L.U. 10 (u), JOHNSON CITY, NY — We hope all our brothers and sisters enjoyed a happy holiday season. Good wishes to all for a healthy, happy and prosperous new year.

The last of the steward training classes was recently completed. Having all the stewards trained in 2017 was a goal for Local 10. Stewards were brought in from across New York state and trained with help from I.O. Int. Rep. Jim Ayrer and Third District Int. Rep. Julie Consenza.

Local 10 would like to thank all those serving in the military who couldn't get home to be seated at the holiday table. We also thank those IBEW brothers and sisters working to restore power who had to be away from their families during the holidays.

Please take time to remember those no longer with us. In solidarity.

Don Tuttel, P.S.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — On Nov. 18, IBEW Local 12 members participated in the annual SRDA Rake Up Pueblo event. SRDA is Pueblo's Senior Resource Development Agency. Each year volunteers work together to clean up the yards of seniors all around town. It was a beautiful fall day and our group was done in record time. Big thanks to those who showed up with rakes in hand to participate in the community service project.

On Dec. 9, Local 12 had its annual Christmas gathering at the meeting hall for members and their families. It is always so good to see everyone come together to enjoy the festivities and the spirit of camaraderie. After a delicious meal, there were presents for the children and even a treat or two for the grown-ups.

The 118th Anniversary Awards Banquet is scheduled for Feb. 24, 2018. We will recognize last year's graduating apprentices and the recently retired members. Additionally, IBEW service pins will be awarded. We'll have more details in the next correspondence.

Susan J. Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The 24th Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights was blessed with good weather and a small but dedicated crew for the extensive setup this annual event requires. Fantasy is the largest fundraising activity for the Tri-state Rehabilitation Center. It helps with the costs of therapy sessions for children and adults with disabilities in the Evansville area. Thanks to all who stepped up to help this worthy organization.

The membership recently decided to build a large solar array at the union hall. This solar installation, along with the use of LED lighting and more efficient HVAC equipment, should reduce the union's monthly electrical consumption by as much as 90 percent. It will also give the local some protection from future rate increases, serve as a "hands-on" training facility, and demonstrate the IBEW's proficiency in this emerging technology.

The cooking committee graced several Thanksgiving tables with delicious smoked turkeys. Proceeds for this fundraiser benefitted the sick and needy fund. Birds were also shared with a nearby homeless shelter to ensure that no one was left out. Special thanks to Bros. Brandon Gretler, Ricky Rush, Ryan McRoberts and Nick Vaught for making this possible.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — We recently settled negotiations on our Eastern Shore and Rommel agreements and are currently in negotiations with ABM Electrical Solutions (the old MET Testing), City Light & Power (CLP), and Triangle Sign. We are confident of reaching settlements with ABM and CLP.

Triangle's agreement expired on Nov. 30. As of this writing, we have met six times, twice as much as any other contract negotiations with Triangle in the past. Triangle's parent organization, Sinclair Broadcasting, is doing the negotiating this time. They are not a union-friendly company and it has shown at negotiations. If you see any members from Triangle, give them your support.

Our annual Children's Christmas/Holiday Party was a huge success once again. Most of the kids enjoyed a picture with Santa and all of them enjoyed the toy they received, as well as the puppet and magic shows and the food. It takes more than 50 volunteers to make this day happen, and I would like to thank all of them including their families, who also helped out. Without you, events like this don't happen. Thank you to all again.

Peter P. Demchuk, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful holiday. Local 26 wishes you and your family the best for 2018! The local's annual Christmas parties/meetings were well-attended and enjoyed by our members.

Your representatives are hard at work negotiating a new inside and residential agreement. Thank you to those who sent in suggestions.

Scholarship time! Be sure to visit the local's website www.ibewlocal26.org for information and to download application forms for this year's Local 26 scholarship. The award is $2,500 per year, for up to four years of college. Applications may also be obtained by calling the union hall (301-459-2900) and requesting that one be mailed to your home. The deadline to submit applications is March 31, 2018. Also, plans are underway for our annual Dollars Against Diabetes golf outing on Monday, June 4. And the JATC graduation is scheduled for Saturday, June 2.

The following members passed away since our last article: Wayne C. Shifflett, George C. Conley, Douglas B. Burner, Ralph P. Woodward, Richard A. Turner Jr., David E. Allison, John R. Simmel Jr. and David I. Davis. We extend condolences to their families.

Best wishes to new retirees: Paul A. Thompson Jr., William E. Beers, Theodore D. Dickenson, Lawrence D. Cooper, John D. Davis, William S. Warren II, Darrell J. Beachy Jr., Robert F. Cunningham, Fred Wiseman and Mark Burns.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OHIO — A special thanks to Bro. Robbie Mauch, who dusted off his retired North Pole gear and filled in for an ailing Santa at the Local 38 family Christmas party on very short notice. This was much to the delight of the many IBEW children who got to tell him what they wanted for Christmas. The kids also enjoyed the variety show that followed and the gifts they received after the show. Thank you to all the Local 38 officers and members who volunteered to come out early on Sunday morning to help with the day's activities.

