L.U. 10 (u), JOHNSON CITY, NY — In November of 2019, Bro. Thomas F. Priolo bestowed quite an honor to IBEW Local 10. He gave a United States flag and a framed document that accompanied the flag. The document reads as follows:

"To All Who Shall See These Presents, Greetings. Know Yee in Recognition of the Fidelity, Patriotism, and Enduring Support of Local 10 IBEW … This American flag was flown on June 6, 2019, over the skies of Kuwait and Iraq by the Purple Foxes of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 364 aboard an MV-22B "Osprey" during an aviation mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. … May these colors forever bear witness to the selflessness and unfaltering courage of those who engage to secure peace."

Bro. Priolo is a line mechanic-1st class working for New York State Electric and Gas. He presented this honor to Bus. Mgr. Gary Bonker at the Local 10 office.

Gary L. Bonker, B.M.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — Local 16 would like to thank Ken Sullivan of Massachusetts Mutual and John Short of Southern Benefit Administrators for providing a very informative and well-structured educational meeting to plan participants. These gentlemen have worked tirelessly to help build the IBEW Local 16 Pension Trust Fund into the secure retirement plan it is today. In the last 10 years, plan assets have grown by more than 337%.

Members from Local 16 continued their tradition of benefiting the community by setting up and maintaining the 26th annual Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights. This event features over a mile of festive holiday lighting displays. Proceeds from FOL are used to underwrite therapy sessions for children and adults needing Easter Seals rehabilitation services. Without union electricians volunteering, this program would simply not be possible.

This has been a very busy organizing season for Bro. Brandon Wongngamnit. He has brought several highly qualified licensed electricians into the local's apprenticeship program. By allowing them the opportunity to go through the Joint Apprenticeship training, they can graduate as an IBEW member with an associate degree, further proving they are truly among the best in the industry.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — Local 24 recently hosted the outstanding apprentice for the Electrical Trades Union of Australia (ETU). ETU outstanding apprentice Jack Todaro and ETU National Apprenticeship Officer Mark Burgess, both from Australia, were in Washington, D.C., to attend the Global Power Trade Union Congress. After the meeting, Local 24 Bus. Mgr. Pete Demchuk invited the guests to visit our local union offices and training center. Jack and Mark were quite impressed with our facilities and were grateful for the hospitality and brotherhood extended to them during their visit. They also toured M&T Bank Stadium and Freestate Electric's Home Depot project.

The annual prevailing wage surveys for Baltimore City and the State of Maryland are complete. We submitted over 425 surveys and hopefully this will be sufficient to maintain our wage/fringe rates on PW work.

We thank our RENEW group for holding a food drive to help those struggling during the holiday season. Although the nonperishable food items were collected for holiday baskets to be given to union families and community members in need during December, hunger still exists beyond this time of year. If you care to donate please contact the union hall.

Peter P. Demchuk, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful holiday. Local 26 is excited about the prospects of 2020! The local held its three annual Holiday Parties/Meetings in December: in Front Royal, VA; Roanoke, VA; and Upper Marlboro, MD. They were all well attended, and members had a great time.

Scholarship time! Visit the local's website www.ibewlocal26.org for information and to download application forms for this year's Local 26 scholarship. The award is $2,500 per year, for up to four years of college. Applications may also be obtained by calling the union hall (301-459-2900) and requesting one be mailed to your home. The deadline to submit applications is March 31, 2020.

This year the four winners of the Retired Members' Club annual raffle were: Michael Shoemaker, for $100; Tim Keister, for $300; David Gossard, for $500; and Larry Eckert for $1,500. Congratulations and thanks to everyone who bought tickets to help keep the Retired Members Club's Medical Equipment Fund strong!

Best wishes to recent retirees: Vincent Blount, James W. Olsen, Ronald C. Garrett, Michael J. Mercer, Larry R. Greenhill Sr., Neil B. Nutwell, William E. Bruce, Donald R. Lumsden Jr., Conrado Elias-Perez, John H. Owen Jr., Gerald E. Swiger, Theodore L. Banks Jr., James T. Sealock and Robert A. Zachrel.

