L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The IBEW congratulates Local 16 graduates of the class of 2019 inside wireman apprenticeship program. The graduates are: James Allred, Phillip Beaumont, Brandon Bergner, Kyle Blum, Casey Boyer, Joseph Brooks, Nickolas Carrel, David Cates, Jared Cole, John Cole, Tyler Crow, Phillip Dauby, Michael Davis, Clifford Donaldson, Bradley Evans, Jacob Gehlhausen, Jacob Griggs, Andrew Johnson, Brian Koewler, Joshua Lane, Wade Mayer, Zachary McCallister, Christopher Meeks, Tyler Meyer, Zachary Nalley, John Parker, Caleb Perkins, Jacob Petrig, Jared Pfister, Richard Schrock, Aaron Seiler, H. John Seiler III, Brian Smith, Shad Smith, William Smith, Eric Tenbarge, Adam Wagner, Eric Ward, Eric Weiss, Steven Young and Jordan Zuber. This year's academic award winner is Phillip Beaumont, and the John D. Brenner Memorial Award went to Jared Pfister.

On July 24, 28 young journeymen and apprentices came together to launch the Local 16 RENEW program. This group plans on helping to inform members about negotiations, contracts, fringe benefits, and community affairs. The team anticipates receiving their charter this fall. Hopefully, RENEW will help advance the spirit of brotherhood and solidarity with a strong sense of purpose, while building a solid base for Local 16's future. Thanks to Brandon Wongngamnit, Ryan McRoberts, Greg Hebbeler, and all who made this possible.

Don Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — On June 15, the local held its election of officers. Except for the Executive Board all other positions were unopposed. Once the votes were counted, all of the current offices were reelected. We have a good mix of officers and staff from all walks of life, and their dedication to the local will continue to benefit us for years to come.

Congratulations to our 46 new journeymen who celebrated the completion of their apprenticeship on July 12, 2019. Sister Chloe Starcher was awarded for highest GPA for all five years with a 95.1% GPA. Bro. Jonathan McLaughlin was selected by the Apprenticeship Committee as the Outstanding Apprentice for the class of 2019. I look forward to working with Chloe, John and all the graduates.

I would like to welcome Bro. Balfour Albycars-Roop Jr. to Local 24's staff. Ricco, as he is known to most and whom you may recognize from the IBEW TV commercial, serves on the Examining Board and was instrumental in the start of the local's RENEW program. Ricco will be involved with organizing and we are excited to have him on staff.

Peter P. Demchuk, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — With great sadness we announce the passing of retired brother and former business manager Lawrence C. Hogan Sr. Brother Hogan passed away on July 17 this year, at the age of 91. He was a member since March 1, 1951, and he served as business manager from 1974-1976. Local 26 offers its condolences to all of the Hogan family and friends.

Results of the Local 26 election of officers are as follows: Bus. Mgr. George C. Hogan, Pres. Thomas C. Myers, Vice Pres. Richard D. Wilkinson, Fin. Sec. Joseph F. Dabbs, Rec. Sec. Richard G. Murphy, and Treas. Keith A. Sutphin.

Best wishes to the new retirees: Dana K. Beckman, Richard A. Duelley, Kenneth M. Martinez, Brian J. McGeady, Joachim M. Weiss, Stewart P. Craig, Juanita R. Griffin, Edinson Pinedo, Paul E. March, Livingston Vann IV, William D. Ingram III, Lawrence Hyson, Daniel P. Hyre, Wesley E. Catron Jr., Ivan T. Todorov, Martin D. Lang, Allen W. Robertson, Melvin P. Henderson, James A. Scott Jr., Bernard Sullivan, Charles H. Ralls Jr., Jeffrey Lemley, Anthony J. Natoli, Kenneth D. Ord, Yasmin K. McCloud, and Mark M. Crowley.

Several members have passed away since our last article: Gary L. Annan, George Wozniak, Larry E. Humphries, James M. Walko, Alvin L. Moran, Robert E. Donaldson, Marvin E. Hamrick, Steven M. Boyer, James E. Gordon, and Luis M. Delgado. They will be missed.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — Our Local 34 membership is extremely generous in giving back to the community, and we send a shout-out to some retired members who are representing us well.

Special thanks to retirees Ed Kaiser, Jaye Rinkenberger and Roger Roeschley for donating many hours to the Midwest Food Bank in Peoria. Also, thank you to Local 34 signatory contractor Kaiser Electric for donating tools and materials.

Midwest Food Bank needed electrical upgrades to make alterations to office spaces and increase warehouse floor space to better serve central Illinois and beyond. Kaiser Electric and Local 34 retirees helped get the job done.

The food bank collaborates with Red Cross disaster relief programs to provide food and safe drinking water to thousands of Americans in disaster areas. A custom food product, "Tender Mercies," created by Midwest Food Bank is distributed to those in need. The high-protein rice and bean product can feed four adults, providing 25% of their daily nutritional needs for about 55 cents each.

We are very proud of the ways Local 34 members give back to the community.

