Jacqui personifies The City of Calgary's 4 C's — character, competence, commitment and collaboration.

Jacqui, thank you for your efforts on behalf of Local 254 and congratulations on receiving this prestigious award.

John Briegel, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — Earlier this year, with the help of labor educator Mark M. McDermott of Seattle, WA, IBEW Local 280 held an organizing meeting in central Oregon.

McDermott helped by officiating a S.W.O.T. session — focusing on "strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats" — to help with formulating a plan to organize work and members in central Oregon. After assessing and recognizing strengths and weakness as well as threats and opportunities, a plan began to be formulated. We also formed a voluntary organizing committee, which will meet once a month. We have a long fight ahead but feel this is a step toward increasing market share.

Work has slowed as of this writing, but it is expected to pick up by early summer.

Thanks to the IBEW brothers and sisters who traveled to help man our work this past year.

We have 17 new journeymen who recently graduated and passed the state journeyman exam. Congratulations to all!

Our state continues to see an increase in solar projects planned and starting. Local 280 is just starting a 65-megawatt solar field near Prineville, scheduled to be completed sometime in August. Let's hope for a continued good work picture in the coming years.

Drew Lindsey, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — As the proud host city for Super Bowl 52, scheduled for February 2018, Minneapolis is busier than we have been in more than a decade.

The positive work picture is not only due to the big NFL game, as we also have many large projects including several solar jobs and substantial airport improvements.

With the extensive commercial and residential work, our members are keeping very busy. So much so that we are extending an invitation to members across the country to help us man our work. Local 292 will need additional wiremen this summer. There will also be a specific need for those from the following states that carry the Minnesota Class A electrical license or equivalent: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Iowa, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming.

Eric Peterson, P.S.

L.U. 332 (c,ees,i&st), SAN JOSE, CA — Through recent strengthening of the bonds between the mechanical crafts, Local 332 has seen phenomenal success in mobilizing and empowering members to take leadership roles in securing work for our unions.

At the MEPS Leadership Conference, over 150 members of four craft unions gathered to learn strategies and interact with elected officials of local municipal districts. The resulting "MEPS Army" will be a driving force in ensuring new development has every opportunity to be built by union craftsmen. (MEPS stands for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Sprinkler Fitters.)

We would also like to congratulate the 88 Inside, 20 Sound & Communications, and 10 Residential apprentices who will receive their completion certificates this year. We also welcome the 46 Inside apprentices who have been indentured so far in 2017.

David Bini, Organizer

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — In late March 2017, Bro. Chuck Cake visited the union hall to bring by some IBEW mementos he has collected during his 54 years as a Local 340 member, which included 24 years working in the business office — as a representative for five years, and as business manager for 18 years. We visited for quite a while and he was gracious enough to share some of his memories of the history of Local 340 with me. He also came to say goodbye, as he and his beautiful wife, Mary, are pulling up stakes in Sacramento and moving to Florida. Bro. Cake will be reachable on Facebook and via email and I am sure I will be talking to him again. I know you all join me in wishing him and Mary a long and beautiful retirement in sunny Florida.

Speaking of moving, Local 340 is most definitely moving in the right direction regarding getting the work and growing our membership! Our Organizing Department is stronger than ever, and it is exciting to witness the results of their hard work. Being a former organizer myself, I have great respect and gratitude for the job they do every day for Local 340 members.

Rest in peace, Bros. Robert Irvine, George Waugh and Ray Toney.

Robert D. Ward, B.M.

L.U. 400 (es,i&o), ASBURY PARK, NJ — The annual Belmar St. Patrick's Day Parade took place on March 5, 2017. The Local 400 membership was led by Bro. Pete Sparandera's monster-sized truck as a great representation of the strength of our brotherhood. The membership displayed union pride as they gathered and walked along with other local trade unions in the parade.

The Apprentice of the Year Award went to Jared Fricke. Jared displayed the utmost dedication and had a grade average in the upper 90s for all five years of the apprenticeship. Local 400 is proud of his efforts and hopes to see many apprentices following his lead. Jared was also rewarded with a plaque and a $100 check from the Retiree Committee for all his hard work throughout the apprenticeship.

