L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,ptc,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws), ST. LOUIS, MO — Greetings one and all: First, we say happy trails to retiring brother and longtime instructor at our JATC, Dave Holmes, who spent 39 years as a journeyman wireman and 21 years teaching. Put away the books and hang up the tools. Congratulations!

Local 1 has had a busy spring. On March 19, our RENEW chapter threw a sold-out trivia night at the hall. A great evening of fellowship and fun was had by all.

On April 23, Local 1 tackled its annual Rebuild St. Louis event with enthusiasm. Local members donated their time and our NECA partners supplied service trucks and material. We fanned out in the community to help many homes that are in much need of repair. Some of the homes belong to elderly and disabled citizens who can't do these repairs themselves.

The negotiating committee appreciates all the recommendations from the membership to the soon expiring inside agreement. They are busy negotiating and hopefully will have a contract to recommend to the membership very soon.

Finally, the Electrical Workers Riding Club introduces its first annual Gateway to the West ride, which will take place on July 30. For more information, please contact Norm Moss, president of the EWRC Local 1 chapter, at 314-540-7886.

Kyle Hunter, P.S.

L.U. 11 (em,i,rts&spa), LOS ANGELES, CA — We were finally able to celebrate our 2020 and 2021 apprentice graduates with a much-deserved indoor ceremony and dinner. Our 2020 graduating class included 177 inside wiremen, 28 sound & communications and seven intelligent transportation members. Our 2021 graduating class included 267 inside wireman, three residential wireman, 18 sound & communications and 12 intelligent transportation workers. As these graduates endured various changes in their school setting during the pandemic, we are happy to say they were able to stay the course and turn out as journeyman in their respective classifications. We wish them and their families health and wellness.

Last year we were able to open two new offices in the eastern and western parts of Los Angeles County to better serve our members who reside in those areas. Our members can now take a call from one of five Local 11 dispatch offices in our jurisdiction. At our main administrative office we have added 70 kilowatts of photovoltaics on the roof to take advantage of renewable energy.

We will start our negotiations with NECA soon and hope to have a successful and amicable contract.

Robert Corona, P.S.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Assistant Business Manager Sam Studer retired Jan. 28 after 38 years of service to the local and ComEd. Sam began his career with ComEd as a station laborer on March 22, 1983, and worked until 1989, when he started his overhead career by attending overhead 500-volt school in Joliet, Ill. Sam became a journeyman lineman in March of 1992 and crew leader in Sept. 2003.

Sam never looked back when the opportunity to step into a steward's role presented itself in Feb. 2006 and as chief steward in June 2010. During his tenure in these roles, Sam earned a reputation as an ardent and passionate defender of the union. Sam's dedication led to his being named Local 15 Southern Region's business representative on Jan. 1, 2012, and assistant business manager on Aug. 5, 2019. He was assigned to be a point person for safety for Local 15 and has been our prominent voice for The Electrical Worker for the last five years, writing and submitting articles.

While we will miss Sam's dedication and positive attitude, all of us at the Local 15 office would like to wish Sam and his family a long and healthy retirement.

J. Collins, Bus. Rep.

L.U. 41 (i,se,es,em&spa), BUFFALO, NY — This year on Sept. 16, our local will be 125 years old. We will be posting old photos on our social media throughout the year. If you have a unique photo you would like us to share, give us a call and we'll see what we can do.

Please keep an eye out for information regarding our 125th anniversary dinner, which will be held on Oct. 29, 2022, at the Hyatt Regency, Downtown Buffalo. It should be a grand time and worthwhile celebration for Local 41.

We are always looking for softball players for Local 41's team. We play in the building trades league on Mondays or Tuesdays. Contact the union office for more info.

Hope all is well; be safe; test before you touch, and we look forward to seeing many of you on October 29!

