L.U. 6 (c,i,st&u), SAN FRANCISCO, CA — A band of hearty Local 6 members braved the chilly weather and small craft advisories, setting out for the Annual Electrical Industry Fishing Derby in the early morning hours of June 22. In the end, Cupertino electrician and Local 6 member Felix Huang came out on top, hooking a 29-pound salmon.

Local 6 extends our sympathy and gratitude to the family of George Scarborough, a longtime Local 6 member and JATC instructor, who recently passed away. George's dedication and passion in training and nurturing many classes of apprentices through the years is something to be celebrated.

And finally, with festive Irish folk music by the Kavanaugh Brothers and delicious barbeque served up by Local 6's own clubs and committees, our annual Summer Picnic in Stern Grove on Aug. 24 was a smashing success.

Tom O'Rourke, A.B.M.

L.U. 8 (as, em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Hello, brothers and sisters. Election Day is Nov. 5. We are looking for volunteers to assist in phone banking, lit drops and working the polls on Election Day. Please call the union hall if you are available to help with this important election.

When their workday is done, many Local 8 members continue working by donating their time and talents for community and charity projects. Members have assisted the Bethany House, the Miracle League, the Wood County Democratic Party, Habitat for Humanity, Hope House and the Monroe County Labor History Museum, just to name a few.

Local 8 members installed a new scoreboard, as well as new electrical service to the dugouts and a storage shed, at the Miracle League baseball fields. Thanks to those who volunteered on this project including: Keith Collins, owner of Innovations Electric; journeymen electricians Jerry Heminger, Dave Fowler, Greg Steidinger and Jim Hamel; and VDV apprentices Derek Arnold, Robert Lavelle, Lucas Fleig, Nathan Gallaher and Doug Demory.

Many members volunteer by coaching their kids' baseball or softball team or by helping at a soup kitchen. I commend them for giving back to our community. Sharing your skills and talents with those in need is a value that IBEW members have practiced for many years. Thank you to all Local 8 volunteers for your hard work and dedication.

Joe Cousino, B.M.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — We held our local elections in June and had a good voter response. Dean Grinstead was re-elected as business manager; Kelley McGlamery was elected as president; and Ronan Carbajal was elected vice president.

Our apprenticeship program turned out four new journeyman wiremen this year: Ronan Carbajal, Jose Dela Torre, Jason Olds and Zane Grinstead. Congratulations to all.

Our Annual Picnic this year is scheduled for Oct. 5 at the Nature Center. It should be fun for the young and the young at heart.

Susan J. Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The IBEW congratulates the Local 16 class of 2013 apprenticeship graduates. The new inside wiremen are: Dathon A. Crowe, Steven K. Dale, Joshua S. Davis, Timothy P. Feagley, Charles W. Fraley, Isaiah D. "Izzy" Fuchs, Jeremy L. Glenn, Jacob A. Gurtz, Chase A. Harper, Scott D. Johann, Jerrod D. Keys, Logan A. Lynch, James E. Mullins, Jarret M. Parkes, Jamin P. Quinn, Shane M. Rumsey, Morgan T. Schum, Nathan A.L. Stock, Blake C. Strickland, Christopher M. Tenbarge, James A. Thomason, Joseph A. Weinzapfel, Cory M. Wood and Jeremy M. Wynn. This year's academic award winner is Jarret M. Parkes, and the John D. Brenner Memorial Award went to Christopher M. Tenbarge.

Local 16's Political Action Committee recently held another successful golf tournament and continues to grill tasty brats and burgers for sale before regular union meetings. Proceeds from these events will be used to help fund pro-labor candidates in future elections.

Other people from the hall have been actively involved in Cooking for a Cause. The money they raise from their delicious BBQ sales helps members who have severe injuries or critical illnesses. Please come out and support each of these fine organizations.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 20 (em,i,mt,spa,t&u), DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX — The North Texas Electrical JATC held its Annual Completion Dinner at the Sheraton Grand Hotel on June 7.

IBEW Local 20 and North Texas Chapter NECA both give an Outstanding Apprentice Award to a graduating apprentice for an overall outstanding performance. The IBEW award went to Charles Towb, and the NECA award went to Jason Raburn.

Awards are presented to apprentices for outstanding performance at school and on the job. Taken into consideration are their grades, attendance, job evaluations, attitude and community involvement.

Local 20 Gold Pliers Award recipients: William Holt (1st year), Rolando Febles (2nd year), Price Warwick III (3rd year) and Ronald Pratt Jr. (4th year).

NECA Achievement Award recipients: Ronald McDonnell (1st year), Rhett Glover (2nd year), James Moats (3rd year) and Ronald Pratt Jr. (4th year).

Local 20 Federal Credit Union Award recipients: William Holt (1st year), Michael Morrison (2nd year), Price Warwick III (3rd year), Timothy Vernon (4th year) and Jesus Hernandez (5th year).

The Fort Worth Local 116 Federal Credit Union Award went to: Jason Raburn and Jesus Hernandez.

Perfect Attendance Award: Marcos Gamino, Jesus Hernandez, Jason Raburn and Kyle Rohan.

Karsten E. Frentrup, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 22 (i,rts&spa), OMAHA, NE — Congratulations to the Local 22 apprenticeship graduating class of 2013.

Telecom apprentice graduates are: Jeff Adams, Andrew Hurley, Nick Incontro, James Jensen, David Meredith, Jamie Parks, Dennis Payne, Bryan Thomas and Tyler Worrall. Residential apprentice graduate: Joe Ward. Inside apprentice graduates: David Anderson, Jared Bain, Ryan Becker, Tyler Becker, Bob Bergamine, Tim Christensen, Anthony Ciani, Tyler Damgaard, Chase Daniels, David Dickey, Shelly Dubbs, Andy Fisher, Garrett Flynn, Ben Fonfara, Michael Gady, Daniel Gonzalez, Nick Hatch, Nathan Hiller, Jeremy Holst, Brandon Hunter, Josh Irwin, Seth Jennings, Tyler Johnson, Justin Kalkwarf, Ben Kirkelie, Chris Knecht, Zack Kudlacek, Tim Maguire, Nick Matthews, Adam Maynes, Anthony Mazur, Curtis Miller, Patrick Mueller, Michael McMillen, Richard Nattrass, John Pettis, Tim Reed, Carney Rolland, Chris Rolland, Joe Russell, Zachary Sands, Andy Sather, Heath Schneider, Mark Shanker, Brian Starke, James Starr, Shaw Stolley, Aaron Strong, Phil Timberman, Tyler Vandenberg, Johnathan Viek, Jerry Zadina and Joseph Zubrod. Telecom Columbus graduate: Patricia Held. Inside Columbus graduates: Jeremy Archer and Sean Martys.