Several members passed away since our last article: James M. Marx, Clinton J. Wilson, Lawrence Hyson, Shawn F. Stancovich, Mark J. Lay, Robert E. Owens and James D. Noonan. They will be missed.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OHIO — The growth for our teledata branch continues as our teledata representative/organizer continues to organize our nonunion counterparts to fill open calls here at the hall. If you know someone working as a nonunion tech, please contact Tom Petrasek here at the hall or by email at tpetrasek@ibew38.org.

We are still waiting to hear the outcome of several projects in our jurisdiction that we hope will start soon. Some of them, such as the NuCLEus building and the East Bank Flats' next phase, seem dependent on the passage of Ohio Senate Bill 39. We have been lobbying our state representatives and senators on this bill, which creates tax incentives on insurance premiums. It has passed in the state Senate, and at press time we are trying to work with the state House for passage.

Other projects we hope to see started in 2020 include Ahuja Hospital Phase 2 and the expansion of Air Products.

Thanks to the 32 members who showed up to take the stewards training class here at the union hall. Your dedication to the IBEW is appreciated.

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

L.U. 44 (catv,lctt,o,rtb,s&u), BUTTE, MT — For 17 employees at NorthWestern Energy who work as dispatchers, their journey to become IBEW members started in August of 2017. Everyone has a reason to join a union and it's not always money or benefits — theirs was to be respected, treated better at work.

After one National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) representation election, three managers, two different management lead negotiators, and 18 months of contract negotiations, employees from Outage Management Systems finally have become union brothers and sisters of IBEW Local 44 and they have a contract!

The OMS group led by the negotiating team of Laura Cater, Kelly Howery and Ben Petritz wrapped up contract negotiations after 18 months! The negotiations were exhausting, but very interesting. They know the contract is a living work, that they have to stay the course, stay together to continually work on the negotiations to make the contract better each time.

During this process, fellow brothers and sisters at IBEW 44 who work for the company extended their encouragement and support, and the local union Executive Board and officers sent a letter of support to the dispatchers as well.

Thank you to everyone who helped out!

Dwight Rose, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — At the New Member Orientation in October 2019, Local 46 had the honor of swearing in a fifth-generation member of Local 46, JonCarter Coble. The Coble family has been part of Local 46 since the early 1900s.

Walter Coble was the first-generation member; we do not know his exact initiation date, but he was born in 1874, so he may have been initiated into former Local 217 prior to the Reid/Murphy split and the charter of Local 46 in 1914. Clarence Coble was the second generation, initiated in June 1943. Clarence founded Coble Electric, which was one of our signatory contractors for many years. Jack Coble was the third generation. Jack was initiated in February 1963 and retired in February 2003. Jack remains very active with the local's retirees and coordinates the annual Retirees Golf Tournament. Timothy Coble is the fourth generation, initiated in February 1992. Tim graduated our apprenticeship program in 2002 and is an active member of our Wireman Unit.

April is always a special time at Local 46! Every April at our general meeting, we get the opportunity to celebrate our sisters' and brothers' years of IBEW service at the Pin Night event. Please join us for this celebration on Wednesday, April 8, this year beginning at 5 p.m.at our Kent Hall.

Warren Shill, V.P.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Local 68's RENEW is getting more active and involved. Four of the RENEW officers/members attended the RENEW conference held in St. Louis Oct. 16-19. They attended several different breakout sessions on topics including: Time Management Strategies, Robert's Rules of Order, and How to Conduct a Meeting, to name just a few. They also participated in a community outreach project by helping to clean up one of the St. Louis parks. Probably the most important thing they were able to accomplish however was to make friends, connections, and share ideas with other RENEW members from other locals across the United States and Canada. I would like to thank Monique Cisneros, Jeff Clark, Ricardo Felix Dominguez and Steven Shepherd for representing Local 68 so well.

