L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws), ST. LOUIS, MO — Merriam-Webster's dictionary defines solidarity as: "Unity (as a group or class) that produces or is based on community of interests, objectives, and standards."

In a momentous display of solidarity, on Tuesday, Aug. 7, Missourians cast 937,241 "no" votes to defeat Prop A, thus overturning the state right-to-work law.

"Right-to-work is a misnomer," said IBEW Local 1 Event Tech Randy Igou. Bro. Igou further explained that, "It prays on the ignorance of people that are voting based on just the title." [Editor's Note: To read more, see news story "IBEW Members Help Kill Right-to-Work in Missouri," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

Missouri AFL-CIO Pres. Mike Louis stated, "We must remember to vote against politicians who supported Prop A and vote for candidates who will fight for working people."

IBEW Locals 1, 4, 1439 and 1455 continued the celebration of solidarity at the St. Louis Labor Council's Labor Day parade on Monday, Sept. 3. According to IBEW Local 1 Pres. Donald J. Bresnan Jr., "Over 600 members and their families participated and enjoyed the picnic held afterwards at Wilmore Park."

Local 1 Bus. Mgr. Frank Jacobs emphasized that, "The work isn't finished. Voters must make their voices heard!"

On a sad note, we mourn the passing of the following members: Seymour Levitt, Kenneth Landwehr Sr., Carl Menzel, Michael Walther and R.L. Neel.

Jan Bresnan, P.S.

L.U. 11 (i,rts&spa), LOS ANGELES, CA — June 2018 saw a change of leadership as the members of Local 11 voted in the Barton/Roten slate. Sixteen of the 17 officers of the local were replaced in a hard-fought campaign that has installed Joel Barton as business manager/financial secretary, and Gaylord "Rusty" Roten as president. Both brothers are 38-year members of the IBEW, serving with distinction on many of the committees of Local 11, as well as business agents and delegates to numerous IBEW Conventions. We congratulate them on a stunning victory and look to a productive and positive future with their leadership.

Congratulations are also in order for the rest of the Barton/Roten slate. The election saw Jane Templin once again capture the vote for vice president; Dave Grabowski as the new treasurer; and Carl Tomczak as the new recording secretary. The newly elected Executive Board members are: Art Diaz, Michael Hawkins, John Parks, Chris Guerra, Virgle Benson, Jerry Pavia and Benjamin Frank. Our newly elected Examining Board members are: James Streip, Shawn McDonald, Jacob Troncoza, Carl Mascarenas and Alejandro Landa.

Chuck Webb, P.S.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Pres./Bus. Mgr. Dean Apple presented Bro. Charlie Reader with an IBEW service pin and certificate commemorating his 50 years of service. They enjoyed lunch as Charlie shared stories related to his history at Dresden Nuclear Power Station and Local 15. Pres. Apple said he enjoyed listening to Bro. Reader discuss advances in the nuclear industry and the union's involvement in these advances. Charlie has a vast knowledge of the industry based on personal experience.

Charlie started his career as a "station man" at Dresden Nuclear Power Station in 1968. To put this in perspective, he was working at the station two years before Units 2 and 3 went into service (1970). He was promoted into the Operations Department a few years later and held the positions of "B" operator, high-voltage operator and equipment operator. Over the years, he has trained virtually every IBEW union operator at Dresden Station during some point of their career. Charlie was the union steward for the Operations Department for more than 15 years.

Charlie retired in June 2018. Congratulations to Charlie for his half-century of dedicated service, and best wishes to him for a long and healthy retirement.

Sam Studer, P.S.

L.U. 17 (catv,em,lctt,o&u), DETROIT, MI — For more than two years, Local 17 has worked with DTE Energy and our line construction contractors to fund training for our journeyman linemen. We are pleased to announce that for the first time in our known history, Local 17 will provide a continuous education training program to our linemen. We have attended too many funerals, visited too many hospitals, and watched too many families lose loved ones to not move forward with enhancing our linemen skill set.

Most of the training will be centered on safety. OSHA 10 Transmission and Distribution, Safe Worker Observations (being your brother's keeper), IBEW Code of Excellence, and Restore Before Repair principles are just a few of the three-day training modules.

DTE Energy and Local 17 have come together to negotiate safer work practices while working aloft. In August, the parties agreed to no longer allow one man to work primary voltages alone. As of this writing, you must have two linemen in the air when working within Minimum Approach Distance (MAD). This is a very proactive move in the name of safety. We have seen a number of accidents where one person was working in the primary zone. Our culture has morphed into something that none of us intended — and it must stop! There was a day not long ago when such a practice would never be allowed. We are in the process of making this an across-the-board minimum standard for contractors as well.

With pride and professionalism,

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

L.U. 21 (catv,em,govt,mt,ptc&t), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Each year, our local awards up to eight $1,000 scholarships to our members and their immediate family. This year's essay topics were: "How can the union grow stronger in the wake of right-to-work?" and "What do you get from growing up in a union home?"

We congratulate our 2018 scholarship winners and their parents. This year's scholarship recipients are: Tyler Dahm, Lauren LaMore, Cieran Locke, Amanda Rodriguez, Matthew Rodriguez, Lenette Ruiz, Kacie Sherman and Thomas Stancato.

Our local union elections were held in June. We congratulate our newly elected unit officers and welcome Cedric Wouldfolk and Steve Bauer to our Executive Board. We thank Errick Houston and Eric Slattery for their many years of dedication serving on our Executive Board; both decided it was time for other members to have the opportunity to become more involved in our union.

While our members working at the City of Chicago Office of Emergency Management 911 Center are fighting City Hall as of press time to reach a new agreement, our members at CBRE company have ratified their new contract. Highlights of the new four-year CBRE agreement include: an 11 percent wage increase over the life of the agreement, and no negative changes to health-care language.

Bob Przybylinski, R.S.

