L.U. 11 (i,rts&spa), LOS ANGELES, CA — Local 11 held elections in June for our units, officers of the local union, the executive board, the examining board, and convention delegates. Congratulations to re-elected Bus. Mgr. Marvin Kropke and all the elected officers and delegates. Thanks to the members who voted, the volunteers who served as election tellers, and election judge Robert Corona.

Our Local Wide Picnic was June 20, once again at the Rose Bowl. Approximately 3,200 members and guests attended, despite scorching heat! Thanks to the Picnic Committee, the volunteers and all who made donations to help make the event a great success.

Effective July 28 this year, foremen dispatched out of the hiring hall must have completed the 40-hour Advanced Foremanship course through the Electrical Training Institute. After a long history of the wage percentage for foremen and general foremen remaining the same, the Inside Wireman and Intelligent Transportation Systems foreman percentage has increased. Our hard-working supervision deserves this raise! The Sound & Communication Unit also received historical wage increases in their agreement.

Take a look at www.nzp-eti.com to learn about the groundbreaking of our Net Zero Plus retrofit at the ETI.

Enjoy your Labor Day and join us for our annual concert, NightShift LA 2015, in conjunction with Working Californians.

Diana Limon, P.S.

L.U. 15 (u), DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Congratulations to newly appointed IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson! Pres. Stephenson took office following the retirement of Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill in June. Pres. Stephenson is an Illinois native and previously was international vice president for the IBEW Sixth District. He has done a great job for our district. Local 15 has worked with him for years in Springfield, the state capital. We look forward to future opportunities to work with Pres. Stephenson and wish him the best of luck in his new position.

Congratulations also to newly appointed Sixth District Int. Vice Pres. David J. Ruhmkorff. Local 15 looks forward to working with him.

In April, Local 15 members Ryan Lawrence and Kyle Lawrence, who are siblings, had their house destroyed by a tornado. The brothers are linemen for Commonwealth Edison. Donations were collected at our monthly local unit meetings to assist them. Local 15 Pres./Bus. Mgr. Dean Apple also requested help from the International's Unity Fund, to which our local contributes, and the fund provided some assistance for Ryan and Kyle during their trying time.

Midwest Energy Assoc. presented an award to 11 Local 15 members this year, for performing service above and beyond the call of duty, by saving a life or preventing a serious injury. Local 15 recipients of the Meritorious Award are: William Clark, Kevin Fitzgerald, Nicholas Barnes, Scott Condon, Andrew Wierdak, Salvador Rangel, Terrence Schultz, Brian Combs, Scott Vierck, Todd Earhardt and Bradly Kaisner. Great job, brothers!

Doug Vedas, P.S.

L.U. 25 (catv,i&rts), LONG ISLAND, NY — In a historic victory, American Pharoah recently won the Triple Crown of thoroughbred horse racing at the Belmont Stakes in Elmont, NY. The June race marked the first Triple Crown winner in 37 years.

IBEW Local 25 electricians spent weeks preparing for the last leg of the Triple Crown and were on standby for the historic race. Foreman John Felsberg, Shop Steward Tom Skladel and the entire crew did a great job representing the IBEW and Local 25.

We congratulate the apprentice graduating class of 2015. The Joseph C. Gramer Sr. Award went to Chris a DiStefano. The 2015 Outstanding Apprentice award recipients were Joseph K. Soviero and Ryan G. Teague.

I would like to pay tribute to a friend and IBEW brother, Bob Stawkowski, who lost his life on June 12 in a tragic motorcycle accident. He was a great friend to all and a tremendous electrician. He will be greatly missed. RIP, brother.

Tom Lawless, E-Brd., P.S.

L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA — IBEW Local 37 members employed with the Emera Utility Services' Telecommunications group recently achieved a remarkable safety milestone of 1,500 days without a lost time incident. That is four years, one month and eight days. This accomplishment is extremely significant to this group as they work in all weather conditions — seven days a week, 365 days a year.

The Telecommunications group provides installation and repair services, communication construction services, and project management and support services to various customers. The group specializes in fibre optical as well as traditional copper infrastructure.

The 65 IBEW members working in this operations group are based in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, but have worked in all four Atlantic Provinces over the four years, racking up over 9 million kilometres of driving and working on nearly 500,000 jobsites. During those four years the group had to navigate through 12 metres of snow and slug through more than 2 metres of rain.

Congratulations to the entire group. Great job!

Ross Galbraith, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 41 (em,es,govt,i,se&spa), BUFFALO, NY — Local 41 was honored to be one of the host locals in four cities where the 2015 IBEW Third District Youth Caucus/RENEW Tour took place May 30-31.

Forty members from nine IBEW locals attended the 3DYC/RENEW (Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers) weekend events. Attendees were from Locals 36, 41, 43, 86, 237, 241, 1249, 2154 and 2199. Members participated in a community volunteer project, attended a minor league baseball game and attended sessions on leadership and labor history. All participants represented their locals admirably.

When performing the community service project at Vive La Casa, a center for international refugees, the IBEW volunteers cleaned the kitchen, organized the pantry, removed trash, installed new receptacles, traced electrical circuits to label panels correctly and extended several circuits.

After a hard day of volunteering, great brotherhood and camaraderie were on display during the Buffalo Bison's game where refreshments were served, new friendships were made and new ideas were considered for taking back home. The following day, all returned for morning seminars. At a closing segment, Local 41 Bus. Mgr. Mike Gaiser congratulated attendees for completing the weekend and taking an active role in becoming the future of the IBEW.

Seeing the weekend participation and enthusiasm firsthand renewed my faith that the IBEW and our brotherhood will continue to grow and help build our country's future in the years ahead. Thank you to all who attended … "Two Days, Four Cities, Growing the Movement, One Person at a Time."

Gregory R. Inglut, A.B.M.

L.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY — On Friday, June 19, Local 43 members and their families enjoyed an evening of Syracuse Chiefs baseball. Early arrivals were entertained by a pre-game concert by the band "Mini Kiss," advertised as the world's hottest, littlest tribute band! The nightly 50/50 raffle was co-sponsored by Local 43 and raised over $2,000 for Charity for Children. The night wrapped up with a spectacular fireworks display.

Even though the hometown Chiefs lost to the Buffalo Bisons by a score of 8-6, it was a pleasant evening to spend with Local 43 brothers and sisters.

Gene Townsend, P.S.

L.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR, CA — Local 47 extends greetings to all IBEW members.

Solidarity was in full force when IBEW members employed by Southern California Edison (SCE) voted overwhelmingly to ratify the General Benefits Agreement. Local 47 members also overwhelmingly ratified the: General Wages & Working Conditions Agreement; the AirOps Agreement; and the Surveyors Agreement. A special thank-you to the bargaining and ballot committees for their time and efforts in what was a long and difficult process.

Local 47 rolls out the welcome mat and congratulates our newest members working with Pacific Coast Tree. They ratified their first contract by a vote of 71-5.

The local held its 13th Annual Memorial Golf Tournament. Proceeds from the event are used to fund the local's Injured Workers Fund. The tournament is a good time for a good cause.

We are saddened by the passing of members Leno Santy, Brian Thomas, Christopher Kelly and Chris Parazoo. May they rest in peace.

Local 47 wishes a full and speedy recovery to Senior Asst. Bus. Mgr. Stan Stosel and Bus. Rep. Ernie Lopez.

Work safe and buy union!

Stan Stosel, P.S.

L.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,ptc,rtb,t,u&uow), SPRINGFIELD, IL — Our annual golf scholarship outing was another success and we were able to award eight $500 scholarships. Congratulations to scholarship recipients: Michael Beardsley, Phillip Cook, Kelsi Gortner, Andrea Hettinger, Adriaunna King, Jessica Leimbach, Coby Mumm and Katie Wildman. This year's winning golf team consisted of Kyle Smith, Caleb Smith, Kyle Buhrmaster and Justin Scherbring. Also a hearty congratulations to our special DL team: Tom Hocking, Dennis Hocking, Jeff Rivara and Dan Schmitt.