Local 400 continues to be committed to the Code of Excellence. All apprentices and a great majority of our membership have been trained and certified. More classes are being planned and we hope to have the entire membership trained shortly.

Raven Morris, P.S.

L.U. 420 (u), WATERBURY, CT — April 2017 marked one year since Local 420 lost its beloved business manager and friend Frank E. Cirillo. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers. U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty delivered a tribute in Frank's honor on the floor of the Congress last year. Below is an edited excerpt of Rep. Esty's tribute:

"Mr. Speaker, last weekend, the state of Connecticut and labor lost a true champion, and I lost a friend, with the unexpected passing of Francis E. Cirillo III. A lifetime Waterbury resident, Frank was 55.

"Frank proudly served in the U.S. Navy during the Cold War. He was awarded the Naval Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. After his military service, Frank returned home to Waterbury and began his civilian career at Connecticut Light & Power (now known as Eversource Utilities). Frank and his wife, Milena, raised a wonderful family, whom he was immensely proud of.

"After 20 years at Northeast Utilities, Frank became a full-time union official in 2004.

"He was widely admired for his strong advocacy for members of IBEW Local 420. Frank's outspokenness and passion served him well in his positions with the Connecticut AFL-CIO, the Western Connecticut Central Labor Council, the New England Utility Council, and Local 420's COPE fund drives.

"In 2013, he received the Paul A. Loughran Memorial Award for Outstanding Leadership. Frank was frequently recognized for his community service. He served as Waterbury's Good Jobs Liaison Commissioner, and was a member of the Waterbury Democratic Town Committee and Waterbury's American Italian Civic Club. He was honored in 2014 by the Waterbury Veterans Memorial Committee.

"Frank will be sorely missed. His contributions to the city of Waterbury and the state of Connecticut will not be forgotten.

"And it simply will not be October without chilly Saturday morning door knocking with Frank. It's hard to imagine that Frank is not still with us — passionately advocating for working families, cracking jokes. I have no doubt that Frank is stirring things up in heaven, letting St. Peter know exactly what he thinks."

Joseph Malcarne, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 494 (em,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — At this writing, work continues to progress on the Plymouth Habitat for Humanity home that is being wired by the Plymouth High School Panther Construction team alongside members of IBEW Local 494. Thanks to all those participating on the project. Thanks also to retired Local 494 members Mike Gradinjan and Phil Kissinger for helping teach the trades.

Kurt Jante, B.R.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — April 28 was again a big day in Sarnia. Every year on this date we mark the International Day of Mourning, to remember all workers who have lost their lives or suffered injury or disease due to workplace related hazards and incidents. Thank you to all those who joined us for this event.

With a small out-of-work list and our short-term work picture looking good, we have been fortunate and it seems that this will be a successful year.

We would like to thank Thunder Bay Local 402 for providing work opportunities for our members at a helpful time.

Local 530 is saddened to report the recent passing of Bros. Gary Clark and Don Hendra.

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — Greetings, brothers and sisters. We celebrated our local's 8th Annual Picnic on May 6 this year at Spring Park in Tuscumbia, AL. Everyone enjoyed the cook-off competition of barbecue and ribs, bingo, music, and fellowship among members and their families. We are excited to see this event increase in size each year.

We are proud to announce that we have ratified a three-year agreement at the Sheffield Utilities Department. Annual wage increases were negotiated and ratified for Muscle Shoals Electric Board and Russellville Utilities.

We want to thank everyone for very successful spring outages at TVA Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant in Athens, AL, and Cache Valley at Nucor Steel in Decatur, AL. Our appreciation goes out to all those who helped make this possible.

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

L.U. 570 (i,mo,spa&u), TUCSON, AZ — Sturgeon and Stark, signatory electrical contractors, are working on the Banner University Medical Center Towers project in Tucson, which seems to be going well. The building steel has topped out and the contractors are steadily manning up.

Sturgeon Electric has also picked up the Central Utility Plant project that will tie in with the new nine-story Banner Hospital.

Members, keep your eyes open for the upcoming events. Thank you to all who participated in the May 6 Golf Tournament.

At press time, Inside negotiations as well as negotiations with some of the units are scheduled.

We are also looking to put together a picnic committee for this year's picnic, which should be in the fall. Contact the hall to get involved. Thank you and be safe.

