L.U. 11 (i,rts&spa), LOS ANGELES, CA — On Saturday, July 27, nearly 2,000 inside wireman members of Local 11 gathered to vote on a new contract. Our negotiating committee started getting together at the end of April to look at suggestions from the membership and form a strategy. The negotiations were tough, taking a toll on our committee, but a fair deal could not happen without a fight. At the last hour a deal was struck, and consequently ratified by the membership with nearly 75% voting to approve the new contract.

"We now move forward together as one to further the industry, secure more work for our IBEW members and NECA contractors, and make Los Angeles the greatest union city in America," said IBEW Local 11 Bus. Mgr. Joel Barton. "This contract could not have been forged without the members' solidarity, tenacity and steadfast will during negotiations. … The members brought this to the finish and created the best Inside Wiremen's Agreement in IBEW Local 11's history. You should be proud of what we have accomplished together."

Calls are outpacing our organizing efforts for every book — Inside, Intelligent Transportation, Low Voltage — and with over 2,000 apprentices in classes at our Electrical Training Institute, we are beginning to see a larger share of the work in the Los Angeles area being undertaken by our contractors.

Visit our website at www.IBEW11.org and see the changes happening at Local 11.

Chuck Webb, B.A., R.S., P.S.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Local 15's longest serving business manager/president, Dean Apple, retired effective July 12 this year. Dean had served the membership at Byron Nuclear Station since 1984. Initially he was a Local 1515 steward and became the chief steward in 1987. Former Local 1515 was amalgamated into Local 15 in 1995. After the amalgamation, Dean was hired as a business representative for the Nuclear Division. Elected to the position of Local 15 business manager/president in 2007, Dean continued to serve the membership until retirement, having won four consecutive elections.

Dean has represented the best interest of the membership when negotiating contracts, advocating for safety and working with state and local elected officials to best serve the interests of Local 15. While serving the local, Dean was also elected chairman of the Illinois Conference of the IBEW in 2013. This conference represents the interests of 50,000 electrical workers statewide. Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson appointed Dean to the executive board of the Illinois AFL-CIO, where he served until spring of 2019.

The members and staff of Local 15 wish Dean a long and well-deserved retirement. Thank you, brother, for all the dedicated service to our IBEW.

Sam Studer, P.S.

L.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY — The Central New York Electrical Training Alliance's annual graduation ceremony took place Friday, May 31, at Drumlin's Country Club in Syracuse. The occasion marked the graduation of 23 apprentices from the inside wireman program.

CNYETA Training Dir. Jon Leubner remarked we should all be proud of the class of 2019, assured they will continue their careers as some of the best electricians in the nation. This class distinguished itself with an overall GPA over 90% over five years.

The new graduates are: Jotham Adams, John Currier, Justin Naylor, Michael Schlueter, Michael Nichols, Keith Blenis, Garrett Lustrinelli, Michael Deuel, Winthrop Wickwire, Jamie Garrard, Jordon Naylor, Michael Morse, Bradley Murdoch, Matthew Hendrix, William Hoffman, Tanner Bishton, Brett Churchman, Patrick Nasoni, Jim Engler, Eric Sullivan, Kristopher Edwards, Michael McQuatters and David Hearn.

Award recipients were as follows:

The Scholastic Achievement Award, courtesy of Fluke, was presented by Instructor Dave Nichols to Jotham Adams, who finished the program with a final classroom average of 94.3%.

The Perfect Attendance Award, courtesy of Milwaukee Electric Tool, was presented by Instructor Richard Shopland to both John Currier and Tanner Bishton.

The Outstanding Apprentice Award, courtesy of Klein Tools, was presented by Instructor Thomas Murphy to Matthew Hendrix.

The Bill Towsley Union Activist Award was presented by Pres. Kevin Crawford jointly to Jamie Garrard and Tanner Bishton for continued dedication to the IBEW.

Congratulations to the newest journeyman wiremen of IBEW Local 43!

Gene Townsend, P.S.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

Local 47 Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. and Seventh District IEC member Patrick Lavin swore in 49 new members at our Outside Construction meeting on June 15. Congratulations and welcome to all.

City of Anaheim, City of Colton, and City of Vernon negotiations continue. At Abengoa Mojave Solar and at City Light & Power, we have reached tentative three-year agreements as of this writing.

The Wildfire Resiliency Coalition is meeting weekly. We have made several trips to Sacramento to meet with the Firefighters Association and others to discuss the coalition.

The Injured Workers Fund Golf Tournament on July 19 and the Local 47 Family Picnic on Aug. 10 were both huge successes.

Upcoming events include the Brotherhood Motorcycle Run on Sept. 14, and Local 47's Christmas celebration at Anaheim Stadium on Dec. 13.

We're sad to report the deaths of members Mark Thistle, Javier Calderon, Jose Ortega and Larry Crandall, as well as Local 66 member Dan Podunovich, who was working out of our jurisdiction. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.

Work safe, live safe and free — and buy union!

Mitch Smith, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Our annual Golf Scholarship Outing was held Saturday, June 1. Taking first place was the team consisting of Walt Westfall, Colton Beams, Joe Bianco and Zach Overmyer. The second-place team included Tony Cook, Matt Moore, Andy Buzzard and John Lieb. The dead-last team proudly consisted of Bob Wedell, Jed Dooley, Patrick Shinners and Amanda Hansen. We were fortunate to give out 11 $500 scholarships to our members and their families. Thank you to everyone who supported the tournament.

Results of our local union election of officers are as follows: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Bob Wedell; Pres. Robert D. Colby Jr.; Vice Pres. Clay Davidson; Rec. Sec. Stacey Heckman; and Treas. Dann Haney. Delegates to the IBEW convention are: Chris Blount, Robert D. Colby Jr., Tony Cook, Wes Heckman, Tom Hocking, Tim Lynch and Corey Stone.

Five new wind farms will begin construction this fall and next spring. Line clearance tree trimming work remains steady. Keep informed by attending monthly unit meetings. Stay in touch by visiting our website www.ibew51.org and liking our Facebook page.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 55 (c,lctt,o&u), DES MOINES, IOWA — The local recently held its Annual Retiree Luncheon. Asst. Bus. Agent Shane Nelson honored 14 members who have a combined total of 635 years of IBEW service. Everyone had a great time.

Asst. Bus. Agent Willie Dennis reports that our local has made an alliance with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the state-level Iowa OSHA to volunteer assistance to help train OSHA inspectors and work with them to provide a better understanding of the hazards we face on the job. The next step is to get our contractors on board. This can make our industry a safer place to work.

Asst. Bus. Agent Rusty McCuen spent two weeks in Chicago working on a new contract with AT&T. Negotiations were difficult, but on the last day they spent 21 hours straight and got a contract. It was a hard-fought victory. Good job, Rusty!

Asst. Bus. Agent Shane Nelson said the Local's 5th Annual Golf Tournament raised over $50,000 for Cradling New Life. Over 144 people golfed, and we had many sponsors. We also had a big turnout for the local's bike ride.

Always remember to practice safety. It's especially important at work as we drive large trucks and heavy equipment. Remember to set your work zones up and pay attention to never stand between trucks or behind trucks.

