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L.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt, rts,s,se,spa,st&ws), ST. LOUIS, MO—In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, St. Louis County officials decided to promptly reopen the former St. Louis County Justice Center in Chesterfield Bottoms to provide housing for displaced families. The complex had been closed for over four years. At extremely short notice, 18 Local 1 wiremen and apprentices employed by Guarantee Electric and six communication members from Guarantee’s Tel-Vi division began a rigorous overhaul of the center’s electrical systems. The facility will be operated by the Salvation Army. Thanks to members who worked so hard to provide a place for over 300 needy individuals. We mourn the deaths of Bros. Oscar Pfefferkorn, Chester A. Virga, Paul Biedermann, Robert L. Baker, Robert L. Dalton, Hilary O. Cunningham III, Leroy H. Vaughn, Otis R. Campbell, George F. Conkey, Bertram Schultz, Theodore R. Perry, Joseph A. Chrico, Robert L. Browner, Edward Garcia, Gary Johnston, James C. Adams Jr. and Aloysius A. Nansel. Matt Gober, P.S. L.U. 17 (catv,em,lctt,o&u), DETROIT, MI—After the immense devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Local 17 members stepped up to support the communities impacted by these catastrophic storms that left millions without power, water and homes. With such catastrophes increasing, it is apparent there is a shortage of skilled, qualified craftsmen available to meet all the demands of the marketplace. Utility companies should take note and change course in an effort to ramp up apprenticeship programs. If we don’t take heed, then the safety, reliability and dependability of the transmission and distribution systems will be at risk. The union reached a tentative agreement that covers the utility side of the house. We also began negotiations on the 6-17-A Agreement and the Thumb Co-op Agreement. The work picture remains steady. All our utility contractors need lineman and work has picked up at LeCom, our communications contractor. The MPSC ordered an investigation regarding the numerous outages and low voltage complaints in several communities within the DTE Energy service area; this request is due Nov. 1. We mourn the loss of Bro. Clarence Kreiner. Robert Eckhout, Pres./P.S. L.U. 21 (catv,govt&t), DOWNERS GROVE, IL—Our union reached a tentative agreement with the City of Chicago on Sept. 8, 2005. Highlights of the four-year agreement include fair wage increases in each year of the agreement, and retroactive wages back to July 31, 2003. The agreement includes grade increases for members in the “Police Communications 1” and “Aviation Communication Operator” job classifications. New language specifies pay differentials for members performing on-the-job training. SBC notified Local 21 regarding a layoff and four new surpluses it plans to implement by Dec.15, 2005. Pres./Bus. Mgr. Ron Kastner appointed an internal organizing committee. IBEW Local 21’s commitment is to be informed, educated and mobilized—ready to take quick action to assist in resolving disputes from the workplace to the bargaining table. Increased member involvement creates a stronger union. Thomas Hopper, P.S. L.U. 25 (catv,i,o&rts), LONG ISLAND, NY—The IBEW Long Island Softball Tournament hosted by Locals 3, 25, 1049 and 1381 was held Aug. 26-28 at Baldwin Park under sunny skies. Results were as follows: Upper bracket winner—Local 3, New York, NY. Lower bracket winner—Local 103, Boston. The Brotherhood Award recipient was Local 129, Lorain, OH, whose team members drove 10 hours to Long Island. A total of 31 teams participated. A barbecue was hosted by the Tournament Committee. Anyone interested in participating in next year’s tournament, Aug. 25-27, 2006, please call the president’s office at (631) 273-4567, Ext. 241. Ed O’Donnell, P.S. L.U. 41 (em,es,i,se&spa), BUFFALO, NY—Congratulations to our newest journeyman wiremen, residential wiremen and Interconnect-Security-Sound classes of 2005. Local 41 held its election of officers in June. Congratulations to all. Terry Mays and Herb Good organized the Local 41 Charity Golf Outing held at Chestnut Hill Golf Course in September. This year’s charity was Mercy Flight. Thanks to all participants. Also in September, we held our Electrical Workers Annual Outing, a great success. Although work picked up for the summer, the work picture is still slow. There are, however, some hopeful prospects for the future. Everyone is encouraged to continue their training by taking advantage of the journeyman education classes offered at our hall. Kenneth C. Zack, P.S.
L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,u,o&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA—Local 47 participated in the annual Labor Day parade and picnic in Wilmington, CA. We negotiated a 42 percent pension increase and saved Retiree Medical benefits for our members at the City of Anaheim. New accounting standards forced the city to report future retiree medical expenses as a huge, unfunded liability. The local established a Retiree Medical Trust, funded initially by the city, transferring money previously set aside for retiree medical costs. The city and employees will make ongoing contributions. In July we hosted our fifth annual Memorial Golf Tournament to raise funds for our Injured Workers Fund. We mourn the passing of Bros. George “Lynn” Cummings, Dan Clayton, John Fry, Ken Hurley Sr. and Jim Hagge Sr.—as well as Bros. Mark Schipper of Local 659 and Eugene Bowers of Local 532, both of whom worked in our jurisdiction. We are saddened by the loss of IBEW Pres. Emeritus John J. Barry, who passed away Aug 28. Our condolences go to all of their families. Special thanks to all members helping Hurricane Katrina victims. Stan Stosel, P.S. L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,rtb,t&u), SPRINGFIELD, IL—With millions of jobs vanishing in our country, many of us wonder if our job could be next. One in four workers earns less than $8.70 an hour. Our country is importing billions more a year then we export. Foreign debt is skyrocketing. General Motors, once our nation’s largest employer heavily unionized with good wages and benefits, has been replaced as largest employer by Wal-Mart, the low-wage, no-benefit mass marketer of foreign goods. Where will our children find jobs that pay good wages and benefits? All union members must focus on the fight for good jobs. We must search for the union label when we spend our money. Union jobs are quality jobs that every community needs and no nation can afford to lose. For information on union-made items check Web site www.shopunionmade.org. On the work front many Local 51 members are responding to the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina. Dan Pridemore, B.R./P.S.
L.U. 71 (lctt,o&rtb), COLUMBUS, OH—Local 71 extends heartfelt sympathies to Kitty Barry and family on the passing of our friend Int. Pres. Emeritus John J. Barry. Jack Barry will long be remembered as one of the finest labor leaders and trade unionists this Brotherhood has ever known. We extend sympathies to all the families that suffered the loss of a loved one or a home dealt by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Our sisters and brothers in our southern states need our support as they attempt to rebuild their lives and we must pledge our unwavering support. This was an election year for Local 71 and all incumbent officers were re-elected. Officers thank the members for their continued support and confidence. Elected were: Pres. Patrick Grice, Vice Pres. Danny Harris, Rec. Sec. Nelson Duncan, Treas. John Crabtree, Bus. Mgr. Wally Sickles; and Executive Board members Danny Benner, James Carmack, Kenny Lindsey, Larry Moore and Dave Sugerik. Wally Sickles, B.M.
L.U. 77 (lctt,mt,o,t&u), SEATTLE, WA—Retired Bro. Woodrow W. Wilson received his IBEW 70-year service award. Bro. Wilson, age 93, worked as a substation operator for both Puget Sound Energy and Seattle City Light. Bus. Mgr. Don Guillot and Pres. Rick Johnson presented “Woody” with the award at his group home in Ballard, WA. Bro. Wilson’s family attended the celebration, including his son, daughter, grandchildren and great grandchildren. IBEW Local 77 has lost three prominent members—Robert Gagnat, John Tomac and Edward Andersen. We will miss these brothers, their dedication to Local 77 and their loyal commitment to unionism. The work picture is good here in Seattle. Brothers and sisters wanting to travel should call our office at (206) 323-4505 before heading to the Seattle area. David Wheeler, P.S.
L.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY—Bus. Rep. Chuck Borell graduated from the National Labor College in June with a bachelor’s degree in labor studies. His final thesis was a research paper on how unions can more successfully win arbitration cases. On August 4, PSE&G employees at Albany Steam Station ratified a six-year contract with yearly raises of 3.25 percent. The terms of the agreement are from Nov. 1, 2005 to Oct. 31, 2011. Negotiations with Entergy Nuclear Operations Inc. commenced in October 2005. The contract between Local 97 and Entergy expires Dec. 31, 2005. On the political front, we urge our members to go to the Local 97 Web site and look for the article about CAFTA. We need to tell the following congressmen that we are not happy with their position on CAFTA: Rep. James T. Walsh, R-25th (Central New York); Rep. Sherwood L. Boehlert, R-24th ( Mohawk Valley); Thomas Reynolds, R-26th (Williamsville); and Rep. John E. Sweeney, R-20th ( Albany). If at least two of these congressmen had voted “no” the measure would not have passed. John Satunas, P.S. L.U. 99 (govt&i), PROVIDENCE, RI—Work improved to near full employment through late summer. With several big projects coming up, the future months look a little brighter. Congratulations to recently elected officers: Bus. Mgr. Allen P. Durand, Pres. John Shalvey, Vice Pres. Peter Furlong, Treas. Jim Anderson, Rec. Sec. John T. Dibiase; and Executive Board members Steve Brown, James Harrington, William Smith and Paul Stromberg. The annual Local 99 Golf Tournament raised money for the Everett Tommy Woodmansee Scholarship Fund. We celebrated Labor Day, reflecting on the contributions of our predecessors. Stephen P. Callaghan, P.S.