Our annual Lee Hall Memorial Golf Outing on Aug. 10 raised over $4,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Knox County, which directly serves our youth in the community through after-school programming and resources. Since its inception, the golf outing has donated over $63,000 to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Our members care about their neighbors, community youth, and brothers and sisters in need across the nation. Thank you, Local 34, for giving back to your fellow man.

Paul Flynn, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OHIO — The work picture continues to be very good and so is the outlook for future projects. Einheit Electric was just awarded the new addition at Parma Hospital. Herbst was awarded the outage on the Hot Dip Galvanizing Line at Mittal Steel. Gem Industrial has the switchgear replacement job at Ford in Brookpark. Conti Electric has the new presses at the Chevy Plant in Parma. Lake Erie has the 15KV cable replacement at Mittal. Lakeland has the Taxiway Project at Hopkins Airport. Multiple other projects are either getting ready to be awarded or going out to bid.

The stewards meetings started up again in September and will be the third Tuesday of every month.

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

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — On July 20, IBEW Local 40 along with Teamsters Local 399 and other basic crafts held a 5th Annual Car Show.

This event gave Local 40 an opportunity to show our support and solidarity with all the unions involved as well as promote our RENEW, Helmets to Hardhats and apprenticeship programs.

The car show is a fun-filled family event that features activities for kids and provides food, live music, and booths offering information on the different crafts as well as pet adoptions. This show is filled with not only classic cars but also some of the cars that have been featured in television series and feature films, such as the Batmobile, the Mystery Machine, and some of the police cars seen in various movies. You never know which cars will show up for the event.

Congratulations to all the prize winners at the event and thank you to the members who helped staff our booths. We look forward to the next car show and hope to see you there next year!

Kevin Valeros, Asst. Training Dir.

L.U. 44 (catv,lctt,o,rtb,s&u), BUTTE, MT — The 2019 Montana Lineman's Rodeo was a huge success! The event took place Saturday, July 20, in Butte.

"Slim the Lineman" has always been, and will continue to be, the role model, inspiration and idol of line hands across America. But standing here right now (accompanying photo) with Bobby "The Legend" Stewart, Mike Glueckert and Chuck Dixon, and the winners of this year's rodeo, Slim himself has company if not competition.

"For you to stand here before your brothers and receive this trophy makes all of us proud of you," Bus. Mgr. Bill Ryan told the trophy winners. "Being a journeyman lineman is about safety, it's about teamwork, it's about the brotherhood where you have each other's back all day long. It's about building better and faster than anyone in the world. Bobby, Mike, Chuck and Local 44 are proud to give you this copy of the book 'Slim the Lineman.' It is a keepsake — enjoy it, read it, hold those values true, and they will never let you down. Congratulations on a job well done!"

We thank everyone for helping with the Lantern Lighting Ceremony. We ask everyone to take a moment to remember those who have passed away before us.

Bill Ryan, B.M.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — The work picture in the Seattle area remains strong and is expected to stay strong well into 2021. With the commercial work in Seattle, Sound Transit light-rail system work, and the expansion at Seattle/Tacoma International Airport — Local 46 will have full employment for another two-years or more! Throughout the summer we have been regularly dispatching our traveling sisters and brothers on Book 2; we expect this to continue for the foreseeable future.

On July 3, 2019, the state of Washington began a short-term Temporary Electrician Permit program for those folks who have completed the apprenticeship program or hold a license from another state that required an examination. The temporary permit program will run until Oct. 31, 2019, although there is a possibility that it might be extended. As of press time only one project, in the neighboring jurisdiction of Local 191, was utilizing the Temporary Electrician Permit program. We note this information in case it might be useful for any IBEW travelers.

Our union is only as strong as the members. There are many opportunities to participate. Our unit meetings are the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. The general meetings are the second Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.

Local 46 has an active EWMC chapter, a Women's Committee, a Member Volunteer Organizing Committee, a PAC, a Retirees Club, a Motorcycle Club, and many other activities and committees. Please find something that interests you and get involved!

Warren Shill, V.P.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Greetings, sisters and brothers. The books at Local 68 have been slow and steady with the work picture for the jurisdiction predicted to be strong for the near future. So, keep an eye on the job calls.

A reminder, as you are reading this, you now have a little less than a year to complete your Continued Education Units (CEUs) for the next licensing period. Check with the Denver Joint Electrical Apprenticeship & Training Committee (DJEATC) for class schedules.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased members: Andrew P. Mollendor, Frank G. Shipman, Ronald F. Greening, George Legino, Michael A. Saindon, John G. Batchler, Jerry L. Gagnon and Omar L. Wicklund.

Morgan J. Buchanan, Pres.

L.U. 80 (i&o), NORFOLK, VA — Local 80 has had a busy summer with our organizing campaign. We have our Professional & Industrial (government) side in which we had quite a few non-bargaining employees whom we reached out to thorough door knocks and phone conversations. Information was shared with potential members along with existing members. There was positive feedback and we were able to sign up new members who were electrified by what the union has to offer.

