L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — Greetings, sisters and brothers. The Toledo Electrical JATC held its graduation banquet in July. A total of 30 apprentices topped out as Inside, Residential or VDV (voice-data-video) journeymen. Special mention goes to the outstanding graduates: Jason Buckholtz, (Inside), Derek Berry (Residential) and Jason Florez (VDV). The 2014 Apprentice of the Year was Ryan Wagner. Congratulations to the entire class of 2014.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Local 8 hosted the IBEW Softball Tournament in July, and it was a huge success. Thirty-two teams from 22 locals participated, and New York, NY, Local 3 took home the winning trophy. Congratulations to all the teams that participated.

Mike Brubaker, P.S.

L.U. 12 (i,o&se), PUEBLO, CO — Our Local 12 annual picnic took place Aug. 9, and this year we rented one of the city pools for a couple of hours. With the picnic beginning earlier in the day this year, we planned the regular cookout menu and some time to catch up with each other. Then the wet fest began! The Planning Committee came up with some cool water games and, with all the squirt guns, I didn't see many people staying dry. The outing was a great success and fun for all. Thanks to all who participated.

Our local contractors are staying busy, but we don't have any big projects on the immediate horizon.

Susan J. Johnson, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The IBEW congratulates the class of 2014 apprenticeship graduates of the JATC inside wireman program. These new journeymen are: Rayne M. Bitter, David M. Bittner, Charles W. Brendel Jr., Karl D. Cessna, Cody A. Clark, Joshua T. Elliott, Matthew J. Grass, Adam J. Merkel, Timothy J. Pike, Kenneth D. Ramsey, Todd A. Rogers, Joel Q. Ruedlinger, Kurt L. Scherzinger, Jason D. Schmitt, Daniel L. Schweizer, Jeremy D. Sowder, James B. Wagner Jr. and Kyle S. Wanninger. This year's academic award winner is Jason D. Schmitt, and the John D. Brenner Memorial Award went to Jeremy D. Sowder.

Local 16's employment prospects look very good for members who have Vanderburgh County electrical licenses, are instrument technicians, or who are certified welders. Local 16 members interested in working on projects with these requirements are strongly urged to contact the JATC at (812) 422-3343 or www.evvjatc.org for additional instruction.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

The union also thanks the following for attending this year's National Training Institute: Jeff Brady, Mike Chamberlain, Jeff Daub, Larry Dimmett, Kenneth Farmer, Robin Haskell, John Marlow, Ray Pritchett, Bob Scheller, Chad A. Thompson and Chris Thorsen. The NTI provides attendees advanced technical education to become the best in the industry.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — The officers, staff and members of Local 24 congratulate the second class in 2014 to graduate the five-year Baltimore JATC program. There were 38 graduates in this class. Two had perfect attendance for all five years, and two finished with a 93.6 grade point average.

We also congratulate four of our JATC instructors who graduated the National Training Institute this year (see accompanying photo). We appreciate all they do to educate our apprentices.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Hope everyone enjoyed a fun and safe summer.

Gary R. Griffin, B.M.

L.U. 26 (ees,em,es,govt,i&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — Local 26 is proud to announce the four winners of this year's scholarship award: Rodrick Murray, Elsie Martinez, Hannah Murphy and Christopher Noyes. Rodrick is the son of Bro. Jamell Thrower and will attend Birmingham-Southern College. Elsie is the daughter of Bro. Misael Martinez and will attend the University of Maryland at College Park. Hannah, daughter of Bro. William Murphy, will attend St. Mary's College of Maryland. Christopher is the son of Bro. Thomas Noyes and will attend Brown University.

The 6th Annual AFL-CIO Capital Area Sporting Clays Shoot was May 30. Local 26 was proud to be a major sponsor of the event. The Local 26 team placed first in the Class A division.

With regret we report that several members passed away since our last article: Patrick R. Shelton, Daniel J. Bowman, Cary W. Lemons, Thomas A. Ricker Jr., William E. Leith, Michael P. Roth and Ralph W. Moore.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Donald R. Brenner, Monte F. Brown, Stephen J. Dicarlo, Robert V. Hale Jr., Dwayne R. Limes, Calvin E. McCoy Jr., Michael J. Nadzadi, Samuel C. Peoples, Richard T. Puleo, Michael T. Schaefer, James E. Smith, Charles M. Southward, Gerald K. Wiseman, Richard O. Barton II, John B. Carter, Jerome S. Lozupone and Howard D. Clenney.

Charles E. Graham, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — October is finally here. When you are not at work, I hope you are out in the woods trying to bag that 180-inch buck. Conservation and unionism have always gone hand in hand, but no organization has been able to capitalize on this relationship as well as the Union Sportsmen's Alliance. Recently the Union Sportsmen's Alliance teamed up with the Peoria Area Labor Council and area businesses to put on a Flying Fish Festival that featured a Bow Fishing Tournament and a charity dinner that raised money for upgrades to the Peoria Labor Temple and conservation projects around the country. The event was a great success. Thanks to all the people who organized and volunteered to make it happen.

