L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — This fall saw several dozen members of our local sacrificing their weekends and evenings to make the 28th annual Fantasy of Lights possible. Fantasy is the premier fundraising event for the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center. It is a time when over a mile of city park lane is decorated with beautiful lighting displays. The proceeds are used to help underwrite physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions for local children and adults who otherwise could not afford these life-changing services. Thanks to all who make this happen.

The IBEW Cook Committee once again did an outstanding job with their latest benefit. Brothers spent many days and a very long weekend preparing pork butts, loins and turkeys. The food was excellent, and the monies raised will be a blessing to the sick and needy.

Thanks to Mr. Brandon Wongngamnit and staff for being in the forefront when it came to protecting the integrity of this area's skilled-trade licensing. Proposed legislation that would have allowed unqualified workmen to operate here could have put both the workmen and the citizens of Vanderburgh County at risk; the ordinance was stopped in its tracks.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U.24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — We hope that everyone had a safe and happy holiday season. This year's Children's Christmas Party saw many changes due to the ongoing battle with COVID-19; however, everyone enjoyed the day. Thank you to all the volunteers who made the day possible.

Brother Michael Ayers has been appointed by the Executive Board to fill the vacated Examining Board position of Brother Michael Pace. We thank Brother Pace for his service to the local.

Our new sign is literally a sign of things to come for our local. We are getting our name out there more than ever. We have been very busy meeting with community leaders, politicians and contractors alike, all in an effort to secure work opportunities for our membership and contractors. We will also be advertising on radio and television with few sports franchises in our jurisdiction.

Congratulations to our JATC's classes of 2020 and 2021. Two ceremonies were held this year since the class of 2020's had been canceled last year due to COVID-19. We are excited to have you help us move the local forward in your new role as the best-trained journeyman in the industry.

Live Better — Work Union!

Michael J. McHale, B.M.

L.U. 26 (i,es,ees,govt,em&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Plans are underway to get back to some great brotherhood/sisterhood events this year, and we hope everyone had a wonderful and safe holiday. If you would like to mark your calendars ahead, here are some key dates:

• JATC Graduation — Sat., June 4
• Dollars Against Diabetes Golf Outing — Mon., June 6
• Virginia Picnic (Manassas) — Sat., June 25
• Maryland Picnic (Edgewater) — Sat., August 20
• Poker Run for Special Love — Sat., September 17

It's scholarship time! Be sure to visit the local's website (www.ibewlocal26.org) for information about this year's Local 26 scholarship. The award is $2,500 per year, for up to four years of college. The deadline to submit applications is March 31.

The Retired Members' Club had their annual raffle in November and the winners were Sam Beachy Jr., Mike Brawner, Roy Pilkington and Bob Sylvia. Congratulations and thank you to everyone who bought tickets to help keep the Retired Members' Club Medical Equipment Fund going strong!

Best wishes to the following new retirees: Charles E. Alexander Jr., Mark A. Bailey, Scott A. Bates, John H. Blankenship, Michael L. Brookman, James E. Cockrell Jr., Robert J. Goodwin, Robert E. Gosheff, Jeffrey L. Green, Jeffrey A. Lampe, Donald T. Morgan Jr., William H. Noel, Michael A. Passmore, Joe B. Sabha, Thomas E. Smith, William T. Weiss Jr., Danny E. Wheeler, Thomas B. Winslow and Angel C. Zeballos.

The following members have passed away since our last article: Carl R. Garrett, Roger E. Golden, Mark A. Herring, Jonathan L. Kanagy, Joe L. Koonce, James R. Lewis, Charles McKeithan, Andrew E. McLean Richard A. Meaney, Clarence I. Meiggs, Earl E. Otten, Dedra Raddie; Joseph A. Ruby, Louise Salsbury, James D. Smith, Thomas R. Steadman; John L. Waltman; Carl H. Weiland Jr. and Albert B. Williams.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — This past December, our local had the privilege of honoring retiree Todd Holzinger for over 40 years of service and dedication to not only our local but the entire community labor movement. Todd exemplifies what it means to be a union member. Over the years, he has served Local 34 at every possible opportunity in varying roles. Todd has served the local as an election judge, convention delegate and Executive Board member, to name a few. He worked as Peoria business representative and assistant business manager to the local while simultaneously serving the Labor Council of West Central Illinois, the Peoria Labor Temple Association and Tazwell County Democrats. Todd has done everything from negotiate contracts to inspiring members to donate blood at our annual Red Cross blood drive. Over his career, Todd has answered the call from business managers as well as fellow brothers and sisters to help in any way he could. With more members like Todd Holzinger, there would be nothing our union couldn't do. Thank you, Brother Holzinger! Enjoy retirement. You have earned it and then some.