The Amazon job on the site of the old North Randall Mall is in full swing with many of our members on the project working for multiple contractors, including Ullman Electric and G&B Electric. The Amazon job on the site of the old Euclid Square Mall is scheduled to start in March. Steel is starting to go up on the 27-story Beacon Apartments job on Fifth Street and Euclid Avenue, and as it does Gateway Electric will continue to build its crew sizes. Lake Erie was selected as the electrical contractor for the new 34-story apartment building project at Playhouse Square, which is scheduled to start soon.

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

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — As another year came to a close, Local 40's annual holiday party for our membership was once again a success. Every year at this event, we honor our graduating apprenticeship class; recognize members for excellence; honor members for their years of service; and recognize our retired brothers and sisters for being the foundation on which the local was built.

Congratulations to our 2017 apprenticeship graduates: Scott Fitzgerald, Alan Larson, Kevin Okawa, Iley Sweeney, James Uccello and Juan Verde. Special congratulations to Kevin Okawa, Local 40's Outstanding Apprentice of the Year. Thank you to all for a job well done.

Recognition Awards were also given to Bros. Gary Woodson and Jeremy Bayer for their dedication and commitment to Local 40. The local also recognized, through the Code of Excellence Award, Bro. John Torosian for his excellent example of service in the motion picture industry, both on the job and in the union. This year's Longevity Award was presented to Bro. Morris Mahan, who throughout his career has worked with dedication on behalf of Local 40.

Local 40 continues its community service, donating toys to the Salvation Army and hosting a food drive for the Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission to benefit the homeless. We as a local give back to those in the community who need help, and this service reflects the same principles of a union.

IBEW Local 40 wishes all our brothers and sisters a prosperous, happy new year and all the best in 2018.

Stephan Davis, R.S.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — The Puget Sound Electrical JATC held its annual graduation ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 28, last year. The 2017 graduating class totaled 137 with 88 inside wiremen, nine residential wiremen, and 40 Limited Energy apprentices completing the programs. IBEW Local 46 congratulates all the 2017 graduates!

The Local 46 Wireman Unit received a $3.50 per hour wage increase effective Feb. 5, 2018. This is the final wage increase of our collective bargaining agreement, which runs until May 31, 2018. The Wireman Unit voted on how to allocate this wage increase at their December unit meeting. Our new wage rate on the check is over $50 per hour!

Local 46 hosted a shop steward class on Nov. 28-29 with 23 members attending. Your local needs members willing to serve as shop stewards! If you are willing to be the steward on your job and you have completed the shop steward class, please contact dispatch and let us know. Our Bus. Mgr. Bud Allbery would like to have more stewards out on the job.

Our work picture remains strong! Thank you to all our members and travelers who have been manning our work. Our organizers continue to actively recruit unrepresented electrical workers using jobsite visits, advertising, our associate member program, and flyers.

Warren Shill, V.P.

L.U. 66 (o,t&u), HOUSTON, TX — IBEW Local 66 would like to congratulate its members at the Cypress Service Center of CenterPoint Energy in Houston on achieving five years without a lost-time accident at work.

Their commitment to working safely reflects the IBEW standard of excellence and sets a great example for everyone throughout the union!

Greg Lucero, B.M./F.S.

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

In October last year, members and retirees of IBEW Local 68, along with our brothers and sisters from Locals 111 and 113, took part in an action at the Denver convention center on behalf of IBEW New York, NY, Local 3. Charter Spectrum CEO Tom Rutledge was the featured speaker at a business exposition taking place there. Nearly 1,800 members of Local 3 have been on strike against Charter Spectrum since March 28, 2017, while Tom Rutledge received over $47,000 an hour. It was our privilege to let Rutledge know that no matter where he goes, the IBEW will be there!

We also attended a rally at Xcel Energy's offices in downtown Denver on Nov. 17. Denver Local 111, a line local, is in negotiations with Xcel as of this writing. Xcel has proposed massive cuts for current employees, as well as cuts to retirees' health and pension benefits, all while the company is also planning to raise rates for customers. Corporate greed must stop!

Local 68 retirees held their annual Thanksgiving luncheon at Wishbone Restaurant on Nov. 16. About 90 retired members and their spouses attended. All had a wonderful lunch and enjoyed the brotherhood and fellowship.

To all my brothers and sisters on the road, remember to stay safe!

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased brothers: Allen Andrews, Neal Eyestone and Russell Liane.

Morgan J. Buchanan, Pres.

L.U. 70 (lctt&o), WASHINGTON, DC — Pres. Paul G. Carter received his IBEW 40-year service pin, presented by Bus. Mgr. William "Tip" Tipton at the local's November 2017 meeting.