By now I am sure everyone is tired of hearing about politics, but the importance of our participation at the voting booth cannot be overstated. Here in Illinois we are trying to keep a billionaire from buying the governor's office with money that was sheltered overseas to avoid paying U.S. taxes, as reported by Crain's Chicago Business newspaper. So please make time to vote this November — and if you're an Illinois resident, please vote for Gov. Pat Quinn and any other candidate who supports unions.

Marc Burnap, P.S.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — First Energy Stadium, formally known as Cleveland Browns Stadium, is currently being renovated in a two-phase process.

The first phase, which will be completed before the start of the Browns' regular season, will include installation of two new scoreboards at the end zones. The new scoreboards are three times as large as the signs that were originally installed in the stadium back in 1999. LED signs, which will give fans up-to-date scores and football stats, along with a new state-of-the-art audio system will be ready for the start of the 2014 season. Escalators on the east and west sides of the stadium will provide easy entrance and exit to those newly renovated sections.

The two-phase $120 million renovation, which will continue at the conclusion of this season, has had numerous Local 38 members on the project, which includes 50 inside journeymen and apprentices and 26 voice/data/video members.

You can follow progress online by doing a Google search for: "FirstEnergy Stadium — EarthCam.net." Or go to www.earthcam.net/projects/turner/firstenergystadium.

Dennis Meaney, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 42 (catv,em,govt,lctt&o), HARTFORD, CT — Local 42 held its Dinner Cruise on The Lady Katharine cruise boat on June 14. The boat departed from the Charter Oak Landing in Hartford. We all enjoyed a great buffet dinner and catching up with friends and family.

The Charter Fishing trip was July 12. The Frances Fleet went out of Point Judith, RI. Members enjoyed hamburgers and hot dogs and fishing all day. Congratulations to Shauna Quinn, who won the pool for catching the biggest fluke; she won $340. Hope you all enjoyed your day.

Local 42 also held the "BA" member Family Picnic on July 26, at Lake Compounce in Bristol, CT. We all enjoyed the buffet at the picnic pavilion and the nonstop adventure of the amusement rides, as well as the water park.

The Local 42 work picture looks very promising. Upcoming will be the High Line project with Par Electric — and the railroad project with Ducci Electric is coming up soon as well. The Distribution jobs are holding steady for right now.

To all of our Local 42 brothers and sisters: Stay safe out there!

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,i,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — In April we met with Bobcat Construction and Electric. The owner talked about concerns getting qualified help for a fast-track project the company had. The contractor's manpower consisted of people from Craigslist and employment agency referrals. The owner had heard that we supplied electricians (salts) to nonsignatory contractors and wanted to know if we could help. Over the next 30 days, Bobcat Electric hired our electricians for their project.

Bobcat was impressed with the skill and work ethic of the union electricians and decided to only employ electricians sent from Local 46. We met with our salts regularly and they understood they were making a difference for this contractor. Bobcat shared concerns about keeping the IBEW crew, with knowledge of other work available at the hall. We assured the owner that we would finish the job for him. He then asked for our wage and benefit information.

Before the job was to finish, we were informed that the company wanted to take the crew to the next job. Bobcat became a signatory contractor. We have the members who salted to thank for their great work bringing this contractor into Local 46.

This is the kind of organizing that Henry Miller would be proud of.

Frank Elduen, Mbr. Dev.
Angela Marshall, P.S.

L.U. 58 (em,i,rtb,spa&t), DETROIT, MI — This year's Local 58 Family Picnic was one of the largest in recent memory, with approximately 2,500 people attending. It was held at a new, larger location at Camp Dearborn, giving us more room to enjoy the festivities with our sisters and brothers and their families. Members competed in tug of war, euchre, and horseshoe tournaments for trophies. The children enjoyed a bounce house, face painting, train rides and a watermelon eating contest. Bro. Jay Fiondella's band kept things hopping with live music.

With the new picnic location came some new ideas from the Entertainment Committee. Space was set aside for a Classic Car & Bike Show. We hope this will continue to gain interest each year. Hamburgers, nachos and chicken were added to the menu, and everyone who attended received a picnic shirt.

Events like these cannot happen without the dedicated volunteers, who gave up their day so others could enjoy theirs. The volunteers show up long before the first wrist band is handed out, and they leave long after the last ice cream is eaten. We thank all the volunteers. Special thanks to the Entertainment Committee co-chairs Mike Curran, Beth Saigh and Rob Zawadzki.

Andy Dunbar, Pres.

L.U. 68 (i), DENVER, CO — Greetings, brothers and sisters. The work picture here in Local 68 is still robust with calls reaching book two almost daily. We are still not seeing a whole lot of overtime, but if you need a working vacation come to Colorado.

June 28 saw the return of the WBF Golf Tournament. Everyone had a great time and it was once again a great event benefiting our Local 68 sick and needy fund.

On July 19, a Prudential group representative was here at the hall to talk to the members about their investments and retirement planning.