Gregory R. Inglut, P.S.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings brothers and sisters, and please note the following updates from our local:

• SCE general wage increase for 2022 — A 4% increase was voted on Jan. 21 and passed by 68%. Air-ops mechanics voted in favor of first-time contract; congratulations and welcome.
• Construction field forces — We are waiting for management to respond to the union's latest proposal.
• Distribution operation center — Supervisor and operations-supervisor positions met with the company on Jan. 21 for the third day of bargaining, with no progress made.
• City of Riverside — Bargaining continues.
• City of Colton Electric Utility — We are starting the impasse process, and we have an update meeting scheduled with the city.
• City of Banning — Negotiations took place on March 22 for both contracts expiring July 22.
• City of Vernon — Bargaining started on March 22 for the contract that expires July 22.
• Recent/Upcoming events — The Local 47 steward conference will be held on March 5; and the local's picnic on June 4, with fishing trips to come.

We're sad to report the deaths of Andrew Bonanno, David Dewoody, Jacob Lopez, Rainer Shiels and David Terlizzi. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.

Work safe & buy union!

Mitch Smith, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — The local has been meeting with Vistra over effects bargaining on the closure of the Edwards Power Station in Bartonville, Ill. Edwards generates approximately 780 megawatts. This closure will affect about 70 total jobs.

Construction transmission and wind-farm work is steady and will pick up this spring. Line-clearance tree trimming continues to be at full employment.

In 2022, we have contract negotiations with the city of Bushnell, city of Princeton, city of Geneseo, IL Teledata, Custom Underground, 6-51-C, city of Sullivan, village of Chatham, village of Riverton, village of Rantoul, Ameren, Spoon River, Wireless USA and IBEW-NECA Benefits Administration. When a tentative agreement is reached with all of these properties, please get out and vote your contract.

Please be safe.

Karlene Knisley, Bus. Rep.

L.U. 55 (c,lctt,o&u), DES MOINES, IA — Hello brothers and sisters: The local had its 125th anniversary banquet on Saturday, Feb. 5 at Prairie Meadows Casino and Race Track in Altoona, Iowa. We had over 250 members and guests present. Ed Kooker was awarded his 60-year pin, but I failed to get a picture of him. He has been a member for almost half of our years as a local. There were lots of prizes given out, and we had a wonderful prime rib dinner and an open bar. The food was great! Everyone who was there was given a sack with a celebration shirt and some other goodies too! Our officers did an outstanding job of making it a beautiful evening and a fine way to celebrate our 125th year.

By the time you read this the grass will be green and we will be mowing the yard. Remember to think of safety at home just as you do at work. Stay healthy and see you next time!

Myron Green, P.S.

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — With COVID-19 hopefully in the rearview mirror, some of our local's best events are taking place in 2022. In March, we held our 8th annual retirees' winter luncheon in Naples, Fla. More than 200 retirees and guests enjoyed a day of reminiscing with old friends over lunch at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, with many returning the next day for a round of golf. Business Manager Lou Antonellis gave his state of the union address to all in attendance to bring them up-to-date on what has been happening over the past year in their local union. The luncheon is one of the most successful events held each year, and we are looking forward to next year's!

The annual St. Patrick's Day Parade was held for the first time since 2019 in Boston, and Local 103 members joined in on the fun with their float and treats for those along the parade route.

We are also looking forward to holding our apprentice graduation in person this year, but not before heading to Chicago for the 40th International Convention!

Jimmy Fleming, P.S.

L.U. 111 (o,u,em,spa,rtb&lctt), DENVER, CO — Sisters and brothers, I hope this finds you in good health and spirits. May is traditionally the beginning of summer and the construction season. As temperatures rise during the day, please stay hydrated, take breaks often, watch each other and keep safety as your No. 1 priority. Attend and participate in your tailboards, ask questions and be clear about the task at hand.

Also in May, Local 111 will send your elected delegation to the IBEW International Convention in Chicago. The International Executive Council postponed the event one year due to the pandemic; and the delegates are eager and honored to represent you as they elect the international president and secretary-treasurer, district officers and the executive council.

This May, we will also elect our local union officers, Executive Board and Inside and Outside Construction Examining Committees. Please take time to participate in our democratic process by voting and returning your ballot on time. If you have not received a ballot or have questions, please contact Election Judge Rocco Alberti at 303-744-7171, extension 7410.

Patrick S. Quinn, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o&u), PORTLAND, OR — Negotiations continue to dominate the landscape at the local. Please attend your unit meetings and keep working with your reps to understand what is happening. Pay attention to communications from the local. We may need your help in raising awareness on various fronts as we try to reach tentative agreement on our agreements. Solidarity is needed, and we hope that we can count on you.