We are excited about our newest steward at the Navy facility — Sister Helen Payton. She has done an excellent job reaching out to non-bargaining employees within the facility. Our internal organizing on the construction side is steadily growing.

We hosted a family outing at our local Norfolk Tides baseball game. There was a good turnout by our members along with their families. Everyone enjoyed the food and festivities.

The work picture has been steady and continues to grow. As of press time, some of our projects have been put on hold with a late summer start up.

Congratulations to Bro. Warren Kilgore on his retirement. Warren was IBEW Local 80's president and previously served as an organizer, trustee and on the negotiating committee.

We hope our brothers and sisters enjoyed a happy, safe summer.

Wil Morris, A.B.M.

L.U. 82 (em,i,mt&rtb), DAYTON, OHIO — On July 13 this year, three members of Local 82 put on a golf outing to raise money for patients with cancer in the Dayton area! The fundraiser was a benefit for the Dayton Physicians Foundation for Hope.

Local 82 Bros. Tony D'Angelo, Jody Stienbarger and Doug Searcy — along with prime sponsors IBEW Local 82, IBEW Local 648, ESI Electrical contractors, the Dayton Labor Management Cooperation Committee (LMCC) and Titan Graphics — got in the fight against cancer!

Twenty-four teams participated. Out of the 96 golfers participating, four shot for a million dollars, 25 putted for a new car, and all 96 had a chance to shoot for a $25,000 new Harley!

Thank you to our hole sponsors: IBEW Local 38, IBEW Local 58, IBEW Local 212, Buckeye Harley Davidson, Dayton Building Trades, Vandalia Gun Range, UFCW, Dayton Physicians, United Rehabilitation Services, Keller Williams Reality, and the Dayton AFL-CIO. Also, a special thank-you to all the golfers who participated.

Thank you to all for helping us raise $8,000 for cancer patients who are in the fight for their lives. Next year's event will be bigger and better!

Doug Searcy, P.S.

Kansas City, Missouri, Local 124 congratulates 25-year pin recipients. From left: Richard Stock, Brian McMicheal, Steven Morales, Larry Smith, Thomas Biehsner, Roger Lake, Jim Lynch, Charles Leroux, Darren Reardon, Dan Hoffman, Frank Mathews, Jack Bell, Dan Devine and David Baldridge.

L.U. 136 (ees,em,i,rtb&u), BIRMINGHAM, AL — The first half of the year has been steady with more work than we can handle and the rest of the year is looking the same. Thanks to all the traveling brothers and sisters for all their hard work and for helping us man our work.

Thanks to Bro. Ricky Oakland, assistant to the international president for membership development, and Bro. Virgil Hamilton, director of construction organizing, for helping our local put together a strategic organizing plan that will help turn our jurisdiction around.

Congratulations to all our new journey men and women who completed their apprentice training through the Birmingham Electrical JATC. With a graduating class like this, our future is bright. The Local 136 class of 2019 apprenticeship graduates are: Chad Stubblefield, Kyren Belser, Matt Klein, David Seifert, Chris Norvell, Jacob Pate, Roxanne Turner, Houston McDuffie, Sara Parson, Don Poe Jr., Joshua Hunt, Daniel Whatley, Mason Graves and Lee Abts.

The Local 136 bowling teams would like to give a big thanks to Local 369 for hosting the 75th annual bowling tournament. We also thank Local 1579 for stepping up to host next year's tournament. Local 136 looks forward to hosting the 77th annual tournament here in Birmingham. In brotherhood everybody wins!

Ross Roberson, Pres.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — We thank the volunteers who worked the Decatur Celebration in early August. We also enjoyed a nice day for the Labor Day parade followed by a picnic at Fairview Park. The annual John V. Workman Steak Fry is Oct. 5.

Clinton Nuclear Power Station's refuel outage was a success. Thank you to the numerous IBEW travelers and Local 146 brothers and sisters who made it possible.

We are saddened to note the passing of six members: John DeAngelis (who was age 64, and a 20-year member); Michael Simmons (who was age 56 and a 32-year member); Robert Schloz (age 69, 44-year member); Christin Thomas (age 41, 17-year member); George Cripe (age 74, 54-year member); and Wes Watson (who was age 49 and a 20-year member). These wiremen will not be forgotten.

The following members recently retired: Kent Reeser, Terry Rhodes, Mark Hall, Scott Lewis, Jon Dyer, Rex Roberts, Tim Gosnell, Fred Smith, Daniel Davis, John James, and John Mann. We hope these gentlemen enjoy a long and happy retirement.

A very special thank you to Bro. John Shores for his longtime IBEW service. Bro. Shores served on our Executive Board for 21 years, 15 years as chairman. The local will be forever grateful to you, my friend. Good luck in retirement, Bro. Shores.