L.U. 109 (u), ROCK ISLAND, IL—Local 109 volunteers participated in the United Way of the Quad Cities’ first “Extreme Day of Caring.” The Local 109 volunteers painted a large dining room and activity room at a United Way partner agency, the Friendly House in Davenport, IA. Thanks to the Local 109 volunteers: Les Kline, Jerry Bald, Rich McCoy, Luc Martel, Don Jones and Ben Lorenzen. Lori Smith, R.S.
L.U. 111 (em,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER, CO— Colorado has been in rodeo-mode! In July PSCO/Xcel Energy held its annual line rodeo in Denver. First-place team: Ed Lensen, Rick Kernan and Patrick Kennedy ( Lipan Distribution Center). Second-place team: Paul Harris, Casey Golden and Greg King (Alamosa/Salida). Top apprentice honors: Joel Stolte (first place) and Paul Leary (second place). In August, the gas rodeo was held in Denver. First-place team: Sammy Garcia, Shane Kerstiens, Mike Perito and Mike Hernandez (Nipple Twisters, Denver Metro). And second-place team: Mike Simpson, Greg Hood, Chad Everson and Larry Eberhart (Smokin’ Pigs, Silverthorne/Mountain Division). At the gas rodeo, a plaque was presented to Local 111 Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Michael A. Byrd and Xcel Vice Pres. Tim Taylor in honor of the late Sister Peggy Ohlendorf. Peggy was a lead fitter when she left PSCO/Xcel Energy to establish a training company in the gas industry. She is greatly missed. We know Peggy was smiling down on the first “all female” rodeo team, “Diamonds in the Rough,” consisting of Sisters Phyllis Berti, Mary Hansen, Janice Sanders and Margaret Buck-Roybal. Dennis Z. LeTurgez, P.S.
L.U. 125 (lctt,o&u), PORTLAND, OR—Bro. Bill Miller, our business manager/financial secretary for over 21 years, retired July 29, 2005. Bill served his local well and also served the entire IBEW membership on numerous national committees. We thank Bro. Miller for his dedication to our local and the IBEW. Congratulations to recently elected officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Travis Eri, Pres. Larry W. Browning, Vice Pres. Paul S. Dietrich, Rec. Sec. Raymond W. Cowell and Treas. Douglas J. Shaffer. Elected to the Executive Board: K.T. Anderson, Don L. McCleery, Jim Sweet and Patrick E. Winter. Elected to the Examining Board: Lee Cole, Ronald L. Derting, Anthony R. Jacobs, Donald Rose and William C. Young. Delegates to the International Convention: Travis Eri and Larry Browning. Steve Rose, Org. L.U. 129 (i,mt&spa), LORAIN, OH—Congratulations to Bro. Carl Macken on receiving his 65-year pin. We also congratulate all our new journeymen from our fifth-year graduating class. Work in our area is fair, with some projects finishing up. At the time of this writing, we hope to see Book 1 clear when the Ford plant starts in mid-August for its retooling to accommodate the van coming from the Lorain plant. Also, as of press time, we expect that Firelands Hospital may be starting very soon, which will be another good project for our area. Dennis Pedings, P.S.
L.U. 139 (i&u), ELMIRA, NY—Local 139 is proud to have been involved in another Habitat for Humanity project in our area. Hats off to our members who volunteered for this worthwhile community project. We also thank Mike Sincock and the folks at Bouille Electric for their help with the material. Thanks to all who participated. Ernie Hartman, P.S.
L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV—Work is picking up here with a major renovation to Mitchell Power Station. We also welcome Precision Electric to our area on the Lowe’s store project. Local 141 members are picketing the new Wal-Mart site in Moundsville, WV. While little hope remains of turning this project around, we had to respond to out-of-state, nonunion construction companies in our area. Meanwhile, the new Wal-Mart in Dallas Pike will be built by local building tradesmen, thanks in large part to great cooperation by Ohio County officials. Recently elected officers are: Bus. Mgr. John Clarke, Pres. Tom Conner, Vice Pres. Dave Cantrell, Rec. Sec. Mike Parker and Treas. Shawna Davis. New Examining Board members are: Dale Ramsay, Paul Simmons, Greg Heslop, Jake Hileman and Luke Pelley. Executive Board members are: Doug Giffin, Hiram Pelley, Art Oakland, Bryan Porter, John Sharpe, Mike Kwiatkowski and Mike Vargo. Best wishes to new apprenticeship instructor Mark Dunfee, taking over as first-year teacher. At a union meeting we held a moment of silence for Local 141 Bro. Larry Swallie and Int. Pres. Emeritus John J. Barry. They will be missed. Tom Conner, Pres./P.S.
L.U. 143 (em,i&spa), HARRISBURG, PA—Our newly elected officers are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Robert L. Rhoades, Pres. Glenn L. Carnahan, Rec. Sec. Thomas W. Porr, Vice Pres. Brian Weibley and Treas. Gary Yinger. Elected to the Executive Board: Eric Bashore, Henry Bonson, James Neiswender, Steven Wolfe, Gerald Hawkins, Kirby Artz and Monte Shearer. Examining Board: Michel Dice, Michael Reber and Troy Woodward. Delegate to the International Convention: Glenn Carnahan. Local 143 thanks Dennis Yinger, Barry Ebersol, Jerry Hawkins and Brian Weibley for their many years of service. Local 143 hosted an IBEW conference of mostly centrally located IBEW locals in Pennsylvania. Invited were business managers and Executive Board members. Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill and his staff addressed the meeting on regaining lost market share of residential and light commercial work. Pres. Hill gave a 60-day directive to all business managers. Robert H. Wolfgang, P.S.
L.U. 159 (i), MADISON, WI—Bros. Andrew Bangert and Jeff Palmer received a Master Tradesman Award presented by Red Wing Shoe Company. The award is a tribute to our brothers’ level of expertise and dedication to the skilled trade industry. In celebration of Red Wing’s 100th anniversary and in recognition of these union members’ dedication to quality craftsmanship, Bros. Bangert and Palmer were awarded a pair of limited-edition Red Wing boots and a $500 scholarship. Red Wing Shoe Company, founded in 1905 as a tiny shop in Red Wing, MN, is recognized worldwide as a respected U.S. manufacturer of quality boots and shoes. Red Wing and America’s skilled craftsman, including electricians and other tradesmen, have much in common. They share an enduring work ethic, a passion for quality and tremendous pride in their work. Billy C. Harrelson, B.M.
L.U. 177 (bo,ees,i,mo,o&pet), JACKSONVILLE, FL—We held our Labor Day picnic Sat., Sept. 3, so Monday could be spent relaxing and enjoying time off from work. Approximately 300 brothers and sisters and their families attended the outing. There were games for the kids, food, door prizes and music. Bus. Mgr. Russell Harper and Pres. Alan Jones presented our brother- and sister of the year plaques. Joe Roberts was named “Brother of the Year” and Monica Alford, “Sister of the Year.” Thanks to Bus. Mgr. Harper and Pres. Jones and their Labor Day Picnic Committee for another job well done. Lisa M. Stuart, P.S. L.U. 191 (c,i,mo,rtb&st), EVERETT, WA—Local 191 is experiencing a surge in energy, appropriately enough for an electrician’s union. The local has been lining up a star-studded cast of local and national public officials to appear before our union to report on issues and field questions from our members. Talks are ongoing to have Washington’s senators and members of the state’s delegation to the U.S. Congress attend our meetings. Marcus Abarcus, P.S. L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL—Local 197 members and their families marched in our Labor Day parade. After the parade we had a great picnic at the hall with volleyball, golf and Frisbee for kids and adults. Tom Peasley and Paul Spencer won the first place trophy in horseshoes. Our softball team took first place in the annual Labor Day softball tournament hosted by the Laborers. At our July meeting newly elected officers were sworn in: Bus. Mgr. Lance Reece, Pres. Rich Veitengruber; Vice Pres. Bernie Uszcienski, Treas. Terry Spencer, Rec. Sec. Frank Kuhns; and Executive Board members Dave Ashenbremer, Keith Ashenbremer, Brian Graves, Larry Mathis, Ken McLean, Bill Swindle and Mark Schweitzer. Congratulations to all. We also thank outgoing officers for their dedicated service. They include: Jerry Dehart, Gary Eichelberger, Clint Miller, Dan Miller, Jack Roberts and Dan Uhlir. Mike Raikes, P.S.