Apprentice of the Year for Telecom: Andrew Hurley. Apprentice of the Year for the Inside program: Sean Martys.

Work in our area continues to be good and we are putting many travelers to work on the data center projects in our area.

Chris Bayer, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — On June 29, Local 24 held its election of officers. Thank you to all members who came out and exercised their right to vote. Congratulations to newly elected officers: Bus. Mgr. Gary Griffin, Pres. Carmen Voso, Vice Pres. John Rankin, Rec. Sec. Larry Broadwater, Fin. Sec. Tom Benjamin, Treas. Ray Starks; Executive Board members Norman Bage, Tony Decint, Horace Ellis, Dave Springham, Frank Voso; and Examining Board members Aaron Butcher, Larry Preissler and Connie Williams.

On behalf of the membership I wish to thank the outgoing officers for their service to the local. I encourage all members to support your union officers in order to move our local forward. Stay safe, stay productive and enjoy the upcoming season.

Gary R. Griffin, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — In May, Local 26's Motorcycle Riders' Club held its 2nd Annual Poker Run Ride in Virginia and nearly 100 motorcycles participated. The run raised $15,600 for Special Love for Children with Cancer.

Congratulations to the Local 26 softball team, who in July dominated this year's tournament in Detroit and brought home the first-place trophy!

Congratulations to winners of this year's scholarship award: Jennifer Pridemore, Alejandra Gutierrez, Megan White and Evan Norman.

Jennifer is the daughter of Bro. Dennis Pridemore and is studying at the University of Maryland. Alejandra is the daughter of Bro. Diego Gutierrez and will attend the University of Virginia. Megan, daughter of Bro. Michael White, will study at James Madison University. Evan is the son of Bro. David Norman and will attend Virginia Tech University.

We mourn the following members, who passed away since our last article: Michael J. McDermott, Gustavo A. Ramirez, Robert A. Cherry, Minor A. Vaught, Joseph L. Lacey Jr., David A. Pometto, Charles E. Wise III and Richard B. Schuler.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Rayburn R. Allen Sr., Lucio E. Comignani, James L. Desmond III, John H. Exline, Lawrence E. Kaplan, Joseph M. Haugh Sr., William G. Harley, Gary S. Henson, Frank D. Jennings, David E. Joyce, Shannon L. Morris, James E. Roach, Liscard E. Bryce, Robert C. Goodhue, Ingram Munn, Floyce Saddler Jr. and Donald C. Wade.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — In recent months, we have had several Local 34 events, including the local's Steak Fry, Trap Shoot, Labor Day parades in Galesburg and Peoria, and Labor Night at the Peoria Chiefs game. Additionally, the fall Golf Outing in Galesburg supports Big Brothers and Big Sisters. We thank all the members who attended and volunteered at these events. Special thanks also go to all who participated and donated various items to all events. Without their support events like these would not be possible.

Labor Night at the Peoria Chiefs game was a great success. Former longtime business manager/financial secretary Mike Everett was honored for his service to the Peoria area and invited to throw the ceremonial first pitch (see accompanying photo). Thanks again, Mike, for all your years of service to both Local 34 and the Peoria community.

The work outlook for the Peoria area looks to remain steady for fall, but winter is approaching fast.

Marc Burnap, P.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — We thank all the Local 38 members who showed up for the pickets and job actions at Magnificat High School in Rocky River. Many members who have sent their daughters to Magnificat recently called the school to voice their displeasure regarding use of nonunion labor; Local 38 thanks everyone who has spoken out. We hope the school administrators now realize that union wages enable us to send our children to their school, and we hope the administrators will make sure the next phase of work is all done with union labor. Thanks to Bro. Dan LeHoty for taking the photos.

Calls for work have been coming in for various projects around town. Although we will most likely not be getting into book 2, we expect more calls for projects at the steel mill and for the apartments downtown. The conversion of the East Ohio Gas Building at 9th Street and Superior Avenue into 250 apartments should start soon, as well as the 250 apartments in the Ameritrust Tower at 9th and Euclid Avenue, and the apartments in the Schofield Building right across the street.

We had many members working at the Cleveland Browns stadium and the Browns training facility this summer. The Browns have announced $100 million in renovations to begin as soon as the season ends. (And we hope that will be in February this season!)

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

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 and McPhee Electrical Contractors are building a new substation in Chicopee, MA. The work picture for Local 42 is still very slow. At this writing, we are waiting for two to three large transmission projects to start up in the fall.

At press time, the IBEW Local 42 OSHE Dept. (Occupational Safety & Health Education) planned to hold two sessions in September 2013 for the Continuing Education Course for our members who currently hold a Connecticut Electrical License for E-1, E-2, L-1 and L-2. The Department of Labor requires the "OSHA 10 course" to be renewed every five years. The OSHE Dept. is also offering a Crane Certification Course. For more information on courses, call the OSHE Dept. at 860-643-4048.

The Dinner Cruise was cancelled for June 15, 2013, due to all the rain we had. The Connecticut River flooded Charter Oak Landing. As of this writing, the cruise was rescheduled for Sept. 7, 2013. The rest of our events have been very successful. Remember the Annual Christmas Smoker to be held at the Dec. 12, 2013, union meeting at the Knights of Columbus location in East Hartford, CT.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts&st), PORTLAND, OR — We are experiencing a surge of positive energy following Gary Young's election as business manager. Gary stated: "In my IBEW career I have learned that assessing and valuing people's strengths is key. I am proud of all of our Local 48 members who have volunteered their time to make a real difference in our community."