Congratulations to Randy Bryson, Ray Cowell, Joe Gass, Marcy Grail, Travis Hefely, John Howard, Jude Jolma and Hank Williams. They will be joining Business Manager Travis Eri and President Larry Browning at the International Convention in Chicago. Our delegation will be active participants in this conference and expect to return with plenty of information to share. The convention will be held in May.

The Pacific Northwest Lineman's Rodeo will be held on July 23. Join us as a spectator, competitor or volunteer!

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 139 (i&u), ELMIRA, NY — Our local and Patrick's Bar of Elmira, N.Y., partnered with the Children's Miracle Network to raise money for the Arnot Medical Center NICU. Celebrity bartenders included International Representative Ernie Hartman, Business Manager Warren Roman and retired organizer David Blauvelt. Thanks to the generosity of Local 139 members, family and friends, we were able to raise more than $1,500 in just three hours!

Nick Ahearn, Bus. Rep.

L.U. 141 (ees,i,o,u), WHEELING, WV — Greetings, brothers and sisters: Work in our jurisdiction remains slow, with 94 members on Book 1. Our unemployed members are very thankful for the work opportunities that continue to be available in various locals within the Third and Fourth Districts.

In January, Local 141 hosted a dinner at the Wheeling Island Racetrack Casino celebrating the apprentice graduating classes of 2020 and 2021. Class of 2020 graduates are Ian Aston, Cody Bishop, Greg Boone, Jeffery Coole, Daniel Criswell, Zachary Morell, Brandon Snider, Jeff Trigg and Sean Vannest. Class of 2021 graduates are Glenn Bonar, Madison Cumpston, Derek Donahue, Andrew Ellis, Matthew Gregorcic, Matthew Hill, Dylan Johnson, Jayson LaRoche and Thomas Orth. Congratulations to all of these new journeyman wiremen!

Local 141 is saddened by the passing of Brother Wallace "Wally" Majors. He will be sadly missed.

Please stay safe and healthy.

Kurt "Bug" Reed, P.S.

L.U. 159 (i), MADISON, WI — Work is starting to pick up again, a welcome sign of spring. We will need many extra hands across the local this summer, including at the 300-megawatt Badger Hollow Solar Farm. Our work outlook is excellent through 2022 and beyond.

We had a visit from IBEW organizers who were here for the Sixth District Organizers Boot Camp at the UW-Madison School for Workers. We put boots on the ground together to stand with the nurses at UW Health/University Hospital. The nurses have been fighting for management to voluntarily recognize their union. Since losing their union in the wake of Act 10, the nurses have battled staffing shortages and quality-of-care issues. Hospital management cites Act 10 as the reason they are not required to recognize the union.

Business Agent Lisa Goodman was elected a trustee on our Building Trades Council Executive Board. She is believed to be the first woman to serve on that body.

Our members who are state employees finally received their long-overdue wage increases.

We look forward to a busy summer.

Sue Blue, B.M.

L.U. 197 (es&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — Our work picture for the spring and into the summer looks very positive. We anticipate needing a couple hundred journeymen to help our local meet our manpower needs. The Rivian auto plant has a couple of nice-sized expansions that should be manning up by summer. There are also new projects coming up at Heartland Community College, Illinois State University and the city of Bloomington Public Library expansion and water park. Our members have been doing a great job and so have the travelers that have helped us. Let's continue to seize the opportunity to secure work for members, and in turn our families will reap the benefits for years to come. Give eight for eight and be professional and there should be no reason we can't continue to succeed. The IBEW represents the best and most qualified electricians there are, and we take a lot of pride in that.

Our members know how important it is to give back to the community. In February, apprentices and journeymen answered the call to help the local Boys & Girls Club with a much-needed lighting upgrade. These members gave up time normally spent with their families and turned down work at premium pay on Saturdays to help the community. New efficient LED lights replaced the 30-something-year-old energy-sucking fixtures in the classrooms, cafeteria and gymnasium. The kids deserve classrooms that are well lit, and repairs saved the club thousands of dollars they in turn can use to invest in the kids. Thanks to Stevie Anthony, Josh Bertolet, Hayden Bowlin, Dexter Brown, Larry Carroll, Victor Davis, Gabriel Ediker, Dale Glasscock, Ryan Hambleton, Phelan Kelly, Mike Longfellow, Tom Peasley, Andy Prochnow, Ryan Saddler, Jordan Shickel, Matt Strupp, Colton Thoennes, Sam Veytia and Antron Zemmel for volunteering.

