Hello, September
L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st,ws&ptc), ST. LOUIS, MO — Greetings, brethren, and happy Labor Day.
At our local, early summer was filled with focused, tough contract negotiations. It took a few extra innings, but we ratified a good contract. We also had the honor of hosting the 80th annual IBEW bowling tournament at the famous Tropicana Lanes, with 296 bowlers from all parts of North America participating. It was two days of fun and fellowship hosted by the mother ship.
Additionally, September is the time when the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus has its annual meet-and-greet at the Henry Miller Museum. It also is the kickoff to the EWMC’s Coats for the Kids drive. This year’s meeting is Sept. 17, 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. They follow that up with a bourbon-cigar pairing fundraiser at Florissant Golf Course on Sept. 18 at 5 p.m. On Nov. 11, they will have a fundraiser and winery tour at 9 a.m. in beautiful downtown Augusta, Mo., at one of many wineries on the winding Weinstrasse. Mark your calendars accordingly. For more information, contact [email protected].
Be active, get involved, and support your local union wherever you can. Organized labor is under attack like never before, and we must stand united. I hope that the midterm elections can stop the naked aggression that is underway.
God bless America. God bless the labor movement.
Kyle Hunter, P.S.
Chris Riser Reelected as President/Business Manager
L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — The membership of the local has spoken, reelecting President/Business Manager Chris Riser to a new three-year term. The election results stand as a strong endorsement of President Riser’s leadership, dedication and vision for the future of Local 15. President Riser began as president/business manager in 2023 and has held multiple positions within Local 15 since 2007.
“Moving forward, I want to keep our members informed and involved. It’s extremely important for us to be united. I look forward to continuing to make Local 15 stronger than ever before,” Brother Riser commented.
Local 15 will continue to stand for labor, which contributes so much to ensure the success of Illinois energy.
Bradley Gritt, Bus. Rep.
LCTT Tree Jamboree
L.U. 17 (catv,em,lctt,o&u), DETROIT, MI — For years, our local has spearheaded efforts to promote the value of IBEW apprenticeships for line-clearance tree trimmers. In 2009, Local 17 established one of the first Department of Labor-registered LCTT apprenticeship programs within the IBEW. Boot camps and apprentice classes are conducted at our state-of-the-art training center.
On June 21, Local 17 held our annual Tree Jamboree at our training center, where we hosted more than 400 members and their families. Despite inclement weather all week, this climbing competition gave our members the opportunity to showcase their skills in five events: work climb, belayed speed climb, ascent event, throwline and aerial rescue. Rain or shine, Local 17 members know how to make any event a great time!
The competition is split between a men’s journeyman division, a men’s apprentice division and a women’s division. The winners in each division will proudly represent Local 17 at the Michigan Tree Climbing Championship in September at Emerson Park in Midland, where we look to capture the Corporate Cup for the fifth year in a row.
Congratulations to the following members, many of whom are pictured in the photo: men’s journeyman division winners Abdon Espinosa (first), Luke Hudson (second), Dillon Rose (third) and Dominick Gutierrez (fourth); men’s apprentice division winners Jacob Johns (first), Steven Ursic (second) and Martin Tovar (third); and women’s division winner Hanna Shader (first).
James M. Shaw, B.M.
Local 43 Congratulates Class of 2025
L.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY — Congratulations to our fifth-year apprentices who have successfully completed our apprenticeship program! Thanks to our collaboration with Mohawk Valley Community College, the apprentices also earned an associate degree in occupational studies in electrical service technician/electrical maintenance. They proudly walked the stage at Memorial Auditorium in Utica on May 16 to receive their well-deserved diplomas.
Local 43’s class of 2025 graduates are Christine Aviza, Trevor Backer, Cameron Beckley, Ryan Belewich, Brent Bishop, Jonathan Brittian, Ryan Chappell, Ryan Chrostowski, Andrew Clemons Jr., Joquawn Dixon, William Dygert, Demetrius Elthorp, Daniel Etz, Kyle Grover, Quinton Hacket, Jacob Hanley, Jeric Hodge, Donald Horton, Alexander Howland, Justin Kush, Anthony Malysa, Jeffrey Mento, Desmond Moultriez, Christian Rivera, James Salamone, Stephen Sawyer, Cory Smith, Evan Smith, Justin Sutliffe, Anthony Vadala, Harrison Warner, Benjamin Way and Christopher Welling.