L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OH—Labor Day 2005 was an occasion to reflect on recent developments in the labor movement, which, to this person, are “much ado about nothing.” Apparently some unions have different thoughts on how to accomplish the same goals. Unions were born for a reason and those reasons still exist today. As long as workers face struggle, we will have unions. Labor Day is a chance to remember that we were all there to support labor no matter which road we traveled to get there. Outside work is going well. We’ve had crews doing storm work in the South. Negotiations are underway at Bryan Municipal. On the TV side of the business, the local recently was informed that our Liberty Corporation CBS affiliated station Channel 11 was bought out by Raycom Media. Raycom currently owns our NBC affiliated station Channel 24. More on this drama as it unfolds. The Fellowship Committee’s first venture was a huge success thanks to all participants. Congratulations to our newly elected officers. And special thanks to those who served the last three years. Ray Zychowicz, P.S. L.U. 269 (i&o), TRENTON, NJ—The local union grabbed media attention by flexing its political muscle against two local establishments. The Hyatt Regency was the focus of one print article, based on the local union’s request that their political friends boycott the hotel and conference center during the upcoming election season. The response was overwhelming, thanks to members who hand-billed. These same efforts contributed to the less than spectacular opening of a Bob Evan’s Restaurant, where again area officials respected the union’s wishes. Bro. George Grant motivated members to show support for our troops by wearing red shirts on Friday. Members passed a motion for the local to design and sell shirts with all proceeds going to the families of IBEW Local 269 members serving in the military. The Good of the Union Committee continues its service to the community. The bi-annual blood drive is scheduled for this fall, as well as two Adopt-A-Highway programs in New Jersey/ Pennsylvania. Congratulations to Gino Pasqualone on his promotion into the local office as an organizer. Trevor Marciante, P.S. L.U. 295 (em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), LITTLE ROCK, AR—In these hard economic times, we are fortunate to have several out-of-state contractors doing some small projects as well as the steam generator change-out at Arkansas Nuclear One. Many local contractors’ work and bidding remain slow. We are in negotiations at press time and hope to have many or all issues resolved by the time this is published. We encourage members to stay in touch and come to union meetings. Your work and earnings future depend on these as well as other negotiations. Our prayers go out for all of our members and others affected by Hurricane Katrina. In solidarity, we support you in your efforts to regain and rebuild all that you have lost. Bobby Thornton, A.B.M./Org.
L.U. 317 (i,o,rts,t&u), HUNTINGTON, WV—The high-line job is progressing and providing many jobs for outside members. Thanks to travelers helping staff the work. Many new members joined our local to work on this project and we wish them a long, safe and prosperous career. Our prayers go out to all those affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Although many have already made donations to help, the need is still great and we can assist IBEW members in need. The IBEW established a relief fund to aid members devastated by this catastrophe. Checks may be made payable to “The IBEW Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund” and sent to: The IBEW Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund, Chevy Chase Bank, 7501 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814. Ted Kinder, Pres. L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN—Thankfully, we’ve had some relief from our construction recession. A small part of the relief has come in the form of a very large school project that assured union people jobs and the school district a quality project. Thanks to a large turnout by construction workers and building trades representatives at a school board meeting months ago, a Project Labor Agreement was secured for the school project. Getting involved politically to make your voice heard at the grass-roots level can change your employment levels. This effort takes time and money. Voluntary COPE check-off cards, automatically withholding donations to fund a better future, are a good way to start. Brad Nelson, P.S.
L.U. 357 (c,i,mt,se), LAS VEGAS, NV—Local 357 sponsored a “Basic Electrical Contracting” course in August. Approximately 50 potential IBEW contractors attended. The mission was to provide members with basic knowledge to start their own contracting businesses and expand Local 357’s place in the market. Training was provided by Matt Kolbinsky and Jim Cole of Pro-Union Consulting Inc. of Cincinnati. Presentations also were made by Local 357 Bus. Mgr. David Jones, Business. Development Dir. Al Davis, NECA Chapter Mgr. Ross Farr and U.S. bank representatives. The class was so well received the local plans to host another course. Creating more small union contractors from within our membership can keep our market share growing. The local continues to develop business partners in the community to help our small union contractors succeed and grow. Al Davis, Org. Dir.
L.U. 369 (em,es,i,lctt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), LOUISVILLE, KY—Labor Day at the Zoo, sponsored by Greater Louisville United Labor Picnic Inc., was held Sept. 5. Thousands of union members attended, enjoying good food, live bands, a car show, blow-up rides for the kids, door prizes and the spirit of union fellowship. We had perfect weather for the picnic. Locals from across the metro-Louisville area participated. All crafts and manufacturing were represented with informational booths. Thanks to all union members who made this event a great success. John E. Morrison Jr., P.S.
L.U. 387 (em,lctt&u), PHOENIX, AZ—Congratulations to Bros. Albert R. Gerbens and Blaine L. Learn on their 65-year service awards. Storms and heat have kept everyone busy as you can see in the accompanying photo, which shows IBEW troubleman Roger Vandemheen, of Globe, AZ, responding to a P.T. failure at San Manuel Substation in July. Our linemen teams have brought home lots of hardware competing in rodeos; at press time they are preparing for the Kansas City Rodeo. Members completed lighting two more Diamondback ball fields. Thanks to all who helped. Our prayers go out for Bro. Jon Beasley’s family. Jon had just been awarded an electrician apprenticeship when his life was taken in a car accident. Sam Hoover, Pres.
L.U. 401 (c,i,o,rts&st), RENO, NV—In April our local celebrated its 100th anniversary with a dinner-dance. Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill attended as well as dignitaries representing Reno/Sparks, the state of Nevada, business and industry. Pres. Hill presented service pins to all, with a special tribute to the Burns/Seymour family, who represent nearly 200 years of service in the IBEW. Local 401 also held a dinner to honor its 13 graduating apprentices. Int. Vice Pres. Michael S. Mowrey and Int. Rep. Francis J. “Frank” Maio Jr. attended. The Outstanding Apprentice award went to Earl Barber. Awards for perfect attendance went to Craig Carroll and Paul Salerno; for academic achievement, John Seymour; and for mechanical achievement, David Councilman and Duane Kramer. Also graduating were: Brandon Kersey, Fredrick Kruse, Jason Martinez, Jeff Nakamoto, Daniel Prowinski, Carlos Rosario and Daniel Steelman. Congratulations to all these new journeymen for sticking out five tough years! Work in our area remains good, with many travelers employed and more work expected to break in coming months. For details call the hall at (775) 329-2566. John P. Miller, P.S. L.U. 405 (em,i,rtb&spa), CEDAR RAPIDS, IA—Our work picture in the local is still not doing well, and winter is coming on. The good news is that some of our members have found work in other locals. We thank locals that put some of our members to work. We hope we can reciprocate. The local LMCC was a big player in our Local 405 JATC’s ability to move our apprenticeship program forward. They were instrumental in setting up financing that enabled us to move into our own building and do the necessary renovation. We are starting our first school year in our own facility. Many businesses donated time and materials. Our new JATC is something Local 405 and our contractors can be proud of. Thanks to retirees helping with the local newsletter and political issues. Gary Butz, P.S.
L.U. 429 (em,i,lctt,o,ptc,rtb&u), NASHVILLE, TN—Service pins were awarded to 113 active and retired members. Family and guests witnessed a ceremony whose honorees included two 65-year members and a host of others. The celebration culminated in a barbecue luncheon, merriment and brotherhood. Attendees receiving awards included: 65-year recipient Woodrow West; 60-year recipients Lawrence Luttrell and Morris Slate; 55-year recipients William Conley and Stanley Morris; 50-year recipients Billy Anderson, Hugh Breen, James Gwaltney, Winford Shelby, Thurman Whitehead and Billy Woodside; 45-year recipients Charles Appleton, John Brown, Thomas Cobble, Harold Greene, Stanley Ham, Franklin Hazelwood, William Long, Pearre Marlin, Ronald Puckett, William Putman and James W. Smith. Additionally, 40-year recipients Charles Booker, David Cantrell, Michael Franklin, Earl Lehew and Phillip Petty; 35-year recipients William Akins, Jimmy Cartwright, Marshall Edwards, Michael Frankich, Troy Hampton, John Holton and Bob Sisco. Milton L. Frazier, Asst. B.M. L.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), POCATELLO, ID—In the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, our prayers go out for all those affected by the storms. I am disappointed with the Bush Administration’s response to the devastation of Katrina, especially in New Orleans. Issues related to natural disasters and human suffering are not party issues or political opportunities. These issues need to be remembered at the polls in the future. We are excited about our November centennial celebration and looking forward to welcoming International Officers who plan to attend. Our condolences to the family of Bro. Eric Salvador, who passed away July 16, 2005. Congratulations to Bro. Carl Haney on his recent retirement. Russell Hill, R.S.
L.U. 479 (i&u), BEAUMONT, TX—We settled our contract at home this year. Basically, it is a three-year contract with a $2.10 increase over the duration of the contract. The new referral system was implemented Aug.1 and seems to be working out. The week of Labor Day, members participated in a barbecue cook-off and other activities. Hurricane Katrina devastated Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Many of our neighbors were forced to evacuate and over 1,200 found shelter at Ford Park Arena in Beaumont, TX. Local 479 reached out by providing a hot meal for the evacuees. Thanks to all who participated in this act of humanity. Tony Hollier, Pres.