Remember to get involved in the local and stay involved!

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

L.U. 237 (i&r), NIAGARA FALLS, NY — The start of 2022 picked up where 2021 left off, with a strong work outlook through winter and into spring. An increase in cryptocurrency mining centers and solar fields were a major contributor, as well as substantial long-term projects at New York Power Authority in Lewiston. We are hopeful and optimistic the strong work outlook continues throughout 2022.

In addition to our members experiencing a strong work outlook, we have also completed the purchase of a former grade school that will serve as Local 237's new training facility and union hall. This has long been a dream and a continued effort for our members. We have previously used various locations to facilitate our training center, the most recent being the Niagara Falls High School. The new training center and union hall is 10,000 square feet and is conveniently located in a hamlet of Bergholtz, a small town within close proximity to Niagara Falls. This new facility gives us much to celebrate as we can now offer more hands-on training and continued education needed to ensure the demand for skilled journeymen and apprentices is met; it also gives us additional means to entice new membership. We would like to express our most sincere appreciation and gratitude to all members who were vital in the purchase of the property and the renovations needed for a functional training facility and union hall. This would not have been possible without those who sacrificed and worked tirelessly to ensure the brothers and sisters of this local have a bright future.

L.U. 237's annual dinner dance was held on Feb. 19 and had great member turnout. Congratulations to all members who received anniversary service pins. Most notably, Brothers William Choboy, Gerald Johnson and William West received their 65-year service pins. Brother Francis D. Szlachta received his retiree watch.

We hope to continue this positive trend of news with a strong contract, for which we are currently in negotiations.

Brandon Lum, P.S.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OH — We hope this writing finds you well and enjoying the spring. Since our last article, our local has ratified a new agreement with Energy Harbor (previously FirstEnergy Solutions), Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Station. As the membership stood in solidarity through the 17-month-long negotiations, this solidarity provided a backbone for the negotiating committee to stay the course and negotiate an agreement the membership would support.

Local 245 has great partnerships and ongoing marketing campaigns with the University of Toledo "Go Rockets," the Toledo Walleye, the Toledo Mud Hens and our sisters and brothers at Local 71, with whom we share a billboard (see photo). These marketing campaigns are recruiting efforts for our Outside Construction branch and the ALBAT Apprenticeship Program.

You don't have to be in a leadership role to lead with safety.

Stay safe.

Brian Gendaszek, P.S.

L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — With the COVID-19 rules finally relaxing and allowing us to resume some of our traditional activities mask-free, Mother Nature decided to remind us who's boss by providing unsuitable weather for many St. Patrick's Day parades throughout the Northeast. Some parades were postponed while others were outright canceled. After a week's delay, the Hamilton Saint Patrick's Day parade took place on what turned out to be a beautiful Saturday afternoon on March 19.

Members and their families were out in full force either marching with the local or cheering from the crowd. The local's new electronic messaging truck was the centerpiece of the column and let everyone in attendance know who we are and what we stand for. Thanks to all those who volunteered their time and effort to convert the sign from a tow-behind trailer into its own fully autonomous vehicle. And thanks to all the others who helped organize, march and support Local 269 on one of its most high-profile days of the year. The effort truly represents the union's philosophy of coming together and making it happen for the good of us all.

Brian Jacoppo, P.S.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — Despite occasional supply issues, construction work in our local is positive. The Southern Illinois Builders Association expects that 2022 should be a record year for new commercial projects. Currently, we are fortunate to have multiple large-scale commercial projects in progress. The Boeing facility at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport will produce the MQ-25 Stingray, the Navy's first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft. At Scott Air Force Base, the Air Mobility Command building is beginning a multi-year renovation while new construction continues with the Joint Operations and Mission Planning Center. In Glen Carbon, work is ongoing for Ameren's new Transmission Operations Control Center. Combined, these four projects account for $60 million worth of work for IBEW members.