Jeff Cassano, P.S.
Local 47 Mourns Rodney Thomas Peterson
L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Greetings, brothers and sisters. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rodney Thomas Peterson, former assistant business manager of our local, who passed away May 21. Rodney dedicated more than 50 years of unwavering service to the union, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
He is survived by his loving wife, Colleen Peterson; his children, Kristi Detrick, Ryan Peterson and Sara Sizelove; and his cherished grandson, Jackson Rohrback.
Rodney will be remembered not only for his lifelong commitment to the labor movement but also for his sharp humor and undeniable presence. His impact on the Brotherhood and his legacy within Local 47 will never be forgotten.
Mitch Smith, P.S.
Local 51 Election and Scholarship Golf Outing
L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Our annual scholarship golf outing in June was a success, and we awarded 12 college scholarships. Congratulations to our scholarship winners Erin Brown, Blane Canada, Jaden Corley, Chelsee Hill, Garrett King, Brock Naile, Kyler Parks, Allison Sarginson, Alison Turner, Jane Turner, Kolby Weiss and Whitney Yoder.
The tournament’s first-place team consisted of Bob Baker, Mark Clemens, Mark Danenberger and Cody Schroeder. We appreciate the support of the sponsors for their generosity.
Local 51’s election was also in June. Congratulations to the following officers: Business Manager/Financial Secretary Bobby Wedell, President Brad Wheeler, Vice President Colton Beams and Recording Secretary Stacey Heckman.
Line work continues to be very slow in the jurisdiction, and this trend is expected to continue through 2025. Line-clearance tree trimming remains steady.
Karlene Knisley, Bus. Rep.
Local 71 Hosts Annual Golf Outing
L.U. 71 (lctt,o,t&rtb), COLUMBUS, OH — Under blue skies and in perfect summer weather, members and guests gathered for the local union’s annual golf outing at Snow Hill Country Club. The event, a four-man scramble, brought together dozens of teams for a day of camaraderie, competition and union pride.
The scenic course at Snow Hill offered a challenging but enjoyable layout with long drives, tricky greens and plenty of memorable moments. Teams teed off in the morning with their carts loaded with Local 71 golf-themed gifts while everyone shared stories and laughs as they showed off their skills and worked their way through the 18-hole course.
Business Manager Todd Kessler said, “It’s a great way to bring the membership together, connect with retirees and enjoy some well-earned time off the jobsite.”
Following the round, participants gathered for a catered banquet and awards ceremony, where the top three teams were recognized and other prizes were handed out.
Recording Secretary James Roessner said: “Plans are already in motion for next year’s event, with the possibility of expanding to other locations throughout the state if the demand is there. Our local is always open to suggestions on how to improve our events, and we really appreciate the participation and feedback from the members. We hope to make each year bigger and better than the last.”
The outing proved to be another highlight of Local 71’s summer activities, reminding everyone that strong unions are built not just on the job, but on relationships forged off the clock as well.
James Roessner, R.S.
Local 103 Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week
L.U. 103 (cs,i&ptc), BOSTON, MA — Local 103 hosted over 1,000 apprentices this week in a major event commemorating National Apprenticeship Week. The celebration featured Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll, who joined Business Manager Lou Antonellis to honor the value and impact of apprenticeship programs in building the workforce of the future.
The event highlighted the crucial role of skilled-trade apprenticeships in developing a strong, inclusive labor force while offering a pathway to long-term, good-paying careers. Local 103’s commitment to training and workforce development was on full display, as apprentices from across the region gathered to mark their achievements and look ahead to future opportunities in the electrical and telecom industries.
On May 13, Mayor Michelle Wu signed a historic project labor agreement with Boston public schools. This agreement ensures that all new construction, renovations and maintenance work across more than 120 schools and administration buildings will be carried out by skilled union labor. The newly signed PLA will also offer Boston public school students pathways to the building trade apprenticeship programs.
Jim Fleming, R.S.
Changes to Local 131
L.U. 131 (i,rtb,rts,se&spa), KALAMAZOO, MI — The work outlook remains steady in Kalamazoo. The Palisades nuclear plant is progressing toward startup and plans for completion by December.