Scott W. Toot, Pres.

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — In March of this year, Bro. Tom Allen retired after 41 years of exemplary service with the IBEW. Over the course of his career, Tom personified what we should all strive for as members of the IBEW. Tom always gave 110 percent on the job, was a leader, and mentored countless members of the local including myself. Bro. Allen has been an asset to Local 606 and we truly appreciate everything he has done for this local and the IBEW.

Work in our jurisdiction continues to be very good. Our signatory contractors continue to pick up work and the construction boom shows no signs of letting up. There are many opportunities for IBEW travelers with the calls going into Book 2 on a regular basis.

Fernando Rendon, P.S.

L.U. 654 (i), CHESTER, PA — On March 16, IBEW Local 654 held an Open House for potential applicants and people interested in learning more about our apprenticeship training program. Bro. Ed Kikut, training director for the Chester JATC, addressed the 150-200 attendees and presented our program to them.

We have had several Open Houses in the past, and this year's presentation had the most participants by far. Attendees had a chance to tour our classrooms and meet our instructors as well as several of our committee members. We had a few vendors participating, including Greenlee and Klein Tools. There was a question-and-answer session that lasted well over an hour.

It was great to see the interest in our trade from the community. We look forward to continued success.

John Bondrowski, P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — Recent events have required some changes in union officers. We thank everyone who has stepped up to new or additional responsibilities to serve the local.

Jason "J.D." Jenkins was appointed president of the local effective Dec. 9, 2016, to fill an unexpired term of office when our former president retired. Thomas Beach has stepped up to fill the vice president spot. Thomas Carnahan and Charles Skelly were appointed members of the Executive Board.

We also thank Bro. Walter Goree for agreeing to serve the labor side of the Apprenticeship Committee.

Best wishes to recent retirees: William A. Lentz, Marcus A. Zoliner, José M. Clavel, Barry W. Sarver, Patrick F. Woods, Michael D. Collier, B. Michael Freeman, James J. McDonald, Irvin "Rusty" Davis Jr., Mark A. Davis, Charles D. Loving, Kenneth W. Nash and Jerry R. Nuckols.

A big shout-out to all the IBEW locals working our members as travelers, particularly our neighboring Local 26!

Charles Skelly, P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — With great pride, we would like to announce our local's most recent apprenticeship graduating class. These world-class electricians are our future and we hope they stay involved in our local to be leaders in our industry. The recent apprenticeship graduates are: John Gehringer, Jim Mularz, Gus Voisine, Nate Richie, Jeff Fryzel and Sean Thorp. Congratulations, gentlemen! The future of the IBEW is bright.

We also wish to recognize our most recent new members, who look forward to improving their way of life and the lives of their families. They are: Sean Heilig, Justin Dole, Derek Lobdell, Michael Reder, Andrew Mowrey, Joshua Bromund, Darrin Materna, Steve Koenig, Austin Bond, Alek Poirier, Edward Faber, Kevin Mankowski, Mark Aymen, Ryan Ruhle, Dana Bock, Leonard Fischer, Wallace Luttermoser, Marty Martin, Adam Thompson, Layne Fournier, Jeffrey Powers, Lance Miracle, Robert Chritz, Mark Bartos, Brandon Kostus, Jeremy Escamilla, Kevin Knopp, Justin Sweeney, Christopher Moore, Tyson Valentine, Vincent Gray, Keagan Hover, Cody Cripps, Samuel Malone, Timothy Chartier, Jacob Backus and Aaron Guigar.

With summer upon us, be careful to prevent heat-related injuries like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Know the symptoms to watch for to keep yourself and your co-workers safe. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! We must look out for ourselves with OSHA and other protections on Trump's chopping block. Be careful out there.

Mark Thompson, P.S.

L.U. 702 (as,c,cav,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo, mt,o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts, se,spa,st,t,u,uow&ws), WEST FRANKFURT, IL — On Feb. 14, Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart appointed Local 702 Pres. James "Jimmy" Sanchez as lead organizer for the Prairie State Generating Company. This will be Jimmy's one and only responsibility, to organize the employees of PSGC, as this is the only power plant in our jurisdiction that is not union-represented and is a prime target for growing the IBEW membership.

We are currently in negotiations with Ameren Illinois for all three Local 702 divisions.

