Recent Events at Local 16
L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — From mid-October through early January, volunteers from our local and our labor allies worked diligently to haul, set up, energize and maintain this year’s Fantasy of Lights. FOL is an elaborately illuminated holiday display that serves as a fundraiser for the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center. Money from this event is used to underwrite needed therapies for children and adults who otherwise might not be able to afford these life-changing services.
In December, the Local 16 hall held a dinner and service-pin ceremony to recognize 150 brothers and sisters for their contributions to this local. Nine 60-year members were among those being honored. They are Donald Bollinger, Thomas Earps, Ralph Heneisen, Richard Luttrull, James McDowell, Kenneth Myers, Larry Parkes, Larry Schauberger and Michael Stucke. Congratulations!
After several years of research and discussion, the Vanderburgh County Electrical Examiners Board decided to implement the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies’ testing format. NASCLA is nationally recognized for evaluating journeyman- and master-level candidates for electrical licensing. This allows the process of testing to be more compliant with other locations, using updated code materials while reducing costs. Thank you, Brother Raymond Pritchett, for leading this effort!
Donald P. Beavin, P.S.
The Power of Collaboration
L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — Greetings from Charm City! Building trades unions and environmental groups can be on opposite sides of public policy, but the last several years have demonstrated the power of collaboration. Local 24 has worked to build relationships with partners like the League of Conservation Voters, Chesapeake Climate Action Network and the Sierra Club. Together, we fought for energy policies with strong labor standards, rallied for offshore wind and participated in data center summits to highlight the economic benefits those projects bring to working families. These partnerships don’t happen by accident but grow through sustained conversations and a commitment to finding common ground.
The efforts proved that when labor and environmental advocates focus on shared goals, we can accomplish more together than on our own. Our cooperation has helped advance responsible development that creates middle-class careers while supporting a more reliable energy future. It has also strengthened our credibility with local leaders who now see labor and environmental groups effectively standing together on key issues.
Local 24 will engage with these partners wherever common ground exists. We will continue our advocacy to ensure that our members’ interests remain part of every discussion shaping the region’s energy, infrastructure and economic development.
Live Better/Work Union!
Mike McHale, B.M.
Hello, 2026!
L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Our local hopes everyone enjoyed their holidays as much as possible, and we wish you and your family the safest and healthiest 2026!
It’s scholarship time, so be sure to visit the local’s website (ibewlocal26.org) for information and to download the application for this year’s Local 26 scholarship. The award is $2,500 per year for up to four years of college. The deadline to submit an application is March 31.
Local 26 is looking forward to all of the events we have scheduled for this year. For information and for a full schedule of all of our upcoming events, please visit our website.
Best wishes to the following retirees: Lewis Barnes Jr., Edgar Bellot Salaues, Daniel Bennett, John Coghill, Joseph Dabbs, Vincent Divver Jr., David Domi, Russell Dunn, Mark Espina, Charles Eyler, James D. Hall, Aaron Howard, Craig Jost, Patrick Latham III, Bernard Matthews, Greg McElroy, Mark Miller, Michael Preston, David C. Smith, Rudy Souder, Dianna Sponaugle, Jesse Tomlin and Gerard Urban.
The following members have passed away since our last article: Curtis Bierlein, Leonard Durnbaugh Sr., Melvin Gaye Jr., Brian Gibson, Steven Goodwine, Raul Guillen, Robert Hughes, Christopher McClanahan, Amanuel Mehari, Eugene Mills, Bernard “Penny” Pendleton, Tyrone Reid, Harold Repass and Raymond Skinner.
Christopher M. Cash, B.M.
Local 30 Women’s Committee Makes Strides Against Breast Cancer
L.U. 30 (govt), TRENTON, NJ — Our local’s Women’s Committee made a powerful statement of solidarity by joining more than 22,000 walkers at the American Cancer Society’s 31st annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Point Pleasant Beach, N.J. On a warm, sunny October morning, our collective efforts stood out brightly, showcasing an unwavering commitment to battling breast cancer.
The atmosphere was filled with hope and determination as members of Local 30, alongside families and friends, came together to raise approximately $2,220 for cancer prevention, detection, treatment and survival. Funds raised will support crucial cancer research, patient support services and advocacy efforts. This was the first community event supported by the newly formed Women’s Committee of Local 30.
Breast cancer is a pervasive disease, affecting approximately one in eight women and one in 755 men. Local 30’s team (ranked 82nd of 521 teams) was honored to walk alongside five courageous cancer survivors on our team, further fueling our mission to eradicate breast cancer for everyone.
Alfred C. Laubsch Jr., B.M.
Prosperity and Growth at Local 34
L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — 2025 was a year of great prosperity and growth for our local. With more than 1 million working hours recorded and a 96% market share, our membership has been working hard.
Local 34’s leadership continues to make great strides working alongside our NECA and JATC boards to transition our inside construction apprenticeship to a four-year program and to implement a seasonal worker program to help assuage NECA’s demand for more workers.
