Helping Hands
L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st,ws&ptc), ST. LOUIS, MO — Happy New Year, brothers and sisters. I hope you were blessed this holiday season to be of service to your family and community. Between the coat drives, Shop With a Cop, the government shutdown and the machinists’ strike at Boeing St. Louis, our members met the challenge of donating time, money, clothes and nonperishable food items to help those in need.
Some of our retirees donated their time to upgrade the Black Madonna Shrine in Pacific, Mo., proving that the drive to be of service doesn’t end with retirement.
Local 1 is also donating time to solicit public support for an initiative to repeal the partisan, gerrymandered congressional map that our Legislature enacted. They bent the knee to Washington, D.C., instead of following the state redistricting process, where districts are adjusted to reflect population shifts every 10 years after the release of new census data.
Fingers crossed that the new year brings a brighter future to the IBEW and the labor movement.
Kyle Hunter, P.S.
SSG Ratifies Three-Year Contract
L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — On Oct. 8, all available System Services Group members gathered to review the proposed updates to the collective bargaining agreement. Following six months of negotiations, Senior Assistant Business Manager Mike Freeman led the meeting, walking members through the details of the negotiated changes. After the presentation, 67 members cast their votes and, with a 95% yes vote, ratified a new three-year contract.
The negotiating committee also included Senior Assistant Business Manager Jim Collins and Business Representatives Lisa Sims and Mike Keating. Local 15 President Chris Riser would like to thank all involved in the negotiations and said, “We are a strong and united local, and we will win contracts that support the hard-working, middle-class members of Local 15!”
This strong vote of support reflects members’ confidence in the contract improvements and the continued commitment to ensure fair wages, benefits and working conditions. Local 15 SSG members stood united throughout the negotiations to ensure that the best possible contract was achieved.
Brad Gritt, Bus. Rep.
Local 47 at the 2025 Kansas City Lineman’s Rodeo
L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Business Manager/Financial Secretary Colin Lavin and our local congratulate the Sturgeon Electric team for taking first place overall and first in the journeyman contractor division of the 2025 Kansas City Lineman’s Rodeo!
- Southern California Edison — The first meeting with the newly organized senior specialist vegetation management group was Sept. 26. Three Barstow journeymen received reinstatement and back pay. In the discharge of Catalina Plant mechanic Justin Hernandez, the parties reached an agreement prior to arbitration with the grievant electing to take a cash settlement of $95,000. Still awaiting the decision from Arbitrator Katherine Harris in the discharge of Tehachapi e-crew foreman Erik Kross. Awaiting the decision in the discharge of Manuel Guerrero from Arbitrator Ken Perea.
- Bear Valley — Bargaining continues.
- City of Riverside — Members ratified both supervisory and utility contracts.
- City of Orange — Members at the Water Department and Public Works Department turned down last, best and final offer.
- Trabuco Canyon Water District — Negotiations continue.
- Irvine Ranch Water District — Approved a new five-year agreement.
We are sad to report the deaths of Ruben Briones Sr., Vladimir Lemus and Mark Walker. Our condolences and prayers are with their loved ones.
Work safe and buy union!
Mitch Smith, P.S.
Verizon to Acquire Frontier
L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — The purchase of Frontier by Verizon Communications is expected to be complete in the first quarter of 2026. The deal’s closing is subject to regulatory approvals, which are ongoing, though the companies have received approval from the Federal Communications Commission and several state public utilities commissions.
Transmission work is picking up. MISO 2.1 projects will be awarded and grow over the next few months. Our line clearance tree-trimming work is still strong.
As of this writing, members we lost in 2025 include Lana Bender, Jan Blank, Steve Blazaitis, Larry Boughton, Michael Brice, Fred Brown, Susan Coldon, Marsha Cooper, Carl Edwards, Raymond Eller, Susan Gibson, Doug Glosser, Lloyd Hurst, Wanda Lowery, Mark Masterson, Jacob McMillan, Doug O’Neill, Glenn Payne, Edward Ruhrup Sr., Michael Schowalter, John H. Smith, Scott Soberg, David Staff, Howard Staffy and Robert Wolfe. Continue to keep these members’ families in your thoughts.
Happy New Year! We wish you all health, happiness and prosperity in 2026.
Karlene Knisley, Bus. Rep.