Some recent examples of Local 48 member involvement include the following:

Joe Esmonde was appointed to TriMet's board of directors (TriMet is our Portland area mass transit); Wayne Chow organized a group of members to march in Portland's Starlight Parade in June; members Kathy and Lee Duncan organized the annual Unions for Kids Poker Run and Chili Cookoff that raised $64,000 for Portland's Doernbecher Children's Hospital.

Phil Parker was reappointed to a position on the Washington Transportation Commission.

Members Jonni Ocejo, Jodi Tillinghast and Bridget Quinn helped organized this year's Women in Trades Fair, which is designed to educate and encourage women to consider a career in the trades.

Bob Carroll helped create the "Labor: A Working History" presentation at the Clark County Historical Society and Museum.

We realize that there are many more unsung heroes within Local 48 — and to all we say thank you!

Bob Blair, P.S.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Greetings, brothers and sisters. The books at Local 68, although not what you would call lively, have been slow and steady. This has let those brothers and sisters who could not, or chose not to, travel find work.

A thank-you goes out to all the locals that had work to offer our members off of their Book II. We continue the battle that you all have — getting more of the projects that are out there on our contractors' side of the ledger.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased brothers: James W. Scharf, Gregory C. Lease, Michael B. Shaputis and Darrell W. Jones.

Jack Cox, Pres.

L.U. 94 (lctt,nst&u), CRANBURY, NJ — On Sunday, June 23, members from Palisades Division Underground Department joined together to take part in a Tank Pull sponsored by the Clifton, NJ, Knights of Columbus to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

The pull was the culmination of a month-long fundraising effort by members of IBEW Local 94 to support this worthy cause. The 20 team members were joined by other brothers and sisters from the local and family members.

We raised $8,600, of which 90 percent was donated to the Wounded Warrior Project and 10 percent to local area veterans. In addition, the Pullin Badgers (our team name) came in first place with the fastest time for the pull! The local came in second place in donations. We thank everyone who made a donation. We especially wish to recognize Bros. Jeff Krill, Don Gregorowicz, Anthony Joyner and Justin Perdew for their outstanding effort.

Family Day at the Races was also a great success! Members and their families spent a fun-filled day at Monmouth Park. Thank you to everyone who came out. We hope you can join us again next year.

Carl Romao, B.A.

L.U. 102 (em,govt,i,mt,o&ws), PATERSON, NJ — Over 500 of our brothers and sisters packed the Barnyard and Carriage House for our special meeting July 29. On hand for the meeting was New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who spoke for approximately 20 minutes and then opened the floor to a Q&A session that lasted about 50 minutes.

In an introduction, Bus. Mgr. Patrick DelleCava highlighted the governor's success in luring private-sector business to New Jersey. Companies such as Bayer, Honeywell, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Realogy, and Ashland Oil; these are all companies that the governor directly influenced, companies that have provided hundreds of jobs for our members.

Private sector growth is vital to our local's success; the jobs listed above are just a snapshot of the role this governor has played in providing work for the building trades' community. Gov. Christie stated, "The most important way to make New Jersey better is to get people back to work; back to work solves a lot of problems, back to work gets everybody out of the house, back to work gets money coming into the house." We thank Gov. Christie for spending time with us and for his commitment to job creation in New Jersey.

Bernie Corrigan, Pres.

L.U. 110 (em,i,rts,spa&u), ST. PAUL, MN — IBEW Local 110 thanks all of the volunteers who help make our communities a better place to live and work. We could not do it without you.

Once again this year IBEW 110 has wired five Habitat for Humanity homes in our jurisdiction. Five families now have a place to call home thanks to the help of our members.

The work picture continues to improve with many of our contractors reporting they are bidding on more work than they have in the last five years. Let's hope all that bidding goes to our union contractors.

Our annual IBEW 110 family picnic was held in July and more than 500 people attended. It is a great time for our members and their families. I want to personally thank Bro. Joe Kelly for all his hard work in organizing a fantastic event.

Let's remember to buy American and buy union. Your job and future depend on it!

Brian Winkelaar, B.R.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se,spa&t), KANSAS CITY, MO — Local 124 inside wiremen ratified a new three-year agreement, with roughly two-thirds of the first year's increase being used to maintain benefits.

Missouri legislators debated more than two dozen anti-labor measures in 2013. Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed a paycheck deception bill. A bill modifying state prevailing wage passed; the governor did not sign it. Right to work for less didn't get a Senate vote, but we are sure to see it again in 2014. Local 124 is committed to stopping any anti-labor agenda, especially right to work. We have increased our voter education and mobilization efforts.

In Kansas, Gov. Sam Brownback's legislative agenda is a failure as tax revenues fall. It is extremely corporate friendly and Brownback is suggesting it as a national model.

Our outstanding Inside apprentice of 2013 was Joel Schmidt; the outstanding VDVS apprentice was Misti Myers-Wilson. Joel was the Local 124 young worker delegate at the Eleventh District Progress Meeting and attended NTI in Ann Arbor, MI.

We remember recently deceased members: Edgar Arrowood, William D. Baxley Jr., Wayne A. Burd, Robert W. Fansler, Paul D. Foster, Lloyd Freeman, Jack Ivey, Lawrence D. Jewett, Thomas S. Noland, Peggy S. Resch, John M. Ritter, Floyd Scheinost, Bordon J. Taylor, David Titus, James C. Tripod, Charles K. Vanderwerf and Robert Wright.

Congratulations to recent retirees: Bros. Lonnie W. Harris, Martin E. Livingston, James P. Kelly, Gary D. Pratt, Dennis Reugsegger and Harold R. Thornton.

Steve Morales, P.S.

L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — At this writing, our unemployment is still high. The book moved somewhat in the summer with annual school work.

The future looks bright, though, with numerous proposed projects. These include the following: a 4-million-square-foot development over three towers at Wolf Point; three new buildings for St. Anthony Hospital on the former site of Washburne Trade School; a $153 million venture at Harper College; a new car rental space, cargo facility, people mover and control tower at O'Hare Field; a new building at the former site of Northwestern's Prentice Hospital; three hotels, a conference center and parking garage near Higgins/Bryn Mawr; and a $1.1 billion undertaking for an entertainment district including hotels and a sports complex slated near the McCormick Place exhibition complex.

These projects all have project labor agreements and hopefully will put a majority of our unemployed members back to work.