Steven L. Tilford, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — The following recently became journeyman wiremen: Arturo Guadarrama, Brian Harden, Robert Hubka, Joshua Hove, Dallis Kamine, Michael Knapik, Steven Niskanen, Paul Poirier, Andre Sippy, Ricardo Villarreal, Stephen Vizcarra and Zachary Wachter. The VDV graduates are: Robert Beddia and Jeremy Garth. The outstanding journeyman wireman apprentice (highest cumulative five-year average) is Michael Knapik. The outstanding VDV apprentice (highest cumulative overall four-year average) is Robert Beddia. The graduation ceremony and dinner took place at the Illinois State Beach Resort in Zion this year. A hearty congratulations to all and best wishes for a long, healthy and profitable career.

At the June 2019 general meeting, $500 scholarships were awarded to the following students (who are children of local union members): Lyndsey Bassett, Samantha Schild, Melissa Tekampe, Emily Davison, Monica J. Redfern, Jeremy Schwingbeck, Heather Houghton, Lisa Torres, Jack Robbins, Dana Herman, Matthew Foli and Molly Robbins. Congratulations to them all.

The Local 150 picnic was Aug. 10 at Lakewood Forest Preserve. It was a lovely day, and everyone had a great time.

There are still continuing education classes available at the JATC. Please check the website and see if anything in the offerings strikes your interest.

Remember the Christmas union meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 4, this year. Come and see all the retirees at this fun meeting.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — On Saturday, May 11, Bus. Mgr. Dan Gumble was awarded the 2019 Labor Leader of the Year Award from the Bergen County Central Trades & Labor Council, AFL-CIO.

Dan was presented the award at the Philip J. McLewin Annual Community Services Awards Breakfast, held at the Hasbrouck Heights Hilton. Dan is a proud, third-generation, 40-year member of Local 164. As a labor leader, Dan is well respected by his 3,000 plus members, the contractors, and politicians in Local 164's jurisdiction of Hudson, Bergen, and Essex counties. Under Dan's leadership, Local 164 continues its record of promoting gains for working people in the electrical industry by: increasing benefits and protections for our members; working to ensure an increasing majority of the electrical work done in our territory is done union; conducting political organizing in Local 164's territory to help elect politicians who support union labor; and keeping Local 164 on the cutting edge of technology and training by expanding our training center to keep it state-of-the-art.

Local 164 Pres. Tom Sullivan, previously honored as the 2016 Labor Leader of the Year, was honored to present Dan the award. The members, staff and officers of Local 164 congratulate Dan. We are proud of him and grateful for this recognition of his tireless work on behalf of our membership and union labor as a whole. Congratulations, Dan!

Thank you to Bill Jones, Local 164 COPE Committee member, for contributing information for this article.

Warren Becker, V.P.

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — Election results are in! The newly elected Local 234 officers have been sworn in. Officers elected to lead our growing local for a three-year term are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Lamont Adams, Pres. Dennis "Mike" Ihnot, Vice Pres. Albert Randall, Rec. Sec. Stephen Slovacek, Treas. Nicholas Prelgovisk; Executive Board members John Agra, Andy Gattis, Gale Michalek and Ryan Porter; Examining Board members Paul Gutierrez and B.J. Heading. Elected delegate to the International Convention — Andy Hartmann; elected alternate delegate — Kevin Rategan. The oath of office was administered by prior business manager Ray Nichols and additionally witnessed by Ninth District Int. Rep. Ken Scherpinski, former business manager.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Rick Keaton for his 12 years of service on the E-Board.

Andy Hartmann, our outgoing business manager who also previously served as organizer and president — and brought the voice of labor to many tables by serving on various local community boards — will be missed. He certainly has been a stellar example of what our younger members are doing to carry on and build on the work of their predecessors. He has moved our local from recent threats of difficult financial times into both prosperity and growth. We are pleased to commend him on his well-earned year of cultural immersion in Ecuador with his family and sincerely thank him for his years of devoted service.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — Our work picture is very strong for the summer with many calls going to Book 2. We hope to continue that trend into the cooler months. Our organizing efforts have paid off, with Local 236 acquiring seven new contractors and many new members since July 2018.

A wave of service pins went out to our members to honor their years of service to the IBEW. The service award recipients included James Riley, proud member of 70 years.

Local 236 is getting more involved in local politics, gaining seats on the Industrial Development Agency (IDA) and school boards in an attempt to stay informed, promote the value of union labor, increase IBEW influence in the area and gain market share.

We are also engaging the membership with several summer season family events including the Great Escape Day, attended by well over 400 people. This year's Steak Bake is looking to be bigger than ever! At press time, also upcoming are the 21st annual Golf Outing and the first ever Local 236 Camping Trip.

Thanks to everyone who has been a part of Local 236 and we strive to make it a better place for electricians to be every day.

Mike Martell, Exec. Board

L.U. 266 (u), PHOENIX, AZ — On July 3, the membership reelected Jerry Long for a second term as business manager. Also reelected: Pres. Thomas J. Olivas, Treas. Carmela Lamadore and Rec. Sec. Katrina Trevillyan. Elected for a first term: Vice Pres. Jared Koch. Executive Board members: Tony Bane, Anastacia Burdette, Randy Carroll, Josef Fencl and Kevin Watson. We are confident that elected officers will continue to work hard for the membership in the best interest of the IBEW. Thank you to all who ran for office!