Fifteen fifth-year students have completed their apprenticeship: Cameron S. Clemons, Trevor J. Davis, Peter V. Deutsch, Aaron M. Fenwick, Seth L. Holewa, Dalton M. Hufford, Justin A. Kellermeier, Tyler M. Klinger, Tanner J. Novak, Tyler J. Pawlawski, Ryan G. Pharr, Timothy R. Piippo, Austin M. Powell, Timothy J. Terpstra and Nick S. Voss. Congratulations to all the new journeymen. Now they can show everyone how smart they are.
Several members of the fifth-year apprentice class organized a local golf outing, and they raised more than $8,000 for Mattawan Wildpaks, which provides weekend food packages for students in need. You make me proud to be part of a union.
The Local 131 picnic was July 26 at River Oak Park in Galesburg. The barbecue was wonderful, the tales were tall, and the brotherhood was endless. See you there next year.
As I reach my retirement date, I would like to thank President Leroy Crabtree, Vice President Randy Williams and Treasurer Scott Benson for their years of service to this local. Thank you to the executive board, who gave sound advice to me, including Terry Clark, Jon Current, Colin Foote, Tim Haydon, Nick Lemmerhart and Adam Mitzel. Thank you to my office staff, Christine, Jon and Ryan, for the support. Thank you to my wife, Karen, for the encouragement and patience. More than 40 years in the IBEW — what a great career. Thanks to all the members.
Morris Applebey, B.M./F.S.
Local 141 Celebrates Newest Journeyman Wiremen
L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV — Hello, brothers and sisters. Work has improved in our local, with 35 members on Book 1 and calls occasionally making it to Book 2.
The Wheeling JATC held a completion dinner in May at Waterfront Hall. Congratulations to Local 141’s newest journeyman wiremen: Kylor Basich, Brenden Duncan, William Garamella, Jonny Jacobsen, Nolan Kirchner, Max Mendelson, Jackson Palkovic, Kyle Reilly and Cameron Ross. May these brothers have a long and fulfilling career in the IBEW!
On June 14, a devastating flash flood hit the Elm Grove portion of Wheeling, along with the nearby communities of Triadelphia and Valley Grove. As of this writing, there have been eight fatalities and one resident still missing. The flood hit our union hall, but thankfully the building only suffered minor damage. Unfortunately, two of our Local 141 members’ homes suffered very heavy damage, and they lost nearly all of their personal belongings. There has been a great outpouring of help from our membership, both monetarily and in donating time to help these members put their homes and lives back together.
Local 141 sadly reports the passing of retired member Myles B. Witchey. He will be dearly missed.
Kurt “Bug” Reed, P.S.
The IBEW Electricians: A Powerful Crew
L.U. 191 (c,i,mo,rtb&st), EVERETT, WA —
Oh, the spark that they bring, the pride they will show,
The IBEW workers who make the lights glow!
From sunrise to sunset, in heat, cold or rain,
They work through it all, through the joy and the strain.
With tools in their hands and steel in their hearts,
They wire the world — each plays a part!
In the deep of the night or the bright morning sun,
They make sure the current is flowing and fun!
From solar to wind, from data to steel,
They build with great skill — each task is ideal!
Up high on a tower, or deep underground,
Their work is the pulse, the heartbeat, the sound.
In plants, dams and big factories’ halls,
They’re the ones who keep power behind all the walls.
With voltages high, from 24 volts low,
To lightning bolts shocking, they make sure they glow!
Oh, the heat and the cold and the wet and the wind,
No matter the weather, they’ll never rescind.
From snow-covered ground to the driest of sand,
They’re out there together, with tools in their hands.
On solar farm fields or in high-rise big towns,
They install every panel, no job’s too profound!
With generators humming, switchgear in place,
They bring the electricity all over the space.
With pride in the union, and pride in their task,
They answer the call, they don’t need to ask.
In factories, mills or the smallest of sites,
They power the world, day or night!
They wire up servers, they light up the streets,
They bring warmth in winter, cool in the summer heat.
Through storms and through stress, through the longest of days,
They never back down, they’ll always amaze.
They work hard, they’re skilled, and they know what’s right,
They keep the world buzzing, from morning to night.
So here’s to the crew that gets power to you,
The IBEW electricians, proud and true!
From volts to the bolts, from currents that roar,
They’ll fix up the grid, and they’ll always do more.
With a nod and a wink, and a high-voltage cheer,
They’ll light up the future, year after year!