I also want to thank Lloyd Jones for helping me when I was an apprentice. That was almost 50 years ago, and yet we're both here and can talk about the good times shared. That's what safety is about! Family and friendships! God bless each of you.

Myron Green, P.S.

L.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY — As of this writing our triennial local union elections have just concluded. Bus. Mgr./Pres. Ted Skerpon was reelected to an unprecedented fourth term along with Rec. Sec. Susan Sweeney and Treas. Ronald Gosson. New officers elected include: Vice-President Bruce Gayne, and Executive Board members Ronald Kennedy (National Grid, Production and Maintenance, West); Mark Buccina (NG, Technical, Office, Clerical, Central); Susan Kindlon (NG, TOC, East); and Michael Bishop (Exelon).

With the business of the elections concluded, we can now prepare for the challenges before us. Seven contract negotiations are planned over the next 12 months, including our negotiations with our largest employer, National Grid. With our experienced leadership and an influx of new blood, we will be prepared to hold these employers accountable and deliver favorable contracts to our members.

Lastly, we wish outgoing Vice Pres. Marty Currier a long and fulfilling retirement. Marty has worked tirelessly on the Executive Board, as a business representative, and recently as vice president, to name only a few duties he has performed. Thank you, Marty, for all the hard work you have done on behalf of the membership. Enjoy your retirement, brother — you have earned it!

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

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — Greetings! Another great summer in the books. In Boston, we have been very busy.

We celebrated the grand opening of Encore Boston Harbor, the region's very first five-star gaming resort. Wynn Resorts invested $2.6 billion into construction and provided over 1 million man-hours for Local 103 contractors and members.

In addition, Local 103 put on a textbook organizing drive and secured recognition from Encore to be the exclusive representative of the entire maintenance staff in the hotel, casino and convention center. We're excited to welcome the 100-plus employees as new members!

We were also busy breaking ground on a brand new, 46-story signature office tower for National Real Estate Development and HYM Investment Group. When it opens in 2022, it will be the new global headquarters of State Street Bank, a 200-year-old Boston based company.

Local 103 is also happy to report movement on the redevelopment of Suffolk Downs. On deck are 16 million square feet of development — 10,000 units of housing, including 910 affordable units; 7 million square feet of commercial space, retail and hotels; and $300 million in on-site and off-site infrastructure. The Suffolk Downs development will create thousands of good jobs for Local 103 and the trades for the next 20 years! Just more proof that it's still an exciting time to be an electrician, technician or apprentice in Boston. Let's get to work!

Jimmy Fleming, P.S.

L.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER, CO — Congratulations to all our newly elected officers, Executive Board and Examining Board members, and delegates to the IBEW International Convention. Ballots were counted on June 7, and officers were sworn in July 19.

Please welcome the Local 111 officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Richard A. Meisinger Jr. (delegate to I.O. Convention); Pres. Patrick S. Quinn (delegate to I.O. Convention); Vice Pres. Ron J. Geary; Rec. Sec. Franklin S. Martinez Jr.; and Treas. Julie A. Borger. Executive Board members: Elizabeth D. Monday, Suzann E. Kuhns, Eugene "Gene" Sipola, Charles R. Carrera, William H. Ashley, Jose Ovalle and Jeff K. Jablonski. Examining Board: Reginald "Reggie" Vigil, Colin Wakefield and Jordan D. Kohn.

Another big change at the Local 111 union hall: Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson announced the amalgamation of former IBEW Local 969 (Grand Junction, CO) into IBEW Local 111, effective July 1 this year. We would like to welcome those sisters and brothers into our family and look forward to working with all our new members. Our union continues to grow, and we are getting stronger and stronger when we stand united. Please attend your unit meetings, Women's Committee meetings, EWMC meetings, and safety meetings. Get to know your union sisters and brothers. Visit our local union website for upcoming events at www.ibew111.org.

Lastly, don't forget the annual Labor Day parade in Louisville, CO. Contact the office for more information.

Patrick S. Quinn, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — Every year a golf tournament is held to raise money for the Oregon Burn Center. A creation of Local 125 members Bill Quimby and Gene Daily, it continues to generate enormous support from sponsors, volunteers and golfers. Thus, it was with heavy hearts, tremendous respect and complete gratitude that this year's event was held on its traditional June Saturday, even with its founder missing. Bro. Quimby passed May 11, 2019.

This year the tournament raised $65,000. Members of the Quimby family including Bill's wife, Chris, and daughter Stephanie were present to receive a gift from the Burn Center as well as visit with longtime friends and tournament supporters.

Bill's vision, energy and ability to bring people together, along with his union brother and close friend Gene, have helped create an event that will continue serving our community even without his continued stewardship.

Bus. Mgr. Travis Eri has stated that we were fortunate to have Bill's vision and leadership, and we will continue the work that Gene and Bill started so many years ago to increase collaboration with the Oregon Burn Center. In Bill's memory and with the IBEW spirit of service in mind, let's all commit to continuing this important work.

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV — Our work picture in the area remains slow, with 47 members on Book 1. We are anticipating a few larger commercial projects to hopefully put our members to work in the fall. We are also still awaiting a final investment decision regarding the construction of an ethane cracker in our area.

Local 141 participated in the Project BEST Construction Career Job Fair held at the Wheeling Park Ice Rink on May 2 this year. This event educates local high-school students about careers in the building trades. Project BEST is a labor/management organization that promotes the use of local union contractors and tradespeople for major construction projects in the area.

It is with much sadness that Local 141 reports the passing of Bro. Julius "Junior" Phillips. Bro. Phillips served for many years as Local 141's apprenticeship director. He will be sadly missed. Local 141 also mourns the passing of Tom Cerra. Mr. Cerra was a founding member of Project BEST, and he served as its chairman for many years.

Kurt "Bug" Reed, P.S.

L.U. 177 (bo,ees,govt,i,mo,o&pet), JACKSONVILLE, FL — The work outlook has slowed somewhat with 90 on Book 1, but several projects will start up in the upcoming months that should provide relief.

Congratulations to the 28 apprentice graduates who recently graduated from the apprenticeship program.

Unit 1 recently ratified unanimously their new contract with four different companies that includes a 2.5% increase in wages a year for three years. The negotiating team did a great job to get to the point where the contract would be acceptable.

Local 177 recently purchased a new vehicle and had the vehicle wrapped with Local 177 signage with contact information. On the tailgate we have our apprenticeship's web address and www.WePowerAmerica.org for anyone looking for a career with the IBEW. The members love it and the response from the public has been great. We have been approached numerous times in just the first month about the IBEW.

Also, Local 177 has just sponsored "The Athlete of the Week" on TV-12 and TV-25 for the upcoming school year. Each week there will be an athlete from a local high school receiving the award. Local 177 will have a short message on TV each week and have messages on the station's website.

Alan Jones, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — We are happy to report that for the first time in many years we have had full employment and have even been able to put travelers to work. We thank our members and the travelers who have taken the calls and are showing that an IBEW-trained worker is skilled, productive and efficient. The work outlook for the rest of the year looks promising.