Two of our long-term executive board members are retiring, Tom Kane and Roger Beran. These brothers have supported our local union through the years and served on many contract negotiation committees. We thank them for their dedication to the IBEW and wish them the very best retirement.

Our annual picnic/fish fry is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, at the local union. Please plan to attend and bring your family. At the time of this writing, our work picture is slow.

Karlene Knisley, B.R.

L.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY — The first half of 2015 has been very busy for Local 97. In January, members employed by St. Lawrence Gas ratified a five-year contract agreement, which includes yearly wage increases, small changes to health care for active employees, and newly established rules for health and welfare benefits for new hires. Overall it is a solid contract that will provide our members with job stability and growth for the future.

In February, the Local 97 Women's Committee was established. Named as the "Women of IBEW Local 97 Power and Light Society," their objective is to promote women's involvement, training and support within the union and community. They will also take on the role of organizing future new-member-orientation meetings throughout the year. Planned events for the year will also be scheduled within the divisions. We wish the best for the committee and appreciate all their enthusiasm.

Members of Local 97 also participated in the Third District Youth Caucus community project in Albany, which included volunteer work and a mini-conference in May. We are proud to see them get involved and participate in the community.

James Zabinski, V.P.

L.U. 99 (govt&i), PROVIDENCE, RI — Contract negotiations, charity fundraisers, membership picnics and patriotic parades — we had a busy spring in some respects. At this writing, as we eased into summer we were hoping for the job calls to begin.

Our first Local 99 Bike Run was successfully launched on May 17, thanks to the efforts of event organizer Joe Walsh. The local plans to make the Bike Run an annual event. There was a big turnout, with over 250 folks participating, 147 of whom were motorcycle riders, raising money for cancer research. Once the final tally on the monies raised for the charity Pink Heals is in, we will report on the numbers and the check presentation.

Our 4th Annual Family Picnic was held at Goddard Park on June 7. Picnic committee chairman Mike D'amico presided over the day, having ordered sunshine and tents weeks in advance. Close to 100 members and their families participated in games and raffles.

The Local 99 Marching Color Guard, led by Bus. Mgr. Mike Daley in Ben Franklin garb, walked and wowed the normally subdued Gaspee Days Parade crowd on June 13, as the Local 99 minibus crawled along behind the marchers.

Lastly, contract negotiations were unresolved at the local level and consequently were moved to Washington, D.C., for Council on Industrial Relations (CIR) mediation.

William Smith, P.S.

L.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA — On May 2, the Annual Boston Shines project took place. Over 30 members of Local 103 and its young worker group, RENEW103, volunteered by cleaning up the neighborhood that surrounds our union hall, hitting the sidewalks armed with brooms, shovels and trash bags. Our members spent the morning making the Dorchester neighborhood shine. Thanks again to the members who gave up their Saturday morning to help out.

Local 103 held its 38th Annual Pin Night on June 23. Pin Night is an occasion to recognize our working and retired members for their years of IBEW service. The ceremony commences as members have their names announced and are then presented with an IBEW pin identifying their number of years served as an IBEW member. Congratulations to Robert W. Baker on receiving his 73-year pin. The night, as always, was special for Local 103, its members and families. Congratulations and thank you to all of the pin recipients for their dedication to the IBEW.

Kevin C. Molineaux, P.S.

L.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER, CO — We welcome Bro. John Martinez, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the Local 111 Executive Board; he was appointed March 6 and in April was sworn in. John strongly believes in the need to have a union within company workplaces in our industrialized world.

John became a Local 111 member in 1987, as an operator at Fort St. Vrain Power Plant for Public Service Company of Colorado (PSCo). However, in May 1991 he took a nonunion position as an instrument technician at Cherokee Power Plant. But, John couldn't stay away and subsequently returned as a Local 111 member. He took the lead (along with Bros. Tim Lester and Patrick Gulick) in organizing the instrument and control (I&C) technicians at PSCo in Colorado by starting discussions and dialogue about unionizing at his plant, followed by visiting the other PSCo plants and speaking to technicians, acquiring the necessary signed authorizations for certification. These efforts resulted in unionization of the I&C technicians. John served on the negotiating committee during the long, drawn-out process of getting this group "armour globed" into the current collective bargaining agreement.

Our new webpage is up and running. Construction members can now pay union dues online and re-sign the books. Please register at www.ibew111.com and see what is happening around your local.

The EWMC 3rd Annual Car Show & Poker Run on June 27 was a great success. Thank you to everyone who turned out and participated in the Electrical Workers Minority Caucus event.

Mike Kostelecky, P.S.

L.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR — On May 16 this year, Harvey Haven was inducted into the International Lineman Hall of Fame. Known throughout the industry as a teaching legend, Harvey was celebrated for his contribution to the safety and education of apprentices and journeymen. Bonneville Power Administration journeyman lineman Troy Anderson nominated him.

"Harvey has dedicated himself to safety and has selflessly shared his knowledge and passion with anyone who wants to accept it," said Bus. Mgr. Travis Eri. "He's been a great mentor, friend and leader without ever sacrificing his commitment to excellence." Eri also added, "Thank you to Mrs. Debbie Haven for sharing her husband with us all."

Members employed at Portland General Electric's Gresham yard organized a "pass the hat" campaign to purchase a United States flag that measures 24 feet by 36 feet. Local 125 members and other PGE employees donated approximately $1,300 for the flag, which will be stored at the Local 125 business office. Executive Board member Randy Bryson said, "This flag can be used to honor the [memory] of any IBEW Local 125 member during a memorial or celebration of life ceremony. By having our own flag, we aren't dependent on anyone else to recognize our own."

Marcy Grail, A.B.M.

L.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV — As of this writing, our work picture continues to hold steady, keeping the majority of our members employed.

There recently was a major announcement that a large fraction plant might be built in our jurisdiction, in Belmont County, Ohio. PTT Global Chemical has reportedly narrowed its search for a site to Belmont County, which would be a huge boost to our possible work outlook and local economy. The project is projected to cost an estimated $5 billion, and the final decision for the location should come sometime in 2016.

As this article went to press, we were busy planning our local picnic and golf scramble which were scheduled for Aug. 15, as well as a motorcycle club ride.

Congratulations to retired member Stan Jasinski on receiving his pin for 60 years of IBEW service.

Michael Parker, P.S.

L.U. 145 (em,i,o,rts,se,spa&u), ROCK ISLAND, IL — Officers and members of Local 145 congratulate IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson on his recent appointment. We are very proud of Int. Pres. Stephenson, who in earlier years served as Local 145 business manager, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with all fellow brothers and sisters in supporting him in his leadership of this great union! We also extend our best wishes to Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill for a wonderful retirement.

Labor Day … a time to reflect, to be thankful and to celebrate the great men and women, current and past, for all their efforts in the labor movement. A labor union is an association of workers that promotes and protects the welfare and rights of its members. We are grateful to be where we are today because of the sacrifices of so many people who care about the labor movement.

Our work outlook for the fall season is anticipated to pick up. Two land-based casinos and related hotel projects are underway. Work at the ALCOA Plant [Davenport Works] is expected to help keep our members busy during the fall/winter months.

We acknowledge the loss of recently deceased members and retirees. Their contributions to our industry were instrumental in the success of Local 145.

Dan Larson, P.S.

L.U. 159 (i), MADISON, WI — As of this mid-summer writing, the Wisconsin Legislature was still working on the state budget. At this writing, a prevailing-wage bill was also still up in the air, as Republicans sought to repeal prevailing-wage statutes.

In other news, this is an exciting time at the Local 159 office as construction moves along on our Training Center and we work to prepare for fall classes. We are also planning the Training Center Grand Opening celebration scheduled for Oct. 10.

With this new facility, we want to focus our training more intensively on emerging technologies like BAS (Building Automation Systems) and other low-voltage systems. Our future depends upon our ability to innovate.

Please note our new address, 4903 Commerce Ct., McFarland, WI 53558. Our other contact information remains the same.