Congratulations to Bus. Mgr. Terry Allen and his entire slate on their victory at this year's June election. 2014 is looking like it will be a very good year.

Frank Cunningham, B.R.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — Recently JATC graduation activities were held. The following apprentices all successfully completed their training program and are now inside wiremen! Our newest journeymen include: Steve Carponelli, Ian Coonce, Jonathan Dietz, Ryan Gottschalk, Jeremiah Husko, Lucas Jones, Edwin Lopez, Michael Mulvaney, Brandon Padilla, Doug Stelter and Irek Tulacz. The Hansen Award for the highest GPA for the current school year went to Brandon Padilla. The Outstanding Apprentice Award for the highest GPA for all five years combined went to Jeremial Husko. Congratulations to all of these graduates and we all wish you every success in your careers in the years to come.

Be sure to sign up for a journeyman update class or two during this fall session. A wise man once said that our education is the only thing that cannot be taken away from us. Knowledge of the many aspects of our trade only makes us more employable.

I am still looking for photos and other memorabilia for our upcoming 100th anniversary activities. Please see me at any union meeting or leave items at the hall in my name. Thanks for any and all contributions.

Wendy J. Cordts, P. S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — Our local has been flush with work for most of the year. We had a real challenge manning all our projects. Once again we were helped out by travelling sisters and brothers. We received requests for manpower for: Marinette Marine and Bay Shipbuilding, which are two of our shipyards, as well as for the Lambeau Field renovation, Schreiber International headquarters, and the new Costco store.

In a campaign to increase membership, Local 158 held an open house Aug. 20 at our facility. Invitations were sent to our members as well as to any nonunion electrician who resides in our jurisdiction. Also invited were local officials, business leaders, Wisconsin Public Service and our neighbors. We took in about 20 applications for apprenticeship. Wisconsin Public Service representatives attended the open house to help dedicate a solar array installation for which the utility company donated panels. WPS also brought a Chevy Volt to show off our new electric car charging station. Our goal is to show what the IBEW has to offer.

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 196 (govt,mt,o,t&u), ROCKFORD, IL — Local 196 recently participated in the Union Sportsmen's Alliance 2013 Northern Illinois Sporting Clays Shoot. All of our participants had a great time. We were able to fill two teams sponsored by our union hall and two more teams that were sponsored through a couple of partners affiliated with our local union, along with two teams sponsored by a local contractor, for a total of 30 shooters. Add our three volunteers, and Local 196 had a total of 33 people at the event! Pretty good participation and we hope to expand on that for next year's shoot.

Local 196, along with a local contractor, Intren Inc., also recently fulfilled a commitment to assist with a Union Sportsmen's Alliance "Boots on the Ground" project, trimming trees in a camping area for the Illinois Conservation Foundation so that the youth campers could safely continue to use the facility. The USA is a great organization that Local 196 will continue to support.

Our recent organizing campaign at the City of Geneva Street Department is going well, and 14 of the 16 employees have been certified as a bargaining unit; yet the employer has decided to attempt to dispute two of the employees' ability to organize, which will slow the process. Another day, another fight! Organize!

Eric Patrick, B.M.

L.U. 222 (o), ORLANDO, FL — Hello, brothers and sisters. We are writing this at the start of the dog days of summer and if August has anything on July, even the dog will be crying foul.

We had a good-sized job with a hard deadline finish in mid-July with a great safety record. All of the guys working the 429 job should be proud. The work picture looks good for the remainder of the year.

Quite a few apprentices topped out since the beginning of 2013. Congratulations to new journeyman linemen Marcus Thomas, Carlos Fuller, Michael Wagner, Shaun Galloway, Frank Ford, Jason Ayers, Amber Elrod, Rocco Arcaro and Deatrick Forbes, and URD technician Cecil Story.

Work safe. See you at the union meetings.

William "Bill" Hitt, Pres.

L.U. 226 (em,i,rtb,rts&spa), TOPEKA, KS — Local 226 is pleased to recognize the apprenticeship graduating class of 2013. The graduates are pictured (at bottom, left) along with the apprenticeship director and several instructors.

2013 graduates are: Michael Ellis, Cory Mouthrop, Craig Moranz, Zac Keeshan, Nolan Glenn, Kiel Esquibel, Clyde Andrews, John Waters, Branner Gordon, Adam Hiebsh, Derek Hansford, James Kent, Thomas Booton, Andrew Keating, Justin Haas and Bryon Shove.

Congratulations to all on completion of your apprenticeship.

Robert Bausch, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 230 (c,catv,​em,i,mar&u), VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA — This year's Local 230 Retiree Luncheon in Nanaimo brought with it an unusual comment. "I designed the pouch," declared 50-year service pin recipient Bro. B. Horseland. The story goes that in 1952 while building the original Port Alberni Pulp and Paper Mill, he worked alongside several shipyard mateys who came out of the navy wearing a canvas pouch on their hip, which would hold a wireman's tools in one single opening, as opposed to a box.

Bro. Horseland loved the idea of wearing a pouch that would hold all of his tools, so he sat down and designed a pouch that would have smaller open compartments to hold tools individually for his pliers, screwdrivers and hammer. He took his design to a local leatherman, in the small Oceanside community of Parksville, who quickly went to work on this new electricians pouch. Before he knew it, Bro. Horseland had 30 orders from Local 230 members on the job and a booming side business.

Here is the challenge! Can any retirees in the Brotherhood recall owning a pouch prior to 1952? Or did Bro. Horseland from Local 230 design the pouch we all use and wear today?

Phil Venoit, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 234 (i&mt), CASTROVILLE, CA — Our Inside Apprentice Graduation was June 7 at the Hyatt in Monterey. The graduates were: Matt Battaglia, Erik Fritz, Daniel Gilbertson, Miguel Huerta-Ponce, Luke Poljak and Trey Replogle. As our Outstanding Graduate, Trey attended the NJATC's National Training Institute at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor this summer and was generously sponsored by our LMCC. Milwaukee and Klein each donated substantial gifts to the graduates.

This year we were honored to have in attendance Diane Ravnik, chief of the Division of Apprentice Standards from the state of California, as well as three trustees from Hartnell College: Bill Freeman, Ray Montemayor and Demetrio Pruneda. Hartnell College is our LEA (lead education agency). Our keynote speaker was Dr. Willard Lewallen, president of Hartnell College.