On Oct. 26, Local 68's RENEW along with our RENEW brothers and sisters from IBEW Local 111 hosted a "Trunk or Treat" for our members, their families, and the community. There were around 15 to 20 trucks/cars decorated and passing out candy to all the children, along with a "bouncy house" and other games and activities for the kids. The "Trunk or Treat" was a huge success. Thanks again to the RENEW crew and everyone who helped out.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of recently deceased members Donald E Slife and Eddie K. Bruntz.

Morgan J. Buchanan, Pres.

L.U. 70 (lctt&o), WASHINGTON, DC — In October 2019, Jack Huffstickler, electrical instructor at Stafford High School in Virginia, invited Local 70 to participate in the school's Job Fair. We had a good response from the school's seniors and staff members. Local 70 plans to participate in more job fairs in the future, as we believe this is a great opportunity to recruit future IBEW members.

George Embrey, B.R.

L.U. 80 (i&o), NORFOLK, VA — Greetings to all our brothers and sisters. Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and enjoy a prosperous new year.

December was a busy month. Local 80 hosted our annual Kids Christmas Party (Breakfast with Santa) Dec. 7. Santa, played by Bro. Mike Hanks (retiree), does such an excellent job with the kids. This is our third year hosting this event. We always have a good turnout and the kids always leave with a smile on their face.

The Retiree Christmas Party was also a good time. Seeing our retirees and listening to past work stories is always fascinating.

The work outlook has started to progress. The majority of our work will start in mid-January. Various projects will include work at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, which requires a security clearance, and some commercial upgrade work.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to all our brothers and sisters who lost a loved one last year.

Congratulations to the following recent retirees: Bros. Jerry Dodson, James Burke, Warren Kilgore and Erving "Woody" Gregory.

Work safe, everyone!

Wil Morris, A.B.M.

L.U. 82 (em,i,mt&rtb), DAYTON, OHIO — Each year our local union puts on our annual Children's Christmas Party here in Dayton at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery. This is a free event where we provide food and drinks for the children, access to the museum, and also an opportunity to see Santa (Bus. Mgr. Greg Gust) and Mrs. Claus (Kim Gust).

Ryan Brown, P.S.

L.U. 108 (ees,em,es,lctt,mar,mt,rtb,rts,s,spa,t&u), TAMPA, FL — Local 108 visited several schools in the Tampa Bay Area last year to share electrical safety tips with students and staff. It was a beautiful day in the Florida sunshine as numerous IBEW members accepted this rewarding challenge. The annual Great American Teach In was a huge success and partially sponsored by Tampa Electric Company, an Emera-owned property.

Pictured in the Local 108 photo is IBEW member Chaz Carter, a TECO fleet technician, who described for the students how insulators protect line workers from the energized lines. Everyone was grateful for the opportunity to serve in our local community. As we all consider other options to serve again in the future, Local 108 wants to wish you and your loved ones a fantastic new year in 2020.

James "Bruce" Bailey, P.S.

L.U. 126 (catv,lctt,o&t), PHILADELPHIA, PA — IBEW Local 126 is proud to welcome all the graduates from Boot Camp 30. There was no shortage of hard work, determination and peer motivation! Thanks to all the instructors and members who have passed along their knowledge of the trade, ensuring another generation of safe, productive line workers to energize our communities.

With the close of 2019, we are happy to have another year of gainful employment for our membership and travelers who have helped us fill job calls through this extremely busy period.

As always, organizing has been a top priority throughout the jurisdiction with several bottom-up campaigns in the works. In addition to overseeing all organizing campaigns, Bus. Mgr. Richard Muttik is routinely involved in top-down meetings, which often result in new contractors partnering with IBEW 126 and new work opportunities for the membership.

We would like to wish all our brothers and sisters throughout the United States and Canada a happy and healthy 2020.

Michael Simmonds, P.S.

L.U. 130 (i), NEW ORLEANS, LA — Victory in Louisiana! Thanks to all the brothers and sisters of the AFL-CIO, Louisiana Building Trades and the IBEW, our good friend John Bel Edwards was reelected as governor. He did so despite a three-time campaign visit by Pres. Trump supporting Republican opposition. Gov. Edwards is a man of integrity and has proven himself to labor by his actions.