Lisa Goodman, B.A.

L.U. 191 (c,i,mo,rtb&st), EVERETT, WA — Greetings from IBEW Local 191. We are experiencing a very good work picture and we thank our members and travelers for manning the work.

At this writing, many Local 191 summertime social events for members and their families were planned, including golf and picnics on both the Westside and Eastside. The members and their families always enjoy such occasions to get together for fun and fellowship. We appreciate the participants and volunteers who help make these events a great success.

Our inside agreement was recently extended for three years, with package increases of $5.09 for the Westside and $5.39 for the Eastside. The membership overwhelmingly approved the package. Many thanks go to Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Joseph Lorenzo and his negotiating team.

The local is upgrading its phone system to better link our four office locations. It will also allow us to do broadcast texts to members for important events and issues.

Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Lorenzo has instituted an intern program to train young leaders on how our local operates. Currently, Bros. Tim Kornelis and Gary Kemp are learning organizing, dispatch and representation. Welcome, brothers!

Lastly, we had a busy legislative session at our state Capitol, trying to advance positive bills and block anti-labor proposals. Thank you to all the members who assisted in these efforts.

Bill Mirand, P.S.

L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL — During the summer our work picture picked up with a few small projects at Nestle Beich, Kongskilde, and Cargill. However, that uptick in our work picture doesn't appear long-term as of now. The work outlook for our sister locals looks positive, so we encourage our out-of-work members to sign a few books. Thank you to those locals that are putting our members to work.

In September, we will march in the McLean County Labor Day parade once again, with a picnic at the hall afterward. The hall sent communications about when and where to line up; if there are questions, please call. Please attend and invite family and friends. It will be a good day to celebrate with brothers and sisters.

On Sept. 12, the Illinois State Redbirds Football team open up at home, and the McLean County Building Trades are holding a Union Day for the occasion. We do a lot of work at Illinois State University and have members employed by ISU, so it's fitting that we support the school's programs and also join fellow union members for fun and comradery. Discounted tickets are available for $12, which includes a tailgate with food, beverages and activities before the game. Tickets are available to union members and family; please check our website www.ibew197.org for details.

Work safe and get involved in the local and stay involved!

Mike Raikes, Pres.

L.U. 245 (govt,lctt,o,rtb&u), TOLEDO, OH — On the utility side, congratulations to Davis Besse and Beaver Valley nuclear power plants — both plants received an Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) excellent rating. Nuclear power plants are graded every two years by the INPO. This is the third consecutive excellent rating for Davis Besse and the fourth for Beaver Valley. Both are IBEW plants in the First Energy Fleet.

On the broadcast side, congratulations and thanks to Jack Schell, a longtime steward at public broadcast station WGTE-Channel 30. Jack became a Local 245 member in 1973 and served on the Executive Board for 23 years. Jack retired June 30 this year.

On to politics … it seems that everybody wants to run for president, especially in the Republican Party. At press time, there are 16 Republican candidates for president. Ohio Gov. John Kasich, who announced his candidacy July 21, became the 16th announced Republican candidate for president as of this writing. These candidates offer us an array of anti-worker, anti-union and anti-immigrant platforms. It seems they are anti-everything, but that shouldn't surprise us — after the last eight years, they proved that in the U.S. Congress. I mean, how many times can you vote on the Affordable Care Act with the same results before you get the picture?

On a more pleasant note, football season is upon us and this will be an exciting year for us Buckeye fans. Work safe, come home the way you left … and "Go, Bucks."

Ray Zychowicz, P.S.

L.U. 257 (em,i,rtb,rts,spa&t), JEFFERSON CITY, MO — Local 257 is proud to recognize our apprenticeship graduating class of 2015 (see accompanying photo). Congratulations to our new journeymen! Best wishes to the graduates for a rewarding IBEW career ahead.

Joel Vanderslice, P.S.

L.U. 291 (i,mo,o,rtb&rts), BOISE, ID — Greetings from the Gem State! Local 291 has been very busy these last couple of months with our inside negotiations, the Idaho State AFL-CIO Convention, and a community service project called Paint the Town.

Negotiations for our inside collective bargaining agreement went very well. We were able to agree to a raise and a lengthy contract. A very big thank-you goes out to our negotiating committee and especially to those who sat at the table with the contractors.

The state AFL-CIO Convention is always a great opportunity to network with other unions and friends of labor. Congratulations to all the newly elected officials including one of our own brothers, Aaron White, who was re-elected as president of the Idaho State AFL-CIO.

Local 291 participated with the Boise Central Trades & Labor Council in a community service project called Paint the Town. This program sends out volunteers to people who own houses that need a little touching up but are unable to do the work themselves due to disabilities. We are proud to give back to the community and help out those in need.

Keep calm, stay strong and work union.

Nick Baumann, P.S.

L.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u), COLLINSVILLE, IL — The Inside Wireman's agreement was recently bargained. A tentative settlement was reached June 30. The four-year agreement was ratified by members on July 14.

Gov. Bruce Rauner has been going to various city halls and county boards touting his so-called "turnaround agenda." Our Local 309 officers and members have been joining forces with other trade unions to show the governor our displeasure with his relentless attacks on the working class.

Stay informed by giving the local union your e-mail address or mobile phone number to receive a mass text.

Bus. Mgr. Tim Evans and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Chris Weir attended the recent groundbreaking for the $300 million St. Elizabeth's Hospital project in O'Fallon, IL. This project is welcome news for all the building trades.

As press time approached, we were looking forward to our annual "Party at the Park" at Fairmount Racetrack scheduled for Aug. 29. This is always a great event for the members.

Congratulations to our new IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson. Int. Pres. Stephenson was appointed effective June 1 by the IBEW International Executive Council. Also, congratulations to newly appointed Sixth District Int. Vice Pres. David J. Ruhmkorff. We extend best wishes to Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill on his retirement. Good luck to all!

Scott Tweedy, A.B.M.

L.U. 317 (i,o,rts,t&u), HUNTINGTON, WV — Welcome to our new brothers and sisters from Asplundh Tree Experts!

For the past several months our organizers, our business manager and the entire office staff have been busy working on the Asplundh Tree Experts organizing campaign. While the hard work is far from being finished, the campaign has been a huge success to date. So far 22 Asplundh lots have elected to have Local 317 represent them. That translates to more than 600 hard-working men and women who stood up and exercised their right to organize and join a union. Their fight is far from over, as they now work to secure a fair contract. If you see these new brothers and sisters out working or just in the community, take a minute to welcome them to the IBEW family.

I'd also like to remind everyone to "like" our Local 317 Facebook pages, www.facebook.com/ibew317 and www.facebook.com/317renew, to keep up to date on what's going on with the local and our community. It is important to stay informed on the issues that affect our livelihoods, and social media is one way we are able to do that.

James Stacy, P.S.

L.U. 343 (i,spa&st), LE SUEUR, MN — Rainy weather did not discourage the group of approximately 15 members and guests who gathered early on a June Saturday morning to join in the annual Sparky Fishing Opener event on the Mississippi River.

A half-dozen boats set off to fill the categories of largest northern, walleye, bass, pan fish and rough fish. The skies cleared mid-afternoon for the prize drawings and lunch. Member Kevin Farmer won the grand prize of a gas grill styled after a car engine complete with header pipes.

A day on the river would not be complete without a fish story. Bro. Mike Steffes unintentionally filled the category of largest "dead fish caught with a net." He spotted something floating. Swinging his boat around, he scooped it out of the water. To his surprise, Mike landed a 57-inch sturgeon weighing around 100 pounds. Although it bent the net, it didn't put up much of a fight.

Thanks go out to members Chris Hallet and John Powrie for organizing the event.

Reap the rewards union membership has to offer and enjoy some brotherhood and solidarity. Support American workers! Buy Made in USA!

Tom Small, P.S.

L.U. 351 (c,cs,i,it,lctt,mt,o,se,spa&t), FOLSOM, NJ — At a recent general meeting, Local 351 officers and members celebrated newly elected U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross on the occasion of his retirement from our local. Norcross is a former Local 351 assistant business manager and has a record of labor-wide service.