Local 71 Moves to New Office, Marks Major Milestone
L.U. 71 (lctt,o&rtb), COLUMBUS, OH — After 17 years in Grove City, our local has moved into a larger, more modern facility at 2280 Citygate Drive. The local’s former home at 3403 Farm Bank Way served our members well since 2008, when membership stood at just under 1,000. But with membership now exceeding 3,300, the need for a larger and more advanced space became clear.
Vice President Dirk Dozer and Business Representative Jake Hostetler led the effort to find the ideal location to meet the local’s growing needs. The new facility offers 7,600 square feet of space, with plans for a major expansion that will increase the total footprint to more than 30,000 square feet.
Local 71 took ownership of the new building earlier this summer. After some remodeling and upgrading, done entirely by Columbus-area union trades, the local officially opened its new doors Oct. 10.
Groundbreaking for the planned addition is expected in the spring, with completion anticipated later this year. The expansion will include a dedicated meeting hall, training facilities and merchandise storage, with space to host member events and gatherings. The new facility will also feature solar-powered electricity, EV charging stations and other state-of-the-art technological advancements to increase efficiency, sustainability and long-term savings.
“This project is about our membership,” said Business Manager Todd Kessler. “Being centrally located in the heart of Ohio, where Local 71 represents workers across much of the state, ensures this new facility will serve our members well for years to come.”
The move represents more than just a change of address. It’s a testament to the growth, innovation and future of Local 71.
James Roessner, R.S.
Making History at Local 99
L.U. 99 (govt&i), PROVIDENCE, RI — September was an eventful, historic month for Providence’s IBEW local. Fourth-year apprentice Sidney Jablonski had the privilege of introducing AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler at the Tradeswomen Build Nations conference in front of an audience of 6,000 attendees.
Before the monthly meeting Sept. 22, a federal judge ruled that construction on the Revolution Wind project could resume just three hours after Thomas Kilday, a fourth-year apprentice from Local 99, spoke at the hearing. This project had been halted by a stop-work order in August when the job was nearly 80% complete. The project is intended to supply clean power to Rhode Island and Connecticut and work resumed that same week. For more about this project, read the October Electrical Worker cover story, “Buried at Sea.”
International President Kenneth W. Cooper, Second District International Vice President Michael P. Monahan and other international representatives were present for the Sept. 22 union meeting. This was the first time in Local 99’s history that an international president visited the union hall and attended a meeting. There were 27 apprentices sworn in who had the privilege of being personally congratulated by International President Cooper himself.
Sidney Jablonski, P.S.
Local 103’s Fall Highlights
L.U. 103 (cs,i&ptc), BOSTON, MA — On Oct. 28, our local proudly swore in 220 new apprentices and construction wiremen, marking a significant milestone for the union and the future of skilled labor. This ceremony brought together not only the new members but also their friends and family to celebrate the start of their careers.
On Nov. 9, a beautiful fall day, 1,500 members of Local 103 and their families gathered at Gillette Stadium for an unforgettable experience. Hundreds ran across the six-time Super Bowl champions’ home field, throwing footballs, all gearing up for the New England Patriots to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the air filled with excitement.
This gathering underscored the importance of family within the IBEW community. With loved ones by their side, Local 103 members were able to relax and connect with one another outside their work environments. It was a perfect opportunity to strengthen bonds, share stories and enjoy the company of fellow union members. And to top it off, the Patriots won!
James Fleming, P.S.
Local 125, Klickitat PUD Commit to Code of Excellence
L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t,u&ptc), PORTLAND, OR — In early 2025, our local and Klickitat Public Utility District made a commitment during collective bargaining based on the Code of Excellence and uniquely tailored to the values of both parties. What made this partnership exceptional was that it was born out of the ashes of a difficult and stressful relationship that had not served anyone well. The leadership of the county PUD and Local 125 knew something had to change, so we committed to building our relationship and regained trust in each other. The vision focused not on what work gets done but how work gets done.
With that in mind, the parties built commitment declarations around key values and set about training every employee and commissioner at Klickitat PUD. It’s a choice we have committed to together to ensure that everyone has a terrific place to work. Klickitat PUD and Local 125’s ability to look beyond our differences, realize the importance of working together and build a stronger relationship is refreshing in our industry. The outcome of our commitment will benefit IBEW members, employees and the communities served by Klickitat PUD.
Travis Eri, B.M./F.S.