These are the victories we need. Our members need to understand that the biggest threat to unions are politicians who support anti-union agenda. We cannot get swept up with social issues when our livelihood is a stake. Anti-worker politicians have been quietly introducing proposals and bills that most of us are unaware of. In the past year we have watched and fought proposals that attack our pensions, apprenticeship, health care and union dues. Arguments for the proposals were constructed in a way to deceive the public of their true nature by appearing to be helpful suggestions. We are blessed that the IBEW has kept us informed, and now we need to contact our senators and representatives about our concerns. Members need to make a strong stand, contact our political directors and commit to the fight. Volunteer today, make a difference to save your union.

At our Annual Service Pin Ceremony & Dinner, nearly 200 members and family attended. It was good seeing older members, mentors and friends. In a family legacy presentation, Local 130 Bus. Mgr. Paul Zulli received his 35-year pin and his uncle Ralph Zulli received his 65-year pin. Congratulations to everyone who received service pins.

As of Dec. 2, our Inside wage rate was increased to $31.65 along with increases to our Pension and Health & Welfare Plan. The work picture is steady. We have jobs on the books ready to start in the new year. There are also some large projects our contractors anticipate getting.

Best wishes to all for a good new year ahead.

Billy Buckel, P.S.

L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — For the past five years, IBEW Local 134 has collaborated with the City of Chicago on the tree lighting ceremony. The city celebrated the 106th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Nov. 23, 2019, at Millennium Park. The tree was a 55-foot blue spruce, donated by a Chicago area family.

IBEW Local 134 adorned this giant tree with 1,025 multi-colored strings of commercial LED lights. That's a total of 54,875 red, blue, yellow and green lights! The brothers and sisters of the IBEW worked hard behind the scenes to help deliver a beautifully lit tree for all to enjoy!

Kevin Connolly, R.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — In December, service pins and certificates were awarded. Receiving 50-year pins: Bob Anderson, Roy Bell, David Cimarrusti, Chris Holst, Tom Jakaitis, Tony Lucente, George McNeill, Dave Nichols, Andy Philyaw, Gerald Smith, Pat Smith, Bob Sorensen, and Randy Teigland. Receiving 55-year pins: Jerry Jorski, Bob Koziol, Al Maatta, Ray Musich, Armand Sheffield, Dave Simpson, and Mike Wiggins. Jerry Cole, Chuck Hamlin, Ron Krantz, Chris Lazzaretto, Leo McGrain, George Pieracci, Fred Russell, Ken Umbdenstock, and Bruce Young received 60-year pins. And 65-year pins were received by: Rick Roberts and Gerry Wicks. Two members who are no longer with us would have been receiving pins: Al Gear for 60 years, and Denver Kelly for 65 years. We thank them for their many years of service to Local 150.

Continuing education classes being offered now are: OSHA 10, OSHA 20, motor control, changes to 2020 Code, and building automation (all are CEU courses). In addition, IMSA certification work zone safety, IMSA level I, IMSA level II, structured wiring fundamentals, and an ARC welding brush-up session are being offered but are not CEU eligible courses.

The year 2020 is an election year. Please pay attention and we can undo this horrible mess. In solidarity.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — As we begin the new year, we would like to take a moment to acknowledge two events at the end of 2019. First, our fifth-semester apprentices completed their five-year curriculum and have entered the intermediate apprenticeship portion of our program and are beginning to top out. We are excited for our new journeymen and look forward to all they will accomplish in the years to come. We wish them a safe, healthy, prosperous and productive career.

Also, Local 164 would like to acknowledge the retirement of Bro. Paul Lagana, assistant training director for our telecom program. Paul began his career in 1979 as a field tech, and in 1989 he became an instructor for our telecom division. In 1999, he was appointed assistant training director and developed our four-year telecom apprenticeship program curriculum. He was also appointed to serve on the NJATC Advisory + Education Committee. Paul always put the training and safety of our members first. The officers, staff and members of Local 164 would like to thank Paul for his many years of professionalism, dedication and service to our local and we wish him a happy and healthy retirement.