Steel production at U.S. Steel in Granite City is surging, and maintenance projects within the mill are underway. Thank you to all the travelers who helped man the blast furnace reline.

Special note: Commemorative stickers are available at the hall in honor of our dearest Brother Chris Weir.

Carlos S. Perez, R.S.

L.U. 343 (I,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — The Helmets To Hardhats (H2H) program offers career training and employment opportunities to veterans who are transitioning back to civilian life. H2H introduces veterans to the construction industry. The National Association of Building Trades Unions (NABTU), of which the IBEW is a member, sponsors the program. Last month, NABTU held its convention in Washington, D.C. The IBEW was well represented nationally, but a spotlight did shine on one honoree in particular.

Local 343 fourth-year apprentice Alicia Green received a surprising email in February from an H2H representative. She was invited to attend the national H2H conference in Washington, D.C. in April. Alicia's transition from Navy veteran to union apprentice was highlighted in a video that will be used to market the H2H program and for possible use at the Tradeswomen Build Nations conference in October. She also received a generous tool package from Stanley Black & Decker.

Alicia served in the Navy Construction Battalion from 2011 to 2016. As a Seabee, she learned various construction skills that crossover to our trade. Congratulations, Alicia, and thank you for representing Local 343 on a national stage. The Seabee motto is "We build, we fight." The IBEW builds and continues to fight for labor rights. NOTHING is guaranteed.

Buy Union/Made In USA.

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa), DES MOINES, IA — Our local has adopted by resolution a dedication of the General Membership Meeting and Assembly Hall located at 6809 Bellagio Court, Ankeny, Iowa, to Brother Howell Hamilton "Harry" Broach. We do this to honor Brother Broach for his lifetime of service to the Brotherhood and labor.

Brother Broach transferred his ticket to Local 347 in 1915 and helped organize the one-year-old local. Two years later, he was appointed an international representative of the IBEW, and, in 1920, he became an international vice president. At the end of 1929, following the death of International President James P. Noonan, Brother Broach was appointed international president by the IBEW Executive Council. He continued to serve the members of the IBEW in other capacities from 1933 until 1960, when he retired. He died later that year. Local 347 wishes to honor the legacy of Brother Broach with this dedication of our new hall.

Local 347 had an open house at the new hall the evening of Feb. 24. In attendance were hundreds of members, labor leaders, employers, industry partners and legislators. The move to the new hall was accomplished at the first of the year. Now that everything has been moved, sorted out and put in its proper place, the staff has settled into their routines again.

Work calls are slowing down, but the work picture still appears strong for 2022.

On Saturday, March 12, the local held a combined pin party/recognition night for the years 2021–2022. Planning for a picnic in June is underway.

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV — Habitat for Humanity helps families build and improve places to call home. And that's what the IBEW is all about: helping each other out!

In a joint effort, IBEW 357 members contributed their electrical skills and expertise to wire the first two homes built for the Habitat for Humanity Pittman project. We hope to be able to volunteer to complete the rest of the 14 single family, two- and three-bedroom homes that are planned in the area.

It's empowering to come together to help our community while getting to teach, learn and improve our skills. It is great to see everyone work together and have fun while doing hard work for something meaningful. This has been a joint effort between our contractors and our members. Mojave Electric, G&G Systems and Pope Technologies have provided material, permits, storage and a one-year warranty.

Special thanks to the Volunteer Action Committee: Tony Eddington, Luis Gill, Kodi Green, Carole Kilburn, Don Oliver, Jessica Raats, Jerry Warren and Richie Work. Wendi Newman and Lelina Guevara brought this project to the building trades, unifying a team of organized labor.

Project Manager Chuck Meyers has been the leading force on getting together Local 357 and Habitat for Humanity. Leading JWs include General Manager Chris Kilburn, Foreman Josh Woods and Foreman Alton Williams. Thanks to all the volunteers on this project. Our members have provided their skills and time to ensure a quality job is done.

Julie-Ann Peeples, P.S.

L.U. 369 (em,es,i,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), LOUISVILLE, KY — On March 3, Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, IBEW Local 369 Assistant Business Manager Ed Devine and others met to discuss the impacts of clean energy investments across Kentucky and Appalachia.