L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN—The demo on buildings for the new Colts stadium has taken off and the airport terminal started taking bids. The work will probably start in late fall or early spring. Both jobs are PLA projects, thanks to Bus. Mgr. Tom O’Donnell’s efforts at the State House. Work in our jurisdiction is still slow. Congratulations to our 101 recent apprentice graduates. The December class “Solidarity” winner was Joseph Salter; apprentice-of-the-year, Thomas Stevens; and runner-up, William Inman. The May class Solidarity winner was Jonathon Hooker; apprentice-of-the-year, Max Davis; and runner-up, John Burchyett. Bob Cadwell put together another successful Labor Day parade. He managed to get the union crafts in Indiana, politicians, and high school bands to participate in the parade. This is a great way for the union crafts to express their solidarity and to represent their home locals. Local 481’s Web site frequently has new items of interest. Visit the site at www.ibew481.org to find out about upcoming local union events. If you have suggestions for the site, please contact the hall at (317) 923-2596. Steve Montgomery, P.S. L.U. 499 (u), DE MOINES, IA—Our membership is preparing for tough contract negotiations. These are our first negotiations since 2000 when Local 499 and Local 109 worked for more than 18 months to come up with a consolidated contract, which combined six separate contracts. MidAmerican Energy is a wealthy company owned by four people, one of whom is Warren Buffett, reportedly the second richest man in the world. We are starting negotiations early to allow five months to work toward a settlement by March 1, 2006. Local 499 honors retired Bro. Earl Hledik for his constant support of the Blood Center of Central Iowa. Bro. Hledik has donated 20 gallons of blood and volunteered at the center. Don Krause, B.R. L.U. 503 (t&u), MONROE, NY— There have been some changes on the Executive Board recently. Because of health issues, Artie Patterson will step down as unit chairperson, and Ed Sengstacken will fill that post. We thank Artie for all his dedicated service to the local over the years. Best wishes to Artie, and good luck to Eddie in his new position. Pres. Bob Citrolo was awarded long overdue honorary medals for his U.S. Marine Corps service in Vietnam during the 1960s. U.S. Rep. Eliot Engel presented the medals Aug. 9. We pay tribute to Bob and all veterans. Local 503’s annual golf outing was a terrific success! Thanks to all volunteers, especially retired Vice Pres. John Smith. It’s time for Local 503’s Holiday Food Basket Drive. In past years we presented 75 needy families with baskets. The annual holiday party will be Friday, Dec. 9, at J. F. Keane’s, Pearl River, NY. Details on both events will be posted in all areas. Mary M. Casey, P.S.
L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa), SAGINAW, MI—July found lots of idle hands and many took furloughs, only to have to sign the book after missing out on some short work opportunities. School projects created some work and more is coming. With over 40 hands on the out-of-work list, we need more work to pay fair wages. Informational pickets, communications with potential project owners, meetings with non-signatory contractors, investigating potential jobs and Comet training are keeping paid employees at the hall busy. Volunteering in Habitat, lighting historic signs and Veteran’s plaza, and advertising give us recognition, and may open some doors. John E. Clemens, P.S.
L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,o,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA—Congratulations to the June 2005 apprentice graduating class. We welcome these new journeymen. Graduates are: Gary Adams, Maico Alejo, Victor Almazan, Scott Barker, Brian Berryhill, Paul Blazak, Robert Brooks, Bradley Brownlee, William Canada, Ken Cannizzaro, Terrence Colbert Jr., Rafael Cortez, Justin Cortinas, Alvaro Cuevas, Richard Darley, Victor De Jesus, Kurt Delamater, Donald Dowers, Oscar Figueroa, Robert Goeltzenleuchter, Saul Gonzalez, LaVaun Harris, Thomas Henderson, David Henry, James Hill, Bernard Hogan, Meighko Kodomagne, Mark Lewis, Fernando Leyva, Juan Lozano, Fernando Martinez, Sal Mercado, Rhett Miller, Tim Pablo, Jeffrey Restine, Christopher Riemersma, Miguel San Martin, Roneel Sanocki, Richard Scherman, Charlton Shabazz. Jeffrey Stell, Shawn Swearingen, Zack Tackett, Thad Tobin, Joshua Walulik, Michael Wittbrodt, Jeffrey Workman and Joseph Zapata. Nicholas J. Segura Jr., P.S. L.U. 577 (em&i), APPLETON, WI—Our work picture remained strong through the summer as referrals to the Fox Energies project began in June and continued through August. Many of the jobs the Industry Advancement Fund assisted in the spring bore fruit, as projects were awarded to union contractors. In the July Journal, I missed the following members who completed their apprenticeships and were recommended for inside journeymen wiremen status: Darrick Fox, Rick Kriewaldt, Tori Schneider and Pat Van Vreede. The Labor Day celebration sponsored by the Fox Valley Labor Council was held Sept. 5. Local 577 members volunteered to do the temporary wiring for the event. Thanks to Greg Breaker, Jesse Breaker, Carl Degroot, Nick Horn, Jonathan Horn, Jeff Smoker and Corey Wiegel. Political campaigning in Wisconsin and the nation will soon begin in earnest. Support candidates who will strive to enact legislation beneficial to workers. Greg Breaker, B.M. L.U. 595 (c,govt,i,o&st), DUBLIN, CA—Our summer work is winding up as we move optimistically into fall. Project Labor Agreements in the public schools provided many hours of summer work. Thanks to local members and travelers who helped complete this work on time! Local 595’s softball team won the Ninth District softball championship game, our third district championship. Hats off! The tournament moves to Fresno next year. Apprenticeship Dir. Byron Benton and Coordinator Mel Switzer thank the folks at Square D for the generous donation of transformer equipment used in the new JATC transformer lab. Those who participated in the installation did a beautiful job. Once again union members are preparing to battle Gov. Arnold in another costly “special election.” Corporate mega bucks are pouring into his propaganda machine efforts to pass Prop 75, a misnamed “paycheck protection” initiative aimed at silencing our union voice. Unions across the state have joined together and we will be heard. Our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters affected by Hurricane Katrina. Local 595 is sending $10,000 to the IBEW relief effort. Marta Schultz, P.S.
L.U. 605 (u), JACKSON, MS—Accompanying this article is a picture of a Local 605 Entergy MS cable splicer crew. Providing training for the next generation of our electrical workforce, senior cable splicer Billy Simmons worked with apprentice cable splicer Chris Berch and cable splicer Harold Dekay (who took the photo) installing high-speed electronically controlled fuses, capable of clearing fault in less than one-quarter cycle. Jackson’s downtown network is supplied by 12 dedicated 13.8kv feeders; seven circuits have fault filters installed. The fault filter will reduce the risk of serious transformer and vault damage, which in turn would reduce personnel hazards, outage time and costly cleanup. Philip W. Young, A.B.M.
L.U. 611 (i,o,spa&u,es,lctt,catv) ALBUQUERQUE, NM—Since April the local has been training members and contractors in the “Code of Excellence.” To date the local has trained over 350 members and five contractors and their supervisors. We hope to have our entire membership trained by the first of the year, as this Code of Excellence training will soon be required to take a call off the books. Brothers trained to teach the Code of Excellence are: Adolph Chavez, Carl Condit, Antonio Gonzalez, Lloyd Beebe, Rex Ward, Richard Paschall, Charles Humiston and Mike Stoltenberg. Belated congratulations to Saul E. Botone on his apprentice of the year award. I forgot to report this in a recent article. Work has been steady, especially for G&M Electric, which has gone from a one-man shop to over 25 in less than a year. Great work, guys! Condolences to families of the following brothers who recently passed away: Jesse Alderete, Chester R. Hamner and Gilbert Lopez. Darrell J. Blair, P.S. L.U. 613 (em,i,o,rts&spa), ATLANTA, GA—Congratulations to recently elected officers: Bus. Mgr. Gene R. O’Kelley, Pres. Michael L. Braden, Vice Pres. David Lawson, Fin. Sec. David Collier, Treas. Jeff Manning and Rec. Sec. Robby Evans. Also elected were Executive Board members Stanley Rice, Tommy Adams, Brad Camp, Doug Shellnut, Jerome Jackson, Larry Davis and Max Mount Jr. Elected to the Examining Board: Emmitt Parrish, Tod Olsen, Owen Bentley, Ken James and Ralph Anderson. Former Local 779 was merged into Local 613. We welcome all 779 brothers and sisters into Local 613. Local 613 held its second annual Memorial Day picnic with the proceeds going to the Welfare Fund. Nearly 300 members and their families attended, raising $2,500 for the needy. Our annual barbecue was July 23. We served 4,400 plates of food. Attendees, active members and retirees, had a great time. The Brotherhood lives! Ralph Anderson, P.S.