Warren Becker, V.P.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — Work has remained steady despite cooler weather rapidly descending upon us, with calls trickling in and keeping the out-of-work list at a reasonable level. We are expecting this trend to continue through the winter months until some of the larger projects anticipated for 2020 can break loose.

This holiday season was enjoyable, bringing events like the annual holiday party after our December union meeting and the Brunch with Santa. These have traditionally engaged large portions of the membership and brought good spirits, and this season was no different.

Local 236 continues to support Albany Medical Center nurses and the New York State Nurses Association (NYSNA), who have been tirelessly fighting to obtain their first union contract since April 2018. Safe levels of staffing are high on the list of requirements for a fair contract for the nurses, along with a more patient-centric approach to care and an area-appropriate pay and benefit package. The strength and solidarity they have witnessed despite trying times have been invigorating, and we anticipate a positive outcome for them.

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. 332 (c,ees,i&st), SAN JOSE, CA — Electrical infrastructure. Throughout the United States, many aspects of the electrical infrastructure need upgrading or repair. For us here in California, we recognize the challenges the state and the public utility have had in keeping the electrical infrastructure reliable and up to date.

With the demands placed on the various public utilities, we might be called on to work on facets of the electrical system that may not be customarily part of the typical project scope. Take for example, medium voltage systems. Because of the demands on the public utility, some facilities have already recognized the value of customer owned medium voltage infrastructure, and it is not difficult to imagine that more end-users will consider customer owned medium voltage installations. Many aspects of these systems require specialty training, certification, and testing. Being ready for any increase in this type of work is the course of wisdom.

Local 332 recognizes this potential impact and is wisely making efforts to be prepared. How so? Well, currently, a class is being held at the JATC in medium voltage cable splicing. Mind you, this isn't simply an ordinary splicing class. This class is participating in "train-the-trainer" curriculum so that these "instructors" will better be able to prepare the next wave of cable splicers should that impact occur.

Real-world training. Real-world skillset. Union proud.

Andrew Rogers, P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — An old Local 340 story, but one that deserves to be repeated. It's about our Annual December IBEW/NECA Operation Christmas Basket Fundraiser. This fundraiser was started in 1981 by two members when they heard that some local charities wanted to give a "hand up" to struggling union working families during the holidays. Brothers Lud Larson and Harry Bain decided to buy a shotgun with their own money and raffle it off at the December membership meeting with the idea of giving the proceeds to the charities. Only $300 was raised that first year, but Operation Christmas Basket was born. Since then thousands and thousands of dollars have been raised through this annual fundraiser and every single dime of the donations distributed to local charities.

This year I'm happy to report the work in our jurisdiction is so strong that we didn't have a long list of Local 340 members needing help at Christmas, but that didn't affect the generosity of our signatory employers, affiliates and members. Close to $8,000 was raised in December and donated to three different local charities providing food and toys to Sacramento union families throughout all of the union trades. To me, that's the true meaning of Christmas spirit and unionism.

Wishing you all good health, success and happiness in the new year.

Robert D. Ward, B.M.

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — On Wednesday, Nov. 13, IBEW Local 364 held our retiree luncheon at our banquet hall. Close to 100 members and their spouses enjoyed an afternoon of good food and solidarity. This event continues to grow each year and we hope even more members will attend in the future. Bus. Mgr. Alan Golden thanked everyone in attendance and noted that if it wasn't for their hard work in the past, we wouldn't be able to enjoy our present success.

On Saturday, Dec. 14, Local 364 held its annual Kids Christmas Party. This is by far our largest event each year, where close to 500 members and their families enjoy the spirit of the season. Entertainment included face painting, balloon animals, arts and crafts — and of course everyone's favorite, an appearance by San "Ty" Claus. Performed perfectly by retired Bro. Howard "Ty" Hillman, San "Ty" makes sure every child has an opportunity to sit and go over their list with him and also receive a gift from Santa's elves.

At our Christmas union meeting on Dec. 19, honor pins were presented for years of service as well as retiree watches. This is our biggest union meeting of the year and our members are treated to a nice meal and great fellowship.

Heading into 2020, Local 364 has a strong work outlook with the casino project coming as soon as the Illinois Gaming Board approves it. The anticipation around this project is palpable and we eagerly await the start of the project.