The local enshrined a recent article that was published in The Electrical Worker about Norcross running for Congress. [See article "A Candidate of Our Own: IBEW's Norcross Runs for U.S. House," The Electrical Worker, October 2014; and "A Call to Serve: IBEW's Members in Public Office," The Electrical Worker, June 2015.] We are very proud of Rep. Norcross and everything he has done for the IBEW and our local. We extend our congratulations and best wishes to him and his family in the future.

Dan Cosner, A.B.M./P.S.

L.U. 375 (catv,ees&i), ALLENTOWN, PA — IBEW Local 375 celebrated Memorial Day by holding its annual family picnic on Saturday, May 23, at Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom. Approximately 624 members and their families attended the fun day featuring food, beverages and rides.

We welcome our newest journeypersons, who graduated this June. Congratulations to: Rodney Fritchman, Eric Keck, Jean Mascornick, Alexander Reich, Anthony Smith, Neal Treskot and Steven Wehr.

Our IBEW Local 375 Night at the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs was Monday, July 20. This was our second promotional night with our Triple A affiliate baseball team, the Iron Pigs. That date also happened to be Bring Your Dog to the Game Night, so there was plenty of action both on the ball field and in the stands.

The July 20 event was a complete success in reaching out to the community and promoting the IBEW. The local's 3DYC (IBEW Third District Youth Caucus) group participated by supplying every dog at the ballgame with a new food scoop and a Frisbee. Dog owners received a publication about "Home Electrical Safety" as well as information on our apprenticeship training.

Dave Reichard, Pres./A.B.M.

L.U. 413 (i&mo), SANTA BARBARA, CA — Congratulations to our 2015 graduating inside apprenticeship class. Santa Barbara County Supervisor Salud Carbajal was guest speaker at our apprentice graduation ceremony.

We are proud of all the graduates: Nicholas Munoz, Ryan McCormick, Allen Johnson, Wayne Ito, Robert Day, Sandro Candelario and Darrin Alvarez.

Ryan McCormick was honored as the 2015 Outstanding Graduate. Training Dir. Brian Gregory announced that the Graduate Dedication Award winner, Wayne Ito, will represent our local at the Western States competition. Named as Outstanding Apprentices for the other four classes were: for fourth-year class — Eric Rice; third-year class — Kenneth Moody; second-year class — Samuel Wellford; and first-year class — Chris Scott.

Our local LMCC sponsored the Santa Maria Food Bank Bowl-a-Thon Fundraiser. This Labor-Management Cooperation Committee community service project was again a great success. Over 115 pounds of canned goods were collected and we raised over $2,200.

Bowling score results were as follows: highest scoring individual — Shane Sanchez; highest overall scoring team — the "Lindsey Lebowski's" of Lindsey Watters, Shane Sanchez, Damian Sanchez and Steven Keys; highest scoring apprentice team — the "Gutter Gang 413" of Ryan McCormick, Wayne Ito, Shaun Grimm and Clarence Caldwell; lowest scoring team — the "Concentric Knock-outs" team of Sam Wellford, Kyle Sousa, Eric Perez and Juan Salcedo.

Chuck Huddleston, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 429 (em,i,lctt,o,ptc,rtb&u), NASHVILLE, TN — Greetings, brothers and sisters.

Our work picture looks strong. At this summer writing, we are going into Book 2 at times. Our signatory contractors are winning work that was once manned by nonunion contractors. Customers are seeing the value of skilled organized workers thanks to our membership development. Jobsites hiring more electricians here include tire plants, a tile plant, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Hospital Corporation of America and General Motors. This work is keeping our members busy.

We congratulate our 2015 apprenticeship graduates topping out this year. The graduates are: Robert Avaritt, Mitchell Brenner, Justin Bush, Zachary Cox, Joshua Fly, Will Edwards, Peter Grunwald, Brandon Hajdu, Nelson Johnson, Michael Mashburn, Colyn Massaro, Jeremy Motz, Bradford Stirewalt and Eric Varner. The Outstanding Apprentice Award was presented to Peter Grunwald. The Leadership Award recipient was Nelson Johnson.

Next year our local will be have its 100th anniversary on Aug. 31. We are planning several events throughout next year in celebration.

Cameron Bennett, P.S.

L.U. 479 (i&u), BEAUMONT, TX — Local 479 is proud of the 17 men who have persevered and recently graduated from our five-year apprenticeship program. Congratulations to all. Some of the graduates, as of this writing, have yet to pass the craft certification test and/or the state of Texas journeyman license test. In time they will complete those requirements and become licensed inside journeyman wiremen. These men could be among our future leaders.

Every day we all must do what is best for our members and the IBEW. You must begin to act, think and communicate like a leader long before that promotion. Leadership is an action not a position. Take some time to reflect and decide if what you do today matters. Odds are it probably does to someone. Here are a couple of morals conveyed in the stories of Aesop's Fables: union gives strength, and it is easy to propose impossible remedies.

Jimmy Burk, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 481 (ees,em,i,mt,rts,s&spa), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Congratulations to newly appointed IBEW Sixth District Int. Vice Pres. David J. Ruhmkorff, a fellow Local 481 member. We wish him the best of luck in his new leadership role with the IBEW.

In May, Local 481 was proud to welcome the latest class of journeyman wiremen, as 14 apprentices passed their final exams. Congratulations, graduates! This is an accomplishment you all should be very proud of. I encourage you to stay active in the local. Good luck in your careers as journeymen.

Also in May, many Local 481 volunteers, joined by Bro. Ruhmkorff, came together to rewire a house for a Hearts and Hands project. It was an opportunity for our members to once again give back to the community. It is always great to see our members take advantage of opportunities to represent IBEW Local 481 in such a positive way. Thanks to all the volunteers for doing a great job completing the project.

Blake Andrews, R.S.

L.U. 483 (catv,lctt,o&u), TACOMA, WA — Annually for the past four years, IBEW Local 483 has participated in Pierce County Central Labor Council's Annual Peanut Butter Drive to assist Pierce County's Emergency Food Network.

At our first drive four years ago, we raised 483 jars, and each year since then our members have more than doubled the amount raised in the previous year.

This year, Bus. Mgr. Alice Phillips challenged the Local 483 members to raise 3,483 jars of peanut butter. She said if they were successful, she would wear a Batman suit for a day. Not only did the members exceed the challenge and raise 4,018 jars of peanut butter, but they also formed a human chain to deliver the six tons of peanut butter over a block away to the Pierce County Central Labor Council office. The peanut butter was then transferred to the Emergency Food Network for distribution to area Pierce County food banks to provide lunch to children throughout the summer.

Bus. Mgr. Phillips extends a sincere thank-you to those involved in the food drive to help provide Pierce County with a nutritious source of food for area children.

Alice Phillips, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 551 (c,i&st), SANTA ROSA, CA — Congratulations to our class of 2015 apprenticeship graduates! The new inside wiremen are: Artur Jagoda, Ben Souza, Cornelius Bracy-Cruz, Chris Clinton, Simon Geddes, Arthur Cader, Budd Glock and William Leeming. The new Sound & Communications installers are: Peter Pinney Adrian Hardesty, Angelo Scalese and Wanic Jean-Pierre! We wish you all the very best in your new careers in our great trade profession. Stay busy and work safe!

The books are cooking here with everyone working. We had a three-week spell in June with open calls; thankfully, they were filled within 48 hours. We appreciate the travelers coming in to fill these needs. Travelers, please be advised that you will need California State Certification to take a call from this hall.

Our project-labor-agreement (PLA) Marin General Hospital project broke ground in June. The general contractor for the Casino Hotel project, also a PLA job, was awarded in June and as of this writing we anticipate that work to start in September.

We remove our hardhats for three members who recently passed away: Bro. Ralph Twichell, who was a 41-year member; Bro. Allan Muggle, 47-year member; and Bro. Bob Barnes, 53-year member. They will be remembered.

Stay cool, brothers and sisters, and please work safe!