Our Building Association has met twice to talk about upcoming building repairs and improvements. New LED outside lights are up and burning, with more changes on the way.

At this writing, we were looking forward to the Local 68 Summer Picnic scheduled for Aug. 16. The picnic is always a great time to get together with some brothers and sisters you may not have seen recently.

The political season is firing up for November elections. For the sake of our middle class, please plan some time to help with phone banks, walks and rallies. Without union-friendly political leaders, our path becomes even more difficult.

Stay safe out there and take care of your fellow union brothers and sisters.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of our recently deceased brothers: Louis G. Varn Jr. and David W. Rolston.

Jack Cox, Pres.

L.U. 82 (em,i,mt&rtb), DAYTON, OH — Local 82 officers and members congratulate the graduating apprenticeship classes of 2014!

Graduates, now that you've successfully completed this chapter of your career, you are beginning a new chapter. It is time to take the knowledge and experience you gained in training, and all that you have learned working with other journeymen, and become the journeyman you want to be! You are not done learning — you will continue to learn throughout your career, but now it's your turn to help mold the upcoming apprentices. Remember to treat them as you wanted to be treated and train them well, because they are your future! Get involved with the local, become a leader and help your local grow! Remember that you get out of your local what you put into it! Congratulations again, graduates, and good luck on your future endeavors.

Doug Searcy, P.S.

L.U. 98 (as,catv,em,i,it), PHILADELPHIA, PA — The alliance among IBEW Local 98, the Philadelphia OSHA office, and the Penn-Del-Jersey NECA Chapter has had great success improving safety for all members.

One major effort is to get all members NFPA 70E trained. The NFPA, or National Fire Protection Association, promotes standards to reduce risks of fire and other hazards.

JATC Training Dir. Mike Neill together with primary instructor Jim Dollard, a 70E technical committee member, developed an eight-hour class for journeymen. The Apprentice Training Committee is committed to getting every member trained.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

All members receive the following when they complete their 70E training: a copy of the NFPA 70E standard, an NJATC arc rated shirt, Class O rubber gloves, leather protectors, canvas bag, and glove liners. In addition to training in electrical safe-work practices, all members are taught proper glove use and care. Members can then receive a newly tested pair every six months through the apprentice training facility.

Journeyman classes are held on Saturdays, and all apprentices receive 70E training. Retraining every three years is a requirement of NFPA 70E, and three-hour update classes on the 2015 edition will begin in the fall of 2014.

Congratulations to Local 98 member Ed Neilson, the newest member of the Philadelphia City Council. Good luck, Ed!

Bryan Burrows, P.S.

L.U. 102 (em,govt,i,mt,o&ws), PATERSON, NJ — The inaugural Local 102 Motorcycle Run and Cruise In was a big success as 130 motorcycles took to the streets to raise money for the Goryeb Children's Hospital.

As the bikes rolled back into the parking lot of Local 102, a contingent of classic cars was there to welcome them. There was great food, great music — and over $20,000 on its way to the Goryeb Children's Hospital. We send a big thank-you to everyone who helped make this event a success.

Local 102 elections were held in June. We congratulate Bus. Mgr. Patrick Delle Cava and fellow officers on their re-election. We welcome Dan Petrozelli to the Executive Board; Dan was elected to the seat vacated by Mike Hadam, who retired from the board at the completion of his term. We wish Mike well and thank him for his years of dedication to our local union. We congratulate and welcome our newest officer, Eric Tscherne, to the Examining Board.

Our new trailer, emblazoned with the IBEW Local 102 logo, is heading out to Lambertville for our next Habitat for Humanity project. We thank Klein Tools, Milwaukee Electric Tool, 3M, and Monarch Electric for outfitting the trailer with the tools needed to help provide homes to those in need.

Bernie Corrigan, Pres.

L.U. 124 (ees,em,i,mar,rts,se,spa&t), KANSAS CITY, MO — In June, Local 124 held its election of officers. Congratulations to Rick Rodriguez, elected as our new business manager. Congratulations also to B.Z. Parscale, our new financial secretary; Rudy Chavez, our returning president; and all other officers elected by the membership.

The newly elected administration, with its fresh ideas, is sure to keep Local 124 in the forefront of our district. Our union hall offices are going green with the installation of ground source heat and cooling. We will also install new LED lighting. This project should be completed by early fall. Our apprenticeship program is definitely topnotch. Congratulations to top apprentices Steve Ohmes and Kelly Anderson. Great job, brothers.

We remember recently deceased members: Charles R. Cooper, William C. Dick, Raymond F. Fisher, James T. Flowers, Debra McCollor, Chuck McCormick, James Rende, William R. Roberts, Alex Sadler, John A. Taber and Oliver Williams.

Congratulations to recently retired members: Howard E. Adair, Larry J. Banks, William L. Barry III, Ricky A. Crites, James D. Dickerson, Larry D. Franklin, Phillip B. Hickey, James B. Joyce Jr., John M. Marquez, David E. Nelson, Gerald D. Perkins, Niles D. Schaaf, John A. Taber and Tim Tutorino.