L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA — Local 37 held its election of officers this past June. Ross Galbraith was re-elected to serve a fourth term as business manager/financial secretary. Also elected were four Table Officers: Dave Brown (president); Glenn Hubbard (vice president); Gaetan Chiasson (treasurer); Wanda Hierlihy (secretary); and 11 additional E-Board members.

Making sure the election was run fairly and efficiently required the hard work and dedication of an outstanding team of volunteer members and the staff of Local 37. The team worked under the supervision of election judge Phil Hepditch. Phil deserves special thanks for the excellent job he did running an election that was fair, professional, and transparent.

A thank-you is also due to the outgoing E-Board members for their commitment and service to the members. And welcome to all new, and returning, E-Board members. The work you do carrying out our local's mission to work as a team to improve the lives of our members and their families is greatly appreciated.

Mary Williamson, A.B.M.

L.U. 41 (em,es,govt,i,se&spa), BUFFALO, NY — During our most recent pensioners luncheon Eugene Damian, John Healy, A. John Peters and Clinton Johnston all received their IBEW 70-year pin. Bro. Johnston is 102 years old, served in World War II and drove himself to the luncheon. It was a pleasure to see the retired members and to hear stories of years past. From the stories I heard, their competitiveness is still driving them today.

A few weeks ago, Bus. Mgr. Mike Gaiser sent out a list of Local 41's endorsed political candidates. The decision of which candidates are endorsed is not one that is taken lightly. Local 41's endorsement of a candidate is based on our past relationship with a candidate, not the candidate's party affiliation. What matters most to us is the candidate's voting record on labor legislation, the candidate's background, or how the candidate interviews with us. Please vote in this upcoming election and consider voting for our endorsed candidates. When our membership votes, we can make a difference in the outcome.

Gregory R. Inglut, A.B.M.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Our recent summer events were a great success.

At our members' picnic, more than 5,500 Local 47 members and their families attended and enjoyed a great day. We also held our 18th annual IBEW Local 47 Memorial Golf Tournament. At the time of this writing, our 15th annual IBEW Local 47 Brotherhood Motorcycle Rally was scheduled to take place on Oct. 6 this year.

Local 47 members employed by the City of Banning and the City of Colton obtained rubber glove pay for the first time due to their new contracts.

Bargaining continues as of press time for members employed with Irvine Ranch Water District and the City of Anaheim-Management Group.

The new Morongo collective bargaining agreement (CBA) took effect on July 16 this year.

At Utiliquest, bargaining continues at press time. We filed a ULP on Utiliquest management for making threatening comments if the union wasn't voted out on a decertification.

With sadness we report the death this year of several members: Steve Armitage, Jay Fisher, Kevin Smith and Jim Weir. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.

We would like to welcome our Southern California Edison (SCE) program writers. They voted on Aug. 9 for IBEW Local 47 representation. The vote results were: 16 "yes" and six "no." Congratulations and welcome to our new members.

Live free and safe — Work and buy union!

Mitch Smith, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Michael A. Fair, Local 51 journeyman lineman, was awarded the Illinois AFL-CIO Robert G. Gibson Community Services Award for 2018.

For the past nine years, Mike has made it a habit to throw whatever change is in his pocket at the end of the day into a coffee can. From there, he does something great. During the holidays, he talks to social workers at area schools who give him the names of children whose families are less privileged. His job as a lineman also puts him in touch with families who might need help with their child's holiday gift. On Christmas Eve, he personally delivers brand new bicycles to these kids. As of last Christmas, he has given away approximately 600 bicycles to area families, including 72 last year. Bro. Fair is a leader, and his record of service to his community, his union, and his country — he was a master sergeant in the U. S. Army for 22 years — is a model to which we should all aspire.

Line clearance tree trimming is at full employment. Our distribution work is slow, and transmission/substation work is steady. The officers and staff of Local 51 wish all our members a happy Thanksgiving. Please be safe, give eight hours of work for eight hours of pay, and attend your unit meeting.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 55 (c,lctt,o&u), DES MOINES, IOWA — Hello, brothers and sisters. Welcome and congratulations to a new clerical unit from WIPCO. Our local continues to grow and we are honored to have them as new members.

On Labor Day, we had several large floats in the parade, which starts at the State Capitol and goes for 18 blocks to the State Fair Grounds. We were deluged by a hard rain for the entire distance. Our members and families were soaked but steadfast in their resolve to show their pride in organized labor. We were awestruck and humbled to see so many families with small children along the way standing in water over their ankles to honor us. We were glad to see our former business manager Mike Brooks in the parade and doing well! Afterward, we went to Union Park to join other local unions for a catered picnic. For the kids, there were inflatable jumping games, face painting and balloons. Everyone enjoyed plenty of good food and drinks. This was also the second annual Cradling for Life Tug-of-War. Last year, Local 55 was the winner. This year, IBEW Local 347 won the trophy.

At this writing, we still have a call for linemen. We also need directional boring operators. We have several wind farms and a lot of both transmission and distribution projects going on.

Let's stop and remember all those who came before us to make this industry what it is today!

Let's make sure we go to the polls in November and elect people who will support organized labor! Never take anything for granted. Think safety and work safely.

Myron Green, P.S.

L.U. 71 (lctt,o&rtb), COLUMBUS, OHIO — Unit Chairman Jack Reincke swore in four of the local's newest members at our September Cincinnati unit meeting. In the background was a flag honoring all those lives lost that heartbreaking morning of Sept. 11, 2001. The flag also reflects the names of those who lost their lives in the World Trade Tower garage bombings on Feb. 26, 1993.

We thank retired Bro. John Messick for sharing this emotional yet stunning display for all of us to appreciate. The members present were also witness to retired Bro. James "Jim" Carmack receiving his IBEW 50-year service award pin. Jim also brought along retired Bro. Jack Carmack for the occasion.