The meeting took place at Schneider Electric in Lexington, Ky. Devine participated in a roundtable discussion with Secretary Granholm and Gov. Beshear along with other individuals with interest in clean energy and the environment. The group discussed President Biden's vision for the country as it relates to clean energy and all the opportunities it creates for working men and women in Kentucky.

Gene Holthouser, Bus. Rep.

L.U. 405 (em,i,rtb&spa), CEDAR RAPIDS, IA — We are excited to pass along the news that President Jeff Cooling has announced his campaign for Iowa House District 77. The Iowa Statehouse is in dire need of representatives who will fight for labor, and Brother Cooling will continue his exemplary record of working hard for labor as a state representative.

Along with being local union president, Jeff has served as Apprenticeship Committee chairman, as well as Health, Welfare and Pension trustee. Currently, he is the Eleventh District representative on the IBEW RENEW Advisory Council and a member of the IBEW STRONG Committee. He also serves as an area vice president for the Hawkeye Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO.

He has also served as a local union registrar, AFL-CIO National Young Worker trainer, Labor Council Executive Board member, NUHAWK (Next-up Hawkeye Area Workers Konnect) chairperson and Iowa Federation of Labor AFL-CIO auditor.

We look forward to having Brother Cooling's strong labor-focused leadership in the Iowa Statehouse.

Jon Fasselius, Exec. Board

L.U. 449 (i,o,u,rtb,rts,spa), POCATELLO, ID — Our local recently ran a successful organizing campaign with the employees of Trees, LLC. Having learned some lessons from previous organizing campaigns, we decided to run an undercover campaign comprised of a VOC (Volunteer Organizing Committee).

We took our time when we met with the employees to select our VOC. The VOC then began meeting with the other employees and discussing the benefits of going union. We reviewed agreements that Trees, LLC had already agreed to for surrounding IBEW locals. When we showed the employees these existing agreements, they realized how much they were leaving on the table, and we believe this was a huge motivating factor for the employees to vote to become a union. We explained to the employees that these agreements had been negotiated over years between the employees and the company. Once the VOC had 90% of the cards signed for representation of the unit, we were able to move forward and filed for the election with the NLRB.

I would like to take the time to thank our VOC and our western counties organizer Dan Green, SOC William Kniffin, Business Manager Ned Jones and Assistant Business Agent Clay Hirning. This campaign was a long, hard battle that was started ten years ago by our predecessors. Through dedication and perseverance, we were able to unite the employees of Trees, LLC.

I am happy to report at the time of this writing, we have had our first negotiation session with Trees, LLC. Negotiations are going well.

The following brothers have retired: Russell (Gino) Endo and Brett White. With heartfelt condolences, the following brothers passed away: Elmer Detwiler and James Trevey.

Craig McDonald, Org.

L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — In March, 60 new members were sworn into the local. At the same meeting, we honored those members who have hit special milestones in their membership. What a great thing to see: bringing in new members while honoring those who have many years as members of Local 481. For new members, it is something to aspire and strive for one day.

From the newest member to the 50-year member, it is truly a testament to the men and women of the IBEW who still believe in what we do and what we stand for. Such a wide range of ages and membership all in the same room, with the same goal to promote the IBEW, is a powerful thing to see. Thank you to all the members who received their service pins, and congratulations to the newest members.

The IBEW is only as strong as you make it. Participate and take pride in your local, just as all of those before you have.

Blake A. Andrews, Bus. Rep./Treas.

L.U. 625 (c,ees,em,i,it,mar&mt), HALIFAX, NS, CANADA — We have recently lost the following members: Kenneth L. Boutilier in Nov. 2021, Ron McKinley and Ronald Peitzsche in Dec. 2021 and Bill Brenton and Donald Hickox (of former IBEW Local 1432) in Jan. 2022.

The following members have recently retired: Dave Julien (Oct. 2021) and Dennis Sullivan and Gord Hipson (Nov. 2021).

Local 625 would like to congratulate the members who received their certificates of qualification. They are Matthew Arthur, Dennis Cacayan, Ryan Corporon and Alex Swinimar.

On Dec. 4, 80 families and a total of 165 children had a virtual visit with Santa Claus. Santa sent out gifts for the children, who picked up their favorite new toys.

On Dec. 11, Local 625 got its favorite event back: the year-end holiday party. There were 230 members and guests in attendance. A great time was had by all!