L.U. 625 (ees,em,i,mar&mt), HALIFAX, NS, CANADA—Our 2005 Labour Day march and picnic were great successes. Our work picture is good in Units 1 and 5. It’s hit-and-miss in Unit 4 and slow in Units 2 and 3. Our local’s first retirees banquet was Oct. 15, 2005. Local 625 currently has 175 retirees receiving a pension from the local union pension plan. Congratulations to recent retirees: Bros. Omer Boudreau, Ron MacDonald, Dennis MacPhee, Lester Rector, Ken Shea, Doug Wilson, Richard Turner, Sam MacDonald, and past president Bro. Brian Stewart. Congratulations to newly certified journeymen: Tom Amero, Donnie Dominique and Ashley Sangster. Locals 625 and 1928 are cooperating in a Habitat for Humanity project in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Volunteers are building two houses. Local 625 is providing labour for the electrical work; Local 1928 is providing funds for wiring permits and connection charges. Tom Griffiths, P.S.
L.U. 649 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), ALTON, IL—Local 649 JATC hosted a graduation dinner July 15 at the Argosy Ballroom for the 2005 class of graduating wiremen apprentices. Illinois Chapter NECA Executive Vice Pres. Bill Belforte and Local 649 Bus. Mgr. Jack Tueth addressed graduates and guests. Training Dir. Terry Shewmake awarded graduates their certificates. Scot Lucas received the J. Michael Kane Award and a $100 savings bond for highest grade-point average. Also, Josh Lenihan recently topped out from the ALBAT apprenticeship program and is the newest Local 649 journeyman lineman. Robert E. Travis, P.S. L.U. 659 (c,catv,em,i,lctt,o,st&u), MEDFORD, OR—Congratulations to recently elected board members: Bus. Mgr. Ron Jones, Pres. Mike Bureau, Vice Pres. Jim White, Treas. Jerry Brei, Rec. Sec. Kathy Joy, Tom Legg, Tom Ellis and Walt Conner. Thanks to our members in the Grants Pass Unit, who hosted a great summer picnic July 31. The City of Ashland Clerical Unit settled their agreement. The City of Ashland Electric Unit declared impasse. Lane Electric Clerical is preparing for negotiations. The Avista contract was settled. Central Lincoln PUD is still in mediation. At press time, Henkels & McCoy negotiations were at an impasse over health care. Osmose negotiations were settled. Utility Tree employees voted to be represented by Local 659. Be careful for what you vote for. In Oregon we have a utility that is using convict labor to do bargaining unit work, enabling the utility to outsource our work. A measure went out to vote in Oregon about 15 years ago and we are still paying the price, sometimes with the lives of the convicts. Kathy Joy, R.S. L.U. 683 (em&i), COLUMBUS, OH—Nearly 500 attended the annual family picnic. Everyone enjoyed fantastic food, activities for the kids, vintage photos and fellowship. Thanks to Mike Mirones, Rod Sumner and the picnic committee. Our second annual benefit dinner Sept. 10 raised funds for our Members Assistance Fund. These funds will be used for our working members who need financial assistance because of injury or illness. Thanks to everyone who came out for food, fun and football. On Sept. 22 and Oct 13, 128 members were awarded their 10-, 15- and 20-year service pins. The JATC continues to expand and improve education courses. Members are encouraged to attend new classes now offered. To list just a few, courses include: AutoCAD for Wiremen, Cable Splicing, Electrical Safe Work Practices—NFPA 70e, Industry Leadership and Instrumentation. Barry Hughes, V.P./P.S. L.U. 695 (u), ST. JOSEPH, MO—Local union members at United Electric Cooperative Inc. ratified a five-year contract with wage increases of 4 percent for each year of the contract. Medical insurance and prescription drugs were a major issue during negotiations with a compromise reached by raising the deductibles and co-pays, along with higher deductibles on the medical and prescription drugs. Another job was added to the union that had been a non-bargaining position. Local 695 and American Water Co. are negotiating modifying a position to Lead Process Technician from Process Technician. Members at Aquila are waiting to hear who may purchase the former St. Joseph Light & Power utility, one of many Aquila properties for sale. Bro. Denny Dakans, an Aquila employee, won the 2005 Montana 500 Model “T” race. David A. Hall, B.M. L.U. 697 (i), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN—Local 697 members marched in the annual Lowell Indiana Labor Day parade to the lilting sound of bagpipes. On Sat., Aug. 20 the annual picnic at the Lake County Fairgrounds was another beautiful day with friends and family, complete with horseshoes, bingo and good food. Thanks to all volunteers. The U.S. labor movement is at a critical point. Anti-union forces would rewrite history and redefine the purpose of the National Labor Relations Act as well as the NLRB. This legislation and related government agency came into being to protect the rights of working men and women and to protect our children from exploitation. All we ever wanted was fair treatment and a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. A wise admonition: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It seems that would work for both management and labor. David A. Soderquist, P.S.
L.U. 759 (u), FT. LAUDERDALE, FL—Local 759 officers elected in June are: Pres./Bus. Mgr. George Skillas, Vice Pres. Tim Haynick, Rec. Sec. Steve Donovan, Fin. Sec. Keith Murphy and Treas. Tim Brucker; Executive Board members Remie Hammond, Larry Pitsinger, Lester Newell, Roy West, Don Saker and Charlie Coxon. The membership overwhelmingly voted down a contract offer. Our contract expired October 2004 and the membership voted to extend for a year. As of this writing, it is hopeful that a suitable contract is presented and accepted prior to taking a termination vote. Two new apprentice programs in Distribution have begun—“Apprentice Cable Splicer” and “Apprentice Meterman.” We have an ongoing apprentice lineman program. FPL, the utility our members work for, is continuing to hire linemen from the United States and Canada. At press time our annual picnic was scheduled for Oct. 15, 2005. Glen Plock, P.S.
L.U. 777 (u), READING, PA—In the accompanying photo several Local 777 members and retirees gather for a weekend motorcycle ride. The group rides most weekends except in winter. Original members of the group were Rick Thomas and Dale Archuleta, joined later by Tony DiFrancesco. Rick and Dale, along with Butch Graham, are IBEW retirees. The group has grown and now also includes IBEW members Norm Dunlap, Larry Cobaugh, Hacky Henry, Rick Via and Carl Deiner. The group also participates in biker events including “Rolling Thunder,” to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. Several members recently returned from the Sturgis, SD, bikers’ rally. Deb Kornbau, P.S.
L.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL—In June Local 915’s election of officers brought in a new administration. Congratulations to newly elected Bus. Mgr. William Dever and all elected officers. Bro. Dever was assistant business manager/organizer for 23 years under now-retired Bus. Mgr. Gary Hill. Bro. Dever’s vision for the future is inspiring. Bro. Randall King was re-elected president. Also elected were Vice Pres. Robert Kramer, Rec. Sec. Larry Campbell and Treas. Steve Fairclough. Elected to the Executive Board were: Randall King (chairman), Bryce Davidson, David Rainey, Robert Ray, Clyde Tucker, Leon Ward, David Weill and Martin B. Wilson Jr. Elected to the Examining Board: Linda Campbell, Joseph Paquin and Douglas Smolt. Also, congratulations to newly appointed Asst. Mgrs. Bruce Barrow and Michael Nagle; and Asst. Mgr./ Organizers Randall King and Joseph D’Aguiar. Please support your local! Theresa King, P.S. L.U.1049 (lctt,o&u), LONG ISLAND, NY—In August at the 35th annual IBEW Long Island Softball Tournament, Local 1049’s team took third-place in the “A” Division. Over 60 Local 1049 crews left Long Island to take part in the massive restoration effort in Louisiana and Mississippi in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. We appreciate their hard work and assistance to the hurricane victims. In October we started our annual United Way Fund Drive. The United Way of Long Island allocates funds to worthwhile local community service agencies. When approached by a United Way captain, please be generous. Let us also remember Bros. Michael Hengerle, Robert Kane, Daryl Miller and John Monaco, who as of this writing are stationed in Iraq. Our condolences to the family of the late Int. Pres. Emeritus John J. Barry. He was an inspiration to all. Thomas Dowling, R.S.
L.U. 1205 (em,govt,i&u), GAINESVILLE, FL—Local 1205 held its annual W.S. Brown Memorial Bream Fishing Tournament Sat., May 14, at Rodman Dam. This event focuses on the children of our members and is a popular family event for young and old. Breakfast and lunch were included in this fun-filled day. A hearty 6 a.m. breakfast included eggs and bacon and then it was fishing time! Ribbons were presented to all our young participants and trophies were awarded. The fresh-caught fish made our lunch exceptional. The good attendance would have impressed Bro. W.S. Brown and everyone had a great time. Wayne Sparkman, P.S.