Local 71's work picture has not changed, with open calls as of this writing. Our work picture looks good for the foreseeable future.

I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving. Work safe, work smart, and remember: "United We Stand, and Divided We Fall."

Bryan Stage, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 81 (i), SCRANTON, PA — The Scranton Electricians/IBEW Local 81 Apprenticeship Program sponsored a food drive to benefit the Abington Ecumenical Ministerium Food Pantry in Dalton, PA.

The food pantry serves families in the Abington Heights and Lackawanna Trail school districts. Currently, approximately 70 families utilize this food pantry on a regular basis. Nonperishable food items, personal items and paper and cleaning products were donated by Local 81 apprentices and journey workers. Additionally, AEM received monetary donations from NECA, IBEW Local 81 and Everon Electrical Contractors.

Mike Brust, P.S.

L.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY — Thank you to all the members and retirees who came out for the Appreciation Events held earlier this fall. Great times were had with old friendships renewed and greater solidarity built.

Also, thanks to the stewards who attended training last month. It was great to see the enthusiasm and interest from our next generation of union activists. Additional classes will be scheduled for those who were unable to attend this time around.

As this publication comes out just before the holiday season, let's not forget those less fortunate. Many people do not enjoy the solid pay and benefits that union workers do. Please support the United Way drive in your workplace, or the "adopt a family" effort, which occurs in some work locations, or give in your own way to make another family's holiday a little bit better.

And from the officers and staff of Local 97, happy holidays!

Dan Machold, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — Work continues to be strong in Boston. Many exciting projects are under construction and will keep our electricians and technicians busy for quite some time.

Massport's Terminal B, the Seaport area, Kendall Square, One Dalton Street, and the Hub at Causeway are just a few of the projects that are changing Boston, but none of them is bigger or more exciting than Encore Boston Harbor Casino. It has recently topped off and is in full swing with 14 Local 103 contractors on-site employing crews of 500+ Local 103 brothers and sisters seven days a week. This is the first five-star urban gaming resort in the country.

Infrastructure projects and the city's hospitals and universities have provided millions of man-hours per year for Local 103 members. Now, we will have a resort-style hotel and casino as a major economic engine to provide 100 percent union jobs. The casino project is 60 percent complete and is on schedule for a June 2019 grand opening.

Jimmy Fleming, P.S.

L.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER, CO — The officers, staff and Executive Board would like to recognize the newly chartered Local 111 Women's Committee — reportedly the first in the Eighth District. Congratulations to all involved!

With great pride, on Sept. 8 we celebrated the 111th anniversary of Local 111 with a family-friendly evening at the Denver Zoo. We appreciate the overwhelming participation in this event. It was a great success and over 1,000 attended.

The Labor Day parade was a tremendous success with Local 111's float entry taking first place in the parade theme "everyday heroes" and "noncommercial float." The parade committee did a great job. Thank you to members and their families for participating.

The construction unit has a new three-year contract. Highlights include a 3.25 percent general wage increase each year, as well as improved health and welfare benefits. The Interstate Highway 70 project has started creating many opportunities in our traffic unit.

The officers, staff and Executive Board wish you and your families a safe and prosperous holiday season. The generosity and compassion of the membership is amazing during the holidays. Thank you to all for participating in the various events. Work safe and please attend your union meetings.

Patrick S. Quinn, P.S.

L.U. 113 (ees,em,i,mo&o), COLORADO SPRINGS, CO — Work has been steady this summer. The two hospital projects have kept most of us working. We are hopeful for a great 2019!

On Aug. 23, Local 113 hosted an open house and BBQ for all non-members living in our jurisdiction. Many were introduced to what work and life is like in a Brotherhood. It took a lot of time and effort by our organizers Les Thompson and Daniel Mondragon, along with the many members who volunteered their time to make this a huge success. Thank you!

Local 113 would like to recognize the apprenticeship graduating class of 2018. Among the graduates achieving their journeyman wireman licenses are: Samuel Comer, Anthony Davis, Judah Eder, Justin Fauland, Christopher Green (outstanding apprentice award recipient), Gary Hendrickson, Tyler Patzner, James C. Snare III, and Zachary Williams (highest GPA). Voice-data-video graduates: Sam LaRocca and Stephen Coats (highest GPA).

Thank you, graduates, for your tireless commitment to our industry. We wish you a safe and profitable future with the IBEW. We look forward to your continued participation in the local's activities and help keeping our union strong.

Brian Putnam, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — Brotherhood/Sisterhood. Are we embracing our union brothers and sisters? As so much negativity dominates the news and even our workplaces, it is so important that we never lose sight of our IBEW Constitution objectives. Many of us know the first one — "to organize all workers in the entire electrical industry. …" Do you know that one also states that we should assist each other in sickness or distress?

Bro. John Howard is a veteran who recently stepped up to organize a fundraiser for Bro. Phil Pomeroy, who was diagnosed with cancer. Howard donated a gun and accessories to raffle as a means of raising funds to assist a brother. On Sept. 4, 2018, Howard drew Bro. Jeff Carson's name as the winner. Carson declined to accept the gun but was proud to acknowledge that Howard's idea led to raising $11,000 by members throughout the local.

Please make sure that you are registered to vote in upcoming elections. The attacks on organized labor are not slowing, and all votes are needed to ensure that your rights to organize and collectively bargain are not taken away. Your voice matters; use it!

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 193 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Always make sure you and your family members are registered to vote. Research the issues and vote for those who will defend the gains and conditions labor has fought for. If you would like to volunteer for future election campaigns, contact the union hall for more information.