Finally, Local 625 would like to welcome newly organized contractor Supernova Energy Solutions.

Bradley Wood, P.S.

L.U. 649 (i,lctt,mt&o), ALTON, IL—Over the last few months, Business Agent Alan Rubinstein has been instrumental of informing our local's members of frustrating proceedings stemming from the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. 

Over 10 years the UBC expanded their scope of work by deluding wages and work standards negotiated contractually and fairly by building trades craft unions. Additionally, they signed wall-to-wall agreements throughout the country contrary to and spoke out against project labor agreements. These project labor agreements help UBC members and all the building trades.

This is a harsh precedent that may affect other non-building trades bargaining units among organized unions in other industries. 

 I end this post in tribute to Duane Moore, who informed and assisted Building and Construction Trades who were under attack, including IBEW local unions. Mr. Moore ended his special communications to organized labor in the United States and Canada with the following words: Let there be "strength in unity."

Terry Wilhite, P.S.

L.U. 683 (i&ptc), COLUMBUS, OH — Work continues to be plentiful in our jurisdiction. At the time of this writing, calls are trickling in and making it through Book 2. Our traveling brothers and sisters continue to help fill calls, and we are forecasting that hundreds more will be needed this year. Calls have started to come in for the two new data-center sites in the area. Those sites are in addition to the work on three other large data centers that are still taking on manpower.

The first utility-scale solar project for our local should be ready to ramp up in the summer. There have been calls for the Franklin County Corrections Center, which is in its second phase. The $1.8 billion OSU Medical Center has steel going up and should begin ramping up as well.

I would like to thank our traveling brothers and sisters for their continued support and would welcome all to consider Local 683 while on the road. These are unprecedented times for our area and the opportunities for long-term employment should be available for the foreseeable future.

Mike Morey, Pres.

L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL — With our CBA ratified and behind us, Business Manager Randall King and our negotiating committee were able to ratify the Busch Gardens and Derby Lane contracts, completing the bargaining for this year. Local 915 had a couple record years for man hours since 2020, but this year seems to be following our usual trends. Material shortages have been to blame for some of the slow progress we have encountered. We have already started to pick up with more work coming in the late spring and summer. Although the work picture isn't as robust as it was a year ago, we were still able to swear in 32 new members at our January general membership meeting.

With the pandemic subsiding, we have finally been able to have in-person gatherings again. We had our first outdoor Jolly Jamboree in December, and everyone had a great time. Business Manager King completed his 5-year term on CIR and was recently reelected and sworn in for another term for the Florida Electrical Workers Association. The FEWA is an organization that encompasses all IBEW locals in the state of Florida. We look forward to seeing everyone at the 40th International Convention.

Shawn McDonnell, Pres.

L.U. 995 (i,lctt,o,rts&spa), BATON ROUGE, LA — It is with personal regret but the warmest of wishes that I announce the retirement of Clifford Zylks. Cliff's retirement marks the end of an era for Local 995. He has served the local in many capacities and has worked for four business managers; but most notably, he held the title of organizer for over 27 years. Being elected to his first term on the local's Executive Board in 1995, he served 8 ½ consecutive terms. Cliff is the second of three generations of Zylks as IBEW inside wireman, with his son Kevin being the third. He has been an integral part in the growth and retention of IBEW membership for almost three decades and will be greatly missed. He was deeply involved in many organizing plans and incentives from inception through fruition, including attending the first meeting of the Regional Electrical Committee for Organizing Unorganized People (RECOUP) gathering in 1993.

Jason Dedon, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,u&t), VACAVILLE, CA — Our local is pleased to welcome the workers at Panoche Water District, who finally won their fight for union representation after nearly two years. "What indicated to me that this was a successful organizing campaign in the making was that the majority of their workplace issues were not just related to wages and benefits," remarked IBEW Lead Organizer Rick Thompson. "The core issues of respect, professionalism, safety and fairness were at the heart of every matter that they wanted to address." For the full story, see https://ibew1245.com/2022/01/19/panoche-water-district-workers-join-ibew-1245

This winter, the Cal-Nev JATC celebrated the grand opening of its new Northern California Training Center, a project some 15 years in the making. "The opening of this new facility allows our JATC to offer rigorous hands-on training, and supports quality, union jobs in the line construction and line clearance tree trimming industry for California and Nevada," said Senior Assistant Business Manager Ralph Armstrong.