Congratulations to the Inside Class of 2013.

Stephen Slovacek, P.S.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — It is that time of the year again, time to say congratulations to our Tri-City JATC Class of 2013. In June, a graduation dinner was held to honor 35 of Local 236's newest journeyman wiremen. It is always a great pleasure to watch these young men and women receive their diplomas, all of them standing tall and proud of their great accomplishment. Graduates Nathan Elble and Shawn Hildebrandt received special recognition for their outstanding academic achievements. Bro. Elble was recognized for having the highest cumulative GPA over the five-year apprenticeship, and Bro. Hildebrandt was recognized for having the second highest cumulative GPA during the five-year apprenticeship. We wish the entire class the best of luck and hope they enjoy a long and prosperous career as IBEW journeyman wiremen.

Work has begun on the Owens Corning 2.6 megawatt solar project, Local 236's largest solar project to date. Intermountain Electric is installing a 9,000-panel array that will cover over nine acres of land and will produce more than 6 percent of the plant's annual electricity needs. Way to go green, brothers!

Michael Torres, P.S.

L.U. 246 (ees,i,rts&spa), STEUBENVILLE, OH — Brothers and sisters of Local 246 welcome our 10 newest inside wiremen, who completed their five-year apprenticeship program and earned an associate degree from Eastern Gateway Community College in Technical Studies. Congratulations on a job well done to the new journeyman wiremen: L. Tyler Kelley, Stephen Badgley, Christopher Scammell, Lance Lucarelli, Matthew Keller, Michael Bell, Charles Nemeth, Greg Whiting, Donald Hipkiss and Dustin Crawford.

Also, congratulations to our newly elected officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Kyle Brown, Pres. Phil Diserio, Vice Pres. Curt Hazelip, Rec. Sec. Jason Jenkins, Treas. Frank Redmond; Executive Board members William Davis, Brian Ferguson, Richard Fisher, David Pietro and James Truax; Examining Board members E. Sam Bailey and Brian Zorne. Health & Welfare Fund trustees are Richard Fisher, Mark Gasser and Curt Hazelip. Pension trustees are David Pietro, Frank Redmond and J. Eric Vanchure. Vacation Fund trustee is Rob Biacco.

Thanks to all the members who participated in the election process.

Kyle N. Brown, B.M.

L.U. 270 (i&o), OAK RIDGE, TN — As of this writing, work is still very slow in our area. A couple of small jobs have been let and have taken a small number of members, but there are still a substantial number of wiremen on the books.

At press time, we are still awaiting a start date on the Uranium Processing Facility project at the Y-12 Department of Energy site in Oak Ridge.

We recently welcomed our newest class of apprenticeship graduates to our ranks. The graduation ceremony was May 30. We are honored to have these fine men and women joining us and helping to ensure the future of our great union. The 2013 graduates are: Justin Langley, Josh Neeley, Jeremiah Justice, Ben Cooley, Chris Farrar, Joshua Justice, Blake Edwards, Josh Davidson, Brandon Lester, Eric Bandy, Vanessa York, Michael Daugherty, Rex Ruppe, Alan Hale, Kenneth Morgan, Ricky Oltmann, Tonia Smith and Terry Wallace.

Special thanks go to JATC Training Dir. A.J. Pearson and to the fine instructors who taught this class. Also, a special thank-you goes to IBEW Tenth District Int. Vice Pres. Robert P. Klein, who made time in his busy schedule to help us honor the graduates. Our Apprentice of the Year award went to Ben Cooley.

We wish to thank all of the locals across the area that are working Local 270 members.

Please attend your union meetings.

Regina Guy, R.S.

L.U. 280 (c,ees,em,es,i,mo,mt,rts&st), SALEM, OR — As fall approaches, we see cooler temperatures and a cooler work picture in Local 280. There will be projects starting in the near future, but the financial woes of businesses and access to funding has kept many projects from rising out of the ground. This story is not new to many locals around the country, but Bus. Mgr. Tim Frew and the Local 280 staff are working diligently with our contractors to compete and capture the market share within our jurisdiction. Networking with general contractors and political officials, as well as educating and reintroducing the public to the IBEW are critically important to the success of our local and many like it around the country. With the help of our membership, we will continue these efforts into the coming year.

In late July, Donna Evans, our office secretary of 23 years, concluded her career and was bound for retirement. We wish her well in this new chapter of her life and thank her for her service and dedication to Local 280 and all of its members.

Nathan Albertson, P.S./B.R.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Local 292 Golf Tournament was July 22 with 105 members joining together in brotherhood and camaraderie. The winning team comprised Brandon Eggert, Lane Helgeson, Randy Eggersgluess and Brian West.

The Local 292 Family Picnic was Aug. 17 at Bunker Hills Regional Park. Each year we alternate locations; in August 2014 the picnic will return to Minnehaha Wabun Park in Minneapolis. Each year we have a great turnout with families enjoying BBQ, corn on the cob, bounce house and foot races for the kids, live music and bingo.

The Local 292 Brotherhood Committee assists members in need or distress, either with gift cards from our Local 292 food shelf, or teams of brothers and sisters helping around the house. If you need assistance or know of another member in need, please call our brotherhood line at (612) 617-4247 or send an e-mail to brotherhood@ibew292.org.

We are responsible for our own safety at work. It's important that you not only create a safe environment for yourself but that you also help others around you be safe as well. Be aware of your surroundings and correct things on the spot instead of ignoring them.

Our political director, Bus. Rep. Andy Snope, is running for a seat on the Golden Valley City Council. Visit his campaign Web site www.andysnope.com. If you know someone else running for public office, please contact the hall at (612) 379-1292.

Carl Madsen, B.R.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — The summer of 2013 was good to IBEW Local 300 Unit 1 electricians. Along with the usual school work, our largest local contractor, Peck Electric, secured the contracts and construction of two large solar fields. These jobs consistently employed 20-30 IBEW members daily during construction. These two jobs were in addition to multiple mid-size and residential installations that Peck Solar (a division of Peck Electric) has been and will be performing. Once again solar is the leader.