– Brad Dudley
Randy Curry, B.M.
New Graduates, New Representation
L.U. 237 (i), NIAGARA FALLS, NY — Our local would like to wish a well-deserved congratulations to our 2025 graduating class of inside journeyman wiremen: Jamasen Johnson, Landon Leadingfox, Dylan Lewis, Adam Markel, Connor “Sweet Connie” Prenatt, Nathan Rampado, Devon Strasburg and Dean Swanson. Top Apprentice was awarded to Devon Strasburg. We wish you much success and prosperity!
January saw a vote in favor of organizing and joining the IBEW for representation to seek better wages and working conditions. Seventy-eight people working for Reworld, a waste-to-power facility in Niagara Falls, are now represented by Local 237. We’d like to recognize Brother Andrew Reed, who shared with a worker how union representation could help them and got them in touch with organizer Nick Coyle. This is a huge win for the workers of the facility, their families and all involved who believe in supporting the working class.
Local 237 would like to give a special thanks to Brother Travis Runyan from Local 725 for his kindness and generosity. Travis, who owns and operates TR Tailored Blades, donated a custom knife and belt clip for a raffle for our Sick Committee, which benefits members who are out of work due to illness or injury. His actions are a great reminder of the many strengths of brotherhood and union membership.
Brandon Lum, P.S.
Local 269 Elections and New Journeymen
L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ — After a quiet April, May brought a flurry of activity to the local. Work has been good, and the outlook for the immediate future is bright. The good mood of the members was reflected in our elections for Local 269 officers. All current officers ran unopposed and were summarily elected to another term. Congratulations to all, and thanks for your hard work and dedication.
Next on the agenda was the annual retirees’ dinner. As usual, it proved to be one of the best nights of the year, with plenty of good cheer and libations to carry the night along. Retirees were awarded service pins and watches and were given their proper due by all in attendance. Another great night, thanks to the hard work of all involved.
Last, but not least, the fifth-year apprentices took their tests to become journeymen and -women. The testing class consisted of five individuals and the class A journeyman apprenticeship counted 21 eager students. Judging from the consistently high scores of both classes, Local 269 should be in good hands for the foreseeable future.
Brian Jacoppo, P.S.
Summer Fun and Future Work
L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — At the summer picnic last month, the popular cornhole tournament returned with the RENEW Committee in charge. Three sets of union-made, USA-made boards went to the winners. The boards featured custom artwork designed by the more talented RENEW members. Another new twist came from our principal rep, Geoff Stamp. Building on his successful gift-card giveaway at a recent banquet, he kept the crowd cool with free ice cream treats.
The next apprenticeship class is fast approaching. With more hands-on labs, material is always needed. Mike Beckman, a representative from Allen-Bradley/Leviton, annually donates switches, receptacles, keyless fixtures, load centers, stranded and solid wire, and a variety of other products to the JATC. Now, the Mankato training center will receive an EV charger at no cost, compliments of Mr. Beckman.
Brother Jeff Fields, compliance officer, was invited to join a state-level citizen advisory task force on a possible battery energy storage system near Albert Lea. The duties of the task force are to research, examine and make recommendations on the proposed construction of the facility and its connection to the grid. Having IBEW representation at the entry level of such a project could be a significant boon for the local.
Stop Supporting China — Buy Made in USA.
Tom Small, P.S.
Apprentices Giving Back
L.U. 349 (em,es,i,mps,rtb,rts,spa,u&ptc), MIAMI, FL — On June 7 , our local’s graduating apprenticeship class organized a charitable run/walk in partnership with Shake-a-Leg Miami, a local nonprofit that helps people with disabilities through water-based activities.
Led by fifth-year apprentice James Bowers, the class of 2025 presented their plan during the May regular meeting and received full support from the membership. The event was part of a local initiative encouraging apprentices to give back before completing their program.
Held on a hot South Florida day, the event drew strong participation from apprentices, members and the public. It was a successful outing that reflected the spirit of unity and service that defines Local 349.
More than just a fundraiser, the run/walk showed how future journeymen are already leading with purpose and giving back to their community.
As they enter the next stage of their careers, these apprentices carry forward the values of the IBEW: skill, leadership and commitment to service.
Kris Beckford, Pres.
Local 449 Members Honored for Service
L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa,u&mt), POCATELLO, ID — Brothers and sisters, I hope everyone had a great summer.