L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,t& u), VACAVILLE, CA—In wage re-opener negotiations with Local 1245, Pacific Gas & Electric agreed to pass on the approximately $4 million in subsidies and premium enhancements it can receive when Medicare Part D goes into effect in 2006. PG&E agreed to use all of the government subsidies and premium enhancements to reduce premiums for Medicare retirees. The monthly value of the subsidies and premium enhancements (doubled for employee and spouse) for each member will range from $22.08 to $62.20. Wage negotiations for current employees were continuing at press time. Local 1245’s challenge to PG&E’s decision to close all 84 of its local offices is scheduled for arbitration. Local 1245 is also in discussion with PG&E regarding its proposal to automate meter reading. In Outside Construction news, the union hiring hall recently reported 56 calls for journeyman linemen; six for equipment specialists; 23 for groundmen; five for cable splicers; 38 for U.G. Tech; and five for apprentices, for a total of 133 calls. Total crews working on Outside Agreement were 118; 40 on the Underground Agreement; 40 on the Pole Test Agreement; and 14 on the Teledata Agreement. Eric Wolfe, P.S. L.U. 1307 (u), SALISBURY, MD—Local 1307 ratified a new five-year agreement with Delmarva Power. It includes a 16 percent increase in base wages over the course of the contract; prescription plan modifications and employee contributions toward major medical insurance. We gained 21 new jobs, increased shift differentials and other improvements. Local 1307’s annual picnic and golf tournament June 11 were fun for all. Bros. Craig Kormanik, Billy Nichols, Steve Causey and Chuck Harris won golf trophies. Bro. Paul Andrews celebrated his June 2005 retirement at the picnic. Paul began employment with Delmarva Power in Salisbury in 1970. He completed his apprenticeship, advanced through numerous utility positions and served with great dedication. E.D. Sparks, F.S.
L.U. 1381 (uow) HICKSVILLE, NY—Local 1381 had an activity-filled summer. The local recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of newly elected Bus. Mgr. Donald J. Daley Jr. Along with training classes and shop steward workshops, Bus. Mgr. Daley has focused on uniting and strengthening our membership. Local 1381 held a summer social gathering for members to meet one another and share views on the future of our local. Our Voluntary Organizing Committee is teaching leadership and democratic principles, and encourages members to be politically active. Local 1381’s annual golf outing raised funds for our Committee on Political Education and for the Donald J. Daley Memorial Scholarship Fund. The 2005 scholarship award went to Kate Caramico, daughter of Local 1381 member Marylynn Caramico. Catherine Malinowski, P.S. L.U. 1439 (u), ST. LOUIS, MO—On March 12, 2005, Bro. Patrick Cooney, a former Union Electric (Ameren) employee, reached his 100th birthday with great fanfare, thanks to his family and former co-workers. Pat started his occupational journey with Union Electric on Jan. 1, 1930, and was initiated into Local 1439 in 1946. He worked as an electrical mechanic and retired from the Midland Reporting Center in 1970. Pat was appreciated as a hard worker and was friendly to all—a good legacy for all of us to strive for which speaks volumes about his character. God bless you, Patrick, and thanks for your contribution to the IBEW! We mourn the loss of Jettie Casey, John Savage and Floyd Taber. Ken Carroll, P.S. L.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,t&rts), BALTIMORE, MD—The newly chartered unit of our local union, designated 1501-3, represents Maryland Relay operators, who are employed by AT&T and provide a public service offered through the state of Maryland, which enables deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech-disabled people to communicate with standard telephone users. Our members are integral to the success of Maryland Relay. They maintain strict confidentiality regarding the conversation of users. The Relay operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and processes nearly 2.5 million calls annually. Maryland Relay works by enabling users of a TTY (text telephone) or a standard phone to initiate a call by giving a phone number of a person or business being called to a Relay operator, who dials the number typing the standard phone user’s spoken words to the person using the TTY, and voices the TTY user’s written text. The state of Maryland provides informative brochures explaining services offered. Additional information is available from Maryland Relay at 1-800-552-7724 or at Web site www.mdrelay.org. Thomas J. Rostkowski, P.S. L.U. 1547 (c,em,i,o,t&u), ANCHORAGE, AK—Congratulations to Bro. Larry Bell, a journeyman wireman, business representative and second-generation IBEW member, who was elected business manager of Local 1547 on July 9, 2005. Members thank retired Bus. Mgr. Gary Brooks for his dedication to 1547. Bro. Brooks helped 1547 become a well known and influential labor union in Alaska, and he contributed to the excellent financial condition of 1547’s pension and trust funds. Retired Bus. Rep. Tom Atkins, now a commercial pilot, rescued an Illinois hunter missing for four days in a remote area of Alaska. Bro. Atkins, who frequently drops off and picks up hunters in the area, spotted the man standing on top of a rock waving his arms. Atkins got the man into his plane and flew him many miles to safety. Bro. Atkins set a fine example for all. He is a true hero. Thanks to IBEW travelers who came to Alaska this summer to work our short construction season. Jack Endsley, P.S.
L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA—Our LAC and the Augusta Building & Trades took to the streets in Augusta on Labor Day. Rallying at the Augusta Commons, we received a good welcome from Interim Mayor Willie Mays. Marching from South Carolina across the Savannah River with Georgia Lt. Gov. Mark Taylor, U.S. Rep. John Barrow, Georgia Rep. Pete Warren and many other friends of labor at our side, we in labor proved we have plenty of fight left in us. We will not stop this fight to protect American workers’ rights. Thanks to our members who marched to support the union. After the march we held our annual barbecue at our lake property at Clarks Hill. We fed over 550 members and their families. It was a good day for labor. Our shops are holding their own. We sent 35 journeyman wiremen to Plant Vogtle and two to Southland Electric. A salt project at SRS was scheduled to start the last quarter of this year, but was delayed because of design changes. At press time, a report from Southern Co. concerning Plant Vogtle and the new reactors was scheduled for Sept. 9, 2005, in Atlanta. ‑Johnny Hutcheson, A.B.M/Org.
L.U. 1739 (i&o), BARRIE, ON, CANADA—Work has picked up in our area, but we still have members on the road. Our local is in the middle of a tourism playground. Boats and water skis give way to downhill or Nordic skis, snowboards, ice fishing and hockey. A black bear provided added excitement to this year’s golf tourney. Bro. Art O’Hara observed that he never knew bears could run so fast. No doubt the bear never knew construction workers could run so fast either. Members are making good use of our hall’s new training facilities. We have completed courses for Fire Alarm, Network Cabling Specialist, Workplace Safety and Organizing, among others. Your local scribe is putting his Fire Alarm training into practice on the jobsite. I am living proof that one is never too old to learn something new, so sign up and update your skills, too. Bill Carson, P.S.
L.U. 1749 (u), NEW JOHNSONVILLE, TN—The Tenth District Progress Meeting was held in Little Rock, AR, July 12-15 with Int. Vice Pres. Robert Kline chairing the meeting. Guest speakers included IBEW Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill; Little Rock Mayor Patrick Hayes; IBEW member James Salkeld, Arkansas Dept of Labor; IBEW Int. Sec.-Treas. Jon F. Walters; and Arkansas Secretary of State Charlie Daniels, an IBEW member. Diane Thomas-Holladay, University of Arkansas, presented a seminar on the National Labor Relations Act. She noted that union employment is lower than before the NLRA was enacted in 1935. This can be attributed to downsizing, relocation of manufacturing jobs overseas—and constant attacks from the current Republican Administration in Washington. Some 37 million more people have entered poverty in the past four years. We must support our organizing departments, market recovery efforts, COPE, salting programs and COMET. Be active in your union. Help elect worker-friendly candidates. Mark J.DeJuliis P.S./Political Coordinator
L.U. 2113 (i,it,mo&o), TULLAHOMA, TN—Our work is holding steady and we are thankful for our union contractors employing members working within the jurisdiction: Jacobs Constructors Inc (JCI), Nabco, Harlan, Ralph White, Adman, Elec-Tech, Electrical Contracting Services, G*ub*mk, Fast, Lawson and Service Electric. Work at Arnold Air Force Base continues to hold, with projections for a heavier workload. We are hopeful that by the time this article is published, a new agreement will have been reached with Aerospace Testing Alliance (ATA) and the Metal Trades Council, of which our local is the largest affiliate. Heartiest congratulations to our newly elected officers: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Gary M. Cunningham, Pres. Lloyd D. Ballard, Vice Pres. Brian Farless and Rec. Sec. Robert D. Porter. Bros. Farless and Cunningham are graduates of Local 2113’s apprenticeship program. Speak or write an encouraging word every chance you get, living up to our reputation as “The Union of Hearts & Minds”! Bob Smith, P.S.
Local 47 member Gary Updegraff (left), a level II certified infrared thermographer employed by the City of Colton, CA, Electric Department, receives a “Certificate of Professional Contribution” presented by John Snell of Snell Infrared. At Snell Infrared’s annual conference on “Thermal Solutions,” Bro. Updegraff presented a paper on the gas-fired generation plant, built on time and under budget with union labor.
Local 71 Election Committee: Ralph Teague, Jason Lawhorn, Spud Walls and Billy Crabtree.
Local 77 retired Bro. Woodrow W. Wilson (center) receives his 70-year IBEW service award pin. Extending congratulations are Local 77 Bus. Mgr. Don Guillot (left) and Pres. Rick Johnson.
Local 97 Bus. Rep. Chuck Borrell (center) receives congratulations on his graduation from AFL-CIO Pres. John J. Sweeney (right) and National Labor College Pres. Susan J. Schurman.
Local 109 members volunteered for a Quad Cities area United Way “Day of Caring” project. At the Friendly House site: Les Kline, Jerry Bald, Rich McCoy, Luc Martel and Don Jones. Local union volunteer Ben Lorenzen snapped the photo.
