L.U. 3 (catv,em,govt,i,lctt,mo,o,t&u), NEW YORK, NY — As Hurricane Isaias made its way from the Caribbean up the East Coast, wind speeds exceeded 70-80 mph. On Aug. 4, it took the Tri-State area by surprise and quickly became the most destructive natural disaster since Superstorm Sandy. Trees and power lines were down everywhere, leaving more than 2.5 million people without electricity.

Enter the union workers employed by electrical contractors and utility providers in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Over half of the outages were restored within 24 hours and work continued through the weekend. Local 3 members responded in all five boroughs plus Westchester County. Members of the Outside Line and "J" Divisions got the job done for E-J Electric Installation Co., Hellman Electric, and Welsbach Electric, to name a few.

Fallen trees and branches littered the streets and courtyards around Electchester, Local 3's housing complex. Removal took place over the 48 hours following the storm. Clearview Tree Service was one of the many crews doing tree removal there. Local 3 linemen and electricians worked day and night over the next one to two weeks, as did members of Local 1049 on Long Island, UWUA Local 1-2 at Con Edison, and CWA.

Richard N. Duva, B.R.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNER'S GROVE, IL — Local 15 mourns the loss of longtime member Susanne Misichko. Susanne passed on May 7, 2020. Our Local sends condolences to her family and loved ones. Sister Misichko had been an IBEW member since September of 1970; she had nearly 50 years of service with the IBEW and ComEd.

Susanne started at Commonwealth Edison as an Operating Clerk III in Chicago. She filled positions as a Customer Service Representative, Construction Order Clerk and then as a Customer Credit Representative, where she wrapped up her career. Susanne will be missed by her peers; she was a dedicated and experienced member of our local. Rest in peace, Sister Misichko.

Local 15 members working for Exelon Nuclear were able to complete four outages this spring. Lasalle, Braidwood, Byron and Quad Cities stations all performed refuel outages. There was a reduction in tasks performed and fewer man-hours worked due to the COVID-19 situation. The work was completed, however, and the stations were back online as scheduled. Congratulations to the nuclear members for a job well done.

Local 15 would like to express our gratitude to all the first responders working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for your services! Stay safe.

S. Studer, P.S.

L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NB — Heart-related emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. Just ask Local 37 member Mike Corey. He recently saved a man's life while waiting for his coffee in the drive-thru.

Mike, a 7-year member of the IBEW and meter changer employed with New Brunswick Power, decided to grab a coffee on way to his next job. When the vehicle ahead of him in the drive-thru didn't move, two staff members came out to check and then called for help. Mike jumped out his truck to find the driver unresponsive but still breathing.

Mike immediately sprang into action by taking the man's pulse and starting CPR. After just a few compressions, the man started coughing. Moments later paramedics arrived and continued responding until he was stable enough to transport to the hospital. Mike helped load him into the ambulance and then stayed on site to help comfort those who witnessed the event.

As Mike's heroic story illustrates, it's so important to have CPR training. If you've never taken a class or need a refresher, please do. You never know when you may need to jump in and help save a life just like Mike did.

Mary Williamson, A.B.M.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u,&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings brothers & sisters, here are updates from our units: Anaheim & Colton — Bargaining continues with more dates scheduled; Banning — City proposed both groups give some form of unpaid furloughs due to the economic downturn, results of COVID-19; Irvine Ranch Water District — Working through housing rental agreement; City of Long Beach — City requested a re-opener due to the budget deficit with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, also organizing the Supervisor's Unit; San Bernardino County Water — County wanted to hold the new top step wage, but have decided to hold off; Line clearance tree trimmers — We're continuing to keep contractors honest. Representatives are in the field cleaning up membership paperwork; Morongo — We have an arbitration scheduled with the Tribal Court for a grievance on scheduled shift changes; Edison — On the Irwindale Body Broker Case, the arbitrator ruled the company didn't violate the agreement and denied the grievance.

Local 47's Christmas celebration has been canceled due to COVID-19 restrictions.

We're saddened to report the deaths of Local 47's brothers Matt Foreman, Larry Matthews and Charles Anderson, as well as Eric Wickstrom from Local 2150, who was working in our jurisdiction. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.