Marc Burnap, Treas.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — After writing articles in Local Lines for more than 20 years, this will be my final article before retiring on Dec. 31st. I started my apprenticeship in 1978, and it has been an incredible journey. I got to learn an amazing trade and work on landmark projects in my 21 years in the field. As an officer, I helped organize contractors and many members who we are now able to proudly call our brothers and sisters. I have been able to go to Washington, D.C., to help lobby Congress for IBEW causes, including helping to kill the anti-pension bill when President Stephenson called us to go to Capitol Hill on a moment's notice. Some of the best people I have ever met are in the IBEW; I have been glad to know you. It has been my honor to be the business manager of Local 38.

Dennis Meaney, B.M.

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — Our annual That's a Wrap! holiday party returned this year. After having to cancel last year's party due to the pandemic, we were excited to welcome the members and their families back to this year's holiday party. On Dec. 4, the local gathered to celebrate a busy year in the industry and our graduating apprenticeship classes of 2020 and 2021 as well as to recognize members' years of service.

Our Outstanding Apprentice award for 2020 went to Thomas Klohn and for 2021 it went to Joshua Geller. Brother Geller also received the Top Gun Apprentice award from Southwest Industrial Tools. In addition, Brother Jerry Green received the local's Pioneering award for his dedication in mentoring the future generations of Local 40. Brother Shayan "Mike" Reodica received a Steward Appreciation Award, Brother Rob Siminoski received a Recognition award and Brother Barry Faucet received a Longevity award.

International Representative Tim Dixon was in attendance and received his 35-year pin. He took a few minutes to speak about the local's history, the achievements the local has made and the local's bright future.

As we have all made adjustments to our lives with the pandemic, it was great to see the members at this event. This event has served as a bridge between the future generations and the generations that paved the way before them. Seeing the members receive service pins for decades of service in the IBEW has been a reminder of the bonds of brotherhood and created connections with members across the local.

Stephan Davis, A.B.M.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — Sister Sue Simpson retired on Nov. 30 after serving our membership for 29 years. Sue, a member of OPEIU Local 8, was always willing to go the extra mile in assisting members. The members, officers and staff of Local 46 wish Sue all the best in her retirement!

The holiday season at Local 46 was filled with festive activities and events that we were unable to have last year due to the pandemic. Our annual Retirees' Christmas Luncheon was held on Dec. 9 and was well attended by almost 100 people.

Local 46's Women's Committee hosted a Holiday Bazaar on Dec. 11 that included over 20 vendors. Members were able to do some holiday shopping while supporting our Women's Committee at the same time. There were drawings and raffles throughout the event, and the Women's Committee raised over $2,000.

The Unity Committee held a Holiday Extravaganza on Dec. 18 for members' families that included stocking stuffing activities, keepsake photos for the kids and special guests Super Santa & Union Claus. A great time was had by all that attended!

Our local hosted an Angel Tree program to make sure that the kids of any member in need had presents. We also had a Meals for Members program to make it a little easier for all of our members to have a holiday meal.

The challenges of the pandemic have only made us stronger in our solidarity. Stay safe and best wishes to all!

Warren Shill, Pres.

L.U. 58 (em,govt,i,rtb,spa&t), DETROIT, MI — In promised efforts to reduce carbon emissions and improve regional air quality, DTE Energy has made good on its promise to phase out and eventually shutter its coal-burning facility in St. Clair. Partnering with Kewit, signatory contractors and Local 58, DTE started construction of the 1,150-MW Blue Water Energy Center in Feb. 2020. This state-of-the-art natural gas plant will be used in conjunction with solar and wind technology to create safe, reliable energy 24/7 to its customers. The energy generated is 70% cleaner and 40% more efficient than current coal-fired operations, with a ramp-up rate of 100-MW/minute, which is approximately 50 times faster than current utilization. With 90% less nitrous oxide and sulfur emissions as well as 99% less water usage, this cutting-edge technology also offers secondary conservation to the area by addressing the need to reduce out-of-state shipments of coal. The cost of this project is roughly $2.5 billion, and it has put out hundreds of calls employing local hands and our traveling brothers and sisters. The Blue Water Energy Center is scheduled to be turned over this month.