Brad Williams, P.S.

L.U. 494 (em,govt,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — John Jacobs, assistant business manager of IBEW Local 494, was recently appointed to represent the Milwaukee Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO, on the Social Development Commission's Board of Commissioners.

The Social Development Commission is the state's largest community action agency. Per state and federal law, it is mandated to help and advocate for Milwaukee County residents living in poverty. After Pres. Lyndon B. Johnson declared a war on poverty, community action agencies grew in popularity. SDC programs and services address issues like employment, education, finance, health and wellness. Most programs are provided at no cost to the participant.

Asst. Bus. Mgr. Jacobs looks forward to spreading the good word about jobs and to organizing a diverse pool of candidates for local employers, to either be an electrician or another craft. The goal is to create increased opportunities for lifelong, sustainable careers in the trades.

John T. Zapfel, Political Dir.

L.U. 518 (i,rts&spa), GLOBE, AZ — Local 518 recently participated in Globe's Historic Downtown District Light Parade for the first time in over 10 years.

We had great participation from our members, and a lot of help from our apprentices. The 2019 parade had record number attendance, along with over 50 entries. And although our local's entry did not win Best of Show, we did receive Honorable Mention and lots of cheers. We look forward to doing it again next year, bigger, better and brighter!

M. Domenic Marcanti, B.M.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — The annual Local 530 dinner/dance was held recently and enjoyed by all who attended. The turnout was said to have been one of the best in recent years. Service pins were awarded at the gathering. Among attendees who received service pins were Bro. Ted Winsor, who received his 65-year pin, and Bro. Eric Lawton, who received his 45-year pin. Bro. Lawton is Local 530's oldest member at 96 years young. Congratulations to all the service-pin recipients.

We also held our annual kids Christmas party, where 214 children of local union members received gifts, everyone enjoyed family skating — and of course the visit from Santa was a highlight enjoyed by all.

At this writing 2019 was winding down, with Local 530 enjoying full employment (along with 20 travellers as of Dec. 5) — thanks to work at the Nova Chemicals expansion, major projects and turnaround work at Imperial Oil, along with activities at our other local refineries Shell and Suncor. The work picture for 2020 continues to look strong.

Kendal Zimmerman, P.S.

L.U. 540 (i), CANTON, OHIO — As the new year starts, Local 540 would like to congratulate all members who have reached milestones with their years of service through 2019.

We would like to specially recognize the following members, who have reached significant milestones: Joseph Abbonizio, David Archinal, Frank Hann and James Stephens — for 65 years of servcie; William Kieffer, James Krichbaum, James Ungashick, James Johnson and Donald Milarcik — for 60 years; Olin Geer, Hugo Icardi and Robert Schaub — for 55 years; and William Draher, Gene Kettering, Mark Shearer, Timothy Sproul, Donald Steenrod and James Turns — for 50 years.

Congratulations, everyone, and all the best for many more years to come.

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

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,lctt,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — Greetings, brothers and sisters. The year 2019 was a very fulfilling year for Local 558. At this writing, the Mazda/Toyota project is in full swing with plenty of work for our local members and several traveling IBEW members as well. The local has also organized Maytag Aircraft Services on Redstone Arsenal, broadening our footprint at that facility.

With the close of another thankful year, the local presented service pins to members during the November union meeting. The presentation was for 25 years of service on up to 70 years of service. Pictured below is Bro. Donald B. Canaday, who received his 70-year service pin. Local 558 would like to congratulate all who received service pins and thank them for their dedication and commitment to this local union in making it what it is today.

On a joyous note, the Local 558 Retirees Club had their Christmas Dinner on Dec. 12. They had a great crowd of retirees and spouses in attendance. This is such a great time for retirees to tell their stories of "back in the day." In closing, Local 558 hopes that all had happy and safe holidays and will enjoy a wonderful new year ahead.

Mac Sloan, Pres./Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — The work outlook for the jurisdiction looks promising in the new year as several large projects are slated to increase manpower by winter's end. It has been, according to older members, over 40 years since the Richmond skyline boasted four cranes belonging to union projects.