Ground was broken for our new Outside Construction Lineman Training Facility, which will cover more than five acres and allow instructors to immediately take knowledge learned in the classroom into the field for hands-on application and training. We are excited about this project and have placed it in the capable hands of Bus. Rep. Scott Kerley.

Our Golf Outing will be Friday, June 16, at the West Frankfort Country Club, and all proceeds go to The Poshard Foundation. Additionally, at the Golf Outing, we will kick off our 6th Annual Solidarity Fund Drawing ticket sales (with all proceeds going to benefit members in need and promotion of the local).

Our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction - 119, Outside Construction - 35, and Line Clearance - 3.

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

L.U. 704 (catv,em&i), DUBUQUE, IA — Nominations for local officers were held at the May meeting, and at this writing elections were scheduled to follow in June. I urge all members to attend monthly meetings as they are very important! Together, members discuss new ideas and relevant approaches thereby actively crafting Local 704's future.

Our local is in the second year of a three-year contract agreement. On June 1, we will add $1.20 per hour on the check. With jobs that are started and those being bid, we hope to have a busy summer.

Local 704 members wish to extend condolences to the family of Bro. Glen Custer, who passed away recently at the age of 94. He served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Glen was initiated into the local in March of 1947. He had retired from Westphal Electric, where he had worked for 23 years. His son Dave Custer is also a Local 704 retired member.

Local 704 members who are filing their retirement papers this spring are Bros. Bob Schmidt, Mike Sisler and myself, Ron Heitzman. This is the goal we have all worked toward throughout our careers. Here's to a long, healthy and happy retirement!

Ron Heitzman, P.S.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — Local 760 congratulates retired member Arnold Clevenger on receiving his 55-year service award pin from the IBEW.

Bro. Clevenger started working for Dillard Smith Construction Co. in Knoxville, TN, in 1960 as a grunt fresh out of high school and was making one cool George Washington an hour. He received his journeyman lineman ticket in 1968 and was promoted to foreman in 1971. Bro. Clevenger concluded his career as regional manager for Dillard Smith in New Market, TN. Arnold is now kicked back and enjoying the golden years with his wife, Fay. They enjoy their time spending it with their two daughters and five grandchildren. Take it easy, Bro. Clevenger.

As Teddy Roosevelt said: "It is only through labor and painful effort by grim energy and resolute courage, that we move on to better things."

Jason Leary, A.B.M./Organizer

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1, ST. LOUIS, MO — Greetings to all. I hope everyone is enjoying the spring season.

The Republican-controlled Missouri Legislature in Jefferson City passed so-called "right-to-work" legislation, and the newly elected Republican governor signed the bill into law. Petitions will be circulating, for us to sign, to put a referendum on the 2018 ballot to rid Missouri of the anti-worker law. Please ensure that your families and friends are informed about the devastating effects "right to work" will have on all residents of Missouri. You must be a registered voter to sign the petition.

The next two Retirees Club meetings are scheduled for July 19 and Sept. 20 (the luncheon).

Pictured in the accompanying photo are two of my IBEW commemorative knives. One is from the convention that marked IBEW's 100th anniversary, and the other is my new IBEW 125th anniversary commemorative knife, which recently arrived in the mail. The older knife has seen some wear, especially on the blade.

Neal McCormack, P.S.

RETIREES CUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, NORTHERN NEW JERSEY CHAPTER — As of this writing, we're enjoying a much-anticipated spring season, as we welcome back our "snow birds." We continue our monthly meetings throughout the year, enjoying the camaraderie, guest speakers and activities! We were fortunate and honored to have Tom Gallagher as a recent speaker! Other speakers included a lawyer who discussed estate planning, and a travel agent.

Activities included a trip to the show "Those Fabulous 50s" and luncheon at the Royal Manor in Garfield. We also enjoyed our spring luncheon at Bellisimo Ristorante in Montvale, NJ. As always we're looking forward to our annual trip to the Educational Center in Cutchogue as well as our summer picnic. A fall bus trip to Boston, MA, is planned. We hope all new retirees in our area join our group for fun, good food, friends and camaraderie!