Help Received for Local 141 Flood Victims
L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV — Greetings, brothers and sisters. Work remains a bit slow in our local, with 46 members on Book 1. We anticipate a few projects to kick off in early to mid-2026 that should get us well into Book 2.
Local 141 would like to extend its gratitude to the IBEW Unity Fund, which helped our members and their families get back into their homes through generous donations after devastating flash flooding hit several neighborhoods in June. This fund, along with other donations of money, materials and many hours of labor have helped our affected members rebuild their homes and their lives.
Our local is saddened to report the passing of retired members E. George Miller and Harry V. Yahn III in October 2025. These brothers will be dearly missed.
Kurt “Bug” Reed, P.S.
Celebrating Russ Quarantello
L.U. 237 (i), NIAGARA FALLS, NY — Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, brothers and sisters!
The work outlook within our jurisdiction is strong and should remain so throughout the winter. With large projects such as Amazon and the Lake Mariner Data Center, we’ve relied on travelers to fill calls. Local 237 would like to thank all those brothers and sisters helping us to staff these jobs and others.
Local 237 hosted a special event, the third annual Russ Quarantello Memorial Golf Tournament, last summer. Russ was a longtime member, former business manager, loving father and exemplary union brother who epitomized giving the shirt off your back when others are in need.
The event took place July 20 at Hyde Park Golf Course in Niagara Falls, raising $12,000 for the Local 237 Sick Committee. None of this would have been possible without Dianne, Annina, Chris and the rest of the Quarantello family, who worked tirelessly to organize the event. Local 237 would like to express much gratitude to them, the donors and participants, Hyde Park Golf Course, and all of the volunteers.
The 2026 Local 237 dinner dance will be at Antonio’s Banquet Hall on Saturday, Feb. 28. Be sure to get your tickets ahead of time, and as always, call the hall for additional information.
Have a safe and prosperous new year.
Brandon Lum, P.S.
Michael Wright Receives Labor Award
L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — This fall did not result in any significant snowfall in our area. However, there was a flurry of activity in and around our union hall.
At the October meeting, the newly minted journeymen and -women of the class of 2025 were sworn in in front of the membership. We wish them the best as they move forward in their lives and their careers.
In the November election, the get-out-the-vote effort cranked up and produced outstanding results: Labor-friendly candidates won crucial seats across New Jersey, including the new governor-elect, Mikie Sherrill, and a pickup of five Assembly seats at the state Capitol. Congratulations to all who worked so hard in helping New Jersey chose democracy over despotism!
Finally, we would like to congratulate our own Brother Michael Wright for receiving the annual Knights of Labor Award presented by the Mercer County Central Labor Council at its yearly dinner. Mike, an executive board and Labor Council member, was recognized for his hard work, dedication and unwavering commitment to the labor movement. One would be hard-pressed to find a more deserving recipient.
Brian Jacoppo, P.S.
Events, Service Connect Local 309 Members With Community
L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — RENEW hosted its first mouse-races fundraiser this year, kicking off an exciting calendar of events. Local 309 proudly sponsored a NASCAR team at the World Wide Technology Raceway and hosted the sixth annual Union Sportsmen’s Alliance dinner and our local’s annual 50-year dinner, where we honored 70-year member Arlen Juergens.
Families enjoyed the annual breakfast-with-Santa event, bringing joy to the youngest members of our union. Late in the year, our Labor-Management Cooperation Committee partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to build a house for the charity. Local 309 remains committed to its members and the community.
In the summer, Local 309 settled the inside contract with a 20% raise over four years and the communications contract with a 16% raise over three years. On the legislative front, the IBEW in Illinois is still fighting to end the moratorium on new nuclear power, including support for small modular reactors at data centers. We also successfully lobbied for stronger project labor agreement requirements on community solar projects.
Looking ahead, the work outlook remains strong. With projects on the horizon, we expect to double 2022’s hours in 2025 and see positive conditions for the next 12 to 18 months.
Carlos S. Perez, A.B.M.
Local 313 Attends Vocational School Open Houses
L.U. 313 (i&spa), WILMINGTON, DE — In November, our local represented the IBEW at open houses for New Castle County vocational students at Delcastle, Hodgson and St. Georges technical high schools. Thank you to Brothers Joe Borgia, Pat Dembkowski, Brandan Kirlin, Eddie Lesniczak, Sean Lewis, Matt Mullins, David Rholetter and Joe Woerner for volunteering at the open houses where they once went to high school.