Mitch Smith, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — For years, the energy generation landscape in Illinois has been challenging for in-state producers. With no relief in sight and the recent closure of four coal plants, there are legitimate concerns about pricing and reliability. The Illinois State Conference of the IBEW and each affected local have prioritized energy legislation. Renewable resources are an emerging part of the energy sector; however, the importance of baseload generation cannot be overlooked. At least for the foreseeable future, it will need to remain a major source of reliable energy. There is an immediate need for all the stakeholders to come together and come up with common sense solutions. Local 51 will continue to work with our employers as well as other stakeholders and legislators to find viable solutions.

Because of the generosity of our members and sponsors, we were able to award 15 annual scholarships via a blind draw this summer. The winners (and member sponsor) are: David Pluester (Daniel Pluester), Charles W. Corley III (Bill Corley), Gavin Regnier (Mike Regnier), Erin Lingenfelter, Hannah Carpenter (Cecil Carpenter), Katelin Dirr (Jill Dirr), Haley Ginger (Mike Ginger), Adrienne Snethen (Brad Snethen), Dawn Sarginson (Shane Sarginson), Andrew Cook (Tony Cook), Chesleigh Shreves (Scott Shreves), Mitchell Aimone (Jeff Aimone), Matthew Buttry (Cale Cecil), Ian Smith (Kathryn Smith-Frank), and Lauren Pals (Aaron Pals).

We regret to inform you that Brother James B. Masten passed away in May. Brother Masten was initiated into Local 51 in July 1966. In 1994 he transferred to Local 702, but returned back to his home local in June 2006. Our condolences to his family.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 55 (c,lctt,o&u), DES MOINES, IA — Two Local 55 brothers are currently deployed overseas with the Iowa National Guard.

Brandon Hargens enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard in 2010 and served as a Blackhawk helicopter mechanic for two years. In 2012 he became a crew chief, where he coordinated maintenance, flew as a door gunner and was responsible for cargo and passengers while in flight. In 2019 he completed nonrated crewmember flight instructor school. On top of flying missions, he now trains and evaluates other crew chiefs on flight duties. He is currently on his second deployment overseas after serving in Iraq in 2014-15. In 2017, he joined the Missouri Valley Apprenticeship Program, where he is currently a 4th-step JL apprentice.

Sergeant Major Ricky Ayala enlisted as an Infantryman into A Co. 1-133rd IN Iowa National Guard in October 2001. He received basic and advanced individual training at Ft. Benning, Ga. Sergeant Major Ayala spent nearly 18 years in Assassin Company, where he grew through the ranks. Sergeant Major Ayala is currently enrolled in the U.S. Sergeant Major Academy and holding the position in HHC as the Command Sergeant Major. Sergeant Major Ayala deployed to Afghanistan in 2004 as driver/ gunner, to Kosovo in 2007 as a driver/rifleman and to Afghanistan again in 2010 as a squad leader. He is currently deployed to the Middle East for his fourth overseas assignment. Sergeant Major Ayala became a member of Local 55 in November 2006 and is a journeyman lineman.

The officers and membership of Local 55 thank Brothers Hargens and Ayala for their service to our country and our local union.

Terri Vitiritto, Treas.

L.U. 77 (lctt,mt,o,t&u), SEATTLE, WA — On Feb. 27, 2020, Brother Daniel Hoffman, an apprentice hydro operator for Columbia Basin Hydro, was involved in a horrific vehicle accident while on the job. The injuries from the accident left Daniel a quadriplegic. Upon hearing the sad news, the brothers and sisters of Local 77 sprang into action and put together a benefit raffle for Brother Hoffman. Donations and raffle items started to roll in from all over Local 77's jurisdiction. Because of COVID-19, the fundraiser was held online and live via Facebook. All said and done, $7,800 was raised from the online raffle. This could not have been possible if not for the incredible brothers and sisters of this great union. Lindsay Hoffman, Daniel's wife, was beyond grateful to Local 77 and its members. Special thanks goes out to members Sara Langus, Josh Ressa, Brandon Arkle, Business Rep. Jen Watson and Business Rep. Dave Garegnani. Please work safe, play safe and be safe.

Brandon Arkle, Exec. Board

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — As this crazy year continues Local 103 is pushing through! We've never experienced obstacles and challenges like we've seen this year. COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on every aspect of our lives. It has brought us stress and anxiety about our kids' school schedules, adjusting to new safety measures, economic uncertainty and the cancellation of many events that we look forward to throughout the year.

But, despite it all, we're doing our best to have a productive year at Local 103. Jobs have re-opened and we continue to safely go back to work.