John Krison, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER / PUTNAM CHAPTER — Once again, officers of the Local 3, Westchester/Putnam Chapter, Retirees Club had the honor of meeting with Mr. Kenneth Fisher, CEO of the Fisher House Foundation, on March 7 this year, to present him with a check for $10,000 as a contribution to the Fisher House Foundation.

This contribution marks a milestone in our association with Ken Fisher and the Fisher House Foundation, which helps military families by providing housing close to a loved one during hospitalization, and other programs.

We now have, over the past five years, contributed a total of $50,000 to this worthy cause. We are able to raise this amount through our golf outing sponsors, our sister chapters from Brooklyn and Queens, our affiliation with the Bronx Shore Kiwanis, and mostly through donations from our membership, who, as we all know, are retired and living on fixed incomes. Without these partnerships, our goal could not have been attained.

Our fund chairman, Dominic Malandro, has worked tirelessly on keeping records and making sure our members and our golf outing sponsors are kept informed on the progress of our fund drive.

Dick Mills, Treas.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 26, WASHINGTON, DC — It is my pleasure to report results of the Local 26 Retired Members Club election of officers. Officers were elected at our Feb. 11, 2017, meeting and will serve for the next three years.

Club officers are: Pres. Richard A. "Dick" Bissell, Vice Pres. Richard "Rick" Warner, Rec. Sec. Susan C. Flashman, Treas. James "Jim" Handley and Sgt.-at-Arms Robert "Snuffed" Holcomb. The additional members of the Executive Board are: James Antonivich, Henry Becker, Jerry Papa and Ronald "Ron" Stokes.

The club remains vibrant and in June will take yet another cruise to Europe! There is discussion of the 2018 cruise returning to Alaska — so, if you want to head in that direction, contact Vice Pres. Rick Warner. The calendar moves faster the older we get!

So far for 2017, we have 444 dues-paying members, and renewals are still coming in! Although we take a break from monthly meetings in June, July and August, we remain busy with our ever-growing medical equipment program. We also hope to paint our new sea container, which helps house some of our larger pieces of medical equipment. We were running out of storage space.

Susan Flashman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 35, HARTFORD, CT — Happy spring, everyone! The Retirees Club had our first meeting of the year in March. It was a great time.

The Retirees Club would like to welcome recently retired Bro. John Lurate, who served our local as business representative/organizer for many years and retired April 1, 2017. John served as treasurer and as a trustee on the funds. John was always a very dedicated union member and leader as well as a top craftsman in the trade during his career, not to mention a great guy. Best wishes for a happy and healthy retirement, John!

With great sadness, we must report that our former president Frank Bramanti passed away in March. I knew Frank personally and he was a very dedicated union member. He served as president, vice president, and funds trustee for Local 35. Frank served many posts and was totally involved in all aspects of the industry. He also was a true friend and great union brother. I will miss his smiling face. Rest in peace, Frank. Our condolences go out to his family.

We hope to see some new faces at our monthly Retirees Club meetings, held the second Wednesday of each month. Meetings begin at noon, at the Elk's Club in Rocky Hill. Come join us for lunch and conversation.

Kenneth R. White, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 53, KANSAS CITY, MO — Brothers and sisters, it is time to unite. As I am sure you are aware, since the November 2016 elections, there has been an all-out attack on unions and working people in this country. With several states pushing so-called "right to work" legislation and repealing prevailing wage and workplace safety measures, the list goes on and on. As you know, the governor has signed a "right-to-work" bill in Missouri, and we are currently gathering petition signatures to put that on the ballot in 2018 and let the voters decide, not a bunch of politicians. Please make sure that you and your family sign the petition.

Local 53 former business manager Stephen White was recently appointed as an IBEW District Organizing Coordinator. The Local 53 Executive Board appointed Brett Stone as business manager, to fill White's unexpired term of office. We congratulate them both and we know they will do a great job in their new positions.

Mark your calendars and save the date. IBEW Local 53 will celebrate our 100th Anniversary on Nov. 4, 2017. More details will be shared as they become available.

With sadness, I must report that we have lost another retiree. Bro. Marion Davis passed away Feb. 18. Rest in peace, brother.

Duane Pearce, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 60, SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Local 60 Retired Members Club will be on their summer break for the months of June, July and August.

Before the break, the club's annual golf tournament was held in April. With all the interest the golf tournament generated, it could only add up to another huge success.