Bro. Carter was initiated into the IBEW in November 1977 as a groundman and soon after joined our ALBAT apprenticeship training program for journeyman linemen. He has served on the Local 70 Executive Board and as recording secretary. He has helped in organizing the nonunion sector and volunteered his services to various projects. Bro. Carter was elected local union president in June 2014 and re-elected in June 2017 for a second term.

Thank you, Bro. Carter, for all your loyal service to Local 70 and the IBEW.

Jimmy Horton, P.S.

L.U. 80 (i&o), NORFOLK, VA — We hope all our brothers and sisters enjoyed a happy holiday season. Best wishes to all for a safe and prosperous new year ahead.

Local 80 hosted its Children's Christmas Party on Dec. 2, 2017. It was the first year we did "Breakfast with Santa." It was delightful to see our members along with their children enjoying the festivities.

The work picture for Local 80 has been slow, but we hope that this year work will be plentiful. We also look forward to continuing organizing new contractors and educating new workers about the benefits of being union. Also, to all brothers and sisters who are IBEW members, remember to be more active in your local. Attending local union events, volunteering and showing brotherhood are all important.

Wil Morris, A.B.M./P.S.

L.U. 90 (i), NEW HAVEN, CT — The Local 90 RENEW program adopted the 379th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron while they are assigned overseas. Local 90 second-year apprentice Kiernan Daly is assigned to the squadron and we here at Local 90 wanted to be sure Kiernan and the squadron knew the IBEW brotherhood have them in our thoughts. The RENEW group collected, packed and shipped nine large packages of supplies and goodies. We received a thank-you and the accompanying picture (at top, right) after the squadron received the first two of nine packages. We expect them to be surprised and enjoy everything once it all arrives. We thank them for their service and will keep them in our thoughts and pray for their safe return.

Once again IBEW Local 90 members have done their share for a worthy cause. For over 20 years Local 90 has donated countless hours to the setup for the Fantasy of Lights display. This is a big fundraiser for Easter Seals/Goodwill that runs from before Thanksgiving through the first of the year. Over a two-weekend period, the local had more than 80 members volunteering time for this cause. Thank you to the Local 90 brothers and sisters, our apprentices, and some of the members' families for helping this year. Remember t0 stay safe.

Robert Woytowich, Pres.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se,spa&t), KANSAS CITY, MO — The working class is being attacked at all levels. This is a real battle, with winners and losers. The scoreboard shows the top 1 percent now holds 38.6 percent of the nation's wealth, up from 33.7 percent in 2007. The bottom 90 percent now holds only 22.8 percent of the nation's wealth, down from 28.5 percent in 2007. There is a reason for this inequality. The system is rigged. We all know how the election turned out. Watch as Trump tries to "fix this rigged system" with his billionaire stacked cabinet. Tax cuts for the wealthy and additional taxes on the working class are part of his solution. Disenfranchising voters and intentional sabotage of the 2020 census are just some of his solutions to the rigged system problem. Pay close attention, sisters and brothers, and get involved. We can't afford many more of these anti-labor solutions.

At Local 124 we take pride in our charitable giving. Our retirees with spouses and family members volunteered their time to pack Christmas baskets with food for distribution. This annual tradition of giving is delivered to widows of members and any members in need. Over 100 baskets were prepared.

Steve Morales, P.S.

L.U. 130 (i), NEW ORLEANS, LA — The work picture is steady. The project at the New Orleans International Airport, which has been underway for about 18 months, is being delayed because of design changes and weather conditions; currently, that project has about 65 electricians working, but we still expect it to ramp up soon. The good news is a few larger projects will start up this year, including a turnaround at one of the local refineries.

2017 was a busy year with the election of officers in July, as well as health and welfare, safety, and apprenticeship business changes. We have also completed some major building improvements, which will minimize our liabilities and enhance the building's appearance for our tenants.

Apprentice Max Ruehle recently won the IDEAL Louisiana statewide competition that honored and showcased the abilities of electrical professionals and students/apprentices from across the country in a series of final head-to-head, bracket-style competitive challenges. The winners were sent to Disney's Coronado Springs Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL, in November to compete for the national title. Max advanced to the semifinals before being eliminated in a very tough competition. We are all very proud of his performance and how he represented Local 130. Well done, brother! [Editor's Note: To read more, see article "Members Take Home Top Prizes at National Electrical Competition," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Our annual Veterans Day picnic last year was a success. It was a beautiful day for a family outing to honor our veterans, whose service allows us to live in freedom. Thank you to all.

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season, and we wish everyone a happy new year ahead. May you prosper in good health.

Billy Buckel, P.S.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — Hope all our brothers and sisters had a happy holiday season. We celebrated with a festive event on Dec. 10 in Mt. Zion. All enjoyed food and refreshments with our brothers and sisters and their families, while the children enjoyed time with Santa Claus.