Local 103 hosted our very first Family Drive-in Movie Night in September. Moms, Dads and kids sat safely in their cars, on blankets and beach chairs and enjoyed a drive-in movie just like the old days. It was another great family event for the membership.

Business Manager/Financial Secretary Lou Antonellis announced that we won another huge mega-infrastructure project at Logan Airport's Terminal E. Local 103's plan to take back the airport is working and it's paying off for our contractors and members.

I look forward to seeing you all very soon, but in the meantime please keep yourselves and your families safe and healthy. Be vigilant and careful as you interact with each other. Wear a mask, social distance and, most importantly, take care of yourselves.

Jimmy Fleming, R.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — During these challenging times, it is important not to lose sight of who we are. As our IBEW Constitution's Declaration says, "Our cause is the cause of human justice, human rights, human security." Thus, we must serve our communities.

Cheryl Arrant, a member of Local 125's staff, searched for a place to donate blood and was not successful. After talking with Business Manager Travis Eri, she polled staff and elected officers to gauge interest. Once certain that we could meet the Red Cross requirements, Arrant arranged the local's first blood drive on Sept. 1.

"We are all service-minded," Arrant said. "This was a great way to do something together while providing a necessary resource for our community. Giving blood is simple, and it can truly save lives." Eri commended Arrant for organizing the event. "Cheryl identified a need and found a way to meet it. It was great to see everyone jump on board and participate."

Based on the event's success, the local will explore hosting another blood drive and open it up to our membership in the Portland area as well. Visit www.redcrossblood.org for information to consider hosting an event for your unit.

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 177 (bo,ees,govt,i,mo,o&pet), JACKSONVILLE, FL — Local 177's Executive Board made the decision to purchase some TV time, and because of the pandemic, we got a pretty good deal. Local 177 has our own half-hour TV show airing once a month on two different local channels for six months.

We just finished our first show and covered topics such as, "Who is IBEW 177?," and some of the history of Local 177, Labor Day and the labor movement. We will have different topics each month. It was a lot of fun doing the show but a lot more work than expected since none of us are real celebrities.

As of press time we have lost one brother to COVID-19 and 42 others have tested positive that we know of. Hopefully by the time this is published the virus will be subsiding. Work has slowed for our area because of the pandemic and several projects have been postponed to future dates. But the Spring of 2021 looks pretty good for us as we see it now with FIS and Kings Bay each taking around 80 men, plus several more hospital projects scheduled for next year. Thanks goes out to all the locals that have been able to employ our traveling brothers and sisters.

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

L.U.197 (es & i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — We would like to thank our members who have been performing through the COVID-19 epidemic. We have been deemed as essential workers and it is about time the public takes notice about how important we are to society. The professionalism of showing up to work, following guidelines and continuing to complete projects is a great testament to our trade.

Recently we had nominations for officers and all of the officers were elected by proclamation. Congratulations to the officers, and we are looking forward to leading the local for the next three years. Thanks to Brothers Jake Goar and Greg Potter, who have served as vice president and Executive Board chairman. Both of these brothers have been dedicated to the local and the entire labor movement. They have proven to be excellent role models for younger members, and we hope new incoming members have the same dedication to the IBEW as these two.

Our work has picked up this year and thanks to all the travelers and our local members for shining. The reports coming in from customers and contractors are encouraging. Keep up the good work, get involved in the local and stay involved!

Mike Raikes, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 213 (c,catv,em,i&u), VANCOUVER, BC — "Consistently Buzzed," the team representing Kamloops, BC, Local 993 took the crown in the first IBEW Cyber Games on June 20. The multi-team online game/E-sports tournament started as an effort to connect members within Local 213's NextGen but quickly snowballed into a Canada-wide event with over 50 members representing 11 locals from Vancouver Island to Nova Scotia.

Second place went to "Six Two Dive" from Halifax, NS, Local 625, and third went to "Say Watt," a team made up of members from LU 213 and Hamilton, ON, Local 105.

"In this time of physical distancing, we were looking for a way to stay connected and engaged within our NextGen members," said Manny Randhawa, Local 213 NextGen Committee Chair. "We proposed a cyber games tournament, and the idea caught fire."

Members could register individually, or as a team of three. As word spread amongst the First District locals, the tournament quickly filled up, and a waitlist was needed well before registration closed.

