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April 2004 IBEW Journal

Partnering/Sharing Ideas

L.U. 340 (em,i,o,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA--The Local 340 bumper sticker--which reads 'Live by the Code'--is the product of an idea suggested by one of our partnering subcommittees.

The 'Code of Ethics' adopted for local union employers and members is as follows: 1) Performing the job with integrity, honesty and accountability; 2) Price and craftsmanship with continuous education; 3) All jobs performed productively in a safe and workmanlike manner; 4) Advancing industry standards; 5) Professionally installed with proper tools and materials; and 5) 'On time, every time & looking good.' Our employers and members work hard to live by this code, which definitely sets us apart from the non-represented sector.

Another idea from our Partnering Session is the development of Practical Foreman Training classes as continuing education for members who take responsibility to enforce our Code of Ethics, both for employers and members. An efficient well-coordinated job is crucial to our survival.

Also, Outside Local IBEW 1245 will be installing poles on our training lot and will work with our journeymen and apprentices, teaching our respective jurisdictions.

We are saddened to report the passing of retired members Garald 'Gary' Coley, Frederick H. Giles, Thomas L. Gray, August McCurdy, Bennie F. McDowell and Donald R. Thompson.

A.C. Steelman, P.S.

Political Action

L.U. 354 (i,mt,rts&spa), SALT LAKE CITY, UT--Salt Lake had plenty of snow over the winter, but not a lot of jobs. We look forward to a better spring.

The Annual Provo Shrimp Party was held Feb. 13 at the Elks Club in Provo.

Just a reminder to everyone that Local 354 will hold nominations for officers and delegates at the May unit meetings with voting in June.

For Political Action activities, Bro. Jason Lambourne is looking for members to help with state/national campaigns. We MUST get out and vote!

Dont forget the great party in July for the installation of new local union officers and service pin presentations.

Congratulations to Bro. William Brett Schmidt, who was appointed to the JATC.

Manya Blackburn, R.S.

Surviving Bush Economy

L.U. 364 (catv,ees,em,es,i,mt,rts &spa), ROCKFORD, IL--In another blow to working families, especially the long-term unemployed, Republicans claimed the 'improving economy' was why they blocked an unemployment benefits extension.

Millions of unemployed, including many IBEW members, see differently the economic situation that economists have termed a 'jobless recovery.' Since George Bushs recession began, there are three new workers unemployed for every job created.

In Chicago recently, Local 364 Bro. Todd Kindred, with other jobless workers, was invited to speak at an Illinois AFL-CIO press conference on joblessness. Bro. Kindred implored Congress and Bush to do the right thing and reenact the extension.

If theres a silver lining to the floundering Bush economy, its the selfless, brotherly spirit demonstrated by IBEW brothers and sisters in solidarity with unemployed members. Upon learning of the tough times our unemployed members are experiencing, IBEW members employed by Chrysler contributed $800; Bro. Phil Robison raffled golf clubs raising $800; an anonymous member donated $1,000 and many members donated boxes of food for all our unemployed members.

Together, we will survive these harsh economic times. That is what brotherhood is all about.

Ray Pendzinski, P.S.

In Remembrance


A Great Safety Record: Local 396 members
employed at Nevada Powers Calar/Sunrise/
Harry Allen complex, topped 2 million man-
hours worked with no lost time injuries from
1993 to 2003.

L.U. 396 (lctt,t&u), LAS VEGAS, NV--This local is saddened by the loss of long-time member, associate and friend Robert 'Bob' E. Ely. Bob was very active in the local for 30 years. He served as president, recording secretary, Executive Board member, steward and delegate to the IBEW International Conventions. Bob is survived by his wife, Molly, sons Damon and David, daughters Rene, Adrianna and Austyn, and mother, Mary Ely. May the spirit with which he worked carry forward to his legacy. Well miss you, Bob!

Safety congratulations to Local 396 members for 2 million man-hours worked with no lost-time injuries from 1993 to 2003. Congratulations to the IBEW men and women on all shifts at Nevada Powers Clark-Sunrise-Harry Allen plants on keeping their workplaces safe. What a great safety record!

With great pride, Local 396 celebrated its 30th anniversary on March 1, 2004. Thanks to officers, stewards and members for keeping us strong.

Larry Eden, P.S.

Bright Outlook

L.U. 424 (as,ees,em,es,i,mo,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), EDMONTON, AB--2004 started on a bright note with 300 members dispatched in January alone.

Unit 3 Ft. McMurray reports that hiring for UE-1 will steadily increase with the advent of warmer weather. Along with other Syncrude projects, our membership should have full employment this year.

Unit 2 Calgary stayed busy last year with 131 members taking Comet courses, and 73 put through the Job Steward & Membership Awareness training. Unit 2 Rec. Com. also has a Valentines Day dance planned.

In the 'Great White North,' Unit 1 Edmonton has already done a Comet course and one Job Steward course in late January, with one more of each scheduled in February, and more planned later. The Unit 1 Rec.Committee has organized a sleigh ride\wiener roast for February.

Many members used last years 'lull' to upgrade their skills through various trade related courses at the Edmonton and Calgary training centers. A salute to the Education Trust Fund staff, Trustees and contractors on having the foresight to administer and finance the comprehensive training that keeps our members 'current' in a fast changing industry.

Dave Anderson, P.S.

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