As we embark on a new year, we reflect on a pretty nice 2017. We do want to send well wishes to everyone, especially the families of our deceased members. We look forward to a prosperous 2018, with the upcoming May outage at Clinton Power Station, along with other projects set to begin this year. Solar farms seem to be the talk of the town, as we hopefully see a couple on the horizon.

We were saddened by the recent passing of three longtime members: John Allen, 72, who was a 49-year member; Phil Posteher, 74, a 51-year member: and Kenny Webb, 85, a 63-year member. We will all miss our Exec. Asst. Candy Carroll, who retired after 22 years of service. We also wish a long and healthy retirement to Dave Hilligoss, Bob Mansfield, Dave Stuart, Rich Underwood and Milo Ziemer.

Steve Tilford, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — At our Christmas meeting we honored our retirees. Service pins and certificates were given to members with 50 years or more of service in the IBEW. The following members received 50-year pins: Ronald Bell, Robert Bruckner, Thomas Crittenden, Thomas Lindstrom, Thomas Love, Alex MacFarlane, Dave Makela, James Mulroney, Daniel Runyard, Dennis Smith, Virgil Stanphil, Paul Taulu, Leroy Vanderspool and William Yukna. Receiving 55-year pins were Donald Day, William Rivelli, Raymond Shebesta and John Sullivan. John Boghosian, Frank Pasquesi and Ronald Shotliff received 60-year pins. We thank them for their many years of service to Local 150.

The following members were presented watches upon retirement: Randy Ochoa, Marty Keller, Alan Stetz, John Rezmer, David Sproull, Phillip Cleveland, Thomas Templeton, Patrick Mueller, Gregory Taylor, George Suris, John Poll, Tom Foster, Paul Heraver, Glenn Solum, William Lichter, Kevin Harrington, Donald Carlson and Jeff Mihovilovich. We wish them all long and healthy retirements. Enjoy, brothers! You've earned it.

Let's not forget the members we lost in 2017: Charles Conrad, Larry Mason, Eugene Timmer, Tom Repp, Russ Koch, Jim Holst, Mark Schulz, William Bock, Don Houghton, Edward Hood, Roy Flood, Daniel Vetter, James Behof and Mark Early.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — Local 158 has a longstanding, mutually beneficial relationship with the Green Bay Botanical Gardens, which every year puts on the Garden of Lights for the holiday season. The displays include well over 250,000 lights, and the event gets bigger every year. There were over 67,000 attendees in 2016, and the most recent holiday season saw the largest opening weekend for the event since its inception.

Local 158 recently was awarded the Corporate Partner of the Year award from the Green Bay Botanical Gardens. Our local is very honored to receive this award. Following is an excerpt from an article that appeared in the Green Bay Botanical Garden's winter publication: "IBEW Local 158 and their affiliated contractors began their relationship with the garden in 1998, shortly after we opened our doors. They supported our operations early on through our annual campaign and soon after became a sponsor of WPS Garden of Lights in 2002. They increased their support of the event in 2008 and have been a sponsor of the iconic caterpillar light display since then. As the garden has grown, their affiliated contractors have taken a role in several of our projects. Most recently, Eland Electric worked on the Donald J. Schneider Family Grand Garden project. We are so grateful of the leadership Don Allen, Business Manager for IBEW Local 158, and his team have provided over the years."

This is quite an honor for our local, various contractors and our community. Good wishes to all for a happy and healthy 2018!

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — Nov. 7, 2017, was Election Day in New Jersey. As always, there was a lot at stake in this election — and we helped elect a new governor. Given the current political climate in Washington, we know how important it is that we have people in government who share the values of the hard-working men and women of this nation and those who know that union labor represents and fights for those values every day.

To do our part, we help organize "Labor to Labor" walks to help educate our fellow union members on the issues and highlight those politicians who not only share our values but also are willing to join us in our fight. In Bergen County, Local 164 has been dubbed "the house of labor," because for years our hall has been the staging point for the walks.

In November, we helped elect New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, who joined us for a labor walk, attended one of our union meetings and held a rally at our hall to show his support for union labor. In attendance at the rally was one of his biggest supporters, former Pres. Bill Clinton. It was a proud moment for Local 164.

Warren Becker, V.P.

L.U. 246 (ees,i,rts&spa), STEUBENVILLE, OHIO — For the past three years, Fort Steuben has presented the Nutcracker Village and Advent Market. The 6-foot-tall, lifelike Nutcracker displays all have a different "business theme." They grow in number every year as does the festival — with live entertainment, hayrides, thousands of lights, and two 35-foot-tall Christmas trees. This is where Local 246 comes into play.