In addition to bragging rights, up for grabs were Milwaukee power tools, Bose bluetooth speakers, and a plethora of IBEW swag. Keep an eye on ibew213.org/ibew-cyber-games for our next tournament, where we hope to go North America wide.

"We'll be turning this into an annual event so for all IBEW gamers out there, start practicing," Randhawa said.

Todd Nickel, P.S.

L.U. 245 (govt, lctt, o, rtb, & u), TOLEDO, OH — In my almost 50 years in the IBEW I have never seen our union go three consecutive months without a monthly union meeting, but I did this year. We had our first union meeting in four months in June while adhering to all the new guidelines. This was very different, but it went off without a hitch. We have seen a lot of changes in the last few months wearing masks, social distancing, and varied work schedules. Although these things are inconvenient, they seem to be working. As of this writing we have no known cases of the virus among our membership. Keep up the good work.

With all that said, the hall has not just been sitting idle. Besides the meetings and conference calls, they have completed all pending negotiations. The Davis-Besse contract is up next and will be the first negotiations with Energy Harbor.

Energy Delivery graduated another class of linemen in June to bolster their ranks. Work on the Outside is good and looks to continue to the end of the year. We also had a few of our Outside apprentices graduate to journeymen. We wish all the new journeymen a long and safe career.

Lastly, we have union elections coming up this fall with nominations being made at the September union meeting. Eligibility to run for an office is a two-year membership in good standing. Retirements are taking a toll on the union leadership, and there will be many holes to fill. Please consider running for one of these positions. Until next time, work safe and follow existing guidelines.

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 257 (em,i,rtb,rts,spa&t), JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Members of Local 257 working for signatory contractor Meyer Electric recently wrapped up a nearly two-year renovation of the Missouri State Capitol in Jefferson City. The $30 million project refurbished parts of the 105-year-old building's crumbling façade and dome. Pictured, a crane lifted the 10-foot, 6-inch statue of Ceres, Roman goddess of agriculture, back atop the dome near the end of the project.

Anthony Edwards, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — At the writing of this article, times are anything but normal. The COVID-19 virus has upended life as we know it in our local, in our country and in the world. With all aspects of American business being severely curtailed or shut down completely, the construction industry has not been immune to the unprecedented challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Layoffs, furloughs and unplanned time off has been the order of the day. Countless brothers and sisters are finding out firsthand how lucky they are to have the exemplary support system provided by their local union as they try to navigate these most trying of times.

That being said, there were still job sites open in the midst of the pandemic, and our members were on site to make sure the work got done. Fortunately, PPE is second nature to our workforce, so our members had no trouble familiarizing themselves with all the equipment needed to make sure they work safely while always keeping in mind the safety of others. And making sure all workers have access to the proper equipment should be priority No. 1 for all our union contractors as well as our leadership at the hall. Be well and stay safe.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV — It is with much pride we would like to introduce to you the recipients of this year's scholarship: Symone Walker, Mara Lee, Lauryn Strange, Giovanni Corley and Ashlyn Riggio.

We are proud of all of our graduating seniors and hope that they have bright futures, whatever path they may take. With great satisfaction, we offer these ladies a helping hand on the next adventure in their lives.

We would also like to shout out to the Volunteer Action Committee (VAC) for their hard work and service to our community. This past month our members spent a day of service at the Rescue Mission here in Las Vegas delivering much needed supplies for the men, women, and children who find themselves in need.

We are grateful to all of our members that step up when the call for assistance is made.

In these times, we wish you all well and good health.

Jennifer Templin, P.S.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees,et,govt,i&mo), ALLENTOWN, PA — The last few months have been interesting in navigating our "new normal." When the shutdown orders first hit the counties we service, we worked hard to get answers for our membership throughout all of our industries. On the construction side, we would like to thank the International Office for working with the National Electrical Contractors Association and putting together the National Disease Emergency Response Agreement (NDERA) in such a timely manner. This agreement provided some clarity and stability to our membership throughout the early stages of the ongoing pandemic.

Local 375 has been working tirelessly to get all of our members back to work safely. Although we have had one of the best summers in years as far as manpower and job numbers, we are anticipating that work will slow down a bit throughout the fall and winter seasons. However, our local will continue to work with the developers, the Chamber, our political friends and foes, and of course the most important, our customers, to ensure future work opportunities for our membership. Stay Safe. Stay Healthy.