Steve Morales, P.S.

L.U. 134 (catv,em,govt,i,mt,rtb,rts,spa&t), CHICAGO, IL — To encourage good-paying U.S. manufacturing jobs, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced the "Build Chicago" partnership — a collaboration of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and the Chicago Federation of Labor — for the purchase of modernized rail cars.

The CTA will include a "U.S. employment" provision as part of the process of seeking bids from companies to manufacture the new 7000-series rail cars. The goal is to create U.S. job opportunities and revive Illinois' manufacturing economy. [For more information, see "In Chicago, New Trains and Job Growth," at www.ibew.org.]

IBEW Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill said: "By including incentives for U.S. job creation and workforce development in its procurement, the CTA is using its purchasing power for community benefit. IBEW applauds Mayor Emanuel and the CTA for using the power of this $2 billion purse to spur job creation and opportunities for working families."

"Let's reward companies for doing the right things: creating good jobs with living wages; recruiting and training veterans, women and minorities; and making workplaces safe," said Local 134 Bus. Mgr. Terry Allen.

The new 7000-series rail cars will replace CTA's oldest rail cars, with plans for procurement of up to 846 rail cars.

IBEW Local 134 represents over 500 members in the rail industry, at both the CTA and the Northeast Illinois Regional Commuter Railroad Corporation (METRA).

Frank Cunningham, B.R.

L.U. 146 (ei,i&rts), DECATUR, IL — Local 146 once again helped to sponsor the Labor Day picnic in the park following the 2014 Labor Day parade in downtown Decatur. Union brothers and sisters from the entire Decatur area enjoyed an afternoon of fellowship, food, refreshments, entertainment and the largest collection of bounce houses in town. This year's labor event was the largest in Decatur history.

We also helped to support the 37th annual Mideastern Illinois Labor Council picnic held the last weekend of August in Charleston, IL. It was a great day for the picnic, attended by active and retired members and their families.

The Local 146 JATC apprentice instructors spent a week in Ann Arbor, MI, to get ready for the upcoming school year. We welcome and congratulate Alf Edwards on his selection as the new first-year instructor. Currently there are 58 indentured apprentice inside wiremen in training.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Congratulations also to our Bus. Mgr. Shad Etchason on his recent appointment by Int. Pres. Edwin D. Hill to serve on the Council on Industrial Relations (CIR).

Everyone, have a great fall season. Don't forget to vote for labor-friendly candidates in November, and help to re-elect Gov. Pat Quinn.

Rich Underwood, P.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa), WAUKEGON, IL — The definition of a labor union is as follows: an organization of workers formed to protect the rights and interests of its members. A fuller definition is: an organization of workers formed for the purpose of advancing its members' interests in respect to wages, benefits and working conditions. What neither of these definitions mentions are the responsibilities of the union member.

As a member of a union, you do have responsibilities. You are to install your work in a neat and workman-like manner. Give eight hours of work for eight hours of pay. Be involved in your local union and attend meetings. Become informed as to your local contract and bylaws. You are to follow the IBEW Constitution and the local contract and bylaws. This means you don't start early for straight time. You don't work through break or lunch. You don't work overtime for cash. And if you are on the road, you don't stay on a job if they are laying off the local hands. That is simply bad form. It also gives your home local a bad reputation.

Remember to always act in accordance with our responsibilities as union members — and support your local union.

In solidarity,

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 158 (i,it,mar,mt&spa), GREEN BAY, WI — Local 158 continues to have a good work picture. Our contractors are busy and there are many projects out there to be bid. We negotiated a new three-year agreement in May, hopefully bringing some relief to all involved. We have been able to bring in many new members and continue to look at bringing in more.

We are getting ready for the fall elections, as are all IBEW locals in Wisconsin. We have to do all we can to make sure Gov. Scott Walker is defeated in his re-election bid. Mary Burke is the gubernatorial candidate that our local and the state conferences support. I would hate to see what would happen if we don't come out victorious. In recent polls these two candidates are about even in polls of likely voters.

Our local held its annual banquet in April. Looking at the pictures taken that night, it's apparent that people had a very good time. It was one of the most well-attended banquets in recent memory. Years-of-service pins were awarded to eligible members, and the graduating apprentices were recognized. It was a great night.

Donald C. Allen, B.M.

L.U. 164 (c,em,i,o&t), JERSEY CITY, NJ — On Saturday, May 9, Vice Pres. Warren Becker was awarded the Ed Purtill Community Services Award from the United Labor Agency of Northern New Jersey. The award was presented at the Philip J. McLewin Annual Community Services Awards Breakfast, held at the Hasbrouck Heights Hilton. Warren received this award for his years of service as the volunteer coordinator for IBEW Local 164, and for his years of volunteering as the electrical coordinator for Rebuilding Together Bergen County.