Kimberly Lheureux, Pres.

L.U. 66 (o,t&u), HOUSTON, TX — Greg Lucero was initiated into our local on May 5, 1977, as a helper with Houston Lighting & Power. He became an apprentice and topped out as a lineman on Dec. 5, 1980. Brother Lucero passed his journeyman test with Local 66 in March of 1981 and became a head lineman in 1983.

While he was at HL&P, Greg was a delegate at several AFL-CIO Conventions. He was a lead steward and an instructor for the apprentice program.

Greg was elected business manager of Local 66 on Aug. 20, 1992. He was appointed to IBEW's Sixth District International Executive Council seat in 2005 and served until 2011.

Brother Lucero has served on several committees, including as trustee to the Family Medical Care Plan (FMCP). He has been the president of the Texas State Association of Electrical Workers, served on the Executive Board of the Harris County AFL-CIO, the National Outside Construction Task Force and the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus.

Greg's dedication to his members has truly made a difference for Local 66. He plans to continue to pursue his hobbies, travel and enjoy time with his family.

Rick Schwartz, B.R.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Along with Local 111's RENEW "crews," we sponsored a "Trunk or Treat" for our members and their families on Oct. 30 in the parking lot at the hall. Awards were given for best decorated vehicle, adult costume and, of course, kids costume. There were games and refreshments provided, including lots of candy!

The local has hosted four vaccination clinics with more scheduled for the future, so watch the website (ibewlu68.com) for future clinics and times.

Election of officers will be coming up soon. Nominations will be at the general membership meeting on May 3, and the election will be held in June. Please ensure that the hall has your accurate mailing address and watch the mail for notices. I would also like to encourage anyone who is considering running for an office or position to do so. Talk to someone who is in or has held the position that you're interested in so that you have an understanding of the responsibilities that come with it.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased brothers and sisters: Bill G. Barnes, Michael W. Edge, Dennie A. Fowler, Randolph M. Halverson, Gerald E. Hale, Richard E. Hammer, Joshua C. Jackson, Thomas A. Layton, James Reasoner and James Rutter.

Morgan J. Buchanan, Pres.

L.U. 90 (i), NEW HAVEN, CT — On Oct. 21, our local held its annual retirement dinner at the Woodwinds banquet facility in Branford, Conn.

Thirty retirees were honored that evening: Dave Asplund, Dave Buonome, Dave Caperino, Mario Capozzo, Jim Carew, Nick Ciampini, Tom Claus, Joe Dibartolomeo, Robert DiCaprio, Jim Drury, Don Dumaine, Joe Fagan, Joe Fernicola, Ron Gosselin, Bob Grayeck, Bob Hamel, Jere Lacoske, Randy Laporte, Mike Lonardo, Tim Moore, Jon Perrotti, Jim Piscitelli, Peter Reilly, Peter Serrano, Greg Shadle, Andrew Simonow, Kurt Startz, Paul Tobias, Andrew Tokarski and John Vitale.

The following members were acknowledged with 25-year pins: Ben Acampora, Dominic Borelli, Russ Cooper, Shannon Cozza, Sal Cretella, Mike Crisci, Mike Cyr, Fulvio Grandetti, Rob Landry, Charles Larkins, Stanley Macmillan, Nick Maio, Gene McDonald and Greg Myerson.

Congratulations to all the retirees and 25-year pin awardees!

Business Manager Sean Daly and the officers at Local 90 would like to wish the retirees a happy and healthy retirement!

John Bellemare, Pres.

L.U. 102 (em,govt,I,mt,o,ptc&ws), PATERSON, NJ — Santa's helpers were hard at work this past December. Christmas 2020 led us to pivot to a drive-thru event, so everyone was excited to see the smiling faces of members and children at this year's in-person event. Face painters, balloon makers, magicians and a visit from Santa himself made for a great time.

The giving did not stop at the close of this year's Christmas party. As our Activities Committee cleaned up after 200 or so sugar-filled kids, they began phase 2 of our holiday tradition. All of the extra gifts were loaded up for the journey to Project Help, a support system for veterans and their families who need help transitioning from military to civilian life. All of us at Local 102 were happy to support our heroes and help their families enjoy a holiday filled with smiles and hope.