Justin Grimshaw, A.B.M.

L.U.449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, ID — I hope that everyone and their family and friends are well and safe. This year has been hard for everyone. The constantly changing guidelines about the COVID-19 virus from the CDC, OSHA, the Department of Labor and the states have had our members and contractors scrambling for any information they can get. We all need to work together to keep each other safe.

Fortunately, our trade requires that skilled craftsmen and women have to be physically on the job to get the work done. Work in the local has been fairly steady with some calls coming in still.

Congratulations to Brothers Clarence Hammond, Thomas Dahlquist, Lynn Greener, David Inskeep, David Mitani and Sister Kathy Petersen on their retirements. Thank you for being part of the local, and I hope you have a long and exciting retirement. We remember Brothers Kenneth Rinehart, Mike Harrington and James Weimer, and our heartfelt condolences go out to their families and friends. I did not have the opportunity to know Ken, and I worked for Mike several times. Jim was the first training director that worked solely for Local 449 and I was one of his teachers. He took our JATC and training in our local to a new level. They will be truly missed.

In closing, I hope everyone stays safe. Look in on your brothers and retirees. Remember, our bonds are what keep us strong.

Chris Lochridge, Pres.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — Local 569 members are hard at work as critical infrastructure workers building stronger communities, and staff continues to build a pipeline of work to rise above the recession.

Recently, the California Air Resources Board adopted a groundbreaking Clean Trucks standard, creating America's largest market for electric trucks. This is a major milestone for cleaner transportation, healthier air and a zero-emissions future, and will accelerate high-quality jobs and skilled training opportunities for IBEW 569 electricians! We were proud to work with fellow unions, environmental and community allies, public health and environmental justice partners to advocate and advance this vital regulation.

Additionally, we have finalized a PLA on $1.4 billion of work for Local 569 and Building Trades members. The San Diego Pure Water PLA has been many years in the making, and we are looking forward to breaking ground on this project that will help our region become water independent.

Finally, we congratulate to our Electrical Training Institute graduating apprenticeship class of 2020! A total of 70 apprentices are now journeymen, and we are so proud of you! We hope to have the class of 2020 join the class of 2021 in one big celebration.

Gretchen Newsom, Political Dir./Organizer

L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Our local union's election was held in July with the runoff held in August. Out of 2,450 members, only 675 ballots were returned. The election winners are Business Manager Pete Trujillo, President Alfonso "Fonzie" Martinez, Recording Secretary Jason "Hippie" Bowers and Treasurer Mark Trujillo. Executive Board members are Julio Vigil, Hunter Wood, Kenny Ortiz, Levi Wilson, Raymond Cantrell, David "Gumpy" Griego and Ruben Romero Jr. Members going to the IBEW convention are Jerome Garcia, Jason "Hippie" Bowers, Pete Trujillo, Baudillio (Bobby) Baca, Mark Trujillo, Hunter Wood, Kenny Ortiz and Laura McCormick. Congratulations to all of the winners and convention delegates.

We have had to cancel our Union meetings due to the pandemic, but we should be opening sometime in the near future.

Santos Griego, a Local 611 member is running for New Mexico State Representative in District 7 in Valencia County. Good luck, Santos. Also, this is a presidential election, so make every effort to vote.

Work had been slow the last several months, but Facebook has been putting in calls since August and work should be picking up soon.

Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone.

On behalf of the local I send condolences to the family and friends of: Henry J. Mall Jr., Dallas Akin, Richard "Chigger" Rarrick, Manuel Alvarado, Donald J. Brady, William Odell, Robert F. Knight, Victor Lajeunesse, Ronald D. Craig, Lyle J. Griffin Jr, Wayne T. Deskin, John W. Mueller, John L. Plath, Doyle Garrett, Roger Hattersley, Guy Ozment, James H. Brown, Stephen "Steve" Justus, Genevieve Sandoval, Sisto A. Garcia and Jerry Billings.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — At a time when social responsibility is of upmost importance, I am reminded of workers' rights pioneer Frances Perkins.

In 1910, Perkins became Executive Secretary of the New York office of the National Consumers League. She campaigned for sanitary regulations for bakeries, fire protection for factories and legislation to limit the working hours for women and children in factories to 54 hours per week.