Congratulations to our newest journeyman wiremen and tele-data techs who topped out this spring. We look forward to these apprenticeship graduates having many successful years in the IBEW. Recently we have seen some changes to our JATC. Congratulations to Renee Riddle, who retired as training director; we thank her for many years of service to the program. We also congratulate Tom Peasley as he takes on the role of training director, and we are confident the program will continue to progress. Over the years, instructors Bernie Uszcienski and Jake Knobloch both proficiently taught the curriculum, setting apprentices up for success with their careers. We will miss their leadership and wisdom as teachers and send them a special thank-you for their efforts.

Remember to get involved in the local and stay involved!

Mike Raikes, Pres.

L.U. 229 (em&i), YORK, PA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. At the time of this writing, the UPMC Memorial Hospital project was nearing completion, and an opening was scheduled for August.

Battaglia Electric will be doing the new Penn National "Mini" Casino project in York. This project is expected to start after Labor Day and be open by summer of 2020.

Congratulations to our 2019 apprenticeship graduates. Inside apprentice graduates: Chase Taylor, Doug Ruth, Dustin Wells, Nygel Ward, Alayna Queary, Matt Bish, Tanner Richardson and Jake Waltimyer. VDV apprentice graduate: Dalton Byers.

These apprenticeship graduates also volunteered at a local YWCA summer camp and upgraded wiring and lighting throughout the cabins. We are proud of each of these new journey workers and technicians and look forward to seeing their long, successful careers in the IBEW.

Hope everyone has enjoyed a safe and happy summer!

Steve Selby, B.M.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OHIO — Outside work remains good with a few unfilled calls as of this writing. It was brought up at a recent union meeting that some of the employers are requiring their employees to take a crane qualification course before letting them go to work. The required crane course was offered several times over the summer by ALBAT (American Line Builders Apprenticeship Training.) The cost of this course is covered by employers. This is not a requirement by all employers at this time but probably will be in the future. The Tele-Data Agreement is being looked at for the first time since 2010.

Nelson Tree put on a second yard and is getting more work; the company is also hiring.

At press time, Toledo Edison Energy Delivery contract negotiations are winding down and we should have a tentative agreement soon. Ten new members from the Power Systems Institute (PSI) program were sworn in at the June union meeting.

On the nuclear side, Ohio House Bill 6 (Ohio Clean Air Program Bill) has been tossed around in the state Legislature like a hot potato, with no resolution as of this writing. [Editor's Note: For more information see news article "Clock Ticking on Bill to Preserve Nuclear Jobs in Ohio," posted June 6 on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.] Thank you to Fourth District Int. Vice Pres. Brian G. Malloy, his staff, and our union brothers and sisters who came out to support us at the legislative hearings in Columbus. Also, thank you to Local 245 Bus. Mgr. Larry Tscherne and Local 1413 Bus. Mgr. Brad Goetz for their constant lobbying in Columbus; they have been there so much the mayor might give them the key to the city.

Until next time, work safe.

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — Our members pride themselves on being politically active and engaged, using their voting power to directly affect the future of their careers and their local union. So, it's no surprise that when the time came to elect the officers for the local, our brothers and sisters turned out in impressive numbers to vote for the new batch of officers that will lead our cause going forward. Some old faces were reaffirmed in their positions and some new faces took their place among the local leadership for the first time. The oath of office was given to the newly elected officers by retired business agent George Grant. The meeting was then gaveled closed to signal the end of the meeting and the beginning of a new chapter in the local's long history.

The excitement of the elections was then followed by what many consider to be the most enjoyable evening on the local's calendar, the annual retirees dinner. Long-standing members received their service pins, 30-year members received a beautiful commemorative watch, and the membership got a chance to show their appreciation to the ones who made our local great.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — Every month it is an absolute pleasure to read in the Electrical Worker about what all the RENEW committees throughout the International are doing. Whether it be through community service, local outreach, or good old-fashioned camaraderie, the breadth of activities has been extensive. Thank you to all the volunteers who step up and make it happen.

Local 309 is proud to report that our RENEW committee is off to a great start. Back in March, the committee held an Easter Egg Hunt for our families while collecting food for the Collinsville Food Pantry. In June, the group represented Local 309 in the Shriners Parade. As an ongoing fundraiser, the RENEW committee is raffling off a gun every month in 2019. Upcoming activities include the Belleville Chili Cook-off, District 6 RENEW Conference, and Breakfast with Santa. Special recognition to RENEW members Jonathan Brittain, Stephen Erspamer, Dustin Grice, Steve Lodes and Tyler Mueth for getting this program off the ground.

In the summer, Local 309 welcomed journeyman lineman Mark Link as our new assistant business manager. Our work picture is positive and as of this writing, we have full employment.

The local's annual Party at the Park will be Sept. 14, 2019, at Fairmount Park Race Track.

Carlos S. Perez, R.S.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — As the memories of summer fade into fall, there is an event that needs some recognition. The Sparkie Fishing Opener is held every June on the waters of the Mississippi River. Local legend has it that now-retired Bro. Norm Fitch founded the Sparkie Opener 12 years ago. Today, and for the past five years, Bros. John Powrie and Chris Hallet have coordinated the outing.

Because of unusually high river levels this year, the tournament was relocated to a landing on the Wisconsin side. The silver lining of the change was that this site had camping cabins. No more setting up tents in the rain! Prizes were awarded for the largest fish caught covering five classes. The winners for each category were as follows: Northern Pike — Brandon Brady; Pan Fish — Adam Ruszozyk; Bass — John Saterdalen; Rough Fish — Jack Jakerowski; and Walleye — Mitch Jakerowski. We thank all those who donated the prizes. No matter what the weather, a fisherman will always say, "A bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at work."

At work or at play, remember to buy "Made In the USA."

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa), DES MOINES, IOWA — The results of the 2019 Local 347 election of officers are tallied and documented as follows: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Patrick Wells, Pres. Tim LeClaire, Vice Pres. Richard Chumbley, Rec. Sec. Matt DeAngelo and Treas. Kyle Overton. Executive Board members are: Adam Cassady, Ben Duke, Tim Hawthorne, John Stahowick, Bronson Weese and Doug Wolf. Building Foundation trustees are: Scott Gardner, Aaron Haug and Terry Pohlman. Congratulations to all.

The local had close to 30 apprentices who turned out this year. Congratulations to the apprenticeship graduates. In the past, new journeymen were issued a tramp guide and road maps. That's not the way Local 347 does it anymore with the abundance of work in this area. In fact, hiring off of Book II is a common occurrence. We hope the work outlook remains positive and that these journeymen find fulfillment in all their labors in this trade.

Local 347 recently held its 2019 summer picnic and the local union golf outing. Thanks to all who participated. As of press time, next up is the Labor Fest with a parade and festivities at the Labor Park. This is a family event, and all ages are welcome. Multi-generation families are welcomed.

Don't forget to make an appointment with Misty at the local union office for the health fair in September. This fair is designed to keep us healthy and the Health & Welfare plan healthy. As with all union activities, participation is the key.

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

L.U. 351 (c,cs,i,it,lctt,mt,o,se,spa&t), FOLSOM, NJ — Following a longtime career of dedicated IBEW service, Local 351 Pres. Bill Hosey retired effective July 16, 2019.