Our sincere gratitude goes out to our entire membership for making this a reality. A special thank you to our partners at Project Help; we appreciate all that you do every day for our veterans and for providing us the opportunity to support their families in a special way.

Bernie Corrigan, Pres.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,ptc,rts,se,spa&t), KANSAS CITY, MO — Work in Kansas City is going to be full- steam ahead at the beginning of 2022! Before the infrastructure bill passed, Local 124 already had plans to be a walk-through for the next decade. Now with the bill's passing, the work outlook could last even longer.

Currently in the making, a 767-acre and multi-billion-dollar investment in Kansas City's Northland is the Golden Plains Technology Park. It is an even bigger investment than the new Kansas City International Airport terminal. The Golden Plains Technology Park will be the second largest data-center complex in the United States.

Multiple other projects in the area are upcoming as well. Everything from commercial jobs downtown to industrial sites are in the works, including a potential 2,000-acre solar farm at the Kansas City International Airport. This project would generate up to 300 megawatts. This would be 10 times more capacity than the solar farm at Denver International Airport.

All in all, Kansas City looks to be busy going into mid-summer of next year, and we will definitely need help from our traveling brothers and sisters. Hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a blessed new year!

Wade Kiefer, B.R.

L.U. 130 (i&ptc), NEW ORLEANS, LA — Another year has come and gone. Work has been steady as the coronavirus seems to have settled down in our area. Some mandates have been lifted, allowing some normal behavior.

Waterford 3 and Day & Zimmermann will begin their nuclear refuel outage in February. It is my understanding that they will be requesting about 90 journeyman. Ordes Electric will be busy with a turnaround at PBF Energy refinery and preparing for a major expansion shortly after in the same plant. It is also my understanding that Frischhertz Electric will begin work on a major project at the old Charity Hospital converting it into retail, schools and housing.

Work in 2022 looks promising, not to mention the infrastructure projects on the horizon. With that said, our workforce needs to be prepared for the criteria these projects request for employment. Our members need to update their city license, TWIC cards, OSHA and First-Aid/CPR training to accept employment.

Our business manager, Paul Zulli, and his negotiating committee were successful in getting us an increase of $2.45 on a 2-year contract, bringing our total package to $47.23 by Dec. 2022. Paul and his team have been successful in each contract since he took office. We are fortunate that we have such a formidable group of members doing our bidding during negotiations. They have proven time after time that their members' needs are represented and met.

Our apprenticeship was well-represented in our state competition for Outstanding Apprentice. Sister Kristin Cortez, who was victorious in our local competition, also won the state competition in Louisiana last June. Kristin is the niece of President Corky Cortez, a very proud uncle. She is a very serious member who has the skills and temperament for a great future.

Thanks again to all the IBEW members who contributed their time, effort and donations to our members affected by Ida.

Billy Buckel, P.S.

L.U. 136 (ees,em,i,rtb&u), BIRMINGHAM, AL — In November, we hosted the first PRO-UNION Consulting Contractor Class in the state of Alabama. This 3-day class is for IBEW members interested in going into business. It was presented by Pro-Union Consulting's owner and Local 212 Brother Matt Kolbinsky. It gives a journeyman wireman the right path to follow as well as support from Pro-Union to become a successful union electrical contractor. Thanks to Cahaba Electric owner Cory "Tex" Parsons for sharing with the class the lessons he has learned after opening his shop four years ago.

Thank you to Brother Corey Jackson for stepping up to become the assistant director of the Birmingham Electrical JATC. We know you will do a great job in providing a bright future to our apprentices with a tuition-free education.

U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh visited with Birmingham's newly reelected Mayor Randall Woodfin and the business managers that make up the Central Alabama Building Trades Council in November to promote union apprenticeships.

Bill Blackman Jr., B.M./F.S.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — First, the local would like to wish all our brothers and sisters a happy, healthy and prosperous 2022. In October, during the run up to the New Jersey gubernatorial election, Business Manager Dan Gumble, President Tom Sullivan and Local 164 members were proud to again welcome New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, as well as many other state, county and municipal elected officials and candidates who support union labor to our union hall. In attendance were the Bergen County Central Labor Council, with approximately 400 brothers and sisters from various North Jersey labor unions, including almost 100 members of Local 164. Also among those in attendance were AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and New Jersey AFL-CIO President Charles Wowkanech. It was a great day of solidarity and support for labor and for those who support it.