The first ever Stephen W. Baker/Herbert W. Baker Scholarship was awarded to apprentice Paul Rivera Ojeda. The scholarship was founded by Mrs. Baker, widow of member Stephen Baker, as a way to help newer members while honoring the memory of her late husband and father-in-law. Plans are to make this an annual scholarship.

We also extend warm congratulations to Bro. Barry Barrett, winner of the Virginia Department of Labor's Industry Apprentice of the Year Award, and to Bro. Kevin Bryant, who represented Virginia at the Ideal National Competition.

On Nov. 5, 2019, the combined efforts of unions across Virginia helped usher in significant victories in the state Senate and House, turning the Commonwealth "blue" for the first time in over two decades. We sincerely thank our membership for such a strong showing and look forward to their continued involvement as we take the voice of labor to the halls of power this legislative session.

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 — The local has embarked on a jurisdiction-wide education effort to inform members of a recent plan proposed by two U.S. senators that would be harmful to multiemployer pension plans, and the local is asking our members to contact their senators to voice their opposition. [Editor's Note: To read more, see two news articles — " There's a Terrible New Plan to Tax Your Retirement — Help Us Fight It Today" (Dec. 6, 2019) and " Tell Your Senators, Don't Tax My Retirement" (Dec. 10, 2019) — posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/articles.]

On Saturday, Dec. 7, we helped distribute food to 18 food banks in our southern 16 counties, after raising almost $25,000 for this effort, with some matching assistance from Kroger. Our members always respond to our neighbors in need and recognize the importance of this annual event.

We have new six-year agreements at SEMO Electric Cooperative for both the Line Workers and Clerical groups. At Pemiscot Dunklin Electric Cooperative, we have a new five-year agreement with 3% annual wage increases.

We have a new three-year Line Clearance Agreement with wage increases, LINECo paid insurance and a second year NEAP pension improvement.

Our Lineman Training Facility continues to expand as we are now hosting Rubber Gloving Training and other facets of line work to several of our contractors and properties.

On Dec. 7, the local recognized apprentice linemen promoted to journeyman in 2019. [See accompanying photo taken at the Dec. 7 event.] Graduates in attendance at the event were: Kyler Bosaw, Aaron Smith, John Trotter, Jacob Persman, Elliott Shoemaker, Daniel Henderson, Erik Moss, Clay Williams, Dylan Kosydor, Jon Beisner, Ryan Baker, J. D. Ray, Trevor Fitch, Conner Hughart, Brennon McCord, Troy Schafer, Kenton Parmley and Justin Nicholson.

As of this writing, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction — 83, Outside Construction — 15, Line Clearance — 2.

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

L.U. 716 (em,i,lctt,rts&spa), HOUSTON, TEXAS — Hello, brothers and sisters. I hope all had a great holiday season and a safe and happy New Year's. From Houston, we wish everyone all the best. The work situation in Local 716 continues to be a little slow as of this writing — but our contractors have been bidding quite a bit of work, so we are expecting work to start picking up soon. Thanks to all the local unions that are putting our members to work.

We welcome our new, recently signed contractors to Houston; thanks for coming on board to one of the best IBEW locals.

Thanks to all who volunteered their time to help decorate the hall for the Children's and Adult's Christmas Parties. We appreciate all the members who helped fill candy bags and helped to serve the 400+ children of our members. A big thank-you to the members who stayed after the children's party to set up for the Adult's Party that night. And we thank those who donated door prizes for the Adult's Christmas Party.

Our condolences go out to all brothers and sisters who've recently lost loved ones.

With the elections coming soon, we encourage all members and their families who are not registered to vote to get registered and then vote.

David R. Alley, Pres.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — Local 760 congratulates Mr. Charles E. Simcox on receiving his 75-year service award pin and certificate from the IBEW.

Mr. Simcox started his IBEW career in 1944. Take it easy, Mr. Simcox, and thank you from all of us for your loyalty and dedication to the IBEW. Your strength, passion and resolve are an example for all to follow.