Warren's community service, along with the Local 164 Volunteer Committee, includes residential electrical repairs and renovations for: low-income homeowners, the elderly, the disabled, veterans, Superstorm Sandy victims, and Local 164 members in need. In his acceptance speech, Warren accepted the award on behalf of all the Local 164 volunteers who teamed up for these projects. Local 164 Pres. Thomas Sullivan was honored to present Warren with the award. In 2003, this same community services award was presented to Local 164 member John "Nordy" Nordyk. Kudos, Warren!

Note: Thank you to Local 164 member William Jones Jr. for providing information for this article.

Thomas J. Sullivan, Pres.

L.U. 236 (catv,ees,govt,i,mo,rtb&t), ALBANY, NY — It seems that the summer season passed by in the blink of an eye. This past summer — with the construction of GlobalFoundries, a semiconductor foundry, in full swing — we were very fortunate to have enjoyed full employment and the ability to provide many employment opportunities for our traveling brothers and sisters. Thank you to those who have helped, and those who continue to help, with meeting the manpower needs of our jurisdiction.

As November approaches, I would like to remind everyone to please take the time to vote on Election Day and show your support for those who support us.

Also, please take a moment on Veterans Day to honor our veterans who serve or have served in the U.S. armed forces. A simple gesture such as a handshake and saying "thank you" is something we can all do to let veterans know we appreciate their service.

Michael Torres, P.S.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — The Minneapolis JATC has many outstanding teachers, and a recent National Electrical Code (NEC) Challenge proved their excellence. During the National Training Institute (NTI) competition held the weekend of July 26, Paul Holum and Derrick Atkins, both instructors at the Minneapolis JATC, topped the leaderboard with a score of 22. This led to a showdown that Paul Holum won with a record-setting 36 correct answers to code questions. At press time, the NEC Challenge Championship was scheduled for Sept. 28-30 in Chicago during the NECA Conference & Trade Show; last year's champion was Derek Vigstol, also an instructor at the Minneapolis JATC.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

In the upcoming elections, we have an opportunity to support candidates who understand IBEW Local 292 issues. We need volunteers to back these candidates and we ask all of our members to vote in this critical off-year election. Voter turnout is historically low for midterm elections; however, the issues still remain and we need your voice and your vote to be heard on Nov. 2.

Our work picture looks better than it has in the last 10 years, and we would like to remind our members that we need to man our jurisdiction.

Carl Madsen, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 300 (govt,i,mt&u), MONTPELIER, VT — Hello, brothers and sisters. Work has been good in our local. We've had several out-of-state signatory contractors come into our jurisdiction this year, and on occasion even employed travelers. Solar installations, whether residential or larger, ground-mount farms, have been our bread and butter again this year. I believe we will be very busy with multiple solar installations at the time this article is published.

The most exciting thing happening in the local is an increased level of membership participation. Not only are the members taking part in the events, but they're also dragging family and friends along. The best part is that the majority end up having a great time and look forward to the next event.

We've done several wellness events and two cancer research fundraisers — the latest being a Dragon Boat Sponsorship (see accompanying photo) captained by fourth-year apprentice Jazmine Thompson. These events were attended by the full range of our membership, from construction wiremen to retirees, with a large concentration of apprentices. To watch a video of Local 300 construction unit members in the annual Dragon Boat fundraiser for cancer survivors, go to http://vimeo.com/103521111.

Thank you, one and all, for proving that brotherhood is thriving in Local 300!

We said goodbye to Bro. Gary Chambers Sr., who passed away June 20. He will be missed.

Wishing everyone a great start to the holiday season!

Timothy LaBombard, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 306 (i), AKRON, OH — On Friday, June 6, a banquet was held to honor our 2014 JATC graduates. Opening remarks were given by Bus. Mgr. Michael Might, who encouraged the graduates to, "Be the best electrician possible and learn something every day."

After the invocation by graduate Michael MacDonald, JATC Chmn. Larry Thompson and Training Dir. Paul Zimmerman introduced the guest speaker, IBEW Fourth District Int. Rep. David Moran. Diplomas and awards were presented by Chmn. Thompson and Dir. Zimmerman followed by closing remarks by Jennifer O'Connell, NECA Akron Division.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

Residential graduates are: Bryan Brunson and Angela Vakasy. Commercial graduates are: Fadi Awadallah, Nicholas Badalucco, Genesis Cutright, Luke Hathaway, Ryan Hughes, Andrew Kern, Kevin Kumse, Ryan Lloyd, Michael MacDonald, Anthony Stewart and Nicholas Torio.

Highest grade point average: Commercial — Fadi Awadallah, 94.03 percent; Residential — Bryan Brunson, 92.47 percent.

Perfect attendance awards went to: Nicholas Badalucco, Genesis Cutright, Luke Hathaway, Ryan Lloyd, Michael MacDonald and Nicholas Torio.

Congratulations to all the graduates on successfully completing their apprenticeship.