On March 25th, 1911, she heard fire engines and then witnessed one of the worst workplace disasters in U.S. history. The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire was devastating, killing 146 people, mostly young women and girls. Frances watched as fire escapes collapsed and fireman ladders couldn't reach the women trapped on the 8th floor by the flames. She watched 47 workers leap to their deaths. These women weren't just tragic victims; they were heroes of the labor force. Frances resolved to make sure their deaths meant something. Perkins helped draft the most comprehensive set of laws regarding workplace health and safety in the country. Other states soon followed.

She was asked by President Elect Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1933 to serve as Secretary of Labor. She told him she'd accept the job only if he agreed with her goals: a 40-hour work week, minimum wage, unemployment and worker's compensation, abolition of child labor, federal aid to the states for unemployment, Social Security, a revitalized federal employment service, and universal health insurance. He agreed. Her successes became the foundations of the New Deal and changed the country and its workers forever.

So while you may not know her name, you certainly know her legacy. This is the kind of being that will restore our great nation.

Kenn Perfitt, P.S.

L.U. 627 (u), FORT PIERCE, FL — Greetings, brothers and sisters! It has been quite a while since our last article and we are honored to be back in the Electrical Worker! These have been unprecedented times that have definitely impacted all of our members in one way or another. That being said, Local 627 is extremely proud and confident in our members. These past few months have been a testament to the commitment of our brothers and sisters to provide the safest skilled labor, no matter the odds.

Our 24th Ironman Fundraising event took place Aug. 8 and was a big success despite the current conditions. It was a safe and fun-filled day, raising funds to support youth programs in our community. Local 627 would like to send out a huge thank you to all of the volunteers who made this possible and to the Ironman Committee, led by Brother Peter Allen, for your spirited efforts!

Brothers and sisters, please continue to be your brother's keeper and honor the Code of Excellence with pride, skill and solidarity!

Fernando Salcedo, P.S.

L.U. 649 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), ALTON, IL — A few updates for members from the Local 649 office:

We are currently in negotiations with Argosy Casino; We have completed negotiations with Industrial Motor Repair, with a good wage/benefit increase package; Negotiations at P66 Refinery with the GPPMA are beginning.

COVID-19 has had a negative impact on construction projects, pushing many into 2021. This year's Membership Development Conference was held virtually due to COVID-19. Even while dealing with COVID-19 and the Trump attacks against unions, the IBEW has had a good year in organizing new members into the IBEW. Congrats to all our new IBEW members and congrats to all IBEW organizers on your hard work.

This year's annual Labor Day parade and festivities were canceled due to COVID. This is a very difficult time for many, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all who are struggling and have lost family members during this pandemic. Thoughts and prayers also go out to our deceased members and their families.

Thank you to all organized labor for staying Union Strong during these difficult times. Get out the vote and vote blue!

Terry Wilhite, P.S.

L.U. 683 (i), COLUMBUS, OH — Brothers and sisters, thank you for your understanding and patience during these uncertain and challenging times. Your skill and dedication providing essential services throughout our community during this global pandemic demonstrates what our organization is all about! Local 683 members have gone above and beyond to meet the needs of our customers and community.

Some examples of our members contributions include installing temporary power for a dozen tents outside of many hospitals across the Columbus metro area. The tents, which are now used for coronavirus testing, are also being utilized to assist with social distancing. The installation of these tents alleviates congestion in waiting rooms, lobbies, and many other areas inside the hospitals. In addition, members have worked many hours inside hospitals to prepare for the care of coronavirus and other patients. Members teamed up with Battelle facilities electricians to install the electrical systems in 105 Critical Care Decontamination Units that were shipped all over the U.S. to overwhelmed hospitals where sterile PPE supplies had been depleted. Starting in late March, the critical timeline required the manufacturing team to complete and test, on average, 5 CCDS units a day, completing the 105th on May 1st. Work and stay safe.

Pat Hook, Pres.

L.U. 1049 (lctt,o,u&uow), LONG ISLAND, NY — As of this writing, we at Local 1049 are, God willing, on the tail end of the COVID-19 curve. With the easing of the NY governor's "Pause" mandate, we are slowly returning to "normal". Most of our members who were furloughed are all back to work. Members who have been working from home are slowly returning to the workplace. The pandemic, unfortunately, led to the cancellation of our Annual Golf Tournament, the All Long Island Softball Tournament and our picnic. On behalf of new business manager Pat Guidice, I wish to commend the membership for working safely, all while maintaining the integrity of the electric and gas systems.