Below is a letter written by then-Pres. Hosey shortly before he retired:

Local 351 officers and members thank Bro. Bill Hosey for his dedicated service. We wish him the very best for a long and happy retirement.

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

Louisville, KY, Local 369 congratulates the recent JATC fifth-year apprenticeship graduates on becoming IBEW journeymen.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees,et,govt,i&mo), ALLENTOWN, PA — Bus. Mgr. Paul Anthony would like to send a big heartfelt thank-you to all members for all of the support that Local 375 has received throughout his tenure.

During the general membership meeting on May 1, 2019, nominations for officers were held. All offices were filled during nominations — the officers were reelected by acclamation. It is very humbling to all of our officers and staff that no office was contested. Every opportunity to serve Local 375 is to be cherished, as the members put a lot of faith in us for being their voice and leadership. The officers and staff recognize that we have a fantastic and unified membership within our ranks, and we are pleased to be able to serve you for another three years.

Also, this summer has been filled with lots of fun already, as we had another successful Dorney Park Day and IronPigs baseball game. Thank you to all the members and their families who attended these events. Next up is the annual clam bake. We cannot wait to see everyone for some delicious food, cold drinks, and overly competitive games of whiffle ball!

Justin Grimshaw, A.B.M.

L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, IDAHO — Brothers and sisters, I hope everyone had a great summer!

I would like to start by recognizing the brothers who received IBEW years-of-service pins, for 50 or more years or service, at our annual local union picnic. They included:

50-year members — B. Victor Braegger, Terry M. Cobbley, Leonard Howell, Gary Jester, Michael Lott, Marvin Orr and Frank Pearson; 55-year members — Richard D. Long, Michael Peck and Gary Spillane; 60-year members — Lewis Varnell Evans, Charles Featherston and Roger Sandberg; 65-year member — Larry Solomon; and 70-year member — Leroy Collins. Congratulations to all!

Also, congratulations to our recently retired Bro. Steven J. Morris. You have earned it, Bro. Morris, and best of wishes from Local 449!

In memoriam: Bro. Leo Knudson and Bro. Kay Thurman. These members will be truly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their families and friends.

Clay Hirning, A.B.M.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — IBEW Local 569 and NECA recently graduated 85 hard-working union members from our outstanding joint apprenticeship program at the Electrical Training Institute! We are so proud of you, graduates! With the toughest graduation standards in the industry, the joint apprenticeship class of 2019 has earned their long-awaited certificates and will join our ranks of being the best in the electrical industry.

We also want to recognize our 2019 apprentice recipients of our IBEW 569 Union Strong Award, each of whom have stepped up to strengthen communities and change lives. Our awardees have also volunteered at countless union events that support working families! Congratulations to April Hatton, Amanda Lane and Angel Martinez!

IBEW 569 honors the work and progress achieved by our outgoing business manager Nicholas Segura and outgoing president John Sherrell, and welcomes the leadership of newly elected Bus. Mgr. Jeremy Abrams and Pres. Joe Heisler.

IBEW 569 also thanks all of our families for joining us at our annual picnic — it was a smashing success and will be even better next year when we commemorate our 100th anniversary. To check out photos of the picnic and the graduation ceremony, as well as additional election results, please visit www.ibew569.org.

Gretchen K. Newsom, P.S.

L.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — We have had a very busy spring here in Local 601.

Congratulations to the 13 inside apprentices and the two telecom apprentices who graduated on May 24 this year. Inside apprentice graduates (pictured) are: David Delgado, Josh Dodds, Skyler Tinsman, Kevin Carroll, Ryan Bergfeld, Ben Brandt, Brock McGraw, Andrew Schum, Corey White, Patrick McIntosh, Joseph Sonsteng, Javier Magana and Levi Hermer. Our two telecom graduates are Robert Grindley and Chase Fears.

Local 601 held its election of officers in June. Newly elected officers are: Bus. Mgr. Jarrett Clem, Pres. Shane Street, Vice Pres. Justin Henderson and Rec. Sec. Blake Withers.

Work in our area is very good for the summer with numerous projects at many of our local schools and on the University of Illinois campus.

Our organizing continues to be successful with many of the incoming apprentices coming from nonunion contractors, and the local has also signed several new contractors.

We extend our sympathy to the families of our recently departed members Randy Lutz and Brian Bloomquist.

Blake Withers, P.S.

L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — On May 10-11, IBEW Local 611 held its Annual Softball Tournament at the new Sports Plex in Albuquerque. Randy Cummings has hosted the event for the past 19 years. In previous years the tournament was held at Bullhead Park. This year, there were 84 teams in several categories, ranging from the Fun League to the Senior Men League; the first-place and second-place teams all received rings. All of the money collected is donated to Pay it Forward NM. A huge thank-you to all of this year's volunteers — great job.

Our annual picnic was June 2 at Cliff's Family Fun Center. It was our most successful picnic we have ever had, with over 1,500 people in attendance. We had a live band, lots of food, activities for the kids and of course all the rides you could handle. If you didn't make it, you missed a great time.

The work picture is still steady with several calls coming in for the Facebook project, the Triad project in Los Alamos and the Intel project. We are still employing many IBEW travelers.

Local 611 extends condolences to the friends and families of recently deceased members Harold E. Pena and Stanley L. Oloff.

Don't forget, our regular meetings are held the third Saturday of each month.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — Greetings, sisters and brothers.

We have been blessed, as our work continues to look bright in San Mateo County. Many thanks to all our members and travelers who exemplify our Code of Excellence on the job sites. It is what makes us stand out in the crowd.

Our apprenticeship graduation class of 2019 celebrated five years of hard work as apprentices and received their journeyman certification on May 31. We welcome the graduates into the journeyman family. On May 3, we welcomed in the second half of the first-year apprenticeship class. We need to be diligent in instructing the apprentices and treating them with respect, to show them the value of what it means to be in the union.

For consecutive years, Local 617 has participated in the Redwood City annual Fourth of July parade. Local 617's EWMC/RENEW spearheaded the participation of our members and travelers in showing our community involvement.

On Saturday, Aug. 17, Local 617 held our 46th Annual Picnic with over 650 attendees. Children had fun laughing and playing in our fun zone activities, while members enjoyed the food and spending time together sharing with their families and friends. All enjoyed the camaraderie of their union brothers and sisters.

Please be safe while on the job. Wishing the best to you and your families.

Kenn Perfitt, P.S.

L.U. 639 (i&rts), SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — Congratulations to the Local 639 graduating apprenticeship class of 2019. Graduation ceremonies were held June 7 at the Madonna Inn Garden Room in San Luis Obispo.

Graduation keynote speaker was San Luis Obispo County, District 3, Supervisor Adam Hill. Special guest speaker Ellen Beraud is a candidate for the 5th District Board of Supervisors. She is the wife of Local 639 member and electrical contractor Francois Beraud of French Electric. Both Hill and Beraud spoke of the importance of organized labor and committed to working with the Board of Supervisors to negotiate a county-wide project labor agreement (PLA). Local 639 will endorse both candidates in the upcoming primary election in March of 2020.