I would like to recognize the members who received service pins for 50 or more years of service to the IBEW at our annual local picnic: Douglas K. Frugoli, Clarence E. Hammond, Carl G. Haney, Blair M. Nash, Kevin E. Norby, Philip O. Oakes and Thomas E. Stears (50 years), and Charles V. Harada, Leonard W. Higley, Ted C. Jensen, Clifford D. Osborne and Ronald L. Parsons (55 years). Congratulations to all!
In memoriam, we remember Brothers Rick Chase, Ben Erickson, Charles Featherston, Leonard Howell, Richard Long, Michael McKay and Gary J. Tripplett. They will be truly missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to their family and friends.
Clay Hirning, B.M.
Local 481’s John Payne Memorial Golf Outing
L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Brothers and sisters, our retirees held their second annual John Payne memorial golf outing in July. It was a great day filled with lots of laughs, memories, stories, a few refreshments, and one or two good shots.
Thirty-two golfers participated in the event this year. It was a great way to get together to remember Brother Payne and honor all the work he did for Local 481.
Thank you to those golfers who came out! If you are a retiree and missed it, make sure to get your name on the list next year. A special thank you goes out to Dave Colclazier, Bob Denny and the rest of your team for putting on such a great event.
A lot of work goes into coordinating an outing, and it is truly appreciated. John would be proud to see his legacy carried on. We look forward to seeing you all continue this event for many years to come.
Blake Andrews, Bus. Rep.
Making a Difference in Our Community
L.U. 483 (catv,lctt,o&u), TACOMA, WA — What began as a humble effort 15 years ago has become a jaw-dropping act of generosity. Local 483 first joined the Pierce County Central Labor Council’s annual peanut butter drive in 2009, contributing a respectable 259 jars to support the Emergency Food Network. This year, we collected an incredible 9,483 jars of peanut butter!
Led by Business Manager Byron Allen, this year’s drive brought in enough peanut butter to fill seven pallets, which were delivered directly to the Emergency Food Network. These donations will stock shelves at local Pierce County food banks and provide a critical lunch option for children in the summer, when school meals are unavailable.
“This effort is about more than just numbers,” Allen said. “It’s about making sure no child goes hungry this summer. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who contributed — this was a true team effort.”
With each jar representing a step toward a well-fed community, Local 483 has turned peanut butter into a powerful symbol of solidarity, compassion and commitment to local families.
Byron Allen, B.M./F.S.
Transitions at Local 601
L.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — It is with great sadness but immense pride that we announce that Business Manager Jarrett Clem has resigned and accepted a position with the International Office. Jarrett has worked in the office as an organizer for two years and as business manager for seven years. As of May 1, International Workers’ Day, he now fulfills the role of renewable energy government affairs coordinator for the Sixth District, a role previously held by Government Affairs Director Dean Warsh.
Jarrett now steps into a role to fight for more than just Local 601. He now fights for every local in the Sixth District and beyond. The influence he had on Local 601 will never be forgotten. He was known as a charismatic business manager with a focus on being especially in touch with the membership. He has steered us through thick and thin, highs and lows, and he now leaves the future for us to shape. We wish Brother Clem the best of luck!
Assistant Business Manager/Organizer Brian Andersen was appointed business manager by the executive board and will continue to fill that role now that he won the position in our recent election. Brian has chosen Jordan Mueller, a prominent member of the RENEW Committee, to become our new assistant business manager/organizer.
Our new officers were sworn in July 1.
Known as 6/01 Day, June 1 is the first day of being journeymen for our newest graduates of the apprenticeship program. We congratulate them all for completing this rite of passage.
Local 601 also took its annual canoe trip up north at Ayers Landing. We had a great turnout and hope to do it again next year. For pictures, visit photos.app.goo.gl/RYeGHtK6mFUcxCcVA
The local is still busy with work and events. We have 23 members on Book 1 and 19 on Book 2.
Luther Baker, P.S.
Tie Dye, Social Security Seminar, New Sign for Local 611
L.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,rtb,spa,t&u), ALBUQUERQUE, NM — In June, we held our fifth annual tie dye event at the hall. Each year it gets bigger and bigger, and this year’s event had a large turnout with a dunk tank and a jumper for the kids. A big shoutout to all of the committee members and volunteers.