On May 6, we had our Indenture of Apprentices event. Good luck to all of the new apprentices. Be safe!

We had a great turnout at our annual Valley Picnic. It was a big success thanks to all of our brothers and sisters who volunteered. Our Coronado Generating Station also had their annual picnic with live music and great food!

The Navajo Generation Station in Page, AZ, is closing down. The last coal train will be Aug. 26. We are still welcoming our brothers and sisters to the Phoenix area for their new jobs.

Jerry Long, B.M.

L.U. 300 (govt,i&u), MONTPELIER, VT — Hello, brothers and sisters. I hope this finds you well. Following are a few Local 300 updates.

Being a multifaceted local, we have been negotiating several contracts. Happily, they have been fair to all parties. Its human nature to want more, but fair is truly what we strive for.

The inside construction and tree trimming units are at over 100% employment and are seeking more electricians, apprentices, bucket operators, climbers and grounds people daily! This seems to be the trend for the foreseeable future.

Recently, we have taken part in several solidarity events in unison with area labor organizations. The one I'm most proud of is the May 30 Anti-Scott Walker Rally. The rally was spearheaded by Local 300, the Vermont Building & Construction Trades Council, and AFCSME. Approximately 500 people attended. As president of Local 300 and the Vermont Building Trades, that makes me doubly proud. Thank you to all who attended.

For the third year in a row, a Local 300 team participating in the annual SLAM T1D Wiffle Ball Tournament was a top fundraiser, with over $19,000 raised this year. The SLAM T1D organization's mission is to improve the lives of people who have Type 1 diabetes. Participants had a great time while helping area children who have the disease. Thank you to all who participated!

If any IBEW travelers are interested in getting some fresh air while installing solar panels or trimming trees, come on up to Vermont!

Tim LaBombard, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OHIO — On June 7, an award ceremony and banquet to honor our 2019 apprenticeship graduates was held at Todaro's Party Center. Opening remarks were given by JATC Chmn. Thomas Wright, invocation by fifth-year graduate Chad Moore and introduction of guests by Training Dir. Martin Helms.

Guest speakers included Local 306 Bus. Mgr. Michael Might and NECA Chapter Mgr. Jason Walden. Keynote speaker was Eric Grant, contractor sales manager, B-Line Solutions, Eaton Corp.

Diplomas and awards were presented to the following apprentice graduates: Inside — Kaleb Austin, Matthew Boggs, Bryan Bowman, Brent Buchwalter, Brandon Golden, Chad Moore, John Newcomer, Brandon Proudfoot, Joshua Shanholtz, Daniel Sweitzer, Jason Twiddy and Lisa Veneziano; Residential — Michael Conley, Thomas DeShon, Alexander Graham, Michael Lane Jr. and Logan Powers; and Tele-Data — Anthony Annotico and Eric Papp.

Recognized for highest grade point average: Tele-Data — Eric Papp, with a 91.55% GPA; Residential — Alexander Graham, 96.23% GPA; and Inside — Lisa Veneziano, 95.81% GPA.

In addition, Lisa Veneziano received the Outstanding Apprentice Award and was selected to attend the 2019 National Training Institute outstanding apprentice graduation. Congratulations to our new journeymen and good luck to all in all your future pursuits.

On a sad note, we report the passing of several retired brothers; William May, Donald Kromer, Edward Fenton, James Carney, John Spangler, Richard Cooey, Daniel Popa and Donald Combs. We send our deepest condolences to their families.

Thomas Wright, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — This year I was elected for a second term as Local 340 business manager/financial secretary. Thanks to all the members who did their due diligence by taking the time to vote in this year's local elections. I don't take for granted the faith the members have placed in me. The last three years have been both enjoyable and very educational watching Local 340 grow healthier and stronger. As a new business manager in 2016, that is all l wanted and now in 2019, I can say that we got there! All Local 340 members and many traveling IBEW members are working steady in our jurisdiction. I am, along with Local 340's awesome business office staff, committed to continue that upward momentum going into the next three years.

I also look forward to working with the officers who stood alongside me as we took the oath of office in July as a result of the votes cast by Local 340 members. Fellow Local 340 officers are: Pres. Mark Steelman, Vice Pres. Mitchell Newman IV, Rec. Secretary Emiliano "Cochise" Silva, Treas. Michael Franklin; and Executive Board members Rustin "Rusty" Johnston, Matthew Meredith, Khalid "Slim" Saleem, Scott Steelman and Patrick Tait.

Welcome to new officers and a special thanks to the outgoing 2016-2019 officers: Bros. Warren Adsit, Jesse Naranjo, Nazario Valverde and Mike Falconer. Their service during Local 340's time of tremendous change and growth will never be forgotten.

Robert D. Ward, B.M.

L.U. 446 (i), MONROE, LA — IBEW Local 446 congratulates our 2019 inside apprenticeship graduating class on a job well done!