Denise D. Soza, B.R./P.S.

L.U. 557 (i,mt,rts&spa), SAGINAW, MI — Things have been very busy in our state. With work being at a moderate rate in our local, many of our members have been able to remain close to home and work in surrounding locals. We secured a three-year contract in April.

Workers in our state have been under attack with attempts at repeal of the prevailing wage law. Many people throughout our communities and the state are working tirelessly to increase awareness about the issue, and as of this writing we have seen some success. Although the state Senate voted in May for repeal of the prevailing wage law, as of press time no further action has been taken in the state House. The governor has shown no interest in repeal of prevailing wage law — however, as of press time opponents of working people are attempting to gain signatures for a ballot measure to repeal prevailing wage. We continue our fight to defend the interests of working people in Michigan.

Local 557 congratulates IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson on his recent appointment. Also, we thank Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill for his dedicated service and we wish him a happy retirement.

We encourage members to remain active in their communities. There are many volunteer opportunities, and helping the community is a great way for union members to make a positive impact.

Howard Revard, P.S.

L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA — IBEW Local 569 member Ramon Castro was named as the 56th Assembly District's "2015 Veteran of the Year" by California Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia! "Ramon has valiantly fought for our country while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, and has continued to dedicate his life by helping local veterans in Imperial County," Assembly Member Garcia said. "I applaud his honorable and faithful service." Through his many collaborative efforts, Ramon has improved the quality of life for veterans in Imperial County.

We wish to also congratulate our recent apprenticeship graduates. Our new inside wireman graduates are: Chase Beck, Dominic Cardenas, Luke Eisele, Kevin Frederick, Francisco Jimenez, Timothy Leisch, Jose Magana, Ronnie Maynard, Timothy Ramm, Daniel Riley, Ben Ruckle, Christopher Sanchez, Joseph Schmidt, John Sherrell, Devin Wilcox and Jesse Willis. Our new sound technician graduates are: Angel Bernal, Nicholas English, Jeremy Graham, David Kem and Hector Murrieta. Graduates, your work and success in our apprenticeship program and union make us proud!

Finally, we extend our thanks to the hundreds of IBEW Local 569 members, families and volunteers who attended our annual picnic for a full day of fun, food and sun! Together, we're strengthening our union and advocating for working families and good jobs.

Gretchen K. Newsom, P.S./Organizer

L.U. 589 (rr), JAMAICA, NY — The 147th running of the Belmont Stakes took place Saturday, June 6. Members of Local 589 and other crafts on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) worked very hard and against the clock to have the newly renovated Belmont Park train station up and running for the race. The platforms were remodeled, and our electricians installed new, efficient lighting and power throughout the station. Additionally, our third-rail members ensured that the trains would have the power to transport the 20,000-plus fans to and from this small station.

On the big day, thousands of fans came to see if American Pharoah would seize the Triple Crown (which he did, by the way.) The electric train fleet of the LIRR transported 9,000 passengers in the first half-hour; by the time the race was over, more than 24,000 passengers had passed through our new station platforms. Local 589 thanks all of our members involved in this very important project. They "stepped up" and got the job done.

We thank these and all Local 589 electricians for their hard work throughout the year, and for proving time and time again that this is a "brotherhood."

Hope everyone enjoyed a great summer. Please always remember to work safe!

Augie Maccarone, R.S.

L.U. 595 (c,cs,govt,i,mt,o,se&st), DUBLIN, CA — Will there be a need for tape measures in the future? Of course, we will always have one in our tool box. Today's industry has evolved utilizing 3D modeling and GPS or laser-guided navigation for underground and above-ground structures. Local 595's own Susan Bowron has developed a class and instructs beginning and advanced journeyman training using AutoCAD's MEP 3D Modeling and NAVIS Manage, starting with basic 2D designs and progressing to advanced 3D modeling. After nearly one year of training, Susan's students receive a certificate of completion from Autodesk. Bowron graduated from the Inside Wireman apprentice program in 2012 and immediately joined the 3D modeling team with one of the Bay Area's largest contractors, using her skills to design hospitals and high-tech facilities.

Once layout points are created within the 3D model, they can be easily exported to a field layout instrument such as Trimble and Total Station, also covered with hands-on training, for easy stake-out in the field without the need of strings and tape measure.

Construction has become increasingly complex, with tighter schedules and budgets. Use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software on-site and in the office has helped to streamline workflows, maintain more accurate information and avoid conflicts with other crafts before construction even starts.

Susan's class is training our members in this emerging technology. It's a demanding class, but with her expertise, preparation and patience it remains one of our most sought-after courses in our journeyman training program.

Bob Tieman, B.R.

L.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL — At this summer writing, work in our local is great. Our Book I is clear and there are currently 265 on Book II. We have been putting Book II out for over a month as of this writing, with the prospect of more jobs for our traveling brothers and sisters in the near future as we anticipate about two years of new commercial construction in the area.

We have several big jobs that are ongoing. These include: the Kraft Foods warehouse project with Bodine Electric, which has nearly 25 electricians on the job; the Tank Farm project in our northern area; the State Farm (assembly hall) project; the Carle Hospital project; and several projects on the University of Illinois campus.

We took in 17 new first-year apprentices and had 11 apprentices graduate in May. Congratulations to all.

Our annual Steak Stag was a huge success thanks to Bob Withers and his apprentices, along with Bobby Woodard, manning the grills. It was attended by a great number of members, both active and retired. At press time we were preparing to host our 39th Annual Softball Tournament on Aug. 8-9 with 12 teams on the roster; this is always a great occasion to support our team and have a meal and a beverage!

Daniel Hatter, P.S.

L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA — Congratulations to the graduating apprenticeship class of 2015! The local welcomes to its ranks these new inside wiremen and sound & communications installers.

The inside wireman graduates are: Jose Arevalo, Daniel Blum, Paul Burlic, Francisco Castano, Toby Chalios, Michael Davis, Walter Diaz, Edward Flair, Alfonso Flores, Joseph Grant, Lawrence Huang, Matthew Marnell, Brandy McDaniel, Ethan McGraw, Victor Meza, James Nolan, Ivan Refrea, Alex Roth, Michael Schreifer, Matt Sereda, Joshua Sullins, Louis Tatola, Eric Turner and David Wiesenhaven. The new sound & communications installers are: Antonio Artavia, Luis Bueno, Armando Orozco, David Richards, William Rivard, Ryan Vance and Travis Warren.

Louis Tatola and Eric Turner both received special recognition as the Outstanding Electrical Apprentice of the Year. Armando Orozco was honored as the Outstanding Sound and Communications Installer of the Year. Francisco Castano received the Joe Hogan Leadership Award. Toby Chalios was honored with the Ed Towle Achievement Award. Bros. Dan Pasini and Adam Pisani were recognized as Journeyman Trainer of the Year. We are proud of you, graduates, and celebrate your accomplishment!

Dan Pasini, Pres.

L.U. 625 (c,ees,em,i,it,mar&mt), HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA — A big congratulations goes out to the members who recently completed their apprenticeship programs. They are: Bros. Donald L. LeBlanc, Donald Chisholm, Brad Wood, Jon Enslow, Blaine Hamilton, Joseph Allen, Derick Hudson and Phil MacCormack. We are on track to graduate 50 percent more journeyman wiremen this year than in 2014 and 100 percent more than in 2013. When we start delivering our own Block Training in 2016, we will accelerate apprenticeship completions even more.

A couple of members retired in the last three months: Bros. Peter Citulski and Robert Langille. I missed mentioning Bernie MacNeil, who retired in June 2014. My apologies, Bernie. Remember to put your name in for the 11th Annual Retirees Banquet this fall. It is always a great meal with a dance and prizes.

This fall is election time in Canada. Hopefully union members in Canada will show Harper's Conservatives that we don't stand for attacks on our way of life. If the middle class is to survive in this country, we need to elect progressive representation. Vote for real change and give the New Democratic Party (NDP) a chance to make Canada the country it should be: democratic, respectful and responsible.