Congratulations to voters in the state of Missouri for overturning that state's so-called "right-to-work" legislation. Working people and labor prevailed in this case by a resounding margin. This big win in Missouri shows that unions will continue to fight on behalf of their members and all working families. [Editor's Note: To read more, see news story "IBEW Members Help Kill Right-to-Work in Missouri," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

After the Labor Day parade in September, a joint Labor Day celebration with IBEW Locals 193, 51 and 21 was held at the Anchor Boat Club on Lake Springfield. The 23rd annual IBEW Local 193 Members Memorial and Scholarship Fund Golf Outing took place Aug. 25 at Lincoln Greens Golf Course. Thanks to all who participated, a good time was had. Thanks to Rich Sanchez for planning the annual golf outing event.

The Journeyman Wireman Book I has 40 members on it at the time of this writing. The HillTopper Wind Project in Logan County is well underway and is scheduled to be up and running by the end of the year.

Our condolences to the family of retired Bro. Dale Osterholt, who passed away.

Don Hudson, P.S.

L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — We hope everyone enjoyed a safe and happy Labor Day weekend in September. We thank all of our members who participated in this year's Labor Day parade. We were honored and humbled that Sen. Dick Durbin was able to join us and take part in the celebration of our day, Labor Day. Sen. Durbin took time from his busy schedule to meet, greet, and walk the parade route with union men and women.

We are happy to report that our local work has picked up this year. Unfortunately, our books are not clear, but we have seen the number of hours worked grow steadily throughout the year. As we look ahead to 2019, the work picture shines yet a little brighter.

At the time of this writing, the 2018 election cycle is moving full speed ahead. We are fired up and looking to take back the governor's seat in Illinois, where we have a friend of organized labor running for that office, candidate J.B. Pritzker. We have endured too much damage from Bruce Rauner and must defeat him in November.

Congratulations to Steve Batty, Kelly Gorman, Todd Kellar and Tom Wall for winning the annual golf tournament. Once again, the golf committee of Jack Roberts, Robin Roberts, Dan Uhlir, Matt Wall and Bob Williams did an outstanding job. Thanks to all the members and our brothers from other locals who participated. Everyone had a good time. Remember to get involved in the local and stay involved!

Mike Raikes, Pres.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OHIO — Summer is fading fast as I write this article. At press time, NASA and Nelson Tree negotiations are ongoing, while the 71/245 negotiations are starting. The NAES contract negotiations will start sometime before year's end. Outside construction work is steady at this writing, with some new work on the horizon around November.

You probably have heard enough about politics by now to last you a lifetime, and I don't blame you. Don't let that discourage you from voting. As much as you may not like politics and politicians, they have a huge effect on our lives. In fact, as of this writing the fate of three nuclear power plants and over 3,000 jobs are in the hands of the politicians; without some legislation to level the playing field, those plants have little hope.

On the social front, 300-plus members and their families enjoyed a picnic meal and a ballgame at Local 245's annual Mud Hens outing. Along with the great food, attendees were treated to an exciting ballgame, which the Mud Hens won in extra innings. Big thanks to Lisa Tracy and Amanda Parker for a job well-done.

On Labor Day, Local 245 members and their families took to the streets of Toledo to march with union brothers and sisters in the annual Labor Day parade. This year's theme was: "We all win when we're all in."

Always remember to work safe and to vote!

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 271 (i,rts&spa), WICHITA, KS — Our brothers and sisters at the Spirit AeroSystems unit of Local 271 earned a significant milestone in July. This unit of 179 machine maintenance and power distribution electricians and apprentices reached 100 percent membership for the first time in over 30 years. This unit is "BA" representation membership. This is a huge achievement considering Kansas is a "right-to-work" state. This unit is currently in year 8 of a 10-year contract with Spirit, which was formerly a Boeing aircraft plant since the 1930s.

IBEW Local 271 was chartered on April 10, 1914, and the Boeing unit (now Spirit) joined the local when the electricians split from the International Association of Machinists in 1955. The electricians at Spirit maintain all of the electrical systems including the high-voltage service, machine maintenance, radio/electronics repair, machine networking/software accreditation, and cabling/communications network. This unit started their own apprenticeship program seven years ago and has since graduated 10 apprentices. Currently there are 18 apprentices in the unit.

The Local 271 Spirit Unit contract expires in September 2020, and successfully reaching 100 percent membership sends a strong signal to the company that the Brotherhood is fully united for the upcoming negotiations.

Chris Bickel, Spirit Unit Executive Cte.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — The work picture for the inside branch has improved with the re-opening of U. S. Steel in Granite City. The mill was shuttered for two years. With the help of labor-friendly local politicians and the anticipated maintenance at the Gary Works plant in Indiana, the Granite City plant is giving our journeyman wiremen a much-needed economic boost.

Work for the outside branch remains strong. Most of the work is transmission and substation work.

The Labor Day parade in Belleville was once again well-attended by our membership.

It is important to get out and vote in November midterm elections. Your future and your family's future depend on it. We need to show anti-union Bruce Rauner the door and elect J. B. Pritzker as governor.

Labor showed what it can do with the defeat of "right-to-work" in Missouri. We can score another big win for working people by voting in the November midterms to elect labor-friendly candidates in Illinois.

Scott Tweedy, A.B.M.

L.U. 313 (i&spa), WILMINGTON, DE — Election time is important, and we always have current and retired members from across the state involved in political races and issues important to working people.

Delaware state Rep. Michael Mulrooney, a Local 313 member, will retire this year after 20 years in the Legislature. He was instrumental in introducing and passing the Electrical License law helping to protect our work.

Delaware state Sen. Jack Walsh, along with Rep. Mulrooney, has supported our efforts, and introduced and helped pass the Union Security Clause Bill to eliminate a possible "right-to-work" zone in the state of Delaware.

Together, Walsh and Mulrooney have defended their working-class and labor constituents by fighting legislation that would hinder or eliminate labor protections.

Retired Bro. Jim Hussey is a Democratic Party vice chair and has been a committee member for over 40 years.

Bro. Anthony DeLuca, former state senator, served as president pro tempore of the Senate. He also chaired numerous Senate committees during his illustrious tenure from 1998-2013.