In 2016, members donated time to update the electrical panels. For the 2017 holiday season, we had a hand in erecting the main attraction, a 35-foot, steel-framed Christmas tree. Members worked alongside six other volunteers. The volunteers helped with transporting the tree from storage, building the metal frame, unboxing and inspecting thousands of branches, hanging the branches, decorating, and powering the tree and the train that encircles the tree. It was quite a day and we are proud to say that our help cut build time by more than half. Thank you to Local 246 members Frank Redmond, David Pietro and Jake Lilly for helping me and, more importantly, the City of Steubenville and Fort Steuben.

When asked why we help out with this holiday event, Local 246 Pres. Frank Redmond replied: "We try and stay active in the community and donate to good causes. This is a good cause as it brings the community together. Every year we try and do something for the Nutcracker Village."

Eric Nutter, R.S.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — As we move into 2018, we are staying busy and working at full capacity. A bustling economy has helped us organize a lot of great new members over the last couple of years and we hope to do the same this year.

We are preparing for our second annual New Member Dinners, where information about all our benefits and the various aspects of being a member will be provided to all the incredible electricians who have recently joined IBEW 280. The new members' partners/spouses will also be invited to the dinner. We will try to deliver this important info over a nice meal with table clothes and drinks. Last year's event was informational yet really fun, and we are looking to step up the game even more this year.

We hope to welcome a lot of traveling IBEW brothers and sisters who decide to help us with some of our expected projects this year. If you haven't experienced the beauty of Oregon's lush Willamette Valley or the splendor of central Oregon's High Desert region, you should consider IBEW Local 280 in 2018. Just make sure you pack all your outdoor gear to guarantee the full experience.

Kail Zuschlag, Organizer

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — I hope everyone made it through the holidays unscathed and is still holding strong on any New Year's resolutions made. Local 300 and its members look forward to a new and vibrant year for all. Keep your chin up, as winter is here for only two more months (at least in Vermont). Then it's mud season.

IBEW members employed by Burlington Electric Department and managers from the department participated in an awards ceremony with City of Burlington officials to present the winning sixth-grade students recognized for their effort and creative artwork for the Energy Efficient Calendar Contest.

We ended 2017 with many contract agreements being settled and ratified, for upwards of five-year terms. We congratulate those groups that are able to establish and maintain positive work relations with their employers; it is those positive work relations that often help make possible such accomplishments. We continue to see increases in medical costs, which impact employee/employer contributions, as well as benefit restructuring due to such cost increases.

Congratulations to Larry Drake, Local 300 journeyman wireman, for completing the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail (Georgia to Maine), during the summer/fall of 2017. Larry recently retired and felt like taking a walk — a long walk. Congratulations, Larry, on your successful endeavor and many more to come. I hear the John Muir Trail is the next best thing, but only 210 miles long.

Jeffrey C. Wimette, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OHIO — At our December meeting, IBEW service awards were presented to many working and retired members.

Receiving 25-year awards were: Nicholas Badalucco, Dan Bahmer, David Burt, James Carter, Gerald Dugan, John Dugan, Robert Elium, Elisha Garrett, John Green, Jeffrey Hammer, David Kinsinger, William Lemke, Sam Mazzupappa, Michael Might, Rodney Moore, Marc Morris, David Pace, Darryl Parker, John Pinney, Jerome Pinney, Joseph Tricaso, Douglas Varnum, Todd Vinez, Robert Wolfe and Richard Wright.

Recipients of 50-year awards were: Russell Ciancio, Robert Hanlon, David Hinkle, Earl Krebs, John Quirk and James Sweitzer. Recipients of 55-year awards: Harold Bloom, William Deshon, Glenn Miller and William Proctor. Receiving 60-year awards were: Richard George, Glenn Hoppe, James Kendel and Edward Strabel. And the 70-year award recipient was Russell Beahn. We congratulate all and thank them for their longtime, dedicated IBEW service.

With great sadness we report the passing of retired Bros. Glenn Hoppe, Eugene Mortimer, Eugene Givens, Edward Strabel, Daniel Genet, Raymond Romito, Norman Hisao, Bernard Taylor and Mark Douglas Sr.

In addition to having served as a former business manager, the late Mark Douglas Sr. also served as Executive Board member, recording secretary, convention delegate, and assistant business manager. He was a leader, a mentor, a friend and a great example of what it means to be a good union man. Mark always went out of his way to buy union and American made. Doing the same would be the best way for us to honor his memory.

Thomas Wright, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — One of my favorite events at Local 340 is the yearly service pin presentation to acknowledge our retired members who are due pins for 50+ years of service. It was my honor to officiate a pin ceremony on Nov. 4, 2017, aided by local union Vice Pres. Mitchell Newman IV and Int. Rep. Michael Meals. Each of the service pin recipients took the microphone and shared a little story of their IBEW experience. That was a very humbling experience for all of us.