Apprentice graduate Brett Harradence received the Outstanding Apprentice Award. Brett and JATC instructor Ben Goldman attended the National Training Institute (NTI) in Ann Arbor, MI, for a week in August.

Congratulations to all!

Kurt McClave, P.S.

L.U. 683 (i), COLUMBUS, OHIO — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

On May 10 this year, we celebrated all the hard work of our graduating apprentices. Congratulations to our newest journeymen. Inside graduates are: Dustin J. Berry, Monica Betts, Brittany Beuthe, Austin Blanton, Nathan Collins, Jonathan Duty, Bradley Fleming, Dylan Follrod, Eric Gulley, Ernest Hall, Joseph Hall, John Irwin, Jeffery Johnson, David Krejci, Dmarqus Luci-Davis, Clayton Nixon, Michael Ponder, Timothy Reiber, Ryan Saunders, and Paul Swetnam. Installer Tech graduates are: Taryn Allmon, Cody Bondurant, Taylor Hoffman, James Ison, Robert Mitchell, Jose Rojas Jr., and Robert Waldnig. For the first time in the history of the Local 683 apprenticeship, we had two graduates who tied for the Top Apprentice Award. Monica Betts and Brittany Buethe had the exact same GPA of 3.97 for all five years. Congratulations!

Work in our area continues to explode. We have over 200 travelers working in the local. The apprenticeship is no different. We have record numbers of students again this year with no end in sight. It is certainly a great time to be an IBEW electrician in central Ohio.

William Thompson, Training Dir.

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — As summer closes, we want to thank all of the Local 697 members who volunteered their time to man the Local 697 water station at the Fourth of July Hobart Brickyard Run.

Currently, Local 697 is preparing for a September full of member activities.

On Monday, Sept. 3, we will walk in the annual Labor Day parade in the Town of Lowell. Our annual Local 697 Family Picnic will be at the Lake County Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept. 7.

Rebuilding Together (Christmas in September) will be Saturday, Sept. 21, where once again, we can display our talent in the community and help those in need.

And to finish the month, the Sisters of 697 will host our 2nd Annual Local 697 Family Fishing Day on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Fish-A-While Lakes in Griffith.

Our annual Awards Night will be at the Avalon Manor on Friday, Oct. 4, and don't forget about our Fall Blood Drive on Friday, Oct. 18.

Make sure you have downloaded the Local 697 app so you can receive all the push notification reminders for these events and view all the photos.

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

L.U. 917 (i), MERIDIAN, MS — Local 917 recently held a pinning ceremony to honor members and present IBEW years-of-service awards. Service pins awarded to members ranged from five-year pins to 65-year pins.

The event was held at the Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience (www.msarts.org) — a museum that just recently opened and was wired by one of our signatory contractors, Woodall Electric.

Award recipients were proud to receive their service pins and especially proud to have the event take place at a site where local IBEW members performed the electrical work.

Stacy Henderson, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1015 (em&i), WESLACO, TEXAS — IBEW Local 1015 would like to send out a big Texas salute to Mission Options Academy, located at 407 East 3rd Street, in Mission, Texas.

Local 1015 teamed up with Mission Options Academy to launch our very first student Grande Valley-Laredo Electrical JATC apprenticeship program with the local school district that produced four students for the graduating class of 2019.

With the help of MOA Principal Dr. Maria Aleman, Local 1015 Bus. Mgr. Sergio A. Salinas and JATC Training Dir. Osvaldo Cabada Jr. put this great learning project together and stayed on top of it to make sure everything fell into place, including the students' transportation from school, schedules and lesson plans.

Some of our area students find themselves wanting to learn a trade but are not able to afford it or don't have the right information.

We are very proud of this class, which consisted of the following students: Ethan Gonzalez, Cassandra J. Padilla-Perez, Rodrigo Torres and Justin Zuniga. They worked very hard and showed interest in our program that allowed us to start with other schools in our area.

Tammy Casas, P.S.

L.U. 1205 (em,govt,i&u), GAINESVILLE, FL — The Gainesville JATC apprenticeship graduating class of 2019 was fewer in number than a typical graduating class. However, great things come in small packages.

Led by outstanding apprentice Brett Bennett-Farrell, the graduating class also consisted of Jonathan Howell, Nathan Sharlaw, Dillon Motes and Zach Parker.

This was the first class to implement the Blended Learning System, so it was a learning experience for teachers as well as students. Congratulations to the graduates on becoming journeyman wiremen — we all look forward to working with you during your long and rewarding careers ahead.

Jonathan Howell, P.S.

L.U. 1253 (i&mo), AUGUSTA, MAINE — Local 1253 held its election of officers this past summer. Congratulations to the elected officers: Pres. Nick Paquet, Vice Pres. Colin Clark, Rec. Sec. Alan Kenney, Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Chuck Fraser, Treas. Tom Tobias; Executive Board members Shawn Chandler, Mark Higgins and John Weed; and Examining Board member Miguel Govea. Good luck to all for the three-year term of office.

Congratulations to Josh Bragan and Matt Butler on their graduation from the apprenticeship program. As of this writing, Josh has passed his Maine journeyman's exam and is a journeyman wireman. Congratulations!

The local congratulates Bro. Alan Kenney on his appointment by the state governor to the Maine Electricians' Examining Board. The IBEW position on the board had been unfilled, and the inside locals in Maine are thankful to Alan for stepping up to fill this important position.

Chuck Fraser, B.M.

L.U. 1347 (ees,em&u), CINCINNATI, OHIO — Safety week for our Transmission Department took place June 17-21 at the Duke Energy Shelbyville headquarters in Indiana.

IBEW members from both Local 1347 and Local 1393 attended the safety week events. We had many demonstrations, such as "hurt man" rescue from tower lines, and confined space tri-pod rescues. There were many examples of equipment brought in by venders. Safety was the main focus for all participants, as we continue to strive to make our workplace safe and accident free. Both Local 1347 and Local 1393 set up booths to give out all kinds of union apparel and gifts for the membership.

Andrew Kirk, B.M.

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE, MD — Members of Local 1501-Unit 2 at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD, recently met to discuss the possibility of a change of contractors at the site by the government. It is always possible that every five years there can be a change in the contractor that we do business with.

Right now, as of this writing, the company we have a contract with is Sierra Lobo, but numerous contractors have bid on this contract. One of which is Northrop Grumman Corp., which also has a contract with IBEW Local 1805 at the Baltimore-Washington International (BWI) site near the Baltimore airport for its electronic systems. We do get parts from Northrop for some of our space projects.

We don't yet know how this will turn out; however, we have been through this process five or six times over the years, and Bus. Mgr./Pres. Dion Guthrie and Vice Pres. Fred Richards have done an excellent job working with the new contractors, no matter who the contractors are. Our existing union contract goes until October of 2020.

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

L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Local 1579's apprenticeship graduation was May 17. These new journeymen worked hard over the last five years and we are proud of them. When the 19 graduates first began their apprenticeship, there were 61 in their class. Congratulations to the 19 graduates in the class of 2019 on their perseverance and success. Thank you, graduates, for your dedication to the IBEW — you are the future.