Club members thank all who played an important part in this year's golf tournament fundraiser. Many hours of planning and executing such a fundraiser is a task. The club is self-supporting and the money raised will be for the club's meals and activities.

The Retirees Club meets the second Thursday of each month at 12 noon, at the Plumbers and Pipefitters Bldg. at 3630 Belgium Lane. Some of you may wonder why we meet at that location. When the club had no place to hold its meetings, the Plumbers and Pipefitters invited us to use their building. We thank them for their kindness and respect.

The purpose of the Retirees Club is to continue the practice of brotherhood in retirement. A friend once told me: "Once an electrician, always an electrician." That is very true.

Circle Sept. 14 on your calendar — that is the date of our club's next meeting. Join us.

Sandy Rogers, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 105, HAMILTON, ONTARIO, CANADA — 2017 commenced with our Euchre Club on Jan. 19 and our Bowling Club on Jan. 11.

There was a great turnout for our first meeting of the year on Jan. 18. Thanks to all who attended — it does make a difference!

On Jan. 25, a delectable breakfast was enjoyed by many at Michelangelo's, and our club returned on Feb. 12 for the annual Valentine's dance. On March 8, we revisited Michelangelo's for a lovely dinner that included perogies, cabbage rolls and sausages. On March 23, we enjoyed a lunch at the Mandarin Chinese Buffet Restaurant.

From April 4 - 7, 60 of our retirees checked into the Best Western Carin Croft hotel, Niagara Falls, for a relaxing break. Pleasant times were spent by the pool, visiting Niagara Casino, playing cards and enjoying an afternoon wine and cheese party.

On April 9, the Retirees Club returned to Michelangelo's for a breakfast to congratulate 50 brothers and sisters on their retirement! We wish them the very best and hope to see them at our events!

Remember our motto: Don't Wait — Participate! All of the above events were made possible by our hard-working local members and Executive Board. Our sincerest thanks to each one of them!

Eden McLean, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL — I am so worried about what's going on in our government. I get so upset listening to Pres. Trump speak. At first I felt he deserved a chance to prove to be a good president, but after six months I feel the middle-class population is under attack. I think he is an embarrassment to our already great USA.

On a much happier note: Our Retirees Club donates funds for the top four awards of many awards given to the highest achieving Local 134 apprenticeship graduates. The top four awards include:

Because of our donations for these awards, a table was reserved for our retirees at the Apprentice Graduation Dinner Dance, held in an elegant ballroom at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center, in Rosemont, IL. The dinner was wonderful and the music was great — such a gala affair to honor the 168 recent apprenticeship graduates. Congratulations to all the new journeyman electricians in our great Local 134.

Wishing all members of our great IBEW a safe, wonderful and fun summer.

Sue Kleczka, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 141, WHEELING, WV — The Local 141 Retirees 6th Annual Christmas Party was Dec. 3, 2016, at Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino and Racetrack. There were 101 in attendance. The retirees thank the officers and active members for their financial support for our dinner.

The retirees also meet for breakfast on the third Tuesday of every month, at 8:30 a.m., at Rigas' Restaurant in Bellaire, OH.

We would like to recognize retiree George E. Miller, who is celebrating his 71st year with Local 141. Initiated on April 19, 1946, George sets a Local 141 record for the most years of IBEW service. Currently, we have 121 retirees with a combined total service of 5,580 years.

Finally, we extend condolences to the families of the following retirees who passed away in 2016: Kenneth Castilow, Carson Cox, John Cunard, Lucannas Didion, Homer Hilty and Richad Mayeres. They will be remembered.

Joseph A. Donovan, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 194, SHREVEPORT, LA — The Local 194 Retirees Club has initiated a letter-writing campaign on the issues that affect "gray hair" Americans. Our efforts are called "L4S," which stands for Louisiana for Seniors Saving Social Security.

At the January meeting Retirees Club Pres. John Tyler announced that all retired members are encouraged to participate in our effort to make known our positions to our elected U.S. senators and representatives. We respect our elected officials, but for too long (this scribe included), we have not voiced our opinions. We are the ones charged with letting our elected public officials know how we feel, not the other way around.

Although retiree membership is up, we don't have as much participation as we would wish.