Thomas Wright, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 340 (i,rts&spa), SACRAMENTO, CA — This past summer I attended the annual Ninth District Progress Meeting. It was a great pleasure to meet so many business managers from other locals throughout the IBEW and take the opportunity to discuss the status of their work pictures, contract negotiations, and day-to-day happenings in their locals. I realized while talking to these business managers and delegates that we all want the same thing: excellent "health" for our members, which equates to steady work and good morale. We share a lot of the same struggles, but I believe Local 340 is on its way to much better health and I wish the same for all IBEW locals. A lot of ground is covered at these conventions in just a few days, and I found the workshops provided by the International Office to be very educational and the talks, very inspiring.

I especially want to thank Hawaii Locals 1186, 1260 and 1357 for the hospitality extended to myself and Local 340's delegates while visiting their beautiful Island of Maui. "Mahalo," brothers and sisters.

Rest in peace: Bros. Alson Bennett, Kenneth Braziel, Jack Duran, David Gair, Abner Knadler, Charles Moger, Jesus Sanjurjo, Bert Smith, Robert Sorn, Joshua Weidman, Gary Westlake and Vic Langdon.

Tom Okumura, B.M.

L.U. 354 (i,lpt,mt,rts&spa), SALT LAKE CITY, UT — Local 354 had several social events recently that were well-attended. In June, the Annual Golf Tournament saw 29 teams participating. Thanks to all who helped to make it a great success.

In July, at the Service Award Recognition Night, many members were recognized for their years of membership in the local, ranging from 20 years of service to 65 years. Congratulations to all award recipients.

Jeb Bruce, P.S.

L.U. 388 (em,i,rts&spa), STEVENS POINT, WI — IBEW Local 388 is proud to announce that Bus. Mgr. Dean Miller recently closed on a building that will be the new location for Local 388.

This building is in a great location with exceptional frontage on a major highway, which will afford us an excellent opportunity for advertising Local 388. Thanks go to Bus. Mgr. Miller, the E-Board members and the membership for making this purchase possible. As a result of the progressive action of all involved, we now have a facility that we can all be proud of.

The new building will be utilized for all of our training and job referrals, and it will also be big enough to hold our union meetings. At press time, we planned to soon announce the new address and the date when we will actually be in the new location.

Local 388 saw an increase of job calls during the summer; along with a few other projects that our local contractors have secured, we anticipate a busy couple of years.

We appreciate the help of traveling brothers and sisters who assist us in staffing our work. If you are in the area please, stop in and sign the book.

If you are traveling please be safe. I hope everyone had a great summer.

Guy LePage, P.S.

L.U. 424 (as,ees,em,es,i,mo,o,ptc,rtb,rts,spa&u), EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA — The summer fun started July 4 with the Unit 2 Pancake Breakfast & BBQ Lunch held in conjunction with the kickoff of the famous 10-day Calgary Stampede & Exhibition. Thank you to the Unit 2 retirees, E-Board members and business office staff for a job well done! Hard on the heels of the barbecue, the July 11 Unit 2 Golf Tournament was a great success.

Next was Tina Stevenson's July 12 Unit 1 Family Picnic at Dunluce Park. She and husband Scott did a superb job (as they have for many years) organizing the event and keeping the kids happy with entertainment, games and treats. With our large jurisdiction and so many members working away from home, the picnic is an affirmation of family values second only to the Kids' Christmas Party. Thank you, Tina and Scott!

Our annual Unit 1 Pancake Breakfast & BBQ Lunch was held July 18 for the start of Edmonton's 10-day "K Days" Exhibition. The event was well-attended by members and several signatory employers who stopped in, raising $732 for future projects. A salute goes to the retirees and spouses for an excellent social event. Thanks to all those who helped make it a success.

As of press time, the Unit 1 Golf Tournament was rescheduled for Sept. 5 this year, due to severe weather on the originally scheduled date in July.

Dave Anderson, P.S.

L.U. 480 (em,i&mt), JACKSON, MS — After 36 years as training director for Local 480's Apprenticeship Program, Robert C. "Buster" Sullivan Jr. retired June 30, 2014. Bro. Sullivan was initiated in February 1967 and has 47 years of active service. A second-generation IBEW member, he served as financial secretary as well as on the Executive Board and Examining Board. However, his true calling was as mentor to future journeyman wiremen.

The dedication of Buster and his fellow instructors allowed Local 480 to survive in a very anti-union environment here in Mississippi. These men built their lives around their local union and are hard to replace when they leave.

Buster's unique sense of humor and sharp wit earned him the respect and admiration of all whose lives he has touched. His willingness to go "the extra mile" to help out his students, whether in school or their personal lives, made him many friends and taught our young members the meaning of "Brotherhood."

Steve Magee, R.S.

L.U. 530 (i,o&rtb), SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — On Sunday, July 20, our Local 530 Annual Summer Picnic was held at Bluewater Fun Park. Members, their spouses and children spent the day having fun in pools, waterslides and bumper boats. Attendees enjoyed hamburgers, ice cream and other treats. It was another great event bringing our members and families together.

Our annual Local 530 Golf Scramble was Aug. 8 at Huron Oaks Golf Club. The golfers experienced perfect weather followed by a steak dinner and prizes for everyone. It was a repeat win for the same foursome as last year, with a score of -13. Congratulations, guys!