The recent graduates are: Terrance J. Albea, Michale T. Buoy, Kyle Q. Cook, Christian G. Dohn, Derek E. Goddard, John R. Huntington, Brandon Johnson, Zachary A. King, Kyle R. Knight, Anthony T. Lee, Racquel J. Lewis, Trenton A. Lindsey, Cameron S. Long, Ronald McMillian III, William J. Nelson, Jeremy W. Suggs, Lawrence E. Washington, Evan A. Welch and Antron D. Williams.

Recently there was a public hearing for a multi-year Pit Production Project at our Department of Energy complex, Savannah River Site (SRS). I was one of the speakers who spoke in support of this project, on behalf of Local 1579 members and the IBEW. I feel confident this project will be located in our area as SRS has 70 years' experience in these type missions. I also witnessed strong community support for this project, in recognition that we will be able to build and operate the job safely.

Our work situation is great! We are blessed with the largest construction job in the country, the Plant Vogtle addition of Units 3 and 4. This job is currently working a six-day schedule and we are continuing to fill calls for this project. Always call first to get the latest job situation. We also have various work around the jurisdiction and are doing our best to target new projects.

Thank you to Local 1579 members as well as our traveling sisters and brothers for the quality work they are performing in the Augusta area.

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

L.U. 1837 (rtb&u), MANCHESTER, MAINE — IBEW Local 1837 and Central Maine Power Company (CMP) have agreed to an extension of their staffing agreement, which, coupled with a staffing plan submitted to the Maine Public Utility Commission, includes a substantial increase in the number of union workers employed at Maine's largest electric utility.

Local 1837 Bus. Mgr. Dick Rogers has been advocating for increased staffing for several years in discussions with CMP and the Public Advocate's office as well as in testimony before the Maine PUC and the Legislature's Joint Committee on Energy, Utilities and Technology.

"I signed an extension of the staffing agreement that I believe, along with the staffing plan submitted by the company to the Maine PUC, will have the impact CMP's customers and our members deserve, including restoration efforts, new construction/customer service, and safety," Rogers said.

The "minimum" number of union employees at CMP will increase from 546 to 606. That includes the addition of 12 new line apprentices and four new station apprentices. By 2024, the fully implemented minimum staffing number will be 665.

Matthew Beck, Organizer, B.R.

L.U. 2067 (o&u), REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA — IBEW Local 2067 has been a proud sponsor of Prairie Women on Snowmobiles (PWOS) since 2010. PWOS had its 19th consecutive ride this year, from Feb. 3-8.

The team of 10 women rode over 1,200 kilometers in Saskatchewan, starting at Meadow Lake, heading south to Maple Creek, then returning north to Prince Albert (with many stops along the way). Over the past 19 years, PWOS has heightened awareness of the importance of the early detection of breast cancer. They have also raised funds for research and for the purchase of equipment (which stays in Saskatchewan) all while advocating for safe snowmobiling. To date they have raised over $2.5 million for research and $363,600 for the purchase of equipment.

"The most rewarding part of Prairie Women on Snowmobiles is meeting the survivors, seeing their faces, and receiving their hugs — knowing that you are doing something that touches so many people," states PWOS Pres. Kelly Rea. "It is a blessing to be able to do this for everyone who has ever been affected by cancer."

Local 2067 Pres. Randy Moeller attests: "Almost everyone knows someone who has battled breast cancer. It's an important battle to fight"

Curtis Lizée, A.B.M.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1, ST. LOUIS, MO — Hello from Local 1 retirees in St. Louis. I hope everyone had an enjoyable summer. Autumn is upon us.

We had our annual retiree golf tournament in June. Weather and camaraderie were excellent. We would love to have more players participate next year.

September 18 is the annual luncheon. There is always great food and the drinks are cold.

I encourage all to attend the Health Fair Oct. 12. There will be blood analysis, flu shots, hearing tests and much more available — and you'll be able to see our newly renovated hall.

There will be another important election in November next year. Please help all the worker-friendly candidates. Attend the labor club in your area. Nov. 20 will be the next Retirees Club meeting after the September luncheon.

Neal McCormack, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, NORTH NEW JERSEY CHAPTER — Greetings! Hope everyone is well and enjoying summer! Our monthly meetings continue year-round and we were privileged to have Local 3 Fin. Sec. Vincent J. McElroen as guest speaker recently. Mr. McElroen gave a very informative and nostalgic presentation, which everyone enjoyed.

Congratulations to Bruce Ami and Donald Rosenthal on receiving 50-year service award watches at the June Joint Industry Board luncheon.

We enjoyed our spring luncheon at La Terrazza Restaurant and as of this writing are looking forward, as always, to our time at the Education Center on Long Island!

Other activities include a picnic at Kruckers Picnic Grove and a bus trip to Maine in the fall. Wishing everyone a great fall season.

John Krison, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, SOUTH JERSEY CHAPTER — After a wet spring season, we were glad to see summer arrive. Our summer luncheon was held June 19, after our monthly meeting.

We had two BBQ picnic outings to Monmouth Park Race Track — on June 21 and July 19. Bobby Fishcer, Pat Miele and Press Sec. Nancy Savarese were the big winners at the racetrack.

Charles DeSaro ran our trip to Santorini, Long Island, on July 8-11.

South Jersey and Staten Island retires joined together on June 26 for a fishing trip out of Sandy Hook, NJ (see accompanying photo).

On July 10, some members attended the Lakewood Blue Claws Baseball game.

Nancy Savarese, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, SUFFOLK CHAPTER — Our chapter had an active winter and spring. We chartered a bus to go to our Union Retirees Luncheon at the Sheraton Hotel in New York City. Over 1,000 retirees attended. It was great to see friends, and all had a great time.

Thank you to Patricia Duva and Olivia Schmidt for arranging for our chapter to go to the Bellport Theater to see a Legends Show. Everyone had a wonderful time.

At our Union Luncheon, 10 of our members received IBEW service awards. One of our members, Robley W. Jarvis, received his 70-year pin. He received a standing ovation.

Other members of our club who received awards are: 60-year members — Harvey S. Goldman, Richard Speruggia, Mike Katz; 55-year member — Raymond J. Gotta; and 50-year members — Ralph G. Camoia, James Jost, Paul R. Yannicelli, Vincent Ferraro and Michael C. Carrieri.

At our June meeting Chmn. Richard Duva spoke about our trip to the Long Island Education Center. He then asked for any reports and any future plans. Jim Joust reported that our end of summer barbeque would be the second week in September. Lois Weis asked that if anyone was interested in going out to Montauk, NY, after Labor Day to please contact her. John Schoenig said he would be taking checks in September for our Holiday Party. Our chairman asked for a motion to close the meeting, since everyone was waiting for our annual end of summer catered luncheon. Patricia and Richard Duva wished everyone a happy summer.

Harvey Goldman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER / PUTNAM CHAPTER — This past summer, from June 24-27, our club visited the Long Island Education Center, as guests of the Joint Industry Board and IBEW Local 3. The LIEC, a state-of-the-art facility, has been made available to Local 3 members, through the efforts and forethought of our leadership.

The members and their spouses attended seminars on healthy living and enjoying healthy meals, integrated with managing heath issues. Both the topics discussed, and the moderators, Judy Blades and Erica Vinas, were excellent. Stephanie Saladino and her staff, as always, were very accommodating and gracious toward our members.