Bro. Fionn Welch is a member of the Riverfront Development Committee, appointed by the governor.

The governor appointed Bros. Robert MacLennan and Anthony Roca to the Electrical Examiners Board.

Our apologies to the many members we do not have space to mention here. Countless members donate their time and efforts to politics in Delaware and to other worthy causes.

On another note: Congratulations to our Local 313 hockey team for winning the division championship in their inaugural season.

Bruce W. Esper, P.S.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — November is the month we take time to give thanks.

Be thankful on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. Our current and future veterans have put their lives in harm's way to keep our lives safe.

Be thankful on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22. Our country celebrates, as a nation, with family and friends, the blessings we have received.

Will we be thankful on post-election day, Nov. 7? If we as union members voted our paychecks, we will be thankful for electing a governor who will keep Minnesota free from becoming a "right-to-work" state. Whatever the outcome of the election, the truth remains: United we bargain and divided we beg.

Local 343 thanks all the traveling brothers and sisters for helping fill the job calls at the Prairie Island nuclear plant, the Mankato Energy Center, and other projects throughout our jurisdiction. There is strength in solidarity.

Give a Christmas gift with meaning — buy "Made in USA."

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 369 (em,es,i,lctt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), LOUISVILLE, KY — Congratulations to our Local 369 softball team! In July, these brothers won the 47th annual Midwest IBEW Softball Tournament held in Chicago.

The Local 369 championship team included: Hunter Johnson, Rob Williams, Ron Dean, Cody Lacefield, Brandon Haag, Jeremy Duke, Brandon Willman, Clark Berger, Chris Mullennex, Turbo Thornsberry, Cody Strong, Tommy Woernley, Evan Bohr, Cody Bott, and Mark Simon.

Special thanks to Bus. Mgr. Charlie Essex for all his years of service to Local 369 winning teams. Because of his work schedule he was unable to attend the July tournament.

Congratulations to all involved in the Local 369 team's success!

Gene Holthouser, B.R.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees,et,govt,i&mo), ALLENTOWN, PA — As we all know, politics play a huge role in the advancement of our union. It is even better on rare occasions when the two sides of the aisle meet in the middle to help fund and promote union apprenticeships.

That is what happened here in the Lehigh Valley. It started with our local relocating to a brand-new facility in the heart of our downtown. During that process, Pennsylvania state Rep. Peter Schweyer (D) and state Rep. Mike Schlossberg (D) worked with state Sen. Pat Browne (R) to help create better job opportunities for our local.

As these leaders worked together, we were awarded $500,000 through a Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RCAP) grant.

Our labor-friendly Gov. Tom Wolf (D) matched the $500,000 to make a grand total of $1 million.

We are very appreciative of our political friends recognizing the great work that we do here and rewarding us with funds to help improve our facilities for apprentices and journeyman upgrade training. This money will be put to good use, as we have plans to expand our Brotherhood through various apprenticeship opportunities.

In closing, remember: Your vote counts!

Justin Grimshaw, A.B.M.

L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, IDAHO — Work has really ramped up in the last few months and looks like it will continue for quite some time, for both inside and outside construction. We have a great opportunity for growth and we are working to capitalize every way we can. We have already seen a good number of new members this year and are working to welcome and help them any way we can. Our Local 449 functions have been well-attended. We are excited for the new commitment and leadership we are seeing in our younger members and the growth of our RENEW group.

Congratulations to our recent retirees: Bros. Kirk Edge and Scott Scherbinske. Best of wishes to you, brothers!

We pay tribute in memory of the late Bro. Ken Bielenberg. He is truly missed, and our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.

Ned Jones, B.M.

L.U. 453 (govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), SPRINGFIELD, MO — Resignation and pessimism knotted up every face in the union hall at Local 453's March brotherhood meeting. Without the permission of the citizens of Missouri, the newly elected governor of Missouri had signed so-called "right-to work" into law.

We knew that right-to-work measures had effectively undermined union membership in 20 of the 26 states that held the law. Prevailing wage was in the governor's crosshairs, and we had to take action.

Over the next months, union brothers and sisters stood on the corners of baseball games, in parking lots outside grocery stores, took petitions to the jobsite, and rallied families. Members also participated in phone banks to talk to voters about the RTW measure.

Some 310,000 petition signatures were collected to call for a ballot referendum on the issue. (That was 210,000 more signatures than Missouri's requirement.)

When the ballot measure came to a vote on Aug. 7, right-to-work was defeated by a resounding margin of 67.3 percent. Opposition to Prop A unified Missouri. [Editor's Note: To read more, see news story, "IBEW Members Help Kill Right-to-Work in Missouri," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

In memoriam: Bro. Davey Fullerton passed away, after an illness with cancer, on June 5 this year. Davey was a hard worker, and a friend to many. He was always ready to help a member in need. He will be missed.

Holly Calkins Spencer, P.S.

L.U. 499 (u), DES MOINES, IOWA — IBEW Local 499 represents workers employed by MidAmerican Energy. More than 98 percent of those eligible are members of Local 499, and the local continually strives to make that 100 percent membership.

Pictured in the accompanying photo are five new members being sworn in by Bus. Rep. John Dunlap at the Council Bluffs union meeting. Welcome and congratulations to those new members: apprentice linemen Andrew Tilley and Ryan Brown; journeyman linemen Matt Martin and Timothy Wieseler; and service technician Mike Maher. Thank you to our chief steward, Jim Carroll, for sending the picture in.

Local 499 wishes all our members a very happy holiday season!

Sarah Faber, R.S.

L.U. 531 (i), LAPORTE, IN — It was a busy summer once again for our local here in northwest Indiana. Local 531 had its annual golf outing again at Chesapeake Run Golf Course in North Judson. The rain held off for the most part, and it turned out to be a great day of fun for all who attended.