Our contractors continue to see a steady flow of blueprints crossing their desks, and they are aggressively bidding them. We are at full employment, with several book two hands working, and we are increasing membership nearly on a daily basis.

We are very optimistic about the future work outlook, as we are starting the largest first-year apprenticeship class we've had in many years. At the time of this writing, all are gainfully employed and many have been for months. My goal is in five years to state that we graduated the largest fifth-year class in many years.

In closing, I sincerely extend thanks and praise to the brothers and sisters who gave their all to ensure that Local 300 jobs came in on time and within budget. You truly are the IBEW.

Timothy J. LaBombard, Mbr. Dev. Dir.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — Our local union elections are behind us and the votes have been tallied. It is time for us to look toward the future.

With a new administration come new ideas and new ways of facing old challenges. Change can present difficult challenges, but it can also reveal new opportunities.

In this spirit, we welcome a new era of member outreach, transparency, and regaining our market share that was taken for granted for so long.

Hopefully, we have learned from the mistakes of the past. Failures have been duly noted. But our past successes have been tallied, too! They will serve as a platform for even greater gains in the days to come.

Change for its own sake is pointless. But a trim of the sails — setting the course toward a brighter horizon — benefits all those aboard.

We are committed to bringing the members back into the fold and forging a renewed and invigorated relationship with our contractor partners and our sister building trades locals.

There is so much to be done and we have a long way to go.

It is time to grab the tools and get to work!

Bob Lilley, P.S.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — Local 306 members wish to thank retiring former business manager Mark Douglas Sr. for his many years of dedicated service to the IBEW and our local. Mark has served with distinction in many capacities over his 43-year career — as Executive Board member, recording secretary, trustee, assistant business manager and, finally, business manager. We wish Bro. Douglas a long, enjoyable retirement.

The Local 306 election of officers was held in June and Bro. Michael Might, our former organizer, was elected business manager. Also elected were: Pres. Mike Kammer, Vice Pres. Dave Nutt, Treas. Lou Torcasio, Rec. Sec. Jason Hornacek. Executive Board members are: Dave Bedard, Shane Fisk, Pete Hafler, Mike Johnson, Adam Wright, Tom Wright and Chuck Zittle. Examining Board members are: Rick Hicks, Jim Livers and Joe Quesenberry. Congratulations to all.

Thanks go to election judge John Crockett and tellers Mark Stoltz, Rick Fieldson, Nick Taras and Pau Zimmerman.

We also thank all those who accepted nominations, got involved and ran for office.

With sadness we report the loss of retired Bro. William Henninger Jr. We send our condolences to his entire family.

Thomas Wright, Org./P.S.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — Fifteen years ago IBEW Local 340 amalgamated with former Local 442 in Redding, CA, and picked up seven counties: Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Plumas, Shasta, Tehama and Trinity. Although in 1998 employment was very slow in these counties, we kept the original Redding business office open in order to maintain a presence in the area and to continue to provide service to the members who lived and worked there. This was the birth of "Local 340 North."

Since elected in July, my Sacramento staff and I have had the opportunity to travel up North to meet the members who continue to use this office for dues, dispatch and monthly unit meetings. We have been getting up to speed on what is going on in the Northern area regarding politics, the work picture, organizing, etc. Our visits were very welcomed by Asst. Bus. Mgr. Andrew Meredith, as well as by the members who attended the unit meetings. It was great getting to know some of these dedicated union members, and it is our goal to maintain support to Local 340 North for years to come. With the help of our Northern members, I am confident we can increase growth in both membership and employment in this area. The Local 340 Northern Unit office is located at 900 Locust Street, in Redding. When in the area, be sure and stop by!

Rest in Peace: Bros. Tony R. Cimino (father of Bro. Tim Cimino), John C. Fain (father of Bro. Jeff Fain), and Charles L. King.

Tom Okumura, B.M.

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Signaling the beginning of a new era for our local, Bro. Tom Sink was overwhelmingly elected by the membership as business manager/financial secretary. Nearly 300 members voted in the June election of officers, the largest turnout in 12 years.

At the July union meeting, Bro. Sink was sworn in for his first elected term as business manager, along with fellow elected officers. (Bro. Sink previously served as interim business manager; upon former business manager Darrin Golden's promotion last March to International Representative, Bro. Sink was appointed to fill that prior unexpired term.)

Additional results from our election: Bro. Patrick Tomlin was re-elected president for his fourth term; Bro. Greg Cote was elected recording secretary for his first term; Bro. Mike Miller was re-elected vice president; and Bro. Dave Wedwick was elected treasurer. Elected to the Executive Board were: incumbents Theresa Fernbaugh, Brad Williams, Dave Cargill and Chris Molander, as well as first-time E-Board member Brad Vos. Elected to the Examining Board were incumbents Tim Tammen and Dave McNamara, and first-time Examining Board member Bill Herlugson.

Congratulations to all officers! With elections behind us it is a time to come together to strengthen our Brotherhood, work together, look out for one another and continue to engage our adversaries, the nonunion contractors, at every opportunity.

Charlie Laskonis, B.A./Org.

L.U. 424 (as,ees,em,es,i,mo,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA — Unit 2 held a Pancake Breakfast & BBQ Lunch for their members on July 5 to mark the start of the 10-day Calgary Stampede & Exhibition, raising about $100 for Unit 2 Retirees. Thank you to Darcy Duthie, Darcy's daughter Lindsey, Larry Gatner, George Gladney, George Smith and others on the grills, especially the Calgary Retirees, who did a super job on set-up and take-down.

Next was Tina Stevenson's July 13 Unit 1 Family Picnic in Edmonton's Dunluce Park. A big "thank you" to Tina and husband Scott Stevenson, who have been the impetus behind this picnic for years, assisted by a few Retirees and office staff.

The annual Unit 1 Pancake Breakfast & Lunch was July 19, done entirely by the Edmonton Retirees, who raised $673 toward some projects. Simultaneously, in southern Alberta, the Unit 2 Golf Tournament was played, having been rescheduled from June due to flooding in Calgary. Edmonton's Unit 1 Golf Tournament was July 26.