Warren M. Becker, Training Dir.

L.U. 230 (c,catv,em,govt,i,mar&u), VICTORIA, BC, CANADA — There are almost 200 countries around the world that offer some kind of paid sick leave. There doesn't seem to be a consistent way to calculate the benefits; but no matter how it's calculated, paid sick leave can reduce employee turnover, increase productivity and reduce the spread of diseases like COVID-19 in the workplace and community.

Workers shouldn't have to choose between paying rent, bills and groceries or going to work sick knowing they will infect their coworkers. Some businesses will say, "it's not the right time" or even "they will have to close their doors," but this is the direct result of 20 years of wage and workers' rights suppression by the anti-union British Columbia liberal government (conservatives in every way but name).

This is the right humanitarian action for a civil, just and progressive society. All Canadians need sick pay to begin to bring us back to an empathetic nation where we don't have to make "choices" that workers can't afford to make.

Local 230 member and BC Federation of Labour President Laird Cronk and all affiliate unions were instrumental in developing this new benefit.

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

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — We hope that everyone had a great holiday season and a Happy New Year! Local 236 was pleased to hold our December union meeting and holiday party at the Desmond Hotel this year. The facility is staffed by union members and their contract work is performed by our members, so it is great to see their continued success.

Our members and contractors were part of bringing the holiday spirit to Albany this year. A state contract transformed Albany's Empire State Plaza into a festive display for everyone to enjoy.

2022 is already shaping up to be a good year with another healthy work picture. GlobalFoundries, Wadsworth Laboratories, several solar fields and offshore wind turbine construction at the Port of Albany are just a few of the larger projects expected to need lots of manpower this year.

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

Mike Martell, A.B.M.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,lctt,mo&u), MONTPELIER, VT — For over 30 years, our local's construction unit members have had the privilege and honor of working with Benefits Administrator Jean Watkins. Jean's tireless devotion to the membership and her amazing stewardship of the benefits programs bestow credit toward her legacy at the IBEW. Jean was also instrumental during her brief but productive stint as apprenticeship director, when she secured state and federal training grants to kickstart the local's renewable energy curriculum and hands-on training center for both wind and solar. Jean has decided it is time to write a new chapter in her life — retirement. She will be retiring at the end of February, following in her husband Tim Watkins's footsteps, who retired as business manager from Local 300 on Nov. 7. We wish them both a safe and enjoyable retirement.

We would also like to welcome into the fold Erin Flanders and Lindsey Brown, who will have their opportunity to continue moving forward with the benefits programs. We wish them well and know they will do an amazing job.

We hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season and look forward to seeing everyone in the NEW YEAR!

Jeffrey C. Wimette, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — We would like to welcome our new inside and sound apprentices to the local: Matthew Crosley, Jarod Del Chiaro, Brennan Garcia, Brandon Henderson-Gilkes, Joshua Jacobs, Van Monson, Arturo Morfin, Steven Rodriguez, Luis Suarez and Spencer Weberski. We wish them the very best as they start their careers with the IBEW.

With the new year beginning, we are looking forward to a couple of signature projects. We have two refineries converting from oil to renewable fuels. Both projects are covered by a PLA and are projected to provide 4 million hours each. They are looking to start the third quarter of this year and to last between 18 and 24 months.

Tom Hansen, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 340 (em,i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — As I write this article, we are wrapping up the year. It's during this time that we truly see how the brotherhood of our local assists our members and the community. It has been a long-standing tradition of our local to hold an annual fundraiser towards the end of the year to help not only our members but the community, too. This fundraiser started over 40 years ago with two members who found copper on a jobsite and decided to turn it in for money to help members in need during the holiday season. This long-running tradition has since expanded. It has helped members with holiday meals and presents for their family as well as donating funds to local charities.

We all know the current pandemic has affected many: not just union members, but the world as a whole. It is such an amazing sight to see not only members but contractors come together to support one another. We are grateful for the partnerships that have been cultivated throughout the years, and we are optimistic to see this new year unfold.

Robert D. Ward, B.M.