Local 34 hosted its first annual Thanksgiving turkey giveaway for members, and it was a huge success. More than 400 turkeys were given to members and donated to local food banks. All turkeys were purchased from our local union butcher shop, Raber Packing Co., in Peoria.
We hope all brothers and sisters had a wonderful holiday and look forward to what 2026 will bring. Stay safe out there.
Zachary Helms, R.S.
RENEW and Women’s Committee in Action
L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — Our local’s RENEW and Women’s Committee were called to action when a local nonprofit was left stranded and in need of help. In November, the May Dugan Center, a 501(c)(3) organization established in 1969 in Cleveland’s Ohio City area, contacted Local 38 when the company hired to decorate the center’s Christmas display stopped showing up.
Local 38 RENEW and Women’s Committee members were on site the next day to complete work. Curtis Cousineau, Ethan Heston, Marco Mazzola, Miranda Miller, David Rozman, Brian and Tyler Stetzy, and Clancy Thomas dedicated their Saturday to hanging lights on the center’s grounds. Thank you to all that participated!
Local 38 has been supporting the May Dugan Center since its inception. The facility was named to honor a longtime resident of the neighborhood who had been a one-person advocate and counselor for her neighbors in need. Today, the center continues that tradition by providing basic and enhanced programming to residents of Cleveland to improve their quality of life and strengthen their community.
For more than 55 years, the center has committed to a comprehensive and caring approach, which has proven to be an effective method in helping people overcome socioeconomic disadvantages and become self-sufficient, contributing members of their community.
Dan Gallagher, B.M./F.S.
Women’s Committee Volunteers to Help House Homeless
L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,I,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — In October, members of our local’s Women’s Committee spent a full volunteer shift with Sound Foundations NW, a nonprofit that builds insulated, durable “tiny homes” to provide safety, stability and community for unhoused people in King County. The organization’s mission is simple but powerful: to create secure shelter so people can begin rebuilding their lives.
Local 46 volunteers joined the crew at the Hope Factory, Sound Foundations NW’s volunteer-driven build site. During the shift, committee members worked on wall assembly, material preparation, insulation and general support tasks that keep tiny homes moving efficiently through the building process. Many participants were struck by how organized and community-focused the operation was, modeling collective effort that aligns closely with core union values.
For Local 46’s Women’s Committee, the day was more than just a service opportunity. It offered space for members across classifications to connect, collaborate and contribute their skills toward a project with immediate local impact. Volunteering alongside community members highlights how much can be accomplished when people come together with purpose and solidarity.
Sound Foundations NW has produced thousands of tiny homes, supporting villages throughout King County and providing residents with secure shelter, warmth and access to supportive services. Local 46 is proud to support this work and looks forward to further collaboration in the future.
By stepping up to volunteer, the Women’s Committee demonstrated the strength of union solidarity in action, building not only homes but also hope and community with our neighbors.
Seamus Anglin, P.S.
A Brighter Future for Local 68
L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Hello, brothers and sisters. Welcome to a brand new year!
We’re thrilled to share that Local 68 has officially moved into our newly remodeled hall, and everyone is settling in nicely. Our Oct. 18 open house was a tremendous success, thanks to the incredible turnout of Local 68 brothers and sisters, their families, and Colorado leaders who joined us in celebration. Your support made it unforgettable!
Local 68 retirees also had their first gathering in the new hall in October. We look forward to many more gatherings with them and their families.
I want to send a special farewell to Brother Joel Holding, who recently retired, with his last day Nov. 14, 2025. Thank you for all you have done, Joel. You will be missed!
As I write this, we’re gearing up for our Christmas party, always a festive time for families and children to gather in our hall, with Santa and Mrs. Claus spreading holiday cheer.
The future of Local 68 is looking bigger, brighter and stronger than ever. Thank you for being part of this journey!
Debbie Tikka, Pres.
Honoring Our Retirees
L.U. 90 (i), NEW HAVEN, CT — Our local held its annual retiree and 25-year-pin ceremony Oct. 16 at the Woodwinds banquet facility in Branford. There were 20 honored retirees and 36 25-year-pin acknowledgements.
The retirees honored were Ronald Acampora, John Berry, Anthony Cacace, David Clow, Joanne Corbett, Anthony Giampa, Kevin Heery, William Heimann, Paul Hill, Michael Kamercia, Steven Luponio, William Mackey, Carlton Morris, Steven Panaroni, Mark Peterson, Anthony Rasile, Brendan Toth, Nicholas Vallas, Leyson Vazquez and David Walton.
The 25-year service acknowledgements went to Jason Auger, James Blackey, David Cone, David Dynan, Fred Elgersma, Anthony Falcone, Zackery Flynn, David Gelinas, Dennis Grills, Gregory Hawkes, Kristopher Horniak, Charles Kanel, Tim Kilmartin, Marc Kneeland, Anthony Lanziero, Thomas Larned, Karin Lipinski, John Luxeder, Mario Malangone, Thomas Masotti, Scott McCormick, Ronald Miceli, Gregory Miller, Joseph Mirto, Edgar Muralles, David Ordway, Michael Papa, Kevin Perkins, Timothy Remaly, Paul Romano, Mark Savinelli, Jason Scarano, Scott Staubley, Erik Weiss, Brian Wiehler and Frank Zano.