Tom Griffiths, A.B.M.

L.U. 627 (u), FORT PIERCE, FL — Brothers and sisters, in our daily travels let's please remember that children and school buses are on the road after the summer lull. Drive as if the children are yours.

Congratulations to newly appointed IBEW Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson. Also, best wishes to recently retired Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill. There is not enough space to recall here all that Pres. Emeritus Hill has done for our members.

The Ironman Tournament has replenished our Community Affairs Fund. Thank you to all who participated as a player or sponsor.

Local 627 Bus. Mgr./Pres. Mark MacNichol announced that the 2016 Motorcycle Run will take place in February next year. This is an open invitation to all IBEW members. If considering a visit to the Sunshine State, leave us a message at the union hall; the phone number is 772-878-8036.

Ray Vos, P.S.

L.U. 639 (i&rts), SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — Congratulations to the apprenticeship graduating class of 2015. Graduation ceremonies were held May 30 at F. McLintocks in Shell Beach. Keynote speaker was labor-friendly Salud Carbajal, Santa Barbara County 1st District supervisor.

Salud Carbajal is the Democratic candidate in the race to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Lois Capps in California's 24th congressional district. Both Rep. Capps and Local 639 have endorsed Salud Carbajal for Congress. Our most powerful weapon against anti-labor forces is our vote.

Kurt McClave, P.S.

L.U. 659 (c,catv,em,i,lctt,o,st,t&u), MEDFORD, OR — It is with deep regret that I report the passing of retired former Local 659 business manager Jim McLean on March 3. He was 81. Jim's two sons are also IBEW members. His son Bert is a Local 659 member, and his son Mark is a California Local 1245 member.

Jim's legendary career began in 1952 in Vancouver, British Columbia, where he became a journeyman lineman. In 1962 Jim migrated south, where he took a job with COPCO in Medford, OR.

Jim accepted an assistant business manager position with Local 659 in 1967. He became the fourth business manager of Local 659 in 1977 and subsequently was re-elected for numerous terms, serving until he retired in 1998.

While on staff, Jim helped found LINECO and served as one of its first trustees.

Jim's IBEW career included appointments to the Council on Industrial Relations (CIR) and the NEBF board of trustees. He was appointed to the Oregon State Electrical Safety Council and the Oregon Governor's Labor Advisory Committee.

Jim Mclean will be remembered by family, friends and the Local 659 members he served for 31 years. You will be missed, Bro. Jim.

Thank you to former business manager Ron Jones for providing information for this article.

Leonard Ellis, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 673 (catv,i,rts,spa,t&u), PAINESVILLE, OH — One of our longtime contractors, Goulder Electric, has faced some of the same challenges that our local is facing. Just as the local's membership is aging, so are many of the employees of Goulder. Over the past few years Goulder has begun adding some fine young journeymen to its crew. It is only a matter of time before these talented brothers will be running major projects for this company as other members retire.

One of the assets that both Goulder and our local are fortunate to have are foremen like Rory Breedlove who are willing to spend time with young journeymen such as Nate Balaban (pictured). We are not born with an innate sense of how to run a job properly. Only through education and encouragement from qualified electricians is that accomplished.

Over the years as I see this process (changing of the guard), I can't help but acknowledge what a great institution we have in the JATC. Our method of developing electricians is something that should make us all proud. Good luck to all our new journeyman wiremen.

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

Jim Braunlich, P.S.

L.U. 683 (em&i), COLUMBUS, OH — The summer season got off to a busy start this year, with several membership activities and events.

Members participated in Rebuilding Together Central Ohio, a program to help our neighbors in need maintain their homes.

Our Union Sportsman's Alliance group held their annual walleye fishing trip to Lake Erie.

Additionally, we also held our long-running annual Chuck Bland Memorial Fish Fry in early June.

At this writing, Local 683 was getting ready to host this year's softball tournament scheduled for August 7-9. We always look forward to the games and the spirit of brotherhood with the other locals attending.

Congratulations to our local's class of 2015 apprenticeship graduates. We welcome these new journeyman wiremen.

Tracy Starcher, V.P./P.S.

L.U. 697 (c,es,i,mt&se), GARY AND HAMMOND, IN — As summer comes to a close, we have several activities coming up for our members to participate in.

Upcoming activities include: On Sept. 7 - Lowell Labor Day Parade; Sept. 12 - Local 697 Picnic; Sept. 19 - Heart Walk; and the September Apprenticeship Completion Banquet (date to be announced). Also scheduled are: Oct. 2 - Awards Night; Oct. 23 - Blood Drive; Nov. 3 - Election Day (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.); and Nov. 26 - Thanksgiving (also Bears/Packers game).

I wish to thank all of the IBEW locals that have welcomed our Local 697 members onto their jobsites. We appreciate the hospitality.

Upcoming elections for mayors, city councils, etc., will be Tuesday, Nov. 3. As former Speaker of the U.S. House Tip O'Neil once famously said, "All politics is local." Yes, these mayoral candidates and city council candidates are not the ones who voted on the most recent anti-labor initiatives, but they can have as much of an effect depending on how well they understand the plight of hard-working Hoosiers. We must get to the polls! If you are working extended hours or you are out of town, request and submit an absentee ballot. It's the least you can do! Check the Local 697 website at www.ibew697.org for voting and election details. Registration and polling info is available at www.IndianaWorkersVote.com.

Dan Waldrop, B.M.

L.U. 725 (i,rts&spa), TERRE HAUTE, IN — Congratulations to the Terre Haute Electrical JATC Class of 2015! We have 11 new inside journeyman wiremen and one new residential wireman. Justin Hedden was recognized as the Outstanding Apprentice. Great job to all of you, graduates! We look forward to your continued participation in the local's activities and keeping our union strong.

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

We hope that anyone who has not registered to vote takes the time to do so now for next year's elections. If you haven't voted lately, you may want to reconsider doing so at this juncture. As Indiana has lost every pro-worker and pro-union law on the books in the last few elections as a result of actions by our state Republican legislators, Illinois now faces a similar battle.

Please think about how important your vote is, how important it is to educate your family and friends, and especially how important it is to talk with your co-workers about your paycheck, your livelihood, and your work opportunities. With our worker rights won over a 100-year period, we are now having all of those benefits taken away in a flash, in large part because we voted against our own economic interests or because we think our vote doesn't matter. Vote your paycheck!

Tom Szymanski, P.S.

L.U. 773 (as,em,i,mo&o), WINDSOR, ONTARIO, CANADA — The FCA Fiat Chrysler Windsor Assembly Plant (formerly known as Chrysler Minivan Plant) located in Windsor, Ontario, recently completed a major retooling, which included the Metal/Body, Paint and Trim Shops.

The Body Shop retooling included a Pulse conveyor, which uses linear synchronous motor technology to move a parts carrier through the robot line weld stations. The FCA plant also features a "Skillet" platform assembly system with the capability of height adjustment for personnel working on the line.

Both of these new technologies involved increased electrical content, which resulted in a greater number of electrical man-hours for our membership during the shutdown. The plant will once again be able to build different vehicle models on the same assembly line. At press time, another scheduled summer shutdown of the FCA plant was underway to finish off needed changes required for a new vehicle launch.

Local 773 thanks all the members, union stewards and 300 IBEW travellers it took to complete this project. As we have done in the past, under tight timelines and schedules, the project was finished on time — and we delivered another "IBEW quality" project.

David Spencer, P.S.

L.U. 777 (u), READING, PA — IBEW Local 777 was tasked with running a power line extension to part of Sunoco Logistics Partners L.P.'s project Mariner East.

Mariner East is a natural gas pipeline that will run from Delmont Station in Westmoreland County in central Pennsylvania to Marcus Hook on the Delaware River just outside of Philadelphia.

The $2.5 billion project will deliver natural gas liquids from the shale regions to Sunoco Logistics' Marcus Hook Industrial Complex where it will be processed, stored and distributed locally and internationally.