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — Our local held its annual Kids Christmas party on Dec. 11, and, as always, it was a fantastic time for all our members and their families. A big special thanks to Local 364's very own SanTY Claus (Brother Ty Hillman), who thrills the children who attend every year. This is Local 364's largest event each year and always has a large turnout, and this year was no exception.

2021 will go down as one of the busiest on record for Local 364, but 2022 is shaping up to be what could be the busiest that our local has ever seen.

Our Facebook project is rolling along with over 600 IBEW members onsite. This project has hit major milestones, including the turnover of several buildings with zero punch-list items, which has never been done before according to Facebook. This is a testament to the focus and hard work that has been put forth by not only Local 364 members but the numerous brothers and sisters from across the country. We couldn't have done this without all of their hard work and support; so once again, thank you.

Our New Hard Rock Casino project is moving forward with the temporary casino opening in mid-November. At this time, we have no specific details on when the project should begin but were hoping for early spring. This project, along with our normal work outlook, has our local primed for a banner year.

Brad Williams, Mem. Dev.

L.U. 486 (u), WORCESTER, MA — While working at Franklin Square Substation in Providence, our local's members of looked out into the distance at Hasbro Children's Hospital. They thought about the many children undergoing medical treatments this holiday season and reflected on how they often take things for granted.

After deciding to organize gifts for the children, the crew connected with a staff member from the hospital in charge of donations.

In the days that followed, individuals began to load up the donation site with toys — Lego sets, puzzles, craft kits, action figures, Barbie dolls and more. Word eventually spread to other crews in the area who made sure to drop off gifts as well. After a few weeks of collecting, the site was jam-packed with toys.

During a visit for Safety Leadership Day, management employees, including the COO of U.S. Electric New England Chris Kelly; and Manager of In-House Substation Construction John Burke, met with the crew at Franklin Square for a discussion on safety and a walkthrough of the site. When they made it to the crew's job trailer, they were blown away by the number of toys inside and inspired to donate more toys to the collection.

Burke shared that the crews at Franklin Square have worked hard over the past year for our customers — from energizing a new transformer early, despite days of storm restoration, to energizing a mobile substation ahead of schedule, which enabled an increase in load capability within the network. Although these are great examples of how the crews work hard for our customers, John said he was so impressed with the toy drive they started.

On Tuesday morning, the Local 486 crew visited Hasbro Children's Hospital to donate the toys. Micaela Materne, Manager of Child Life Services at Hasbro Children's Hospital, said the crew showed up with boxes upon boxes of toys decorated in festive holiday wrapping paper.

The toys will mainly be gifted to children for the holiday season and will also be used throughout the year for birthday presents, according to Materne.

We often forget about how lucky we are when caught up in day-to-day life," said Local 486 President Neil Fitman. "It makes me happy that the crews were able to think about others and found a way to give back. With all the incredible work done by Hasbro Children's Hospital, it's great to be able to support them."

John Callahan, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 540 (i&r), CANTON, OH — As 2022 starts, our local would like to congratulate all members who have reached milestones in their years of service through 2021.

Local 540 would like to make special acknowledgement to the following members: Finis Norris for 60 years; Donald Artman, David Brody, Richard Conaway, Terry Hykes, Frank Icardi, Lloyd Price and John Young for 55 years; Gary Hanna, Alden Ickes Sr., Dino Kennard, David McKnight, Donald Miller, Thomas Norris, Danny Seal, Greg Snyder and Donald Whaley for 50 years.

Thank you for your dedication to IBEW.

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

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,lctt,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — Our local experienced a phenomenal year in 2021, and the start of 2022 looks to be an even busier year with the ratification of a new 3-year NECA contract and a 3-year contract with the TVA. The work outlook in the jurisdiction projects positively with our signatory contractors awarded the next phase at Facebook, which is 1.1-million manhours of work for IBEW members.

Projections for spring 2022 have groundwork beginning for a new 300-MW solar farm, built in our jurisdiction, as well as an enormous expansion project at Toyota engine plant for a new engine design.

Outside work in the jurisdiction has taken a major positive step with the local signing Sparks Unified as a signatory outside contractor; this development makes Sparks one of the biggest outside contractors to partner with the IBEW in the country.

Local 558 Business Manager Tony Quillen would like to extend his gratitude, saying thank you to all the hard-working IBEW brothers and sisters who made 2021 such a great success.

We look forward to an even more prosperous 2022.