The local also held its summertime picnic again this year at the Porter County Expo Center. The weather was great and there was a big turnout of members for this popular event.

Both of those events are a great opportunity for many members to see fellow union brothers and sisters they might not ordinarily see on the jobsite. Thanks to all the volunteers who put in many hours of hard work to make these events such a success.

Elsewhere in the local, the work picture remains strong throughout the remainder of this year and well into next year.

I hope everybody enjoyed the many summertime activities throughout our local and look forward to seeing everybody again soon.

Jeremy Woolever, P.S.

L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa), SAGINAW, MI — Local 557 members enjoyed a busy summer of work in the area. With a little help from our sister local to the south, members were treated to a healthy dose of work for the summer. High-profile projects have also popped up in the Saginaw area and should continue to keep members going. Positive things are being achieved in Local 557 and the membership is excited for what the future holds.

Congratulations to the latest graduates of our apprenticeship program. Those who complete the program will find out, as many others have, that a five-year commitment to the IBEW apprenticeship program will equal a lifetime of benefits. Completing the program may seem hard at times but the end goal is well worth it. Completing an IBEW apprenticeship should never be undervalued. Congratulations to the recent graduates: Daniel Christensen, Johnathon Roedel, Joshua Williamsen, Howard Revard and Rex Christian. We wish each of them the best of luck throughout their IBEW career.

Evan Allardyce, B.M.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — First, we wish to congratulate our IBEW 569 "A Team" — they are again the champion team of the IBEW Ninth District Softball Tournament!

We also commend our RENEW Committee for partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation on a special project to install and hook up the electrical of a swim spa for a local boy and his family. Thank you to Dean Glidewell and Elizabeth Niemann for taking the lead on this project.

We also congratulate our 2018 Outstanding Apprentice graduates for being recognized and attending the National Training Institute held at the University of Michigan Ann Arbor. They each met NECA Pres. David Long and IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stevenson, and received a certificate from the Electrical Training Alliance for their tremendous achievement.

And congrats to our Retirees Club and the United Sparkies — our IBEW 569 Women's Committee — for their formation and getting chartered and recognized by our International!

Finally, we congratulate our 258 IBEW Local 569 members who received their service pins to commemorate more than 20 years of IBEW membership — including Kenneth Glaze, Ward Shafer and Edwin Turner, who have been with the IBEW for 70 years!

Gretchen K. Newsom, P.S./Organizer

L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — On Aug. 25, the membership ratified its newest contract. On Jan. 1, 2019, we will get a $1.15 raise on the check and a 35-cent increase in the annuity; on Jan. 1, 2020, an increase of $1.15 with 40 cents in the annuity; and Jan. 1, 2021, another $1.15 increase on the check and 40 cents in the annuity. Thank you to the negotiating committee for their hard work and dedication.

Two longtime Local 611 members recently retired as Seventh District international representatives. Former Int. Rep. Tom Davis retired May 1, and Former Int. Rep. Bennie Sandoval retired June 1.

Tom spent his I.O. career organizing throughout the Southwest and helped start the Business Development Department. He served in the Coast Guard before joining the apprenticeship program in 1983. He was hired as a Seventh District organizer in 1994 and was promoted to international representative in 1997. Thank you for your longtime service, Tom, and best wishes in retirement.

Bennie began his JATC apprenticeship in 1976 and topped out in 1980. He served on the Local 611 Examining Board, the Executive Board and for three terms as treasurer. In 2003, he joined the Seventh District staff as an organizer. In 2008, he was appointed a Seventh District international representative. One of his first assignments was serving Local 1015, then a newly chartered local in the Rio Grande Valley with little union presence. He helped hire and train the staff and considers it the highlight of his career. Best wishes to Bennie for a happy retirement.

Local 611 sends condolences to the family of Overton H. Prather, who recently passed away.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — A busy summer has come and gone. The work picture has been unprecedented. At this pace Local 617 will be on the way to a record-breaking year. Thank you to the 950 traveling brothers and sisters for helping us man the work.

On Saturday, Aug. 11, Local 617 held our 45th annual picnic. It was a great success, with over 650 attending. Children had fun laughing, running and playing while members spent time eating and sharing with their family and friends. Horseshoes, a pie-eating contest and flag football highlighted the day. Many thanks to Sterling Able, EWMC vice president, for his time and effort organizing the flag football game.

Our new Wellness Program is off to a great start. Members and families are participating in health screenings and a Team Weight Loss Challenge. At this writing, the Team Weight Loss Challenge was scheduled to conclude on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Veterans Halloween Fall Fest.

This year's Pancake Breakfast/Halloween Fest is sponsored by the veterans group and Journeyman Motorcycle Club, along with the help from the EWMC, RENEW and the women's group. Our haunted house will be bigger and better than ever, along with a teeny-tots costume parade and games for the kids.

Be safe and enjoy family time.

Kenn Perfitt, P.S.

L.U. 627 (u), FORT PIERCE, FL — Officers for our local will be attending an IBEW officer training session. This enables us to enhance and empower our Brotherhood with knowledgeable, strong, trained leadership. Steward training is being scheduled for the near future. It is your union — get involved!

Our Clean Energy Center is commencing pre-commission plant testing. This is an exciting and challenging time for our brothers and sisters to analyze plant operation and functionality. This also allows for our members to design and develop processes and procedures to ensure clean and reliable power generation for years to come.

At the time of this writing, the refueling outage was commencing at the nuclear power plant. Many man-hours and continuous round-the-clock coverage will be required to complete the large amount of maintenance and testing performed with the unit shutdown. Safety, pride and quality work are the top priorities for our local; following the IBEW Code of Excellence will ensure we are successful.

Brothers and sisters, historically this time of year has a higher rate of incident/injuries occurring. Please continue to stay focused on your tasks, avoid distractions while performing job duties, and be your brothers' keeper!

Safety & solidarity!