Local 777 within two weeks helped organize and stock a remote staging area from which 10 linemen and crew leaders worked. The job involved the installation of 42 poles, 6.5 miles of wire, re-closers, regulators, a capacitor bank and overhead switches. Also, extensive support work was required from the substation, meter and relay departments.

Forty-seven days into the project, the three-phase primary feed for the Beckersville Station went into service. The crews finished the assignment two weeks ahead of schedule and well under budget.

Mark Power, P.S.

L.U. 827 (catv&t), EAST WINDSOR, NJ — On Sunday, May 24, this year Local 827 joined together with the De Pinho family to celebrate the life of deceased member John A. De Pinho at a Red Bulls soccer game and pregame tailgate in Harrison, NJ. Bro. De Pinho passed away suddenly in January after surgery at the young age of 32.

Local 827 will always remember John as a dedicated union steward, Raritan Unit chairman, ACCLS (Advisory Council on Career and Life Strategies) advocate, and dear friend to all who knew him. John was always in attendance at all union functions and will be deeply missed by all.

Suzanne M. Wallin, R.S.

L.U. 1015 (em&i), WESLACO, TX — Things are alive and well in Local 1015!

Elections got underway Thursday, June 11, in the south Texas region as dedicated union members flooded the hall to show their support for their local union.

With the final vote count in, the following officers won re-election for a three-year term: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Sergio Salinas, Pres. Angel Castillo, Rec. Sec. Pablo Puente and Treas. Wenceslao Castaneda. Paul Sivy also won re-election as an Executive Board member and is now joined by newly elected E-Board members Oscar Villagomez and Ray Duran. Local 1015 also welcomes Pete Lopez as our new vice president.

Local 1015 is proud of the commitment these brothers have made to serve the union membership. Their dedication showcases the IBEW commitment to excellence. These next three years promise to be a productive time with great opportunities. Local 1015 thanks these men for being a pillar of encouragement in their community.

Maria A. Estman, P.S.

L.U. 1105 (i), NEWARK, OH — On May 27 at our annual banquet, we celebrated the graduation of the apprenticeship class of 2015. Our local's newest graduates from the Newark JATC all received their completion certificates. The 2015 graduates are: Christopher Barker, Dale Brown, Travis Eddleblute, David "Alex" Hunt and Eric Stafford.

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

We are proud of all of these outstanding graduates. This year's Outstanding Apprentice Award recipient was Christopher Barker. Congratulations to all! We wish you all a long and wonderful career with the IBEW!

On May 13, our local held our first blood drive in association with the American Red Cross. Turnout was good and we hope to hold many future blood drives. At this writing a second drive was scheduled for July 14 and we hoped to improve on the turnout.

It is with great sadness that we extend condolences to the families of our recently deceased retirees: David Kuster and Joseph Paul.

William Hamilton, B.M.

L.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,t&u), VACAVILLE, CA — We mourn the recent loss of Rec. Sec. Chris Habecker. Chris was more than an officer, activist and leader; she was a sister and a friend to all. Chris played a significant role in keeping the union financially sound, and in expanding the union's power through the creation of safety stewards and organizing stewards.

Congratulations to members from Modesto Irrigation District (MID) — Matt McCurdy, Sean Coulson, Brian Szuggar and James Boere — for taking first place in this year's American Public Power Association Rodeo. Journeymen and apprentices from Sacramento Municipal Utility District, which hosted the rodeo, also took several awards, as did apprentices from the City of Roseville and MID. Also participating were members from Turlock Irrigation District, City of Lodi and City of Healdsburg.

PG&E gas workers competed in a local rodeo for the chance to participate in the upcoming national gas rodeo in Colorado Springs. Apprentices from Pacific Gas & Electric and NV Energy participated in a line workers rodeo in Reno that raised over $12,000 for charity.

We salute Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill for his leadership and wish him well in retirement. We are excited at the prospect of working with new Int. Pres. Lonnie R. Stephenson.

The work picture remains steady in outside construction, with various projects across California and Nevada. We are working to secure a project labor agreement for the CalTrain project, the 54-mile electrification of CalTrain through San Francisco, San Mateo and San Jose.

Local 1245 recently piloted a day-long orientation program for new members, immersing them in local union history and opportunities for participation.

Eric Wolfe, P.S.

L.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), SYRACUSE, NY — On behalf of Local 1249, I wish to extend a huge thank-you to Bus. Mgr. Bill Boire. For 43 years he has served Local 1249, and for the last eight years we were lucky enough to call him business manager. He has been a true leader and great friend. Through the good days and the bad, the struggles and the victories, Bill was there to ensure the success of the membership and the local. Besides leading us in our great brotherhood, he taught us many useful, not-to-be forgotten lessons for living, a few of which should probably not be repeated here.

Bill, we wish you all of the happiness in retirement that one can experience and we will miss your smiling (and frowning) face every day. Congratulations and best of luck!

Jennifer Schneider, P.S.

L.U. 1393 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), INDIANAPOLIS, IN — The RENEW (Reach out and Engage Next-gen Electrical Workers) committee of IBEW Local 1393 has been busy!

In recent months, RENEW volunteers participated in several community service activities. These included volunteering at a food pantry in Indianapolis, the Cupboard of Lawrence Township, as well as running a charity golf scramble in Sullivan, IN, to benefit the Riley Children's Foundation. The foundation supports research and family resources at the Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis. Children visit RCH more than 300,000 times each year. As one of the nation's leading hospitals, RCH reportedly treats over 80 percent of the children in Indiana diagnosed with cancer, and is home to a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center.

The RENEW committee will be involved in several Labor Day festivities where we will focus on showing union pride as well as recruitment for our apprenticeship training opportunities. We'll be involved in celebrations throughout the state, in Petersburg, Terre Haute and Indianapolis.

Robert C. Fox, B.M./F.S.

Anchorage, AK, Local 1547 Bus. Mgr. Mike Hodsdon (left) presents IBEW 50-year service awards to retired journeyman wiremen Alan Dickson (center) and Donald Cox (right). The awards presentation took place at a recent Unit 101 general meeting in Anchorage.

L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA — Former Bus. Mgr. Ken Ward and Pres. Raymond Hawkinberry retired at the end of their term in July. A big thank-you to both of these leaders for their service and dedication to the IBEW.

Local 1579 held its scheduled election of officers in June. Officers elected for a three-year term are: Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec. Will Salters, Pres. Rick Dubose, Vice Pres. Chuck Anderson, Rec. Sec. Betty Griffin, Treas. Jason Allen and Executive Board members Lee Buoy, Chris Byrd, Tim Crabb, Tommie Crabb, Ken Green, Wayne Irby and Wes Young. Delegates to the IBEW Convention are: Rick Dubose and Brian McGowan.

Congratulations to all fellow Local 1579 officers, and thank you to all who participated in the democratic process.

Until next time, God bless.

Will Salters, B.M./F.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, NASSAU CHAPTER — "How we can live to be 100 years old and remain active" was the topic of a seminar at the new state-of-the-art Education Center in Cutchogue, Long Island. We also learned how, in a seated position, we can excise at any age. We learned how to watch what we eat to be able to live longer and healthier. The weather for the three days was spectacular as was the Wednesday night barbecue provided by our members. Who ever thought an electrician could be a culinary artist?

Nassau chapter is a very active club. So far this year we have had a Saint Patrick's Day luncheon and a 9/11 Memorial & Museum trip. We enjoyed a Broadway show and dinner afterward, as well as a spring luncheon hosted by the Wives & Widows group. At the June luncheon, we presented the Sam Miceli Good Guy Award to Bob Cooper. The annual fishing trip was also a great outing, and we actually caught fish.

At this writing, we were looking forward to our Annual Picnic in August, where everyone always enjoys the food, fun and games. At press time, we were also getting ready for a September Labor Day tribute to the IBEW and all New York City workers.

Hope everyone has enjoyed a great and safe summer. Looking forward to a seeing everyone in September.

John Milligan, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, SUFFOLK CHAPTER — At our June meeting, a report was given on our scheduled upcoming events. These included: the Labor Day parade, a bus trip to the Rockefeller Estate, and our stay at the Long Island Educational Center. We also will have a barbecue in September as well as our holiday party in December.