July 19 was the first Executive Board meeting for officers elected to a three-year term in June. Bus. Mgr. Kevin Levy, Pres. Dan Smith, Unit 1 Chmn. Dave Towers, Unit 2 Chmn. Darcy Duthie, Unit 3 Chmn. Gord Spackman and Unit 4 Chmn. Jim Round are all returning. New faces on the Board are Vice Pres. Fred Babiak, Rec. Sec. Dan Maher and Treas. Paul Cherry. Congratulations to the successful candidates!

Dave Anderson, P.S.

L.U. 428 (govt,i,rts&spa), BAKERSFIELD, CA — The work picture remains strong with more than 2,500 megawatts of photovoltaic projects on the books in our area. Add to that three large projects at both the junior college and the university here in Bakersfield, as well as a brand new hospital in nearby Tehachapi, and the next few years should make for a very busy time.

Congratulations to all the recent apprentice graduates and a special thank-you to Bro. Scott Lindsay, who represented our local at the Western States Electrical Contest in September.

Heartfelt congratulations to former business manager Danny Kane on his recent retirement. Bro. Kane served as business manager for the last 15 years and was business agent for six years before that. He saw this local through feast and famine and never wavered in his love and dedication to the Brotherhood. On behalf of all of us at Local 428, thank you, Danny, for all you have done and we wish you the best in your well-deserved retirement.

Brian Holt, B.R./Exec. Brd.

L.U. 440 (i,rts&spa), RIVERSIDE, CA — As the first semester of Local 440's largest first-year apprenticeship class in our history begins, we wish to recognize our graduating class of 2013.

The 2013 five-year apprenticeship program graduates are: Jason Amagrande, Christopher Berg, Aaron Candelaria, Daniel Casperson Jr., Alfonso Ceballos, Daniel Corson, Ryan Davis, Wallace Russel Heaps, Philip Holst, Venessa Ingalls-Llamado, Dakota Kritzer, Richard Lara, Bradley Long, Christopher Lovio, Michael Lucas, Eddie Navarro, Andrew Richards, Mikeal Stevens, Robert Webb and Juan Valencia. The two-year accelerated program graduates are: Frank Aleman, Justin Biggs, Christopher Cooper Sr., Dante Coz, David Deiss II, Geoffrey Drennan, Jorge Huertas, Tom Martinez and Aurelio Rubalcava. The Sound and Telecommunications Installer graduate is Nathan Habecker.

We are proud of all our brothers and sisters who committed, made the sacrifice, and completed the program. (See accompanying photo of some of the graduates.)

Bro. Mikeal Stevens was named Outstanding Riverside Apprentice for this graduating class. Bro. Stevens also received the Willis L. Fehlman Outstanding Apprentice Award, presented to one apprentice by the Southern Sierras Chapter NECA.

Good job, graduates — now it's your turn to take all that you have learned and help this great Brotherhood thrive.

Bernie Balland, Org.

L.U. 520 (i&spa), AUSTIN, TX — Congratulations to Ann Pannell on her retirement. Ann has served Local 520 as a secretary for 37 years and has been a member of the local for the past 15 years. Her husband, Billy, is also retiring from his job as a court bailiff this year. Congratulations to you both, Ann and Billy, and may you enjoy your time off.

At the time of this writing, the local has opened negotiations on a proposed wage and benefit increase; there is no update to report as of press time.

The AEJATC has a new training director. Jim Strickland became the new director in June 2013.

Lane Price, Pres.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — July 21 saw Local 530 hold its Annual Picnic at Bluewater Fun Park. All members along with their spouses and children were invited to the water park to enjoy the rides and water slides.

On Aug. 9, Local 530 enjoyed perfect weather at Huron Oaks Golf Club for the Annual Golf Tournament. Participants played 18 holes of golf, followed by a steak dinner and prizes for everyone in attendance. The scramble foursome with the best score was an amazing 14 under.

Once again for both these events, a big thanks goes out to our Recreation Committee!

Local 530 would like to take this opportunity to thank Locals 105 Hamilton, 402 Thunder Bay, 1687 Sudbury, and 2038 Regina for employing our members during these trying times.

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — The North Alabama JATC annual Apprentice Graduation Banquet was May 23. The class of 2013 produced seven linemen and 26 wiremen. This class of wiremen is the first to successfully complete the craft-certification and state electrical testing exam. While these new policies bring an added workload, we believe this could be the most valuable tool in regaining work in our competitive industry. It also validates our motto "Aptitude, Skills and Knowledge," a distinguishing feature of the IBEW/NECA training program.

The 2013 wireman graduates are: Nicholas Moore, Travis Grossheim, Blaine Jones, Blake Berry, Jimmy Evans, Zachary Aday, Benny Dunn Jr., John Clemons, Eric Clemmons, Jeremy Morgan, Bobby Gregory, Matt Overton, Ryan Stooksberry, Orrie Lansdell, Brett Sellers, Corey Matlock, Joshua Austin, Anwar Willis, Nathan Jaynes, Brandon Butler, Brian Doss, Mark Davis, J.D. Henslee, Frankie Pace, Morgan Hudson and Brandon Jones.

The lineman graduates are: Timothy Forrester, Joel Cole, Jason Borden, David Scott, Tyler Pace, Preston Parker and Zachary Tubbs. Outstanding Wireman Apprentice: John Clemons. Outstanding Lineman Apprentice: Tim Forrester.

Work has been moderate this year. We completed the spring outage at Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant. And work is steady at the third Toyota Plant being built in Huntsville, AL; this plant was scheduled to be completed by early fall, but inclement weather may extend that date.

We congratulate the Alabama State Electrical Workers on successfully promoting Senate Bill 66, which gives added protection to our utility workers, especially during times of emergency.

Tony Quillen, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — Local 606 congratulates the graduating class of 2013. The skill level of the local will be greatly enhanced with the addition of these graduates. They are: Lorraine Llauger, Mark Dunham, Byron Hand, William Liekweg, Russell Murdock, Shuandell Peterson, LaVanace Pettiford, Mark Brown III, Richard Daisley, Lawrence Hedrick, Keith Kimbrell, Brandon Rickert, Jeremy Wirtz and Adam Zimmer.

Local 606 also honors retiree Bill Waits for 65 years of dedicated service. Bro. Waits sits on the local's Credit Union Board of Trustees and continues to be an active member of the local and the IBEW. We encourage all the recent graduates to follow in Bill's footsteps of making the IBEW stronger and larger.