Local 1245 also celebrated the passage of a new COVID-19 paid sick leave bill in California. "Reinstituting paid COVID sick leave is the right thing to do for our workers, our families and our communities. It's also a common-sense public health strategy, which is why IBEW Local 1245 joined the California Labor movement to make it a top priority when the Omicron surge emerged," said Local 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean. "We are proud to have played a part in this extraordinary, labor-driven victory, and we thank the Legislature and the Governor for their quick and decisive action on this critical issue."

In Outside Construction, work outlook remains strong throughout Local 1245's jurisdiction, and we expect this trend to continue for many years to come.

Rebecca Band, Comm. Dir.

L.U. 1347 (ees,em,ptc&u), CINCINNATI, OH — In many ways, lineman can be considered the protectors of what is arguably the weakest link in our nation's electrical grid. With exposure to accidents, elements and natural disasters, it's a constant battle to keep everything in good working order and everyone's electricity on as power demands increase in our technologically dependent world. It can be an often overlooked and underappreciated — but absolutely critical — job. Lineman must be highly trained in order to work safely and effectively and to keep the U.S. moving forward.

With future needs in mind, Local 1347 in Cincinnati, Ohio, has partnered with Jamie Madden and Lineman University to establish a new state-of-the-art facility. This historic union lineman school will have instructors who are all IBEW represented. This opens the door for IBEW members to remain union members while taking part in formalized training. Linemen University will provide the necessary training to keep sufficient numbers of men and women who are exceedingly skilled moving into the workforce at a time when skilled labor and trades have been on a decline. Business Manager Andrew Kirk anticipates multiple facilities will be needed to fulfill these crucial roles.

For more information, visit www.linemenuniversity.com or call 513-767-7700.

Andrew Kirk, B.M.

L.U. 1547 (c,em,i,lctt,o,ptc,t&u), ANCHORAGE, AK — Our local was chartered in Alaska on Oct. 1, 1946, and it assumed the jurisdiction of work from Local 46 in Seattle. Old timers arrived in Alaska in the late '20s, '30s and '40s. They came from all across the Lower 48. Some came to escape the Great Depression. Some were in search of adventure; others hoped to make their fortune in this wild and beautiful country; and for some who had gotten into trouble outside, Alaska was the place to come to until things cooled off. They had no idea how important their actions were in building the communication infrastructure of the 49th state. Some endured the remoteness of villages and the harshest of cold climates. They were people with fire in their hearts, willing to work as hard as needed to support themselves and their future families. In honor of our founding we have created a 75th anniversary logo. Swag featuring our logo can be found at www.ibew1547.org/logo-wear

Melinda Taylor, Comm. Dir.

L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Our work situation will continue to be strong over the next few years.

Before I report on our future work, I would like to report on the continuing Vogtle project. First, I want to thank the traveling brothers and sisters for helping us man this project. At the time of this writing, there are about 1,800 IBEW members from around the country on this job. I would like to also remind you that when this project starts decreasing in manpower numbers, it will be time to move on to one of the many jobs available in the country or your home local. This is not something that I would usually put in print, but I do realize that many on that project are new to the IBEW. Of course, you will always be welcomed to come back to work on the upcoming projects we will have over the next few years.

Local 1579 is looking forward to the upcoming pit project. This project will be a $10 billion, eight-year project that will employ several hundred IBEW members and more than 3,000 Building Trades craftspeople. Although the construction is about a year off, there will be demolition work as well as temporary power work available, which will get our members on the job prior to construction.

We are looking forward to another large project that will start in late 2023 called the Tritium Finishing Facility. This project is expected to be completed in 2029 and should employ about 200 IBEW members.

My assistants and I are monitoring another project that will be built in Augusta, a multi-billion-dollar data center. This project has not yet been secured, but we are contacting large union contractors to look at bidding this massive job. I hope to be reporting in the future that we have this work.

As we look forward to these upcoming projects, continue to work hard and do your job to the best of your ability. Maintain a reputation that will make the IBEW proud.

Until next time, God bless!

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