Fernando Salcedo, P.S.

L.U. 639 (i&rts), SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — Congratulations to the Local 639 graduating apprenticeship class of 2018. Graduation ceremonies were held June 2 at F. McLintocks Saloon and Dining House in Shell Beach, CA.

Graduation keynote speaker was San Luis Obispo Mayor Heidi Harmon. Harmon gave an inspiring speech on the need for jobs in our community and the importance organized labor plays in accomplishing that goal.

On July 10, local members attended the San Luis Obispo City Council meeting to speak in support of adopting a project labor agreement (PLA) for the Water Resource Recovery Facility upgrade project. After public testimony, Mayor Heidi Harmon led the City Council in a unanimous vote directing staff to begin negotiating a PLA for the $114 million project.

Local 639 has endorsed Mayor Harmon for her re-election in November.

Jake Kalwitz was the recipient of the Outstanding Apprentice Award. Jake and runner-up journeyman wireman Jack Johnson, along with Training Dir. Dan Miller and JATC instructor Joe Fitzer, attended the National Training Institute (NTI) in Ann Arbor, MI, for a week in August.

Congratulations to all!

Kurt McClave, P.S.

L.U. 659 (c,catv,em,i,lctt,o,st,t&u), MEDFORD, OR — Every year the local schools in Canyonville, Oregon, traditionally would take the kids on a field trip during October to pick pumpkins. This ended a few years ago when the local farm quit growing fruits and vegetables.

Wanting to ensure every child had the opportunity to get their hands on a pumpkin prior to Halloween, Local 659 members Jeremy Mayfield and Eryn McNeil, who are both employed by the city, took action.

They sought permission from the City Council and partnered with local businesses and residents to grow a pumpkin patch on a vacant section of city property. Community partners donated everything from the tilling of the land to the fertilizer, while Jeremy and Eryn volunteer their own time to plant and maintain the pumpkin patch.

At the time of this late September writing, Eryn and Jeremy expected to be able to provide a pumpkin to every kid attending school in the local community, and at press time they were working on the logistics of connecting the kids with the pumpkins in time for Halloween.

Please help IBEW Local 659 applaud Jeremy and Eryn's dedication to the kids of their community. They have proven that anything is possible with a little selfless determination!

Jeff Brown, A.B.M.

L.U. 683 (i), COLUMBUS, OHIO — Our work outlook in central Ohio continues to be strong. Local and out-of-town contractors are still bidding and being awarded projects in our jurisdiction. Thank you to all our traveling brothers and sisters for helping us man our work! We anticipate remaining busy for some time. If you are looking for work, please call our job line at 614-294-4786 after 5 p.m. for job listings.

We recently finished renovating our new Local 683 union hall. Renovations included a new meeting room, retirees room, kitchen and bathrooms. Our new facility includes IBEW 683, The Electrical Training Center, NECA chapter office, and the Columbus Building Trades.

Patrick Hook, Pres.

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — The 2018 Lowell Labor Day parade was a total success with IBEW Local 697 having a record turnout of 284 participants!

We were proud to be the largest union in attendance. To keep tradition, the candy was purchased from Albanese, as we are proud to support a local business that hires our members to perform its electrical work. In addition to the Albanese candy, we handed out 2,000 www.CertifiedElectrician.com water bottles on the parade route to promote our contractors, our local union and our training.

A special thank you to Bros. Phil Barker, Joel Claus and Dirk Decker for the use of their personal trucks, trailers and straw, as they provided transportation for our group to the starting line. Local 697 would also like to recognize our very own Karen Shields for her extra dedication ensuring the success of Local 697 for this annual event.

All the photos are posted in the "photo gallery" on our website www.ibew697.org in an album labeled "Labor Day 2018." We hope you will join us again next year for the annual event.

Ryan Reithel, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1015 (em&i), WESLACO, TEXAS — Big dreams in Texas pay off big. Teach our young people to be successful at an early age, and they will not be afraid to take the first step on their own after graduation toward the electrical field.

After working on a project geared toward area high school students, Local 1015 Bus./Fin. Sec. Sergio A. Salinas and Training Dir. Servando A. Munguia have recently teamed up with surrounding high school districts to work together to introduce high-school students to a JATC pre-apprenticeship program.

We feel that by teaching high school students, they can learn the basic skills, which will make them more successful on this electrical career path. Hard work does pay off. Electrical training can open up a whole different world that can lead to becoming an electrical contractor, along with better living conditions such as a new family home and car, and money to take that well-deserved family vacation.

Teaming up our new apprentices with a seasoned journeyman inside wireman will make a great teaching team on any job site, which is the first stepping stone for a great electrical future. Education and hands-on-training are always the best method for success.

Sergio A. Salinas, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,t&u), VACAVILLE, CA — Between the series of massive wildfires, a devastating on-the-job fatality, an anti-union Supreme Court decision and the threats of bankruptcy and/or break-up looming over Local 1245's largest employer, this summer has been one of the toughest that 1245 has faced in a long while.

But despite all this, IBEW 1245 continues to affect positive change. Our 10,000 members at PG&E overwhelming approved a contract extension that will provide stability and security over the coming years. In the public sector, Local 1245 member-leaders have fought back against the Supreme Court's attempt to weaken organized labor — and now our public-sector members are more engaged and united than ever before. In August, a team of Local 1245 organizing stewards helped our brothers and sisters in Missouri overturn "right-to-work" in a monumental and historic election. We've finally gotten the ball rolling on the installation of thousands of electric vehicle charging stations. And against all odds, we succeeded in passing wildfire legislation in California that will protect our communities, secure our jobs, expand our work, and ensure that the victims of the fires get the remuneration they deserve.

While we have many triumphs to celebrate, our local continues to mourn the passing of Bro. Jairus Ayeta, an apprentice lineman who tragically lost his life in an off-road vehicle accident while working to restore power in the area of northern California that was decimated by the Carr Fire. Bro. Ayeta will be fondly remembered for his upbeat personality, strong work ethic and dedication to the craft.