It is with pride and admiration that we have turned out 12 trained, qualified and hardworking journeyman wiremen into the electrical industry. The graduates are: Kyle Crenshaw, Hunter Floyd, Keith Gray, Garrett Landry, Chad Massey, Hunter Morgan, Heath Parker, Eric Robinson, Rocky Stephens, Anh Tran, Allen White and Jacob Wilson. Graduates, it is your dedication and hard work that will inspire future apprentices and young members to go for a dream and conquer that dream!

We are honored that these young men will be representing the IBEW for many years to come with their skills and eagerness to learn with a professional disposition. Union electricians are not only electricians but are also a brotherhood that will stand up and stand by their fellow brothers! Please remember to work safely and cautiously!

Best wishes to the graduates from IBEW Local 446 members, officers, retired members, our families, fellow apprentices, instructors and Monroe JATC staff.

Ken Green, B.M.

L.U. 494 (em,govt,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — IBEW Local 494 has a proud tradition of service.

Recently, members of the RENEW, EWMC and Women's committees partnered with the Community Services Committee of the Milwaukee Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO, to prepare and serve a meal for over 300 homeless and working poor at the St. Ben's Community Meal site in Milwaukee. Over 90,000 meals are served there each year. All are welcome and are considered family in a community that shares a warm, safe environment. We're building a future where people in need have greater opportunities to be able to provide for their families.

John T. Zapfel, Political Dir.

L.U. 540 (i), CANTON, OHIO — Congratulations to the newly elected officers of Local 540. The election was held June 18.

Reelected to office are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Aaron Brown, Pres. Fred Miller, Vice Pres. Mike Heppe, Rec. Sec. Rick Waikem, Treas. Ben Campbell, and Executive Board members Ron Beard, Jeff Frank, Erik Hann, Jon Kuhnash and Mitch Neisel. Officers elected for a first term are: Executive Board member Corey Moore and Examining Board members Don Fox and Dan Haren.

To all those who participated, whether as a candidate or as a voting member, thank you for getting involved and please stay involved.

A special thanks from all the candidates and members to the election judge, Ron Graham, and the election tellers Russ Debord and Frank Silla for a job well done.

Rick Waikem, R.S./P.S.

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

We are happy to announce that the Mazda/Toyota project in Huntsville, AL, has kicked off strong. Four signatory contractors were awarded contracts to build one of the largest single stand-alone projects in this local union's 101 years of existence. Also, to stay ahead of the calls for manpower, Local 558 and the Electrical Training Alliance selected 107 inside apprentice wiremen to facilitate the demand for the Mazda/Toyota project and other projects ongoing in the jurisdiction.

In other news, Local 558 along with all the other area Building Trades crafts celebrated 100 years of annual Labor Day festivities at Spring Park in Tuscumbia, AL. The celebration opened up with a great parade down Main Street, followed by festivities in the park. U.S. Sen. Doug Jones (D-Ala.) was the guest speaker. The day of celebration included great prizes given away and trophies presented for the car show with over 200 entries. Thank you to everyone for their generous donations and to the Shoals Area Central Labor Council delegates for their hard work and dedication to make the event a success.

Congratulations to the 2019 apprenticeship graduating class of outside journeyman linemen from the Electrical Training Alliance.

Mac Sloan, Pres./Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 602 (i,o&u), AMARILLO, TEXAS — I received a phone call in February about a Local 602 retired member in need of help. Paul Kocel, son-in-law of retired member Lorenco Able Mares, reached out to us for help with an electrical installation.

Lorenco Able Mares was initiated into IBEW Local 602 in 1981. He worked as a power plant mechanic at Harrington Station in Amarillo. Bro. Mares retired in 2011. Soon after retirement he fell into bad health and needed extensive medical attention.

Upon learning that Bro. Mares needed a long-term generator at his residence in Waco, Texas, Paul reached out to us here at Local 602. Paul himself comes from a longtime union family out of Cleveland, Ohio, Local 38. So, he thought, "This is exactly what union brothers do for each other." And he was right!

We visited with Paul and, after working with federal grants, the generator for Bro. Mares was ordered and plans were made to install the equipment. Bro. Mares had moved to Waco, so I called Waco Local 72 Bus. Mgr. Craig Miller, who jumped on board and set up a signatory contractor, KMG Electric, to pull the permits and assist with the materials and tools to do the job. This summer, both locals came together and worked to install the 20-kilowatt backup generator. All the material was donated by KMG Electric, owned by Kurtis Gerath, an IBEW member turned local contractor. Local 602 second-year apprentice Daniel Bishop and I together with Craig Miller and Kurtis Gerath spent a day installing the generator and associated equipment for Bro. Mares.

It was one of the best days I have spent in the trade, working with my brothers to help our retired brother. I will forever treasure the memories made and time-shared working with my union family, for our union family.

Robert Melton, B.M.

L.U. 640 (em,govt,i,mo,mt,rts,spa&u), PHOENIX, AZ — The work outlook is still strong for our future. The work at Intel is leveling out, but we have data centers, hospitals and various other projects ongoing.

As of the July union meeting, our membership numbers have topped 2,300. Thanks to our organizers for their hard work and diligence, and to our members for reaching out to the unrepresented brothers and sisters.