Local 606 also encourages all IBEW members to do their part in making our union and America stronger. Attend union meetings, become active in your local, and buy American/union-made products whenever possible.

Fernando Rendon, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 636 (as,catv,em,spa&u), TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA — Spirits were high as golfers gathered for a day of fun, fellowship and fundraising at the 2013 IBEW Local 636 Classic, hosted by Waterloo North Hydro. We extend heartfelt thanks to CEO Rene Gatien, Unit Chair Sharlene Cameron, Pamela Kidd, Laurie Clayton and all who donated their time and talents to ensure the tournament's success.

We raised more than $11,000, which was donated to our charity of choice — MySafeWork. These funds will help our friend Rob Ellis continue his campaign to raise awareness among young workers regarding workplace health and safety.

At one such recent gathering, an act of kindness by a student demonstrated that this program is indeed inspiring courage and change. After receiving a cash prize during the presentation, this student decided to donate it back to the Heart & Stroke Foundation in honour of the late Int. Vice Pres. Phillip Flemming, who passed away the week before. Without ever meeting Phil, this young champion seized the opportunity to "pay it forward" in his name. The youth of today truly are our hope for tomorrow.

Kudos also go to members at Process Group who helped raise $5,500 to assist a union brother and his wife as she battled cancer. Unions: making a positive difference in the world around us and lending a hand whenever we can. That is the true spirit of solidarity.

Paddy Vlanich, P.S.

L.U. 666 (i,mt&o), RICHMOND, VA — As we approach the fall elections, I would like to call attention to one of the candidates for governor, Ken Cuccinelli. We posted a link on our Facebook page showing Ken saying he would "not support collective bargaining for public or private employees in Virginia." Let's all get out to phone bank and walk precincts and vote and be sure he does NOT represent our state if he does not support our way of life.

Our picnic was in June and everyone had a great time. If you could not make it, come out next year or join us at the Christmas Dance. Thanks to the members who put these events together!

Please come and get involved with the Volunteer Organizing Committee; a little time and energy from a lot of members can make a real difference. If you are out of work, come take a salting class and help with workplace organizing. We have had a couple of members do some real good work with a contractor in the area! We have an active Twitter feed; please follow us @Ibew666.

Many thanks to all those who are putting in work for the local as an officer, on a committee, helping with organizing, or volunteering on one of our many events.

Charles Skelly, P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — As reported in our August article, we did not have any accepted nominations for recording secretary and treasurer prior to the June election of officers. The Executive Board subsequently filled the vacancies for those offices, appointing Bro. Jeff Wilcox as recording secretary and Bro. Carl Overly as treasurer.

Our picture this month is of recently retired former business manager Bro. Mark Bauer. Again, we wish to thank Bro. Bauer for his years of service to our local. His longtime, dedicated service to the IBEW is greatly appreciated. We wish him a healthy and relaxing retirement.

Bus. Mgr. Jack Tobias appointed Jess Peil as assistant business manager; Jess served as organizer for 14 years. Bus. Mgr. Tobias appointed Travis Brady as organizer.

Please remember: Union meetings are the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. When the first Monday of the month is a holiday, the meeting will be on the following Monday. Please come and get involved. The more we are all involved the stronger we will be.

Tammy Gottleber, P.S.

L.U. 760 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), KNOXVILLE, TN — Congratulations to the Local 760 class of 2013 apprenticeship graduates.

The 2013 graduates are: Denver Berry, Krystal Cash, Christopher Cromwell, Shane Gordon, Jerry Hembree, Adam James, Gerald "Chad" Kuhn, Walter "Trip" Lambert, David Manning, Bradley Massengale, Steven Miller, Glen "Cody" Presley, Travis Russell, Charles Scharer, Brett Schuler, Jimmy Shields, Michael Wallace and Christopher Williams.

We are proud of all of our new brother/sister journeyman wiremen!

George Bove, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 904 (u), TALLASSEE, AL — Shown in theaccompanying photo are IBEW Local 904 lobbyists Greg Daniels and Mike Walker with Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley. Gov. Bentley had just signed Senate Bill 66. SB 66 is heralded for being among the strongest utility worker protection laws in the nation.

Greg Daniels, F.S./R.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — After a few wicked storms, the monsoons have come to an end. Our members have once again safely and expeditiously replaced a record number of poles and restored power to the community; and when it was all said and done — the excellent customer service that all of our members performed spoke for itself.

Several Local 1116 Tucson Electric Power linemen will compete in October at the Linemen's Rodeo in Missouri. They are: Brandon Baltierrez, Lucas Cummings, Leander Johnson, Mike Halbur and Chito Ortega. The linemen will show off their skills as they "glove up and work it union style."

Congratulations to Bryant Farrow, Phil Wilhite, Todd Corneli, Martin Cota-Robles and Jason Nash on completing their apprenticeship programs and becoming journeymen in their respective crafts.

Our union family grew when the following employees were organized and became Local 1116 members: Ray Bowen, Clark Kasey, Liliana Canti, Alyssa Kuzukian, Javier Rodriguez, David Ontiveros, Natalie Nava, Bryan English, Hershal Kitchens, Eric Eager, Janice Malone, Maria Sherfield, Desiree Torres, Blake Katterman and Adam Myers. Welcome to the Brotherhood!

R. Cavaletto, P.S.

L.U. 2366 (em), LINCOLN, NE — IBEW Local 2366 members and Schneider Electric joined forces to stock and man a stand, handing out free bottled water at the 52nd Annual Czech Days Festival in Wilber, NE, August 3-4. The volunteers made arrangements with the Wilber Volunteer Fire Dept. and set up the stand at the Wilber Fire Hall.

On Saturday the weather was beautiful, as temperatures reached a high of only the mid-80s. This for Nebraska in August is quite unusual. Normally it's in the 90s or higher.

Large crowds came out for the parade. The stand was very well-received and appreciated by many. Sunday morning started with light rain, with temperatures in the mid-60s. By parade time, the temperature reached 75 and big crowds came out to enjoy the last day of the festival.

Pres./Bus. Mgr. Rocky Maas said the stand received many compliments and thanks from festival officials, vendors, visitors and participants.

Rocky Maas, Pres./B.M.