Local 111 Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Michael A. Byrd (left) and Xcel Energy Field Operations Vice Pres. Tim Taylor receive plaque in honor of Sister Peggy Ohlendorf.
Retired Local 125 Bus. Mgr. Bill Miller.
Local 139 Habitat for Humanity volunteers: front row, from left, Steve Hoodak, Dan Schmidt, Dave Patton, John Narde, Eric Fey and Darin Benjamin; back row, Dave Blauvelt, Jim Tierney, Mike McLaughlin, Dave Cecchini and Greg Cunningham.
Local 143 Bus. Mgr. Robert L. Rhoades (left) with Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill.
Local 141 members picket the new Moundsville, WV, Wal-Mart site: from left: Kurt Reed, Art Oakland and George Knuth.
Local 159 members Andrew Bangert (left) and Jeff Palmer.
Local 177 members Kent Williamson (left), Danny Wynne, and Michael O’Brien barbecued through the night for the local’s Labor Day picnic.
IBEW Local 245 contingent marches in 2005 Labor Day parade.
Several towers on the six-bundle high line project in southern West Virginia. The line is being run by IBEW Local 317 members and travelers employed by Par Electric.
Participants at Local 357’s “Basic Electrical Contracting” course.
Local 369 members and their families joined in the annual Labor Day at the Zoo celebration in Louisville, KY.
IBEW Local 387 troubleman Roger Vandemheen, of Globe, AZ, responds to a P.T. failure at San Manuel Substation in July.
Local 401 class of 2005 apprentice graduates, from left: David Councilman, Craig Carroll, Fredric Kruse, Jeff Nakamoto, Paul Salerno, Earl Barber, Duane Kramer, Jason Martinez, Daniel Prowinski, Carlos Rosario, Daniel Steelman, John Seymour and Brandon Kersey.
Local 429 Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Robert M. Emery Jr. (left) and 45-year member Stanley W. Ham.
Local 479 participated in a Labor Day barbecue cook-off and won a third-place trophy. Three of the members on the local’s barbecue team: from left, Damien Duhon, John Richardson and Jeff Morrison.
Local 481’s 2005 apprentice graduation.
Local 557 Habitat for Humanity volunteers at the Bridgeport, MI, site on a hot summer Saturday: from left, John Clemens, Mark Fini and Alan Seaver.
Local 569 Graduating Apprentice Class of 2005.
Local 595 JATC Coordinator Mel Switzer and Dick Nordeen show new transformer lab, with thanks to Square D for assistance in the project.
Local 605 Entergy MS cable-splicer crew members install high-speed electronically controlled fuses.
Participating at a Local 611 Code of Excellence class, from left: Adolph Chavez, Paul Larson, Carl Condit, Dan Harbst, Kory Bennet and Pete Santistevan.
Local 625 Habitat for Humanity volunteers and a new homeowner. From left, Jeff Gallagher, Francis Mannette, Rodney Thomas, Jim Beaton, homeowner Deanne Landry, Jim Clattenburg, Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Cordell Cole, Steve MacAskill, Stan McCulloch and Dennis Sampson. Photo by project coordinator, Bro. Ian Gordon.
Local 649 wiremen graduation class of 2005, from left: Scott Lucas, Mike Buis, Dan Mancorca, Mark Klaas, Jo Ann Berg, Pat Bohn, Bob Moore, Bill Hammond, Loren Kulp, Tim Wieckhorst, Jay England, Jesse Landers, Daren Smith and Louis Thompson.
Local 777 bikers group includes active members and retirees.
Local 759 Bro. Hank Shaw, a 50-year plus member, and his granddaughter enjoy the 2004 union picnic.
Local 915 officers and board members, from left, back row, Marty Wilson, Linda Campbell, Douglas Smolt, Randall King, Steve Fairclough, Leon Ward, Bill Dever, Clyde Tucker, Joe Paquin, David Weill, David Rainey, Bruce Barrow, Mike Nagle and Joe D’Aguair; front, kneeling, Robert Ray, Larry Campbell and Bryce Davidson.
Some of Local 1205’s most notable fishermen.
Instructors Troy Brausell (left) and James Osterli (right) with Local 1245 apprentices from the California-Nevada JATC Northern School, beginning second from left: Nola Brimhall, fifth step; David Jenkins, sixth step; Brian McClure, fifth step; and Dean Bodenhamer, sixth step.
Local 1307 Pres. Mike Dennis (left) presents Bro. Paul Andrews a retirement gift from the local at the annual picnic.
Local 1381 Bus. Mgr. Donald J. Daley Jr. (left) and Pres. Robert Delaney congratulate scholarship winner Kate Caramico.
Local 1579 members participate in 2005 Labor Day March in Augusta, GA.
Local 1739 Bro. Reggie Robitaille at the Soldiers Memorial Hospital expansion project site.
Attending the IBEW Tenth District Progress Meeting, from left: Int. Rep. John K. Craig, Local 1749 Bus. Mr. Jeffrey Rosentreter, Int. Vice Pres. Robert P. Klein, Local 1749 Press Sec. Mark DeJuliis and Unit Steward Vincent Wilson.
Local 2113 Pres. Lloyd Ballard (second from left), Aerospace Testing Alliance Gen. Mgr. David Elrod (left) and Arnold Engineering Development Center (AEDC) Commander Gen. David Springer (far right) congratulate Local 2113 members who recently received IBEW service pins. Service award recipients, beginning third from left: Rick Sells, a 25-year member; Tom Wilden (40 year member), Stanley Evans (50 years), and Talmage Tilley (55 years).
RETIREES RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1, ST. LOUIS, MO—Our Retirees Club went to a Cardinals baseball game in May. We had eight busloads of members and their spouses or a friend. Our retirees meetings have been well attended, but of course we would like to have more members participate. We thank officers and members who prepare the lunch at our meetings. Retirees have concerns regarding retirement benefit, social security and medical care, but we are very fortunate to be IBEW members. Rich King, P.S. RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER PUTNAM CHAPTER—Our May 11 golf outing at the Beekman Country Club was a huge success. Another well-planned activity by Chmn. Jim O’Donnell. The June 8 fishing trip out of Glen Island was a beautiful day, with great camaraderie. We thank Chmn. Richard Mills. To show our support for the troops in Iraq, a collection was taken at our May meeting for telephone cards to send overseas. Condolences to the family of Trustee Jim Tobias, who passed away in June. His dedication and kindness will be missed. With the approval of the Board of Directors, Jim’s position was filled by Bill Robinson. The Board of Directors also voted for William Arnold to fill the position of trustee, vacated by Anthony Roucco, who retired to Florida. Our bi-annual retirees luncheon was Oct. 21 at Sheraton Hotel, NYC. Prizes were awarded at our first fall meeting, Tues., Sept. 15. Fall activities are being planned. Vincent Panzarino, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 24, BALTIMORE, MD—On July 19 we celebrated our anniversary dinner at Club 1400. Installation of officers was administered by Bus. Mgr. James Jarvis. Our officers are: Pres. Joe Albers, Vice Pres. Carolyn Eder, Sec./Treas. Betty Pfaff, Sgt.-at-Arms Bob Tombaugh; and Executive Board members Charles Bennett, Ed Habicht, Bob Myers, Stella Pumphrey and Lee Witts. On Aug 7 retirees and spouses attended the Local 24 picnic. Friendship Luncheons were enjoyed after the April and October retirees meetings. On April 28 members enjoyed a luncheon cruise on the Potomac River aboard the Odyssey out of Washington, DC. Afterward, we visited the World War II Memorial. In February we had a speaker from Legg Mason Investments. The October speaker discussed Medicare changes. We mourn the recent loss of: Claybourn Langlotz, William German Jr., Edward Novakowski and Karl Stepp. We welcome new member Hugh Meredith. The club meets the third Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m., at the union hall. Refreshments are served. Betty Pfaff, Sec./Treas.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 71, COLUMBUS, OH—We met May 20 for our spring luncheon meeting at Gala Events, Grove City, OH. Over 50 guests enjoyed a buffet lunch and shared stories of line work trivia. On June 22 we enjoyed our second annual “Night at the Races” at Scioto Downs. Forty plus guests enjoyed an evening of Brotherhood, racing and a buffet dinner. We encourage more retirees and associate members to join our club. We continue to grow and we always welcome new members. Deepest sympathies to the families of Jack James, Bill Purtee, Dotson Morgan, Joe Denman, Claude Smith, Bert Ambrose, James Tayse, Francis Arnett, William Brewer, Jesse Brooks and Thomas Saunders. Dave Fissel, Pres. RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 90, NEW HAVEN, CT—Local 90’s annual members outing at Holiday Hill in Cheshire, CT, was an enjoyable occasion. The weather was great as was the food and drink—and most importantly, the company of our brothers and sisters both active and retired. We thank Local 90 for inviting us. Our club resumed monthly meetings just after Labor Day. We meet the first Tuesday of each month, except in July and August, at 1:30 p.m. at IBEW Local 90 offices—2 North Plains Industrial Rd., Wallingford, CT. The cost of membership is only $15, which includes a Christmas luncheon. We hope to see many new members join our membership. Richard Launder, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 99, PROVIDENCE, RI—Retirees and friends enjoyed a beautiful summer outing Aug. 14 at Kempenaar’s Clambake Club in Newport, RI. Bus. Mgr. Allen Durand and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Ron Leddy greeted family and friends of