We thank the following locals for providing work for our members: Local 424 (Edmonton) and Local 1687 (Sudbury). Additionally, we thank our brothers and sisters from surrounding locals for helping us man in-town calls while some of our members continue out-of-town duties.

Local 530 is saddened by the recent and sudden passing of Bro. Jim Smyth.

Al Byers, P.S.

L.U. 558 (catv,em,i,mt,o,rtb,rts,spa&u), SHEFFIELD, AL — We are excited to report that two new contractors now signatory with Local 558 have completed two projects with no interruption, proving that the IBEW is "The Right Choice."

Silman Construction took on a major project in Decatur, AL, at a new Jack Daniels facility and gained a significant portion of our competition's work as well. Also, Elk River Electric was successful in its first outage at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Plant this summer in Huntsville, AL. Work will be steady throughout the remainder of 2014 with another major project at Toyota and the fall outage at the TVA Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant.

We are honored to recognize our 2014 JATC apprentice graduating class, which produced 24 new journeyman wiremen and four new journeyman linemen. Jason Azbell received the Wireman of the Year Award, and Chuck Joiner was selected as Lineman of the Year. Congratulations to all the graduates. We hold that the training they receive is the lifeblood of our industry and the best defense against our competition.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

We send our best to the Brotherhood, united as one.

Tony Quillen, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 606 (em,es,i,rtb,spa&u), ORLANDO, FL — Retirees and active members gathered at the union-built and union-staffed Buena Vista Palace in Orlando to celebrate the local's 75th anniversary as a chartered IBEW local.

Over 350 people attended the event, which featured dinner, speeches, dancing and brotherhood. Attendees included former business manager Doug Dagley, and former assistant business managers Terry Thompson and Butch Cox. Speakers included Fifth District Int. Vice Pres. Joe S. Davis, retired Disney Maintenance assistant business manager Roy Poteet, and Florida AFL-CIO Pres. Mike Williams. JATC Dir. Jim Sullivan, 44-year member Bob Bartlett, and 49-year member Doug Miller gave an excellent history of the local and noted how Local 606 has become stronger over its 75 years. Everyone enjoyed the celebration, and the party lasted well into the night.

[Editor's Note: The National Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (NJATC) is rebranding this year and transitioning into the Electrical Training Alliance. See "NJATC Transitions into the Electrical Training Alliance," The Electrical Worker (Sept. 2014), and at www.ibew.org.]

With great sadness we announce the deaths of several members: Butch Rizer, Walter Pomicter, Wayne Stanley, Mickey Stephen and Donnie Wrenn. These brothers and others like them helped make Local 606 Orlando an outstanding local. They will be sorely missed. Our condolences go out to their families.

Fernando Rendon, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 640 (em,govt,i,mo,mt,rts,spa&u), PHOENIX, AZ — We recently completed our local union election of officers. Congratulations to all those elected for stepping up to serve the local. Recently elected officers include: Bus. Mgr. Dean Wine, Pres. Delbert Hawk, Treas. Michael Bargone and Rec. Sec. Richard Stewart. Executive Board members are: Roy Hamilton, Frank Cissne, Jeff Sears, Dennis Allen and Dustin Fite. Examining Board members are: Bob Laparco, Fred Cook, Peter Iacona, Shawn Wickersheim and Jason Dempsey. We had a somewhat better turnout of voting this time around. Remember that if you don't vote, your voice is not being heard.

I know we all live busy lives but it is imperative that we get involved with our local union in one way or another. A strong local requires the active participation of the membership. All it will take is a little from each member to make a real difference in our locals and our communities. We can't rely solely on our business offices to be able to represent us; it is up to each of us to make a stand for what we believe in and make our union voices heard.

Thank you to retired member Earl Pierce and his Election Committee on running a flawless election. Brothers and sisters, remember to attend your local union meetings.

Jeff Sears, Mbr. Dev./P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — Our work picture is somewhat slow at the time of this writing — however, with our organizing and business development we are working to hold our own.

Union members rallied to protest at a political fundraiser held at the Double Tree Hotel in Bay City on July 16. Trade unionists made their voices heard in opposition to anti-worker political candidates. The fundraiser was for Republican state Sen. Mike Green, who is no friend of working people. Tickets for the fundraiser started at $2,500 and the keynote speaker was Republican Gov. Rick Snyder, who gave us so-called "right to work" along with about 200 other anti-worker bills.

There is a great need for volunteers as we approach midterm elections this fall. We need to gain five state House seats, which would give us control in the Michigan House.

We need everyone to get involved and volunteer some of their time on the upcoming elections. This is crucial for our livelihood.

We are sad to report the passing of three retired members: Bros. Robert B. Macaulay, Richard "Dick" Martin and Charles Bleicher III. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families.

Please get involved, brothers and sisters. Make your voices heard on what you believe in!

Tammy Gottleber, P.S.