We were very proud and honored to accept an award given to us at the Seventh District Progress Meeting for organizing the most new members.

Also, once again, we thank all of our traveling brothers and sisters for their help manning our work.

Tim Wilson, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — Work continues to be abundant in the jurisdiction. As always, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the travelling brothers who have come to Richmond to help us man our many projects. Brotherhood is abundant in Richmond, VA, so keep us in mind when travelling this fall.

We celebrate the life of past president and longtime member Danny Garner, who passed away in July after a long and hard-fought battle with cancer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Garner family along with our appreciation for his many years of service.

As we near the one-year mark before the 2020 election, we encourage the membership to focus on the common ground that unites us, rather than the divisive rhetoric put forth by candidates on both sides of the aisle. The labor movement has never been a passive endeavor and now, more than ever, it is important that we are heard with strength and unity. Our brotherhood was built with the sacrifice of our founding brothers. Honor that tradition by making your voice heard in the halls of power this election season.

Jeremy Davis, P.S.

L.U. 702 (as,c,catv,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo,mt,o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts,se,spa,st,t,u,
uow&ws), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — On Sunday, Aug. 4, IBEW Local 702 captured its third championship in the Upper Division of the 48th IBEW Midwest Softball Tournament in Evansville, IN. The IBEW Local 702 Regulators then solidified that victory with their seventh consecutive title at this year's 46th Illinois State Tournament, hosted by Local 601 in Champaign.

The inside construction members have a new four-year agreement with increases of $1.80, $1.85, $1.90, and $1.95 with no concessions or significant language changes. We have a new three-year agreement at the City of Fairfield, IL, with 2.75% annual wage increases, along with one-year contracts for both groups at the City of Miner, MO, that has a 0.50% wage increase and another possible 1.5% wage increase on Jan. 1, 2020, if the tax issue is passed by the city's voters.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, we will host our second Retirement Planning Workshop this year, held by Scarborough Alliance Group, for our inside members from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the union hall. We will follow that up with our Southern Illinois University Football Tailgate event that afternoon. The game will be SIU vs. Youngstown State.

As of this writing, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction — 90, Outside Construction — 9, Line Clearance — 1.

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

L.U. 716 (em,i,lctt,rts&spa), HOUSTON, TEXAS — Hello, sisters and brothers. I hope all are well and working with plenty of jobs in your jurisdictions. The work situation in Houston is still a little slow, but we expect work to pick up soon. We thank other jurisdictions for putting our members to work, and thanks to our members helping those locals who need the manpower.

Having just celebrated the 50th anniversary of the first manned spaceflight to the moon, I can't help but think about the work performed by the members of IBEW Local 716 working at NASA who contributed to the success of that mission. We thank those members for their service and also the members working at NASA today. We are extremely fortunate to have this opportunity.

Thanks to all the volunteers, cookers and attendees who helped make the Harris County AFL-CIO Labor Day Celebration a great success. Hopefully everyone enjoyed the fellowship and also the ability to meet the visiting candidates running in the upcoming elections.

Which reminds me, we are encouraging all our members, their families and friends to get registered to vote and then to exercise that right.

Congratulations to our newly elected and reelected officers. Thanks to all the candidates who chose to seek office — we appreciate your effort.

David R. Alley, Pres.

L.U. 728 (em,i,rts&spa), FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Local 728 would like to give a shout-out to the apprenticeship graduating class of July 2019.

Congratulations, graduates, on this accomplishment that you've put your time, effort and energy into. May your achievements carry you far in your career with the IBEW and in life. Thank you for your dedication to our trade!

Effie Cruz, Organizer

L.U. 776 (i,o,rts&spa), CHARLESTON, SC — Hello, sisters and brothers! First, we were happy to hear a candidate from a certain overcrowded political race mention at a primary debate that his father was in the IBEW and how that afforded their family a good life with great health insurance that no one would want to give up. What a great advertisement for our union and all unions that was! Of course, we want everyone to have health care, but we don't want to trade what we have either. A sensible point of view. You'll have to check to see who said it; I don't want to appear to be one-sided. That candidate wasn't even my main choice, but they are all worth listening to. Get your head into it. It's our livelihood that may be at stake.

Our hearts go out all the way across the country to our sisters and brothers in Castroville, Calif., Local 234 where the recent shooting at the nearby Garlic Festival killed three people and wounded several more including family members of some of our brothers and sisters out there. We are thinking about you. The whole country. One prayer.

Andy Weiner, P.S.

L.U. 804 (i&o), KITCHENER, ONTARIO, CANADA — Since its inception, the apprenticeship training system has played an important role while shaping and developing the future members of our local union. All of us begin our career through the apprenticeship program, and a successful apprenticeship program ensures that we have the best trained and best qualified craft personnel within the electrical industry. Together with our contracting partners we must strive to be the best within a highly competitive industry, and being the best is shaped through a successful apprenticeship program.