Local 99. Everyone enjoyed good food, entertainment and fellowship. Health screenings also were available. Thanks to Mike D’Amico, the committee and officers for a tremendous job! We are saddened by the passing of Bros. Paul Stoppello, Raymond A. Laplante, Steven R. Ide and John J. O’Rourke. Pat Colucci, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 102, PATERSON, NJ—We call ourselves the “Old Timers.” Here are our top eleven: Michael Saraco (born in 1907); Rudy Stys (1912), Russell Jayne (1912), Joseph Lubeck (1916), Francis Rourke (1916), Peter Malloy (1918), Edgar Starnes (1918), O.S. Van Duyne (1918), Sal Guilano (1919), and Sherman Kisner (1919). Rudy Stys, as a Local 262 member in 1956, was the mover and shaker for the local to start a pension. I started my apprenticeship in 1966 under Rudy’s tutelage. Ever a gentleman, he soon straightened out my “wise-alec” attitude and that kept me in the program (see photo). Bill Vincent spoke to retirees about our medical plan at our June 2005 meeting. Measures the trustees took last July, plus the increase in contributions, stabilized the health and welfare plan. Two items were adjusted downward: the maximum co-pay for any one prescription and the maximum co-pay for insulin. Vote Nov. 8, 2005. Jim Moroney, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 103, BOSTON, MA—Five Retirees Club officers attended the Alliance of Retired Americans conference in Washington, D.C. We described our concerns regarding Social Security and Medicare prescription drug programs to elected public officials. We also visited and were kindly received at the new IBEW headquarters and archives. On our return home we attended the Local 103 retirement dinner where we greeted 150 new members to the Retirees Club. They were treated to a magnificent banquet and presented with handsome engraved IBEW watches. Pres. Tony Calvino is completing a busy year of Retirees events (which included trips, luncheons and golf dates for the retirees) by planning a year-end banquet in December. Congratulations to all the officers for a very successful year. Tony Calvino, Pres.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 105, HAMILTON, ON, CANADA—Our club had a great year, capped with a wonderful dinner dance at La Salla Banquet Centre in Hamilton. Our guests for the evening were seniors from Local 303, St. Catherines, ON, and Local 353, Toronto. Congratulations to club Pres. Gary Turner for an outstanding year. Our long-term members were recognized for their outstanding service. Local 105 Pres. Vic Prohaska presented honorees with IBEW pins and watches. Our 50-year members pictured in the accompanying photo are: Dick Gable, Frank Shipton, Don Rummey, Wener Fritsch, Don Fralick and Tom Beattie, former Local 105 president. Fifty-five year members attending were Bud Beamsley and Len Smee. Congratulations to all honorees. Joe Campanelli, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL—Congratulations to our 50-year members. Our club had a good year and September was a busy month. Club members have enjoyed luncheons, guest speakers, an architectural river tour of Chicago, John Cummin’s golf outing, plays at Drury Lane Theater and more. December brings our corned beef gathering. At year’s end we congratulate our officers for a job well done. Congratulations also to all the committees. These gentlemen are looking for help with club functions. We invite recent retirees to join us. R. E. Bronars, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO—We mourn Bro. Jim Thompson, who passed away earlier this year. A 50-year IBEW member, Bro. Thompson served as local union business manager, city councilman and church deacon. He will be missed. Over 35 club members traveled to the Lyceum Theater in Arrow Rock to see “The Importance of being Earnest.” Several retirees traveled to Linn, MO, to judge the Missouri Skills USA competition for industrial students at Linn Technical College. Those members were: John Baxter, Herman Grothoff, Jerry Rehagan, Orville Linger and Local 257 Apprentice Dir. Rick Stokes. Club Pres. Jerry Rehagan had knee replacement surgery and is now doing well. Orville Linger suffered a stroke and at reporting time is recovering well. Some retiree members attended the Mokanes World Fair, riding our float in the parade. The Retirees Club will not meet in November. Our Christmas meeting is Dec 13 at the union hall. Gary Fisher, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 291, BOISE, ID—We mourn Bro. Nick Bassick, who passed away Sept. 2, 2005. At the June 9, 2005, Retirees Club meeting Pres. Don Harness gave special recognition to Bro. Bassick, a former lineman, on belatedly receiving his Purple Heart for shrapnel wounds received in 1944. The Purple Heart was presented to Bro. Bassick on Memorial Day 2005. Major Gen. Larry Lafrenz presented the award and Gov. Dirk Kempthorne and U.S. Sen. Larry Craig were present at the ceremony. Bro. Dale Hancock won the door prize at the June 9 meeting. Representing the local at the meeting was Dawn Walsh, office secretary. The first 2005 fall meeting was scheduled for Sept 8. Lloyd Williams, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 639, SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA—The Local 639 Retiree’s Club staffed the IBEW booth at the San Luis Obispo County Democratic Party Labor Day picnic in September. More than 500 people turned out for a day of barbecue, entertainment and speakers, including local Democratic Party officials, union representatives and U.S. Rep. Lois Capps. Local 639 active members Richie Kugelman, James Reed and Brett Malone provided the barbecue expertise and prepared lunch. It was a great time for everyone. Bill Papich, P.S.
RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 654, CHESTER, PA—Local 654 retirees and guests enjoyed an elegant summer luncheon in the Austin room of our new union hall. Bus. Mgr. Steve McNally welcomed everyone and after lunch gave a tour of the building. The retirees thank our membership for the luncheons we have enjoyed through the years. I encourage members nearing retirement to talk to a retiree and check with your local union office early. They are helpful with your questions and will provide a Plan Summary. Local 654 member Shawn Quinn returned home safely from Iraq. We welcome new retirees to our breakfast every other Wednesday. T. Francis Hanley, P.S. RETIREES CLUB OF FORMER L.U. 724, ALBANY, NY—Our club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. at the Albany Labor Temple. We thank Albany Local 236 for inviting us to the Steak Roast at Krauses Grove Sept. 10. Our club’s annual luncheon at Crossgate Restaurant was Oct. 18. We like to hear from our retirees across the United States. Letters may be sent to Local Union 724, IBEW Retirees Club, P.O. Box 9155, Albany, NY, 12209-0155. Jim Don Riley, P.S. RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 804, KITCHENER, ON, CANADA—From a cautious beginning our club has progressed into more activity. Our luncheon meetings are a plus for members who must travel longer distances. Club excursions were added, such as the Grand River Boat Cruise and the Sept. 22 Wine Tour. For the Wine Tour, arrangements were made to pick up members from the Guelph area at the Willow West Mall; then the Kitchener area members at the union hall. Such added convenience encourages more retirees to join the get-togethers and keep up the friendships developed through our working years. The Retirees Club is a good place to reinforce those memories—come join us. Thomas Gardner, P.S.
Local 24 Bus. Mgr. James Jarvis (back row, left) installed Local 24 Retirees Club officers. From left, front row, Stella Pumphrey, Carolyn Eder and Betty Pfaff; back row, Jarvis, Joe Albers, Ed Habicht, Bob Myers, Bob Tombaugh, Lee Witts and Charles Bennett.
Local 71 Retirees Club members at the Scioto Downs races.
Members and retirees enjoy Local 99’s summer outing. From left, Bros. Charles Foggarty, Frank Oster and Bus. Mgr. Allen Durand.\
Local 102 retirees at a Dec. 2003 Retirees Club meeting: from left, Jim Moroney, Rudy Stys, Joe Zagra, Pete Zubal and Ned Waldman.
Local 103 Retirees Club officers and spouses attend Local 103’s retirement party for Local 103 members.
Local 105 Pres. Vic Prohaska (right) presented awards to 50-year members, from left: Dick Gabel, Frank Shipton, Don Rumney, Werner Fritsch, Don Fralick and Tom Beattie.
Local 134 50-year members: from left, front row, Charles LoPresti, Ervino Elmi, Ron Marsden, Ralph Gault, William Serritella; middle row, Gerald Thompson, Raymond Svejnoha, Jerry Koch, Peter Caruso, Wayne Schroeder; back row, James Kassner, Bob Mersch, James McNamara, Frank McCabe and George Randle.
The late retired Bro. Jim Thompson, a former Local 257 business manager.
The late Bro. Nick Bassick (center), a Local 291 Retirees Club member, received his Purple Heart, presented by U.S. Sen. Larry Craig (left) and Major Gen. Larry Lafrenz. Bro. Bassick passed away Sept. 2, 2005.
Local 639 Retirees Club members staffed a booth at the Labor Day picnic. From left, back row: Rich Harris, Gordon Reed, Jim Filon and Don Ice; front row, Bruce Knievsky, Bill Papich, James Reed (active member) and Ron Snyder.
Local 654 Retirees Club members and guests at the summer luncheon.
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