Retirees Club meetings are held once a month, on the last Tuesday of the month. Members like me enjoy the great food brought by other members. It's better than a four-star restaurant. Our chefs have really got "Southern cuisine" down to an art. We eat at noon and have a short meeting, and then go home and take a nap.

For more information please contact Local 194 at 318-688-0194. We'll be glad to see you.

Herbert L. Prestidge, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 212, CINCINNATI, OH — May God's loving kindness be upon the following recently departed brothers and their loved ones: Ralph Weckenbrock, who was a member of the IBEW for 64 years; Harvey Lowery, a member for 60 years; Robert Steinmetz - 60 years; Fred Holthaus - 52 years; Rodney Dennis - 41 years; Gary Gimmer Jr. - 24 years; and Paul Jesson - 23 years. Remember these brothers, as well as our sick members, and their loved ones in your prayers.

As I write these quarterly newsletters, my own mortality becomes apparent. I remember my friend Bro. Al "Fat Albert" Ihle, who passed away in 2015, telling me: "Bobby, I would tell my enemy this, so I sure will tell my friend — whatever you want to do, do it now while you are able because you don't know what shape you or your wife will be in a year from now."

Time takes its toll on us. Whatever is on your bucket list, don't wait. The window of opportunity can shut quickly. To quote a phrase coined by ancient Roman poet Horace: "carpe diem" (seize the day).

Bob Schaefer, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Retirees Club had their luncheon/meeting at Westphalia, MO, on March 28.

Unfortunately, so-called "right-to-work" legislation was recently passed in Missouri. Although everyone worked very hard to defeat the legislation, the Republican-controlled state Legislature finally passed the bill, and the newly elected Republican governor signed it. We thank Don Cessna for his many informative articles in opposition to the bill. [Editor's Note: As of press time, a campaign started by the state AFL-CIO was underway to get an initiative on the 2018 ballot that would essentially make "right-to-work" laws illegal in the state. The Missouri right-to-work law takes effect Aug. 28, but could be delayed if enough petition signatures are gathered for a public vote.]

We were saddened by the passing of member Carl Hoffman on March 14. He was 93. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

We thank the volunteers who helped again this year with the Skills USA Competition at Linn State Technical College on April 1. This makes the 13th or 14th year that our members have helped with this event.

As this went to press, Connie Hamacher was finalizing plans for a May 9 Retirees Club trip to St. Louis for a tour of the Henry Miller Museum (birthplace of the National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, which later became the IBEW). Thanks to the generous support of Local 1, the brick boarding house where Henry Miller lived 125 years ago has been converted into a museum that celebrates the history of the IBEW.

Glad to have all our snow birds back home.

Delores Melloway, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 530, SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — Many of our retirees have amazing backgrounds, outside of the workplace. One of our retirees, Herb Burdett, is one such person.

Herb was inducted into the Sarnia-Lambton Sports Hall of Fame in 2016. His record of accomplishments is so vast that I can only write about a few. He has been an amateur athlete for over 50 years.

He has competed in over 20 races, marathons and triathlons. He ran his first Boston Marathon in 1988. In 1990 he broke the three-hour barrier with a time of 2 hours and 57 minutes. In 1999 at age 62, he competed in the U.S.A. Ironman event in Lake Placid, NY, and finished fourth in his age group.

In 1972 Herb won first place in the Tae Kwan-Do Championship Tournament, as an orange-belt competitor, competing against the top black-belt competitors from Canada and the USA.

In 2010 Herb was invited to participate in a Dancing with the Stars fundraiser to benefit Sarnia's Strangway Centre. He and his partner placed second.

He has spent an enormous amount of time volunteering, and sharing his knowledge with young people in sports.

Herb was inducted into IBEW Local 530 in 1977 and retired in 1999. He and his wife, Janet, have been married for 59 years. They have a daughter and a son. Their son and two grandsons are members of Local 530. Herb's uncle Harry Field was a founding member of Local 530.

An amazing guy, wouldn't you say?

Nancy Stinson Philbin, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 595, DUBLIN, CA — Former Local 595 president Matt Maloon swore in our new Retirees Club officers recently. Congratulations to Jim Abreu as our new club president. Thank you, Jim, for stepping up to a job you've done before! Returning Sec. Nancy Taliaferro and Treas. Linda Bratset help steer the ship, and a few new Executive Board members, Gerhard Lacher, Jon Lockwood and Frank Mendez, fill out the remaining seats. Thanks to all for your service and dedication to keeping our club humming along.