Our apprenticeship and training program received a recent $5.5 million boost from the federal government for its pre-apprentice training and retention innovative learning program. New entrants will be required to complete 10 weeks of classroom training (including hands-on practical skills) followed by 16 weeks of on-the-job training with one of our signatory employers. The skillsets of those graduating through the program will be second to none and our leadership is confident that the program will be setting up future entrants for success — which will also ensure the position of our union and our contractors for both today and tomorrow.

Thanks goes out to Bus. Mgr. Mark Watson and his team for securing this monumental funding for our local union.

Continue to work safely, brothers and sisters.

Brett McKenzie, P.S.

L.U. 824 (t), TAMPA, FL — IBEW Local 824 members, together with IBEW Local 915 and the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 487, all located in Tampa, had a very successful back to school supply drive. This effort was spearheaded by our local chapter of the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus (EWMC).

Much-needed supplies were distributed to Howard W. Blake High School in Tampa, Jennings Middle School in Seffner, and Gibsonton Elementary School located in Gibsonton. All three are Title 1 schools and the back to school supplies were very much appreciated. The annual school supply drive is just another great way to get the IBEW name out in the community.

We also had our annual family fun day to help kick off bargaining with Frontier. We had over 400 people come out for the picnic. There were bounce houses for the children, cornhole games, raffle prizes and award-winning BBQ from our very own Bobby Belliott. It was a great day of solidarity, food and fun.

Keith LaPlant, P.S.

L.U. 934 (catv,i,o&u), KINGSPORT, TN — Greetings, brothers and sisters. On behalf of Local 934, I would like to congratulate the class of 2019 inside wireman apprenticeship graduates.

In keeping with the tradition of providing the best-trained workforce in the world, these graduates have shown themselves to be true craftsmen and capable future leaders. We wish them all the success in their future endeavors, and may their travels be safe.

Jonathan Van Bremen, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Greetings, brothers and sisters!

Please join IBEW Local 1116 in welcoming a new group! The linemen at Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative have elected to join the union. SSVEC is the largest cooperative in the state of Arizona, covering parts of Cochise, Graham, Pima and Santa Cruz counties. These linemen maintain more than 4,100 miles of energized line. We ask all our members to continue to support them during contract negotiations. The local also thanks Bus. Rep. Sarita Morales and State Organizing Coordinator Robert Sample as well as the Volunteer Organizing Committee (VOC) members who worked so hard for this victory. We are still focusing on internal organizing, so speak to your co-workers about joining the union. It is everyone's responsibility to help grow our membership.

Congratulations to the new journeymen: electronics technician — Johnny Khanathip; shop electricians/ERTF — Steve Canez and Andrew Dosch; and substation electrician — Scott King. Brothers, you have all achieved a great milestone. May success follow you through your careers.

At press time, the picnic was scheduled for Oct. 19 at the hall. Plans included adding a Halloween costume contest for the kids, along with the other fun games and prizes.

Thanks to all members who attend union meetings and stay involved. Remember, this is your local and you have a voice.

Sharon Williams, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 1340 (i&o), NEWPORT NEWS, VA — Our annual picnic was held at Fort Monroe on Saturday, June 8, and was well attended and enjoyed by all. A cornhole tournament sparked some interest, and fun activities also included face painting and pony rides for the kids. Thanks to all who helped put this event together.

Local 1340 held its election of officers on June 15 this year. Elected officers are: Bus. Mgr. Jeff Rowe, Pres. Jason Parker, Vice Pres. Aaron Woodard, Treas. Rob Grainger, Rec. Sec. Tim Feiring; and Executive Board members Lorenzo Pacheco, Warren Stechele, Rodney Bonniville, Joel Henry and Joey Howard.

Our joint apprenticeship program graduated seven new electricians this year. The graduation banquet was held at Paradise Ocean Club on June 22. The following have joined the ranks of qualified inside journeyman wiremen: John Forrest, Randy Maness, Dee Ann Nichols, Alex Sexton, Scott Shinn, William Sweatt and Patrick Williams. Congratulations, graduates — we wish you all long and rewarding careers in the electrical industry!

We regret to report the passing of our oldest member, Ed "Red" Crosby, on April 28, 2019, and Horace Carmine on July 1 this year.

Jim Avery, P.S.

L.U. 1988 (mo), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — During the previous New Mexico legislative session earlier this year, regional "right-to-work" ordinances were abolished, thanks to the voters who showed up and supported a labor-friendly governor and state legislators. The practice of individual counties establishing right-to-work measures was banned with passage of House Bill 85, Union Security Agreement. I am proud to say New Mexico is a pro-labor state.

[Editor's Note: To read more about the win for workers in New Mexico, see May 10, 2019, news story " With More Allies in State Capitols, A Sunnier Forecast for Unions and Workers," posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/Articles.]

The PAE agreement was ratified, providing a substantial increase in benefits. The company will now match contributions to a 401(k) program. This was the first agreement negotiated since PAE was organized under the Chenega contract with Kirkland Air Force Base. Members employed with PAE were at $21.32 per hour before they organized and became IBEW union members. At the end of the new contract, they will be at $32.09. That's pretty good over a six-year period.

Ceasar Maestas, B.M.