"I love the man that can smile in trouble, that can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection. 'Tis the business of little minds to shrink, but he whose heart is firm, and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death." — Thomas Paine

Jason Leary, A.B.M./Organizer

L.U. 776 (i,o,rts&spa), CHARLESTON, SC — Hello from the sunny South! We just inducted six new members at our most recent meeting as of this writing, and we are also welcoming our newest signatory contractor, Amp'd Electric! Our new contractor is hiring a few now with more to come soon. The paper mill project in Florence is in full swing; there are almost always a few calls a week for that work and it is paying per diem. Florence is nice with its lakes and hills and short drive to Myrtle Beach.

We had a very serious presentation about the threat to our pensions being pushed by Republican U.S. Sens. Charles Grassley and Lamar Alexander. Those are two experienced politicians and I'm sure they have done some good things for their states, Iowa and Tennessee, respectively, but they have proposed a terrible plan to raise taxes on our retirement benefits, while at the same time dishing out tremendous subsidies and tax breaks to large corporations, agribusiness and what-have-you. This is not really about balancing the budget. This is about breaking our union, our power over our own lives. The membership has signed up to write letters, make phone calls and visit our U.S. senators in person. Each of us will do what we feel we do best. We all need to let them know we are here, and we are watching them. All 800,000 of us! [Editor's Note: To read more, see two news articles — " There's a Terrible New Plan to Tax Your Retirement — Help Us Fight It Today" (Dec. 6, 2019) and " Tell Your Senators, Don't Tax My Retirement" (Dec. 10, 2019) — posted on the IBEW website at www.ibew.org/media-center/articles.]

Andrew Weiner, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Happy new year! It is a brand new year and we all have a clean slate to work with. Let's all work together and make some positive changes!

We have come to the end of an era. Tucson Electric Power has begun the decommissioning process for the Sundt Power Plant, which was built in 1958 as the Irvington Generating Station. The station has provided power to TEP's customers for 60 years. The company is turning to more renewable energy sources and reciprocating gas (RICE) engines to provide power to its customers.

We have an election of officers coming up this spring. Nominations are in May and elections will be in June.

The third annual Off-Road Fun Run and Camp Out will be Saturday, April 4, in the Patagonia Mountains. We have a great trail planned out this year!

Brothers and sisters, remember that when dealing with our companies and management, business is business. We may trust our management and think "he/she is my friend." Your pal is your pal on Friday night when you're out for happy hour, but come Monday morning, that "pal" is your boss. Think about what you say before you say it. On another note, if you have an issue at work with a fellow member, try speaking with that person about it first. Or talk to your union steward, who can act as a mediator. We do not need to involve management in every office issue.

I encourage our younger members to consider running for office and getting involved in the union. "From generation to generation, lights are extinguished, and darkness threatens until someone stoops to bear the torch." — Laurence Overmire

The Local 1116 leadership thanks all the members who attend union meetings and stay involved. This is your local and you have a voice.

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

L.U. 1340 (i&o), NEWPORT NEWS, VA — At the regular monthly meeting of Oct. 23, 2019, the oath of obligation was taken by eight new members, all currently indentured apprentices: Joseph Anderson, Dominique Byrd, Thomas Denardi, Nicholas Fisher, Charles Goetz, Robert Love, Dalton Parrow and Robert Walters. Boyd Saunders also transferred as an apprentice from IBEW Local 429. Charles's father, retired member Marty Goetz, was on hand to witness his son's obligation. We welcome these new brothers and wish them the best our trade has to offer!

On Oct. 29, the Hampton Roads JATC dedicated its newly outfitted training lab with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located in New Horizons Technical Center North Campus, this facility will greatly enhance the JATC's ability to offer hands-on training for electrical workers of all classifications to develop skills necessary to succeed in our trade. It required the efforts of many individuals and groups to bring together, and we look forward to reaping its benefits for many years.

Local 1340 members volunteered many hours to elect AFL-CIO endorsed majorities to the Virginia Legislature, and we look forward to working with them to improve working and living conditions for all citizens of the Commonwealth.

Jim Avery, P.S.