Dec. 2 marked Local 340's 115th Anniversary, and the local is thriving. We're moving into a new building; market share is growing and there's plenty of future work. So much of this is due to the hard work of the members who came before us and gave their all to Local 340.

On behalf of the officers and members of Local 340, I thank all IBEW retirees for their dedication, and I thank our current rank-and-file members for believing in the work we are doing and supporting our vision. Also, thank you to the families of all Local 340 members who've shared your loved ones with us as they pursued an electrical career in the IBEW by going to school, working long hours, traveling away from home, etc. Your support has helped build a better Local 340 and ensures that we will still be going strong for another 115 years.

Robert D. Ward, B.M.

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Our December union meeting was a big success with over 100 members in attendance. Years-of-service pins were distributed that night and everyone enjoyed a nice meal and good fellowship.

Local 364 began 2018 much as we left off 2017, with steady employment and plenty of work opportunities for our members. The project with the most impact is the new Mercy Hospital, which as of this writing has over 160 wiremen working on-site.

The work outlook remains strong in Local 364 as future projects start to take shape for 2018 including more hospital work, with Swedish American Hospital beginning another phase of its expanding campus. The long-awaited Green River wind farm is beginning to take shape starting in May of this year, in addition to our normal busy construction season.

We thank all the traveling brothers and sisters who have helped man our work over this busy time and look forward to continued success and prosperity throughout 2018. In Brotherhood.

Brad Williams, P.S.

L.U. 400 (es,i&o), ASBURY, PARK, NJ — Local 400 celebrated its 100th anniversary on Oct. 28, 2017. The spectacular event had members across several generations filling the venue to capacity. Attendees enjoyed a night to celebrate the many years of dedication to the Brotherhood and the success of our local. It was a pleasure to have our guests of honor — Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson, Third District Int. Vice Pres. Michael D. Welsh, and Int. Reps. Michael Hnatkowsky and Wyatt Earp — in attendance for this historic occasion for Local 400.

In yet another election year success, Local 400 Bro. Eric Houghtaling was re-elected in 2017 to the New Jersey General Assembly, representing the 11th Legislative District. Thank you to IBEW Int. Rep. and Central Labor Council Pres. Wyatt Earp, Bro. Jim Moran and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Robert Shimko for their countless hours spent during this election cycle devoted to energizing, organizing, and guiding our membership to help our friends of labor get elected. We also congratulate IBEW Local 269 Asst. Bus. Mgr. Wayne DeAngelo and Local 456 Bus. Mgr. Joseph Egan for their re-election to the New Jersey General Assembly. Great representation from the IBEW in the state of New Jersey.

Raven Morris, P.S.

L.U. 474 (em,i,lctt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), MEMPHIS, TN — Members and family of Local 474 held our annual Monster Mash, celebrating the autumn season with a cookout and fun for all. Members smoked 120 Boston Butt roasts overnight. The roasts were sold, raising over $8,000 for the Local 474 members' sick and needy fund. The kids enjoyed games like "chicken drop" and "quarters in the hay stack," while we threw horseshoes and ate barbecue.

Ten men completed a COMET Train the Trainer course provided by the I.O. Those attending learned a lot about organizing, teaching, and forging a way forward for our union's growth. More than one wireman was surprised to discover a knack for speaking in front of a group. All are excited about spreading the message of how we intend to grow our membership.

Local 474 received a charter for a RENEW committee. A group representing multiple ages and classifications met for the first time in November and plans to have a committee with bylaws in place by press time.

Work is still strong in Memphis. At the time of this writing calls have slowed for the holiday season, but are still coming in every day, often remaining unfilled. Come by and see us.

"Memphis-on-the-Mississippi,"

J. DeWitt, P.S.

L.U. 480 (em,i&mt), JACKSON, MS — On Sept. 12, 2017, an individual milestone was achieved in the history of the IBEW. Bro. Clarence England, who just turned 100, was presented with his IBEW 80-year service pin. Bus. Mgr. Brooks Martin and Retirees Club Pres. Terry Goza were among the members who attended this special event.

Bro. England was born June 1, 1917. He was initiated into the IBEW on July 7, 1937. After 40 years of service to Local 480, he retired July 1, 1979. Charles is one of only five IBEW members throughout the entire United States who received an 80-year pin in 2017. Here is a man who witnessed the labor movement during its heyday in America.

We all wish Bro. England many more blessed years of retirement. As does the IBEW wish a long and dignified life to all its members. Bro. Clarence surely is to be commended as an exception to the norm regarding longevity of service.

Stephen Magee, R.S.

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

The Service Pin Awards event is always a special night for our local. It is an honor to recognize those who have given back so much throughout their careers and hear their words of wisdom. Every year, we look forward to this event and enjoy seeing those who are living the American dream of retirement. In 2017, we celebrated eligible honorees who have years of service ranging from 25 through 70 years.