In July, the hall hosted a Social Security seminar, which featured speakers from a mortgage company and a realty company; a representative from our investment portfolio; and Brad Yablonsky, a financial adviser who explained how to maximize your Social Security benefits. The seminar was for members and their spouses, though I was surprised that only a handful of people showed up. It was very informative.
There is still a lot of work in our jurisdiction. Intel is now running a night shift, and Facebook will be paying an incentive through the end of August. SunZia still has about eight months of work left.
The hall recently installed a new IBEW sign next to the flagpole. The sign was produced by Zeon Signs, and they did a great job. It was wired by Rudy Duerson.
On behalf of Local 611, I extend condolences to the family and friends of Noel Davis and Kenneth Hall Jr.
Don’t forget to attend your local and unit meetings.
Darrell J. Blair, P.S.
Standing on the Shoulders of Giants
L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — This has been a momentous and significant year for our local — a turning of the page, you could say — as many of our leaders and big players are retiring from the trade. The time has come to pass the torch to the next generation.
A huge thank you to Glenn Arvin, Matthew Davey, Joe Fitzgerald, Mark Henry, Dave Mauro, Dominic Nolan and Alan Sheehan, who have nearly 275 years of combined active service to the local and the IBEW. They excel at one or more of the significant roles that shaped the policies of our local and the experiences of our membership: business manager, president, executive board member, JATC training director, health and wellness and pension trustees, membership development, business representative and, above all, journeyman inside wireman.
We thank them for the ways their knowledge, proactive attitudes, work ethic and skill-powered progress, positive change, and growth for the local and our community. We will continue to build on this foundation of experience and integrity to keep our local moving forward in solidarity.
I am also grateful to be reelected business manager and continuing the fight for Local 617 and the labor movement. It has been an honor and a privilege serving the membership and their families, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity. Much has been accomplished thanks to the unmatched support of my staff, past officers and all of the members. And there is much more to come!
Scott Wein, B.M./F.S.
DeadBreak: Proven Leadership in Underground Utility Work
L.U. 1347 (ees,em,u&ptc), CINCINNATI, OH — With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, DeadBreak is a trusted leader in cable splicing, underground utility installation, department builds, emergency response and complex underground projects.
Local 1347’s leadership has held key roles on both the utility and contractor sides, giving us a unique, field-tested perspective. We’ve built our careers from the ground up, bringing practical expertise, reliability and mentorship to every job.
Proud to stand with the IBEW, DeadBreak is committed to delivering quality work that meets the highest standards of the trade. Check it out at DeadBreak.us.
Andrew Kirk, B.M./F.S.
‘Patience and Perseverance’
L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — The work picture in Augusta continues to be steady. Miller Electric is busy between the data center in Graniteville, S.C., and the new project at the Augusta National Golf Course. Our in-town shops are holding their own with work around the jurisdiction.
Plant Vogtle is back in outage mode, and between the four units, it maintains a steady workforce. The Savannah River Site’s main contractors are also staying busy and having occasional calls. Unfortunately, the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility at SRS has yet to begin, but we are being told that it is a go. When it starts, we will definitely have our hands full.
We are in negotiations with our Georgia NECA contractors on our in-town agreement, so by the time you read this, hopefully we will have come to terms on an agreement that will be beneficial to both sides.
“Patience and perseverance have a magical effect before which difficulties disappear and obstacles vanish.” – John Quincy Adams
Mike Greene, Pres.
74 Years and Much to Celebrate at Local 1701
L.U. 1701 (catv,ees,i,o&u), OWENSBORO, KY — Many events have taken place with our local, beginning with organizer Andy Daniel and business agent Ryan Hayden. Their efforts over the past 18 months have led to organizing 50 of Kenergy’s linemen into the IBEW. Congratulations to all.
At the end of the JATC school year, we celebrated 14 new journeymen. JATC Director Jason Sharp organized the gathering at the Pearl Club restaurant, and the new journeymen were awarded IBEW watches and tools supplied by Milwaukee Tool and Southwire.
Our local is celebrating its 74th year! Local 1701 received its charter in April 1951. International President Daniel W. Tracy signed our charter to become a local with 26 members’ names placed on the charter.
Our local retiree members have again worked on electrical requirements and setup of the annual ROMP Bluegrass Festival with this year’s headliner, Wynonna Judd, and more than 20 other artists performing.
Rick Thurman, P.S.
