New Jersey Local 164’s Benevolent Volunteer

June 2005 IBEW Journal

When Jersey City Local 164 Business Representative John "Nordy" Nordyk had a stroke, the Paramus, New Jersey, first aid squad knew that the minutes counted. What they did not know was that their patient was Local 164’s volunteer chairman, who had recently spearheaded an effort to equip Paramus’ new Mobile Emergency Operations Center.

Treated at the scene and transported to a nearby hospital, the effects of the November stroke were minimized. Today, the 53-year-old Nordyk is undergoing out-patient rehabilitation."It seems only appropriate that someone like John, who has touched the lives of so many throughout New Jersey, has ‘gotten back’ the prompt and caring service that he has given," said Local 164 Business Manager Richard Dressel.Thanks to 10 years of volunteer efforts coordinated by Nordyk, Local 164 has distinguished itself as one of New Jersey’s top charitable organizations, with hundreds of members donating thousands of man-hours to worthy statewide causes. The local was recognized by the Points of Light Foundation in 2000, when Nordyk traveled to Washington, D.C., to accept an award from former President Clinton. He was so proud of the honor received on behalf of the local, he had a replica made to keep at home."He’s got that skill and ability to motivate people," said Local 164 President Dave Milazzo. Nordyk and his volunteers wired and outfitted the Paramus mobile command unit in the wake of the September 11 bombing in nearby New York.

Nordyk is a true IBEW success story. He got his start in the residential division in the mid-1980’s, then upgraded his skills through training to become a journeyman wireman, eventually landing in the Local 164 business office, Milazzo said.