Mac Sloan, Pres.

L.U. 640 (em,govt,i,mo,mt,rts,spa&u), PHOENIX, AZ — Our calls have slowed a bit because of Intel and TSMC (Chip Plant) pushing back schedules. We still have calls for data centers, hospitals and commercial jobs. The outlook starting the first quarter of 2022 and extending several years beyond is extremely strong.

We are sad to announce the passing of our long-time Brother Roy Hamilton. Roy served our local faithfully as a steward, agent and Executive Board chairman, and he was loved and respected throughout the IBEW by all who knew him. We love you, Brother! Rest in Peace.

We hope you all had a safe and happy holiday season, and that we all have a great new year!

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

L.U. 666 (i,m&o), RICHMOND, VA — Heading into 2022, the work outlook continues to be strong as many large projects take shape across the jurisdiction. Local 666 and the Apprenticeship Committee have taken initial steps toward constructing a new apprenticeship building adjacent to our hall, and organizing efforts continue to expand meetings with new membership.

In October, we lost Brother Emmett Alcock, a 71-year member of our local. He served in the U.S. Navy and was the local's last surviving WW-II veteran. We thank him and all of our veterans for their years of service.

Several brothers and sisters attended a highway clean-up organized by the RENEW Committee. Thanks to all who participated.

Stay safe and happy new year!

J. Davis, P.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Another year is upon us, and it will no doubt be as fractured as the last. With the federal government issuing coronavirus mandates, the unions are doing what they can to support members' choices on vaccinations. Please know that as an organization we are limited to what we can do to resist; however, we can negotiate the consequences of disciplinary action taken by companies in response to the mandate. Please be patient; Sarita is working diligently on these issues. The company is not notifying her of anything in advance before they issue directives. You can get regular updates if you attend meetings. As of this writing, employees are still working remotely when possible.

The employees at Sulphur Springs Valley Electric beat back their employer's attempts to decertify their election results. Congratulations to them for this stunning victory! They are now negotiating on a regular basis, and Sarita reports good progress. Brother Robert Sample is working on organizing additional employees to bring them into the fold.

By the time this is published, I will be retired. If you are interested in either the press secretary or recording secretary (or both) position(s), please contact President Greg Carter. This is a vital position within the organization, so please consider it. It has been a great honor to work for our members these many years as a steward, organizer, Executive Board member, press secretary and recording secretary.

Thank you for the opportunities and the memories. Joining the union is the right thing to do. Getting involved is even better.

Thank you for all that you do each day, for working hard and showing those around you what it means to be a member of the IBEW. Remember, this is your local and you have a voice, but you have to use it.

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

L.U. 1340 (i&o), NEWPORT NEWS, VA — Our annual oyster roast was held on Oct. 15 at the union hall, and it was a great event for all who attended. Food was provided by Bubba-n-Franks Smokehouse, along with an open bar and beer truck. Of course, a grill was set up for oysters, and steamed shrimp was also served. Many brothers and sisters who are traveling for work took the opportunity to return to renew friendships and catch up on the latest news. Some IBEW items were offered for raffle to raise money for those in need. Many thanks to Aaron Woodard, Jeff Rowe and the Retirees Club, who assisted in the set-up and clean-up.

The recent election in Virginia was successful for local delegates who were endorsed by the AFL-CIO. Congratulations to Jeion Ward (92st), Mike Mullin (93rd), Shelly Simonds (94th), and Marcia Price (95th) on their reelection to the House of Delegates, and thanks to all who worked on their behalf.

With sadness we report the passing of the following members: James Clifton (Aug. 5), Gene Hall (Aug. 20), Howard Wood (Oct. 13) and James Vandiford (Oct. 16).

Jim Avery, P.S.

L.U. 2304 (u), MADISON, WI — For years, our local's members, retirees and families have been volunteering their time to staff the Holiday Fantasy in Lights booths at Olin Park in Madison, Wis. This season, Local 2304 staffed the booths every night from Monday, Nov. 22, through Sun., Dec. 5. Through volunteer efforts over these two weeks, the local was able to donate $2,500 to Second Harvest Foodbank. Also, we'd like to give a special shout-out to Local 159's electricians, apprentices and retirees, who perform the behind-the-scenes work on the lighting displays to make this 33-year Madison tradition a reality.

Nate Rasmussen, Pres./B.M.