The Tuesday barbecue was planned and carried out by members John Baranski, Mike Cenchek, Al Mica, Ken Dorsch and Joe Doherty. Many of the wives pitched in also. Our spare time was spent dinning out, visiting local wineries, and enjoying the sights and ambiance of Long Island's North Fork. Aside from one rainy morning, the weather was absolutely beautiful.

Unfortunately, this year's attendance was down, as many of our members were unable to attend due to health issues. Hopefully, next year will be better.

Dick Mills, Treas.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 24, BALTIMORE, MD, EASTERN SHORE CHAPTER — Our chapter members have enjoyed getting together so much that we voted to meet on a monthly basis, effective as of the June 2019 meeting.

We send special greetings to our Bro. Bert Pruitt, who has been experiencing many health challenges this year. We hope you are much better soon, Bro. Pruitt!

Because of scheduled street closures in downtown Salisbury, the club's September meeting will be held at Denny's Restaurant in Fruitland on Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 9 a.m. It will be a BYOB (buy your own breakfast) meeting. Denny's is located at 100 E Cedar Lane, Fruitland, MD. Later in September, our club will take a day trip to Tangier Island, VA, as well as a joint outing with Local 24's Baltimore retirees chapter for a backstage tour of Orioles Park at Camden Yard.

Our club has started using email to send meeting reminders as well as a short recap of each monthly meeting — and no junk emails, we promise! If you are an IBEW retiree living on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, we invite you to get on our email list and join us at our meetings! Call 410-742-0234 for more information.

The Eastern Shore Chapter meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 11 a.m. at Local 24's union hall in Salisbury, MD, and welcomes all IBEW retirees in the area.

Bob McIntyre, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 26, WASHINGTON, DC — We've started our annual raffle to help the Medical Equipment Program by selling our first tickets at the Virginia picnic in June and subsequently at the Maryland picnic in August. We have medical equipment for our members and their families at no cost. They may keep the item as long as needed, before returning it to our bank of equipment, which includes electric wheel chairs and hospital beds.

In August we mailed raffle tickets to over 10,000 members and retired members! This task usually takes a crew of 20-plus volunteers two to three days!

As more members retire and decide to stay in the area, our paid membership is now over 500! Of course, not everyone attends every meeting, but participation is growing.

In April we took our annual cruise, this time to the Caribbean, with 72 members and their families. Stay tuned for more trips. 2020 is already filling up for Europe. Details available on our website.

In June we attended Labor Night at the Nationals Ballpark. And this year we added Labor Night in Baltimore to see the Orioles play!

During June, July and August we take a break from our monthly meetings, which are held at the union hall every second Saturday at noon, except for October. In October we hold our annual crab feast. Mark your calendar now for Oct. 12. For details contact retired Sister Susan Flashman via email at flashmanbissell@aol.com.

If interested in our travels, please contact our travel coordinator, retired Bro. Rick Warner at 240-272-0438.

Susan Flashman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 35, HARTFORD, CT — Local 35 is very proud of member Gregory Hopkins, who received an IBEW Life Saving Award. He performed CPR on an Eversource contractor who had a heart attack and collapsed to the ground. Four other union members received the IBEW Recognition Award for their help: Local 35 members Ryan Pufahl and Peter Cunningham, and Local 90 members Brendan Smiles and Brent Chatfield. With the quick thinking and fast response of these men, the contractor's life was saved.

Local 35 held its Annual Picnic Outing on June 8. Over 100 people attended, and it was a beautiful day. There were many raffle prizes as well as great food and good fun. Many retirees attended, enjoying the camaraderie and reminiscing about the old days.

Retirees Club Pres. Dennis Machol and I met with the apprenticeship classes on their last day of school. We shook hands with all the graduates and wished them luck in their career as journeymen.

We would love to have more retirees attend our monthly Retirees Club meetings. We meet the second Wednesday of each month at the Elks Club in Rocky Hill.

Best wishes for a wonderful upcoming season!

Kenneth R. White, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 42, HARTFORD, CT — The retirees of Local 42 would like to reach out to all our retired brothers and sisters throughout the country and let you know we are thinking about you all. At our meetings, which are held every other month, we get together to see how everyone is doing and talk about the old days. While the work has changed for the better, Local 42 is and will always be a big part of bringing light to America.

Local 42 is looking forward to seeing our retirees on our Dinner Cruise, Golf Tournament and our Annual Family Picnic. Also, this year is Local 42's 50th Anniversary, and we are having a huge dinner gala at Foxwoods Resort and Casino to be held on Dec. 7, 2019.

We hope all our retirees are enjoying retirement and good health. If you are reading this letter and you wish to send us a letter letting us know how you are, we would love to read it at our meetings. We always love hearing from friends from the past. If you do want to write us a letter, you can mail it to: I.B.E.W. Local 42, 379 Wetherell Street, Manchester, CT 06040.

John D. Shane, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 53, KANSAS CITY, MO — At this writing, summer has arrived in the Midwest and the heat is on. Everyone, take care, don't get too hot and drink lots of liquids.

On May 4, we had our annual Crappie Tournament/Fish Fry. Fishing wasn't great but we had enough for the fish fry. As usual it was a good time.

On May 21, we held our spring luncheon and attendance was great. It was good to see everyone and catch up on things. Service pins were handed out to the following: 55-year member Jim Gaylord; and 50-year members Ed Williams, Gary Shields, Ron Schock, James Englis, Leroy Bossow, Paul Berry, Gary Crews, Tony Bratcher, Phil Duncan and Jerry Finnell. Congratulations to all.

A big thank you to Local 53 and the staff for all their hard work in making both of these events such a success.

Sadly, since our last article we have lost several brothers: Mel Simmons, Paul Akers, Rick Johnston, Virgil Endicott, Cotton Sledd and Jerry Sevart. Rest in peace, brothers.

Duane Pearce, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 60, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS — Retired members of Local 60 have a new place and time for their monthly meetings. Starting Sept. 12 this year, the club will be going home to their new local union hall located at 3518 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, starting at 11:30 a.m. Club members would like to thank the Plumbers & Pipefitters for their hospitality extended to us over the years, but there is no place like home at the new IBEW Local 60 union hall.

At the Sept. 12 meeting, IBEW years-of-service pins will be awarded to the following members: 50-year members — Glen Barnet, Thomas J. Huckelba, Patrick A. Reyes, Sammy L. Best, Robert E. Garner, Norbert B. Skloss, John E. Squier and Anton R. Kyrish Jr.; 55-year members — Guadalupe G. Galindo, William E. Stipp, Gary Van De Walle and Rogelio Calderon Jr.; 60-year members — Richard G. Chamberlain, Robert D. Wolff, Royce L Appelt and Charles W. Tuesdel; and 65-year member — Hilmer I. Merz. Congratulations to all!

Meetings are still held the second Thursday of the month, September through May; the only change will be the time and place. Retirees from Local 60, please attend.

Sandy Rogers, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 110, ST. PAUL, MN — On Oct. 4, 2018, more than 435 people attended the Local 110 Retirees Luncheon at the Envision Event Center in Oakdale, MN.