Also, a special thanks to Delcastle electrical trades instructor Chris Panico and his students for hosting our members in his classroom. They spoke to multiple parents and upcoming students about Local 313’s apprenticeship opportunities.
David Rholetter, P.S.
Changes on the Horizon
L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — Happy New Year, brothers and sisters! May the 2026 work picture be as plentiful and profitable as 2025. Rumors of data centers and utility-scale solar sites and the fact that the Mayo Clinic is investing billions of dollars in its Minnesota and other locations are reason enough to be optimistic.
And while rumors don’t put money in our pockets, a good contract will. When the hall asks you for input or involvement, do your part and take positive action to improve our wages, benefits and working conditions. Stay updated and informed as the negotiation planning progresses.
As some see the sun setting on their careers, it becomes evident how much the trade has changed. Tools, work methods, materials and job expectations continue to evolve. Terms like “check pool,” “want book,” “wiggy,” “plumb bob,” “hot box” and “contractor-supplied 12-inch 32 TPI hacksaw blade” are foreign to most under 30.
How we perform our craft as union wiremen may change. What doesn’t change is providing eight hours’ work for eight hours’ pay in a journeyman-like manner. Brother Matt Goretzki’s simple advice to his sons before their first job rings true to all new workers: “Show up, shut up and keep up.”
Buy Made in USA for 2026.
Tom Small, P.S.
Stronger Together at Local 357
L.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV — When the weather finally begins to cool in Las Vegas, activities at Local 357 really ramp up!
This year, we kicked things off at the end of July with our first-ever IGNITE Knowledge workshop, where members participated in interactive games and discussions focused on leadership and professional growth.
In September, we took part in the Pahrump Fall Festival Parade for the first time. With the theme “Out of This World,” our group proudly leaned into the Area-15 spirit, bringing energy, creativity and IBEW pride to the community.
October was filled with activity, which is no surprise because it’s one of the best times of year to be outside. We held our annual picnic, one of our largest gatherings, at Floyd Lamb Park, bringing members and families together for a day of food, connection and fun. We also participated in the College of Southern Nevada’s Construction Career Day, where students explored hands-on electrical activities and learned about apprenticeship opportunities. And of course, we hosted a festive Halloween party, complete with costumes and trick-or-treating.
Then, we wrapped up the fall in November with our 24th annual Gary Pitts Golf Tournament, benefiting the Children’s Foundation of Las Vegas.
These events are successful because of the members who make them happen — we are stronger together, in every season.
Julie-Ann Peeples, P.S.
Local 379 Shows Up Big at Veterans Day Parade
L.U. 379 (i,o,rtb&lctt), CHARLOTTE, NC — Greetings from the Queen City! In a state with low market share, we may be hamstrung, but we persevere. Our Veterans Committee worked hard to coordinate our participation in the Charlotte Veterans Day Parade for the second straight year.
Veterans Committee President Brian Kauer was proud to have doubled our attendance at the parade and hopes to see participation grow in future years. Brian comes from San Jose, Calif., Local 332 and experienced a culture shift in a new city where people didn’t know much about the union. Under his leadership, the Local 379 Veterans Committee is working to change that while helping our veteran community.
Thank you to all who have served. We are forever indebted for your service to our country.
Melissa Reyes, P.S.
Changes Afoot at Local 429
L.U. 429 (em,i,lctt,o,ptc,rtb&u), NASHVILLE, TN — Our hall is now represented by Business Manager Jeremy Butler, President Mark Poole, Vice President Laura Looch and Treasurer Brentin Nichols. Our new recording secretary is Sam Moseley. Needless to say, changes are afoot.
We are launching a new monthly magazine for our members called The Henry Miller. We encourage all our members to contribute their thoughts, ideas and artwork to the magazine. We are sending out direct texts and emails to our membership to keep them informed of what is happening with this project.
Additionally, we are exploring avenues to help apprentices with book costs and increasing member participation in local events, meetings and volunteer opportunities.
At the time of this writing, we are planning a food drive for those hit the hardest with interruptions to SNAP benefits.
We remain concerned about and are actively resisting the push to privatize the TVA, which is a critical employer for the IBEW and other unions.
We are excited about Modular Power Systems and its future impact on our local. MPS, in Mount Juliet, needs more than 400 workers and is slated to run full speed ahead for at least 10 years. Rosendin Holdings owns MPS, and Rosendin Electric is the subcontractor.