We are excited to announce that the upcoming expansion at the Huntsville Toyota facility will be completed by one of our own signatory contractors, Elk River Mechanical Controls LLC. Although our work picked up in the latter part of 2017, this is a much-needed boost for our construction sector.

At press time, we are preparing for our local's 100th anniversary on Feb. 28, 2018, with a celebration scheduled for March 2. We hope this event will be one to remember and a night to reflect on the challenges endured and the successes achieved by our local throughout this century. So many families have been positively impacted by the IBEW and Local 558.

We send our best to the entire Brotherhood and hope 2018 will be our strongest year ever with immeasurable growth.

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

L.U. 584 (ees,em,es,i,rts,spa&u), TULSA, OK — Happy new year, brothers and sisters.

2017 closed out on a high note for our local union, with IBEW 584 signatory contractor Holtz Electric Inc. getting voted by Bartlesville Examiner-Enterprise readers as the best electrical shop in the city.

Congratulations to all the hardworking and talented brothers and sisters who have helped complete jobs large and small for Holtz Electric. This award speaks volumes about your skill, professionalism and commitment to getting the job done right. Check out the paper's profile from the Sunday, Nov. 19, 2017, special edition at this link: http://bit.ly/holtzelectric.

Thanks also to all the IBEW 584 local union brothers, sisters, friends and family who attended our Christmas party on Dec. 9. Hundreds of attendees help make this a fantastic event, and we look forward to more opportunities to gather and share in brotherhood this year. Visit www.ibew584.com for a full list of service pin recipients and for photos and video of the big event.

We anticipate an improved work picture this year to help get our members off the books and onto the jobsite. Thank you for all that you do at work and in the community to help make IBEW 584 the professional organization that it is. Work safe, look out for one another, and we will see you at the next union meeting.

In solidarity,

Jeff Sims, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — The Local 606 RENEW Committee recently volunteered their skills to do electrical work for a young woman who has disabilities and could not afford to have the work done. Led by JATC Instructor Sean Donnelly, apprentices spent a weekend giving back to the community. Our RENEW Committee is growing and has many projects on the drawing board.

It has been an exceptionally difficult time recently for Local 606 with the death of several members. We are saddened to announce the passing of former business manager Doug Dagley; former assistant business manager Jimmie Singletary; Examining Board member Jason Richards; and Disney Apprenticeship Committee member and former JATC instructor Kareem Patterson. All four of these brothers passed away in the fall of 2017 within a period of 33 days, so we at Local 606 are heartbroken and shocked by their loss. Each of these brothers worked tirelessly to make Local 606 a better local and they all will be sorely missed. We ask that you keep their families in your thoughts.

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 travelers, with the calls going into Book 2 on a regular basis.

Fernando Rendon, P.S.

L.U. 654 (i), CHESTER, PA — The Delaware County Historical Society requested each trade union to donate time, tools, artifacts, and local union information for a special exhibit.

The museum is located across from Chester City Hall, on Avenue of the States, near Fourth Street.

We provided a copy of our charter along with the basic history of IBEW Local 654, as well as associated pictures. In a display case for the exhibit, Local 654 placed donated tools, components, books and a few other items that represent our history, so those who visit can see and appreciate how far we all have progressed since 1939.

It is truly a great feeling that Delaware County wants to recognize the efforts of organized labor in our community. We thank the Historical Society and all who participated to make this exhibit come to life.

John Bondrowski, P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — As 2017 drew to a close, things were looking promising in the jurisdiction. In Virginia, the November 2017 statewide election results were very encouraging, and several new delegates have filed promising bills, such as proposed legislation that would repeal a recent law prohibiting project labor agreements (PLAs) on state projects. The work picture also looks to be good for 2018 in our area.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Jesse S. Utt, Kenneth W. Whitlock, John D. Catlett, Larry H. Covey, James D. Stargardt, Edgar A. Trainum Jr., Leroy Vanfossen Jr., James F. Adams, David M. Capps, William M. Neville, Thomas W. Raabe III, Roy L. Allen, Charles L. Burcham, Keith L. Lipscomb and David L. Lowmaster.

Charles Skelly, P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

Here we go again — the Republicans have their signatures to put a prevailing wage repeal on the ballot this fall. Gov. Rick Snyder has vowed to veto any repeal of prevailing wage; however, with a ballot initiative, the state Legislature can go around the governor and get their holy grail and the gratitude of their masters, the Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. (ABC), which represents nonunion contractors, and the Devos family. This fall we must defeat this ballot measure. Don't believe the lies featured in the anti-union advertising campaigns, falsely claiming that repeal would save taxpayer dollars on state projects. The only dollars saved would be contractors' money that won't go to workers. [Editor's Note: To read more, see "Attacks on Michigan's Construction Workers Continue," posted on the IBEW webpage at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Now a glimmer of hope … another ballot initiative is the redistricting proposal. This initiative would take the redistricting of congressional and legislative districts, which happens after every census, out of the hands of the Legislature. Under this proposal, redistricting would be in the hands of a nonpartisan commission, to prevent gerrymandering and all the crazy districts drawn to the advantage of one political party, usually the party in power. This is a totally grass-roots movement with not one dollar spent collecting signatures — and it involves mostly retirees and civic-minded people sitting in shopping malls and other public locations to collect signatures. Let's reward their unselfish work for the good of the state and its people.