L.U. 702 (as,c,catv,cs,em,es,et,govt,i,it,lctt,mo,mt,o,p,pet,ptc,rtb,rts, se,spa,st,t&u), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — In the ongoing dispute with Consolidated Communications (ICTC), the company had challenged 174 decisions of the National Labor Relations Board in which the local had previously won. The union was upheld on each and every one of them, but we are sure that Consolidated will continue to appeal.

The local hosted another successful Outside Business Managers' Conference in June for the Fourth, Sixth and Eleventh Districts. The conference continues to grow each year.

At the 38th Annual IBEW Local 601 Softball Tournament (Illinois IBEW State Tournament), Local 702 captured first place for the second year in a row. That win followed the team's second-place finish in the 2014 Midwest Softball Tournament, hosted by Local 8 in Ohio.

Our members continue to support our Solidarity Drawing, which has a top cash prize of $25,000, with the proceeds of the drawing helping our members and their families in need.

Our outside construction and line clearance work continues to be strong, and as of this writing, our referral books are as follows: Inside Construction - 85, Outside Construction - 6, Line Clearance - 3.

To stay up on the latest Local 702 news and information, please visit us at www.ibewlocal702.org.

Mark Baker, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 728 (em,i,rts&spa), FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — On July 7, Local 728 swore in the newly elected local union officers and Executive Board members for a three-year term ending in 2017.

Re-elected to office were: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. David Svetlick, Pres. Justin McIntosh and Treas. George Weaver. Also elected were Vice Pres. Sean Marron and Rec. Sec. Zac Cassidy. Elected to the Executive Board were: George "Adam" Campbell (re-elected), Jordan Golden, Shaun Haggerty, Brian Halsey and Steven Sperduto.

Delegates to the International Convention: Zac Cassidy, William "Jimmy" Kellerher, John Simmons and Bus. Mgr. Svetlick. Sean Marron is an alternate.

Thank you to all for the work that you do on behalf of Local 728.

Zac Cassidy, R.S.

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Congratulations and best wishes to our 2014 elected officers. They are as follows:

Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Frank Grijalva, Pres. Scott Northrup, Vice Pres. Greg Carter, Rec. Sec. Susan Trumbull and Treas. Juanita Mata. Executive Board members are: Danell Carter (administration), Adam Hogan (representing Power Production members), Andrew Koch (Electric Dept.) and Andrew Gryzynger (Transportation). Also elected were: Rick Ryan, SGS Unit chairman; William Wilkening, SGS Unit vice chairman; J.D. Pereza, TRICO Unit chairman; and Bill Vohs, UNS Gas Unit chairman.

Statewide monsoon season is upon us again as of this writing, and many members have been working late and on weekends to restore power to our customers. Two Tucson Electric Power (TEP) transmission crews traveled up to Lake Havasu to assist other line crews from sister company UES Electric after a July microburst downed more than 40 poles in some rough terrain.

Our local received a favorable arbitration ruling regarding our "meal adder" payment and language for call-out overtime at TEP. Employees will receive back pay covering approximately 18 months.

Best wishes to recent retirees: Nancy DiMaria (15 years of service), Tony Callaway (34 years' service), John Pedrazza (40 years), Daniel Pettis (21 years) and William Swartzer (21 years). Thank you to all for your dedicated union service.

R. Cavaletto, P.S.

L.U. 1466 (u), COLUMBUS, OH — On Thursday, July 31, Local 1466 took part in a protest march in Pittsburgh to raise awareness about harmful effects of forthcoming rules on carbon emissions the EPA has proposed for coal-fired power plants. The EPA is holding hearings across the country on this issue, and our union brothers and sisters have made our voices heard and our opinions known, in both the hearings and on the streets. Thousands of men and women from all across the trade union movement took part in the July 31 historic action. We must use our voices to let the public know the devastating effects these rules will have on good-paying, middle class jobs, as well as the potential harm it could do the reliability of the grid.

In other news, Local 1466 will join our brothers and sisters from across the IBEW to take part in the United Day of Action on Oct. 18. This event is being organized by our RENEW Committee, and will be a great opportunity to give back to the neighborhoods where we live and work. Our local has a strong tradition of community service and this certainly will be no exception. Anybody who wishes to take part and help out should contact the union hall. We look forward to seeing everyone!

Jimi Jette, P.S.

L.U. 2324 (t), SPRINGFIELD, MA — Since 1995, more than 8,500 union members employed by Verizon have received an opportunity to obtain a college degree through the Next Step Program.

The Next Step Program came about as a result of a 1994 negotiated agreement between Verizon (then NYNEX Corp.) and craft unions CWA and IBEW. The program's mission was to provide an innovative, skills-based educational program to enable employees to stay apace with advancing technology, understand changing marketplace realities, and enhance customer service skills through the acquisition of an associate degree in Applied Science with a focus on telecommunications technology. Under terms of the agreement, eligible employees could attend college classes one day per week on company time.

Congratulations to our current and final Next Step graduating class — Cayo Mason, Scott Tongue, James Sheehan, Brian King, Benjamin Andrews, Thomas Hodge and Matthew Teague — along with all members who over the years earned a degree through the Next Step Program.

Christine Casino, Exec. Brd.