Finally, Local 429 wishes all IBEW brothers and sisters a wonderful holiday season!
Laura Looch, P.S.
‘Please Just Stay’
L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa,u&mt), POCATELLO, ID — September is Suicide Prevention Month. “Please Just Stay” is an initiative founded in Pocatello by the Coroner Torey Danner and a mother who lost her child to suicide.
We should remember that every day is Suicide Prevention Day, and we should be checking on one another’s mental health every day. If you see something that is concerning, please say something. Start a conversation, and if there is a crisis, help your brother or sister. Be the light in the darkness for those who are suffering.
Talking with a therapist does not make you weak. It takes great courage to talk to someone and say, ” I need help.”
I want to thank Local 449 and Business Manager Clay Hirning for allowing me to put up the “Please Just Stay” sign in front of our building. I feel strongly about this movement as a survivor of suicide loss. I want us all to remember that tomorrow needs everyone. We all have something to contribute. There is hope in the darkness. We all need to look after one another.
If anyone is in crisis, #988 will help you. You can speak to trained volunteers who can help and give you resources in your community.
Brandie Weaver, Office Manager
VOLTA Groundbreaking in Tacoma
L.U. 483 (catv,lctt,o&u), TACOMA, WA — Our local, in partnership with the Northwest Line JATC and Clover Park Technical College, recently celebrated the groundbreaking for the VOLTA North Campus pole yard.
Bringing the NW Line JATC VOLTA linemen pre-apprenticeship to the Tacoma area represents more than a year of effort by all parties involved. This campus will provide three classes per year of roughly 30 students. In recognition of the new campus, Local 483’s executive board has established a scholarship to cover the cost of tuition and tools for a local candidate, enabling a person of financial need to start their journey in the trades.
We would like to thank Lakeview Light & Power for providing workers and equipment to help in the groundbreaking ceremony.
Byron Allen, B.M.
Local 601 at the RENEW/NextGen Conference
L.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — The biennial International RENEW/NextGen Conference was held once again, this time in Portland, Ore. Local 601’s RENEW Committee participated with more than 550 members forging a path as the next generation of electrical workers. We even met our former business manager turned international representative, Jarrett Clem, at the event. See the December Electrical Worker cover story for more on the conference and the work that RENEW and NextGen do.
In presentations and workshops, RENEW members learned about everything that makes our locals tick and what we can do to make them better. Our adversaries and our strengths were laid out to show who is on the side of labor and who is not.
One of the best moments of the conference was being invited into the home of hosting Local 48. Its RENEW Committee threw a “RENEW-bilee” at its newly remodeled hall, filled with food, drinks, coin swapping and swag purchases.
Every RENEW and NextGen member has dreamed of having an event with such attendance in our own halls. It served as an inspiration to us all, and we hope that the next hosting local’s RENEW or NextGen committee will be able to share its story on the main stage. We can’t wait until 2027 for the next one!
At the time of this writing we have 39 on Book 1 and 16 on Book 2. We have slowed down a little bit, but calls continue to come in. Signing the out-of-work lists requires you to sign in person or a fax/email from your home local.
Luther Baker, P.S.
Local 617 Spotlights 2025
L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — Happy New Year! I would like to thank the membership, officers and staff for volunteering, attending, participating and getting involved in all of Local 617’s 2025 events. Reflecting on the last year, we are grateful for the festivities and celebrations that strengthened our community, highlighted the power of solidarity, and proved that unionism has a positive impact on and off the jobsite.
Our calendar was busy as families participated in offshore fishing charters, day-at-the-range clay shooting, motorcycle club rides, benefits fairs, veterans’ events, EWMC days of service, the 51st annual local summer picnic, Halloween haunted hall, Harvest Fall Festival, ALS Walk and Ride, golf and softball tournaments, T-shirt art contest, EWMC poker and bowling tournaments, union nights at various sporting events, Local 617 Retirees’ Club luncheons, health and wellness challenges, and the children’s holiday party and train display.
A huge shoutout to the Local 617 Journeyman Wiremen Motorcycle Cub, which raised over $53,000 for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation during the 2025 Northern California Ride for Kids campaign. The Local 617 JWMC is the top contributor in the nation, and we couldn’t be more proud.