The Local 692 children's Christmas party was a great time for all. Highlights included Christmas songs and crafts, cookies and hot chocolate, gifts from Santa and Mrs. Clause — lots of fun for everyone. Many thanks to Season Holdwick and Erica Brady and her elves for a wonderful event.

Mark Thompson, P.S.

L.U. 702 (as,c,catv,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo,mt,o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts, se,spa,st,t,u,uow&ws), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — On Oct. 24 last year, we were proud to have Bus. Mgr. Steve Hughart formally introduce Local 702 Bus. Rep. Jason Woolard as a candidate for the office of state representative of the 117th House District in Illinois. Bro. Woolard is also president of the Southern Illinois Central Labor Council, where they raised over $24,000 for the 18 food pantries in the 16 southern Illinois counties. It is because of Bro. Wollard's efforts like this that he will make an excellent state legislator when we elect him in November.

We recently welcomed Ryan Suits to the IBEW Local 702 Executive Board. Ryan replaces longtime board member Dick Hill, who recently retired. Bro. Hill was an outstanding ambassador for the local; we wish him the very best in his retirement and are excited to have Ryan on as the newest board member.

In Poplar Bluff, MO, we are in contract negotiations with M&A Power Cooperative as of this writing. We are also in negotiations with the City of Poplar Bluff Municipal Utilities division for two separate contracts, one for the Electric Department and one for the Water & Sewer Department.

At this writing, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction — 116, Outside Construction — 20, Line Clearance — 3.

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

L.U. 776 (i,o,rts&spa), CHARLESTON, SC — The last few months have been full of positive changes in our Local 776.

As reported in the November 2017 issue of The Electrical Worker, our former IBEW Tenth District Rep. Lindsey Nelson retired in July 2017. Our local's former business manager of nine years, Chuck Moore, was appointed to replace him as a Tenth District international representative.

Int. Rep. Moore is one of the most hard-working, involved and thoroughly knowledgeable union officials we have ever had, and he leaves our local many times stronger than he when found it.

Our new Local 776 Bus. Mgr. James Hollman formerly served as local union president and is a stalwart, longtime member. We remain in very good hands. We look forward to a new era of growth and community involvement as our work picture continues to grow. People and businesses are finding that Charleston is a beautiful place with a great quality of life where business also thrives.

We recently formed a committee to help Habitat for Humanity by wiring a couple of houses that Habitat is building for a veteran and some other folks with acute housing needs. This is a great way to help the community and raise the awareness of and respect for the IBEW, and it is a training opportunity as well.

Andy Weiner, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Organizing was our main focus for 2017. We attempted to organize the linemen at Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative; however, unfortunately, we did not emerge victorious. SSVEC is the only cooperative in Arizona still operating without a bargaining agreement. Thank you to everyone who took the time to help us with the campaign; your help was valuable and it is appreciated!

Negotiations have been completed for the TRICO unit. Negotiations scheduled for 2018 include Tucson Electric Power, TEP & Springerville Generating Station (SGS) Power Production, Unisource Gas and Southwest Energy Solutions.

We encourage our members to volunteer their time in their respective communities in 2018. If you do not already have an IBEW volunteer shirt, please contact local union Pres. Greg Carter. In most cases, the union isn't given credit for the volunteer work our members do, and we want to make sure that the communities we live in see us as proud union members.

Our retiree group continues to be active; if you are interested in meeting up with them, contact the union hall and we will have Gene Penta contact you.

Stay safe out there; we are working with fewer people all the time, and as we get tired, mistakes are more likely. Take your time and follow all safety procedures. Nothing is as important as your life.

We look forward to a successful new year ahead, but we need your participation to reach our goals. Please attend your regular unit meetings as often as you can. We look forward to seeing you!

Sharon Williams, P.S.

L.U. 1466 (u), COLUMBUS, OHIO — IBEW Local 1466 would like to thank all our members for a great 2017. In 2018, we will continue to fight to advance the interests of our members.

As we finish up negotiations with American Electric Power, we'd like to remind our members that we will be having an upcoming vote on the proposed agreement. This will be for a three-year contract. Please be sure to contact the union hall and attend your local union meetings to make sure you get an opportunity to vote. This is your chance to make your voice heard in the workplace and have an effect on your job, pay, and working conditions. The decisions of this local union are made by the members, and we are encouraging everyone to make sure they vote!

Jimi Jette, P.S.