Business Manager Sean Daly and the officers of Local 90 wish each of the retirees a healthy and prosperous retirement.
John Bellemare, Pres.
Inaugural ‘Brunch and Bears’ Event a Win-Win
L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — In November, two of our local’s social clubs combined forces to create an outstanding new event, “Brunch and Bears,” held at the union hall.
The RENEW chapter coordinated a breakfast for retirees along with the Veterans Committee’s annual Chicago Bears watch party, making for a combined celebration that brought everyone together.
Members of the RENEW Committee, including President Andre Aguilar, cooked breakfast for everyone who attended and gave away raffle prizes. Members of the Veterans Committee, led by Commander/Chair Joseph Wells, prepared lunch for guests during the Bears game.
It was a wonderful event that commemorates our retirees and honors our veterans as we toasted a Bears victory over the Vikings.
We look forward to this event growing year after year as we move forward. We invite all our retirees, who built this local, and veterans, who serve our country proudly, to attend next year’s Brunch and Bears and celebrate with family and friends.
Donald Finn, B.M./F.S.
Honoring Our Past, Organizing Our Future
L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGAN, IL — As we move into February, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the extraordinary figures who shaped the labor movement and laid the foundation for the IBEW that we’re proud to be part of today.
Brother Henry Miller, the founding father of the IBEW, recognized early that unity was the key to protecting electrical workers from dangerous conditions and unfair labor practices. His vision and determination built an organization rooted in solidarity, safety and dignity, values we continue to uphold more than a century later.
Labor giants like Mother Jones and Joe Hill also remind us that organizing is not just a strategy but a moral obligation. Mother Jones dedicated her life to defending working families, proclaiming that the fight for justice belonged to everyone. Joe Hill, through his music and activism, inspired generations to stand together, insisting that the working class deserved a voice, power and respect.
Their legacies reaffirm a simple truth: When workers unite, we all rise. Today, that spirit remains at the heart of the IBEW as we continue to expand, strengthen and support one another.
This month, we proudly welcome all newly organized IBEW members across the nation. You are now part of a tradition built on courage, solidarity and the unwavering belief that workers deserve better and can attain it together. Welcome to the brotherhood and sisterhood!
Sisters and brothers, be safe and look out for one another!
Aaron M. Rendon, P.S./R.S.
Local 164 Celebrates Retired Members
L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — On Dec. 6, our local held its annual dinner dance to celebrate our retired members. An evening of great food, dancing, fun and brotherhood, this event is a wonderful way to honor the members who worked so hard to help build Local 164 into what it is today.
Business Manager Dan Gumble; President Tom Sullivan; and the officers, staff and membership of Local 164 sincerely thank our retired members for their many years of dedicated service and wish them continued good health and happiness as they enjoy their well-deserved retirement.
Warren M. Becker, P.S.
What a Year for Local 364!
L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts&spa), ROCKFORD, IL — 2025 seemed to fly by, and our local is looking to be extremely busy in 2026.
Project Yukon in Belvidere is moving along nicely and as of this writing is being staffed.
There are a few data centers projected for our jurisdiction, and at this time of this writing, they are still in the early permitting and zoning process. As soon as the red tape breaks loose, look for the work to really get rolling.
We held our annual kids’ Christmas party Dec. 13, including our own retired member San”Ty” Claus, also known as Brother Tyler Hillman. A great time was had by all who attended! Due to the ever-growing size of this event, we hold it in two shifts to give the kids plenty of time with Santa and also to give Santa a break to feed the reindeer.
As we go headfirst into 2026, there are several member events to look forward to, including our Local 364 picnic and our annual golf outing.
Brad Williams, P.S.
Local 402 Updates
L.U. 402 (i&o), THUNDER BAY, ON — Greetings, sisters and brothers, and congratulations to the first inside electrical graduates of our newly built, world-class training centre. Thank you to Brothers Randy Boudreau and Andrew Wronowski for their hard work in developing and launching the curriculum.
Our work outlook remains strong, with high employment levels and valuable support from our travelers. Thanks to the steady workload and the efforts of our Organizing Committee, our membership continues to grow.
Events such as the family picnic, bowling night, golf tournament, family swim night and Christmas party all rely on dedicated volunteers. Thank you to our entertainment committee for their commitment to organizing these activities, which help strengthen our local and bring our members together.
Please remember to attend Local 402’s monthly meetings and volunteer when you can. It is our members who make this local successful.
Have a safe and prosperous new year.
William Heinrich, P.S.
Local 424’s Annual Christmas Event
L.U. 424 (as,ees,em,es,i,mo,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), EDMONTON, AB — Hello, brothers and sisters! More than 1,000 members and their families attended the annual Christmas Family Fun Day at the Galaxyland area of the West Edmonton Mall. Members had a wonderful time taking part in the festive activities, including rides and having photos taken with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
Thank you to everyone who attended, and we hope you had a fantastic holiday season.
Scott Crichton, P.S.