Twenty-two retired members received their 50-, 55-, 60- and 65-year IBEW years-of-service pins.

The service award recipients (pictured) are: William Ingemann, Jon Buchal, Michael Hafner, Donald Noyes, Gerald Forga, Walter Hagberg, George Leach, David Hoglund, James Vadnais, William F. Brown, Gerald Hagen, Erwin Utech, James Waxberg, Kenneth Lamb, Stanley Sayre, Roger Kindseth, Robert Clauson, Robert Harbek, Clarence Horwath, George Fahey, Gerald Hanson and William Stoppel.

Congratulations to all the award recipients for their longtime IBEW service.

Pete Koegel, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL — Our club donates money and participates in the Law Enforcement Hockey Classic Fundraiser, which benefits Honor Flight Chicago and helps send senior war veterans to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials in their honor. A local TV station recently interviewed some of the veterans who were able to take the trip. God bless our veterans.

At our Annual Luncheon Meeting in June, 60 members were honored for 50 to 75 years of IBEW service. Members honored: 50-year members — Thomas Barr, Richard Chemiak, Douglas Dobes, William Good, Dennis Hindes, Robert Kent, Henry Lakoma, John McCarthy, John Mieldik, William Nelson, Gregory Paddack, Russell Ross, James Tancos, William Van Baber, Thomas Zordani, William Blegen, Mario Coletta, Michael Fedanzo, Robert Hajkaluk, Edward Holcomb, James Klis, Kenneth Lind, Peter Merkle, Edward Mullarkey, Kenneth O'Mara, Dennis Raczynski, Alan Sindelar, James Turk Sr., David Weeks; 55-year members — James Ashby, Richard Bonner, Michael Mahoney, Robert Skuis, William Beers, Thomas Kendrick, Louis Rodriguez; 60-year members — Roger Becker, Phillip Boshes, Phillip Gerk, John Henkel, Major McCoy, Gerald Palese, Stanley Sowizrol, John Yohe, Walter Bijak, Leo Bree, Gerald Helsper, Warren Koerner, Phillip Murphy, Thomas Powers, Allen White; 65-year members — Gerrett Meade, Ralph Meifert, Charles Meyer, Joseph Pace, Robert Turek Sr., Michael Vopinek, Henry Wagner; 70-year member — Edward Swanson; and 75-year member — Lawrence Wolfelschneider. Congratulations to all honorees.

We thank Local 134 and are grateful for their support of our Retirees Club.

Sue Kleczka, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 136, BIRMINGHAM, AL — Our Retirees Club meets the first Wednesday of every month and has lunch afterward. We look forward to our Labor Day party at the hall and other upcoming events. We are looking at chartering a trip to the Henry Miller Museum in St. Louis.

We regret to announce the passing of Retirees Club member Mike Moore. Two of our local's former assistant business managers also passed away. Don Sanders worked at the hall for over 40 years as financial secretary. John Meany was an assistant for three years. All of our brothers who have passed away will be greatly missed.

We would like to invite any retired member to join us.

Bill Roberson, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 212, CINCINNATI, OHIO — On Aug. 1, 1972, IBEW Local 212 received the official Certificate of Recognition for the local's Retired Members Club. The certificate is dated and signed by then-Int. Pres. Charles H. Pillard and then-Int. Sec. Joseph D. Keenan. The original club officers' names are also on this document, which now proudly hangs in our Retirees Meeting Room. Our "Pensioners Club" is now 47 years old. Happy anniversary!

The 33 original club members envisioned a fellowship of like-minded people who would get together monthly to enjoy a meal, a few drinks and perhaps a card game, or maybe to just sit around exchanging stories of shared memories. They likely received updates on the well-being of fellow members with health issues. Surely, they told a few tall tales about fishing, golf and their latest adventures traveling. This spirit is still alive in our membership today. At last count, we have 141 members in our club. We extend a huge "thank-you" to Local 212 for all their support.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families and friends of two recently departed active IBEW members: Bro. Jason Minnich, who was a 21-year member, and Bro. Glen Moore, who was a 19-year member. May God grant them eternal rest.

Bob Schaefer, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Retirees Club met Tuesday, June 25, at the American Legion in Hartsburg, MO. At this writing, summer temperatures here were close to 100 degrees. Missouri has had a lot of flooding, and a tornado hit in Jefferson City. Although the tornado spared Local 257, many other businesses located close by were destroyed. At press time, the city is still cleaning up and some people are still without homes.

The Eleventh District Progress Meeting was June 18-21 at Lake of the Ozarks, MO, with Local 257 and Local 2 hosting.

Paul Meyer, a lifelong IBEW member, passed away on May 28 this year. Paul was one of the largest electrical contractors in mid-Missouri. During his many years in business, he put a lot of IBEW members to work. For many years he served on the apprenticeship committee, and he was instrumental in getting the IBEW/NECA Training Center built for Local 257.

Also, we were sorry to hear that one of our retiree members, Vera Burks, passed away on June 27 this year at age 101.

Congratulations to Local 257 Bus. Mgr. Don Bruemmer on his reelection to office. Don has served as business manager since 1992.

We look forward to upcoming events: the Labor Day parade on Sept. 7, and the Local 257 Annual Picnic on Oct. 5.

Delores Melloway, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 702, WEST FRANKFORT, IL — The Local 702 Retirees Club met Thursday, June 6, at the Golden Corral in Carbondale, IL, with almost 20 retirees in attendance.

Pres. Gary King opened the meeting at 11:30 a.m. He welcomed everyone and extended a thanks to all for coming. The minutes from the last meeting were read and approved. The financial report was read and approved.

Pres. King read the announcement of deaths for the months of March through June, followed by a moment of silence for those departed members. There were no guests present, and no "old business" or "new business" was conducted.

In the raffle drawing, $84 worth of tickets were sold. Bro. Bob Caby won the 50/50 drawing of $42. It was announced that the total deposit would be $42. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:30 p.m.

Mark Baker, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1245, VACAVILLE, CA — In the Reno-Sparks, Nevada, area, triple-digit temperatures in late summer aren't uncommon. Unfortunately, many seniors simply cannot afford to pay for air conditioning, and the sweltering heat makes summertime uncomfortable and potentially life-threatening for low-income seniors.

Four years ago, IBEW Local 1245 Reno-Sparks Retirees Club Pres. Ron Borst challenged the members of his club to take up a fan collection to address this very serious issue. The collection has become an annual tradition for the retirees, and this year, they donated 43 box fans to the Washoe County Human Services Agency, which will in turn distribute them to seniors who cannot afford air conditioning.

"I would like to thank you for your generous donation of 43 box fans to our Senior Services Division," Washoe County Human Services Coordinator Abby Badolato wrote in a letter to the Retirees Club. "We are committed to enriching the lives of our participants by providing quality services while preserving their dignity and independence. Washoe County seniors, who have contributed so much to quality of life in our community, deserve no less. Thank you for making a difference with your gift. Everyone appreciates your generosity."

Over the past four years, the Reno-Sparks retirees have donated a total of 163 fans to needy seniors.

Rebecca Band, P.S.