We enjoyed several outings recently and more are planned. We had an awesome time on our annual snow train trip to Reno. The Sierra Nevada mountains were incredibly picturesque this trip. Side trips to Carson City and Virginia City were wonderful, as well as the Railroad Museum tour.

Bags are being packed for our next overnight trip to Yosemite and Chukchansi Gold Resort in June. Plans are being finalized for an 11-day cruise aboard the Royal Princess to view the fall colors from Quebec to New York City in October of 2018.

We look forward to our Benefits Fair, followed by summer activities including our annual barbeque and union picnic.

Our monthly themed lunches at the union hall in Dublin, on the second Friday of the month, are always special. We swap old stories and share great catered food. The ladies do a wonderful job decorating. All of that with complimentary beer, wine and coffee for ten bucks. The first month is on us, so if you're recently retired, planning retirement or out of work, please give us a test drive.

Tom Mullarkey, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 702, WEST FRANKFORT, IL — The Annual Retiree Luncheon was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 11, in Mount Vernon at the Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, with over 100 in attendance.

At the luncheon, club Pres. Gary King and Local 702 Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart addressed those present and thanked them for their participation in the club. Bus. Mgr. Hughart reflected upon some of the struggles the local faced in the past, and commented that we all owed a huge debt of gratitude to those who came before us in paving the way for the conditions and pay our members currently enjoy.

The brick, along with the certificate, purchased by the local in honor of the Retirees Club for the Henry Miller Museum was on display. A trip to the Henry Miller Museum was planned for the second week in May, with bus transportation provided by the local.

Club Pres. King went over the business of the club, including the reading of deaths since the last meeting, and the treasurer's report. Bus. Mgr. Hughart announced the door prizes winners and encouraged those present to take home some of the leftover food. The luncheon gathering was a success and concluded at 2 p.m.

Mark Baker, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 756, DAYTONA BEACH, FL — Happy spring! We have had good turnouts for our meetings this year. Our chili cook-off was a success with 11 competitors. It was a tough decision, but our judges did a great job. We congratulate the champions and thank our team of judges. Our low country boil as always was delicious and we are grateful to Greg Stone and those who are always there to help with making our meals so wonderful. Please keep up the great attendance; we love seeing everyone!

We are saddened to report that since our last article, several members have passed. We send our condolences to the family and friends of Bros. Joseph C. Stellitano, Joseph P. "Pete" Davies, Edward R. Egner Jr. and James H. Brown.

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

Diane Gibbs, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 915, TAMPA, FL — It is with pleasure that I report on the active Retirees Club of Local 915, which consists of our retired members from both sides of Tampa Bay.

The retirees' activism includes joining in fellowship monthly for lunch meetings. Retirees attend our annual work parties, and they participate in side projects as needed at our local union. The mentorship they provide to the newcomers, as well their attendance in force at our annual service pin presentations, serves as an example of a lifetime of brotherhood and solidarity. Local 915 is proud of each of our active retirees and invites others to ask them to share their wisdom of our trade.

Currently there are two separate retirees lunch meetings that are held monthly.

The Tampa Bay Chapter retirees of Local 915 meet at noon on the first Monday in the assembly hall of Local 915. One brother brings the entrée and others supply the incidentals.

The St. Petersburg/Clearwater Chapter retirees of Local 915 meet at noon on the third Monday of each month at Perkins on Park Boulevard in Clearwater.

All traveling retirees are welcome to join and share in the brotherhood.

Theresa King, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 995, BATON ROUGE, LA — We met at The Drusilla Seafood Restaurant on the first Monday in March for our annual luncheon. As usual the seafood was great and we had good attendance.

At our bimonthly meeting on the first Monday in April, we discussed and voted on having our luncheon with the wives on the first Monday in June. We hope to have everybody there by 11:30 a.m. so we can determine how much meat we will need. The meat will be furnished by the club, and each couple is to bring a covered dish. I'm praying that all our club members and their wives can be there.

W. Roland Goetzman Sr., P.S.