Election Day is Nov. 3. Before casting your ballot, ask yourself the following questions: "What has this candidate done for Labor's Issues?"; "What has this candidate done to support workers' rights, collective bargaining, health care and/or the National Labor Relations Board?"; and "Where does this candidate stand on energy issues?" Prior to Election Day, the membership will have received a list of Local 1049-endorsed candidates. These candidates have been fully vetted and they strongly support Labor's issues.

Thomas Dowling, R.S.

L.U. 1205 (em,govt,i&u,), GAINESVILLE, FL — We would like to congratulate the Gainesville Electrical JATC graduating class on their hard work: Andrew Saxon, Dylan Danzeisen, Rowan Singleton, Roger Ellzey, Myron Hargon, David Darby, Matthew Vaughn, Kalob Benton and Greg Smoak. As you graduate, your journey is only beginning. The earning potential for skilled tradesmen is only going to continue to rise. Our industry needs leaders, and you have shown that you have what it takes to lead us into the future. Continue to move forward in your careers and set a fine example to those who will now call you Journeyman.

We would also like to give special recognition to Local 1205's RENEW committee on the fundraising they have been doing. Their most recent raffles and events netted a $1,000 donation to the Local 1205 Sick and Needy Fund. In these uncertain times the selfless acts of these young men and women is indicative of a bright future for our brotherhood.

Jonathan Howell, P.S.

L.U. 1347 (ees,em,ptc&u), CINCINNATI, OH — On Aug. 3, employees of NAES Cooperation, which is located at the Middletown Energy Facility, had a ratification vote for a brand-new collective bargaining agreement between the union and the employer. The organizing campaign began one year ago, with the help of Chad Donathan, Chuck Tippe and Ted Robison. Despite the challenges we faced throughout this pandemic, Local 1347 managed to get the new contract ratified and passed. We are very excited to have these new members join our local and further our relationship with the company. A big welcome to our new members!

Andrew Kirk, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE, MD — Business Manager/President Dion F. Guthrie, who has served his local as business manager for 51 years, had the honor to be elected as a delegate to the Democratic National Convention, held virtually in August due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He served as a delegate for Democratic nominee Joe Biden. Being an elected delegate for a presidential election is an honor Brother Guthrie has achieved for the third time. He was also elected as a delegate to the 2008 Democratic convention in Denver and to the 2012 convention, held in Philadelphia. "This has been an honor and privilege to achieve this record, and I am humbled by the experience," Guthrie said.

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

L.U. 1547 (c,em,i,lctt,o,t&u), ANCHORAGE, AK — The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1547 announced the results of its statewide leadership election.

Dave Reaves was re-elected to a three-year term as business manager/financial secretary. "It's an honor to be re-elected," said Reaves, who ran unopposed. "It's truly humbling. The membership believes we're headed in the right direction. Over the next three years my administration will continue to focus on economic growth, increasing market share, ensuring safety in the workplace, and building solidarity within the membership."

Other members who were elected or re-elected to three-year terms were: President Vince Beltrami; Vice President Jesse Young; Secretary Laura Bonner; Treasurer Cecil Colley III; Executive Board members Eric Runyan (Unit 101), Tim Brannan (Unit 102), Tucker Harper (Unit 103), Sven Westergard (Unit 104); and Examining Board member Randy Taylor (Unit 104).

Melinda Taylor, P.S.

L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Our work situation is great! We are blessed with the largest construction job in the country, the Plant Vogtle addition of Units 3 & 4. This job is currently working a 6-day schedule. We also have other major projects that are working overtime, jobs that we benefit greatly from.

Although we have these projects, there is a whole other nonunion world that would love to have our work, work that we currently control.

There are other projects in the area we were sure that we had, but several were awarded to the nonunion. These are large projects that we work hard to get and are usually competitive because we are more qualified. It alarms me that the nonunion contractors are able to pick up these projects. It also alarms me that our senators and congressmen are actively helping these nonunion contractors get work. In fact, there is a U.S. congressman that owns one of the largest nonunion contractors in the area.

That said, we do not need to get complacent. We do not need to take for granted that most of the large jobs go to union contractors. Our competition is very active and getting smarter. They are implementing watered-down apprenticeship and safety programs and bragging on their attendance record compared to ours.

We are better equipped to do these projects and I will continue to be aggressive. We should never rest until we have all the work.

Until next time, God bless!

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