We rolled out a new benefit administered by Trust & Will, an online will-based and trust-based estate planning platform that will help our families secure their legacies and ensure that their wishes are respected. We are also happy to announce the continuation of our health and wellness program, which provides extra support and tools for our members and their families to live happily and healthfully.
Looking forward to the new year and new ways to support our brothers and sisters.
Scott Wein, B.M./F.S.
Local 915 Outreach, Historic Contract Win, Special Election
L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL — In August, our local’s Women’s Committee held the first Power Through Connections outreach event, aimed at showing young women that a valuable career and path to the middle class can be found in the trades and the IBEW. The event successfully introduced participants to opportunities in our union.
A few weeks later, RENEW members spent a Saturday afternoon volunteering at the Dancing Goat, a local charity and goat farm. Our members tackled much-needed repairs that the owner was not able to make herself. Both events exemplified how Local 915 members continue to get out into the community and build meaningful relationships with our neighbors. These efforts strengthen our union’s visibility and demonstrate the skills our members bring to every job.
In September, Local 915 ratified a new three-year contract that sets a high water mark for our local. The agreement delivers annual raises of 4.75%, 4.5% and 4.5%. Additionally, water treatment work will now be compensated at our full industrial scale.
This means journeymen working at water treatment plants will receive the largest raise in the history of our local. The negotiating team, led by Business Manager Randall King, included Barnet Barrett, Jonathan Fielder, Zach Gazzana, Fernando Mondragon, Brian Nathan and Steve Sutton.
Finally, a special election will be held to fill the vacancy in Florida State Senate District 14. The only candidate is Local 915 member Brian Nathan. If you live in Senate District 14, please verify that you are registered to vote. If you plan to vote by mail, ensure that your ballot request has been submitted. This is an opportunity to elect a union brother who understands our issues.
Brian Nathan, A.B.M.
Won’t You Take Me Down to IBEW Avenue!
L.U. 1205 (em,govt,i,u&ptc), GAINESVILLE, FL — Happy New Year to all brothers and sisters of the IBEW!
Local 1205 has much to celebrate as we mark our 85th anniversary. The city of Gainesville has designated Northwest 25th Avenue, next to the hall, as IBEW Avenue. This honor was made possible through the leadership of our president, Brother James Ingle, and his campaign for city commissioner. It’s proof that when union members step up, we can make meaningful change. Consider getting involved in local office to see what is possible.
This past year, we also put several out-of-work apprentices back on the job by involving them in upgrades at the hall. They installed outdoor power for a future pole barn, cleaned the roof, power-washed the grill/smoker and upgraded the oven. Investing in our space and our members was another great way to celebrate our anniversary. Thanks to all apprentices involved!
To kick off the new year, Local 1205 is sending delegates to the Working Families Lobby Corps in Tallahassee to represent labor as the legislative session begins. The fight for workers’ rights is ongoing, and so is our commitment to the cause.
In brotherhood, everyone wins.
Nicholas Mangoni, P.S.
96% of Local 1347 Trained in PAL
L.U. 1347 (ees,em,u&ptc), CINCINNATI, OH — Nothing feels better than local union leadership recognizing the dedication and commitment of our members.
We’re proud to share that 96% of our members successfully completed PAL — Politics, Activism & Livelihood — training, an outstanding accomplishment worth celebrating. During our recent union meeting, we took time to honor this achievement and share the evening with those who made it possible.
When asked why they were proud of this milestone, one member shared: “Because we were asked by our business manager to complete it, and we wanted to reach a high completion level — not for a trophy or recognition, but because it was something requested of us, and we got it done.”
Local 1347 continues to grow — not only in numbers, but in education, participation and unity.
Andrew Kirk, B.M.
Get Involved; Understand the Facts
L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Brothers and sisters, I hope you all are enjoying a happy and prosperous new year. Work around the country remains bountiful for the time being. Things in Augusta, however, are pretty much status quo, and with the long government shutdown, we were hit pretty hard at Savannah River Site with layoffs and possible furloughs.
I hope you all think very hard about which politicians to support, and I can only hope you are picking labor-friendly candidates. Our members need to remember those politicians who still received a paycheck while you and your brothers and sisters were shut out. Most of them are the same who habitually vote against your very existence. Get involved, and understand the facts. Our way of life is being threatened daily.
“True ignorance is not the absence of knowledge, but the refusal to acquire it.” — Karl Popper
Mike Greene, Pres.