In Outside Construction, the work picture throughout our jurisdiction remains very strong with no end in sight for both California and Nevada. We are routinely running unfilled calls for linemen, which remains a concern for the future as more and more work is being released.

Rebecca Band, P.S.

L.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), SYRACUSE, NY — Local 1249 is excited to be nearing the opening of the new office building/union hall. After over a year of planning, we are looking at moving in the spring of 2019.

The Town of Cicero honored Local 1249 and New York State Lineman's Safety Training Fund in August for completion of the Richard J. French Education and Training Center and the new office building and hall. We appreciate the Town of Cicero recognizing us for all that we do for the community and for labor.

We were also honored to have New York state Sen. David J. Valesky attend and say a few words, and Democratic congressional candidate Dana Baltar was in attendance as well. We thank them for their support.

Local 1249 Bus. Mgr. Mark Lawrence and the elected officials took part in the ceremonial groundbreaking for the local's new office building and training center.

Jennifer Schneider, P.S.

L.U. 1253 (i&mo), AUGUSTA, MAINE — The apprentice graduation was held in conjunction with the local's picnic this summer. The JATC Committee and the local thought it would be a good idea to combine the two events so more of the local could participate in the graduation ceremonies. The best part was the retirees seeing the next generation of new inside wiremen. The local congratulates the recent graduates: Chase Burris, James Cinsov, Derek Proctor and most outstanding apprentice Mark Dolloff. It was a beautiful day with just enough cloud cover to keep the temperature down so everyone could enjoy their lobster and steak. The local wishes to acknowledge retiree Earl Crocker and his wife, Mildred, for their year-after-year help in setting up the picnic.

Congratulations to Membership Development Dir. Nick Parquet for signing Plourde's Electrical Services to a Letter of Assent. Plourde's brings three new members to the local along with expected hiring. This piggybacks on Nick's efforts organizing new members as Local 1253 was recognized at the 2018 Membership Development Conference as one of the top locals for growth by percentage from Aug. 1, 2017, through July 31, 2018. Good job, Nick!

Chuck Fraser, B.M.

L.U. 1347 (ees,em&u), CINCINNATI, OHIO — The AFL-CIO Labor Day picnic was held at Coney Island in Cincinnati, and it was a hot one. Not only because of the 100-degree temperature index, but also due to the political engagement on behalf of working people offered at the venue.

Unions from all over the greater Cincinnati region gathered to celebrate Labor Day and stand in solidarity for all unions. A ton of good food was served alongside several great bands that played across the different venues within the park. Guest speaker Jerry Springer spoke on the main stage and gave his view of politics today. We also spoke to many candidates who are certain to be winners in the upcoming elections.

Andrew Kirk, B.M.

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE, MD — Bus. Mgr./Pres. Dion F. Guthrie recently had the pleasure of meeting U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, reportedly a potential candidate for president of the United States in 2020. Sen. Warren has served in the U.S. Senate since 2013 and is the senior senator from her home state.

Sen. Warren serves on the Senate Committee on Aging; the Banking, Housing & Urban Affairs Committee; and the Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee. She is a leading figure in the Democratic Party and is popular among American progressives.

Bus. Mgr. Guthrie stated that it was a pleasure meeting the senator and discussing national issues of importance to working people.

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

L.U. 1753 (mo), CHARLESTON, SC — IBEW Local 1753 saw an opportunity to raise funds for our local and, also, an opportunity for our members to win a rifle.

The Union Sportsmen's Alliance sweepstakes was a great way to raise funds for upcoming meetings and union functions.

Local 1753 is a small shop of 93 members. Approximately one-tenth are mechanics, about a third are power house operators, and others are I&E technicians.

Our local sold 100 calendars to our active members, retirees, other trade unions and family members — for a chance at winning a rifle in the drawing held each week. Local 1753 congratulates our Union Sportsmen's Alliance raffle winners. Retiree Gordon Murray won the Savage MSR 10 hunter rifle, during the week 14 giveaway. During the week 27 giveaway, Local 1753 Pres. Mark Shipman's son, Jamie Shipman, won the Remington Versa Max Sportsman Camo Synthetic. Local 1753 member Stephen Naylor won the Thompson Center Encore Pro Hunter XT 50 Cal, during week 29 of the Union Sportsmen's Alliance giveaway.

Several Local 1753 members and several IBEW brothers from fellow locals have stood in the winners' circle during the sweepstakes. For those who have not yet won, remember the year is not over and there is still an opportunity to win a rifle.

Bro. Gordon, congratulations on your retirement and enjoy that rifle.

Douglas Ward, F.S.

L.U. 2067 (o&u), REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA — It seems that every day we cannot escape political allegations, speechmaking and grandstanding. Perhaps a different kind of soapbox is needed.

The Moose Jaw Soap Box Club held a soap box racing event for 24 young racers ages 15 and younger on the weekend of Aug. 18 this year. Soap box racing is making a comeback, inching toward its glory days in the 1960s.

IBEW Local 2067 Bro. John Finlay is a strong supporter of soap box racing, and he approached Local 2067 to sponsor the Moose Jaw event.

"The event in Moose Jaw [in August] was a great success," says Bro. Finlay. "IBEW's support was greatly appreciated. The smile on my daughter's face as she accepted her trophy says it all."

Local 2067 Bus. Mgr. Jason Tibbs stated: "You have to laugh when you see the faces of the kids as they pilot their cars; it takes you back to a simpler, carefree time."

Local 2067 had a huge presence at the event, as a major sponsor, as well as backing Bro. Finlay's daughter's car.

"IBEW Local 2067 really stands behind these kinds of community events," Bro. Tibbs affirms. "It makes for good people and good memories."

Curtis Lizée, A.B.M.