We had our annual summer luncheon, which everyone always enjoys. Our Chapter Chmn. Jack Foley wished attendees a safe and happy summer.

When we arrived at the Long Island Educational Center, we were greeted by Thomas Gallager, Local 3 pension director. Mr. Gallager reported on what is happening in our industry. He stressed how important it is for us to stay involved politically and encouraged us to attend the Labor Day parade.

Stephanie Saladino, Educational Center director, welcomed us to the facility and said the staff was there to help make our stay safe and enjoyable. We attended two informative lectures. The first was given by Judy Blades, wellness director for our local, who spoke about portion control and diet. Erica Vinas, nutritionist and dietician, spoke about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and provided nutrition tips for good health.

It was great to see so many of our members. The barbecue committee did a great job and everyone had a fun time. We also enjoyed a make-your-own ice cream sundae party.

Harvey Goldman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WEST FLORIDA CHAPTER — This past spring, seven members of our Retirees Club and their wives took an 11-day cruise to the Panama Canal aboard the "Coral Princess" of Princess Cruise Line.

This was our seventh retirees cruise. We also took a ship tour of the new section of the canal, which is still under construction and is due to be opened in February 2016.

Ben Costa, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 3, NEW YORK, NY, WESTCHESTER / PUTNAM CHAPTER — On May 6, a group of 43 members and guests went to the National September 11 Memorial Museum, at the World Trade Center in New York City.

Upon our arrival, one of two reflecting pools, approximately one acre in size and built on the footprint of the World Trade Center, was visible. Designed to resemble a waterfall, water traversed down its four sides. Carved in bronze panels surrounding the pool's edge were the names of those we lost that day.

As we entered the museum, a tour guide supplied us with headphones, which enabled us to hear all the intricate details we might otherwise have missed. Informational bronze plaques were also on display.

Throughout the museum were reminders of the Twin Towers, including the original "Last Column Standing." An IBEW logo memorializing the 17 IBEW Local 3 members who were lost was fastened to a steel column, along with other tributes.

We observed two wall displays. The first display, with the words "God Bless America" over the Twin Towers, also includes a representation of the faces of the deceased, a plane taking off, the Pentagon and much more. The second display, with a blue background, features the following quote: "No Day Shall Erase You from the Memory of Time." – Virgil

John Rich, P.S.
Bob Cuneo, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 35, HARTFORD, CT — On this Labor Day holiday, let us remember all the men and women before us who became IBEW members in order to seek a higher standard of living for themselves, their families and fellow workers in the trade among other worthy goals. I look out at the Hartford skyline and reminisce about all the jobsites we have worked on. Local 35 members should be so proud! As retirees, we are grateful for all the improvements made in our medical, pension, and annuity plans. These accomplishments have made our retirement more comfortable.

We join our brothers and sisters in Local 90 in grieving the loss of their business manager, Frank J. Halloran. Frank was a dedicated, hard-working man with a vibrant personality. He will be sorely missed.

We would like to wish Int. Pres. Emeritus Edwin D. Hill a healthy and prosperous retirement. We thank him for his dedicated IBEW service.

Kenneth R. White, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 42, HARTFORD, CT — The Retirees Club invites anyone who is a retired member of Local 42 to come and join them. If you would like to get out of the house or take some time out of your busy life for a couple of hours, then come on down and join them.

Club meetings are held bimonthly on Tuesdays at the Local 42 union hall. Annual dues are $12. The meetings start at 9 a.m. sharp, with a discussion of upcoming business and events. Then attendees enjoy talking about old times over donuts and coffee. The Retirees Club would love to have you. For more information, call us at 860-646-7297.

The Retirees Club thanks all the ladies in Local 42's office for their dedication and hard work and for making everyone feel welcome. They work hard putting all the events together to make them enjoyable.

Save the dates: Sept. 12 - Cod Fishing Trip; and Dec. 10 - Union Meeting / Christmas Party.

Jacquelyn Moffitt, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 58, DETROIT, MI — April 25 was the date of our Association of Retirees, Wives and Widows annual Pin Party. This year Treas. Ray Owen received his 70-year pin. Congratulations to all who were honored.

Our Annual Picnic was held again this year at Rotary Park, in Livonia, on Aug. 26. This gathering is a favorite for our group, with members and their guests enjoying the usual picnic fare, fellowship and lots of euchre games. The day began with coffee and doughnuts at 10 a.m.

Our Annual Fall Bus Trip this year is going to New York City. With three buses full, this promises to be a good time for all aboard. We will tour all the popular spots within the city, including time at the World Trade Center memorial site. Much thanks to Rick Koerber for spearheading these trips for our group.

Evidence of board member Barb McNamara's green thumb can be seen when visiting our union hall. She gathered dozens of hosta plants for new flower beds, some created as a result of renovations to our parking lot. This outdoor beautification will be enjoyed by members and our neighbors for years to come.

Pat Nuznov, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 60, SAN ANTONIO, TX — On May 14, Local 60 retirees held a very special meeting to award service pins to several longtime members. Honorees in attendance included seven retired members: Bros. John Weber, Leroy Joost, Robin Johns, Cleo Gibb, Stanley Zettner, Ernest Elsworth and Charles Watson. (See accompanying photo.) These seven members are among the many, past and present, who helped build Local 60 to what it is today.

After John Weber was awarded his 75-year membership pin, the club presented him with an appreciation plaque. Leroy Joost and Robin Johns received their 60-year pins. Cleo Gibbs received his 50-year pin. Stanley Zettner, Ernest Elsworth and Charles Watson received their 55-year pins.

Congratulations also to service award recipients who were not present for the May 14 event. They include: 50-year members Lee Roy Bitzke Jr., Arthur King, Jack Moore, Everett Robel, Robert Rupp and Kenneth Weston; 55-year members Frank Green, John Smith, Robert Stuart and George Weber; and 65-year member Clyde Day. Congratulations to all.

In April, the club held a successful golf tournament as a fundraiser, ensuring funds for the club's activities and meals for another year. The Retired Members Club meets the second Thursday of the month at 12 noon, at the Plumbers and Pipefitters Training Bldg., 3630 Belgium Lane. Please join in.

Sandy Rogers, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 90, NEW HAVEN, CT — On June 2, the Local 90 Retirees Club met at our regular monthly meeting for election of officers. By a unanimous vote, the three incumbent officers were re-elected. They are: Pres. Robert Mantovani, Vice Pres. Gerry Asplund and Sec./Treas. Hugh McGuire. As this was our last meeting for the current fiscal year, pizza was served and enjoyed by all.

Our next scheduled meeting is Sept. 1. We invite all Local 90 retirees to join us at any of our meetings. We meet at 2 North Plains Industrial Rd., Wallingford, CT, on the first Tuesday of each month (except July and August), at 1:30 p.m.

In closing, it is with great sadness that I report to you that our past Retirees Cub president Richard "Rip" Kirby passed away on April 7. Our sincere condolences go out to his entire family. He will be missed by all.

Richard Launder, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 99, PROVIDENCE, RI — The Local 99 Retirees Club held its Annual May Breakfast this year on May 16 at the union hall in Cranston, RI. Ninety-seven members attended the event.

At the springtime breakfast gathering, Stephen Farina gave the invocation and blessing. Food was catered by Ralph's Catering in Cranston. We thank Bus. Mgr. Michael Daley and Local 99 for their support.

The retirees congratulate Bobby Bearwood on his retirement and his move to North Carolina. We also wish Joe McCarthy a healthy recovery from his recent operation.

The next Retirees Club meeting will be in September. At the time of this writing, Ken Marandola had scheduled three summer fishing trips leaving from the Port of Galilee.

Frank J. Colucci, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 113, COLORADO SPRINGS, CO — Members of Local 113 gathered at the union hall for a dinner and service-pin presentation to honor members for their years of service. [In total, 349 members were eligible for service awards, representing 7,880 years of service.

Thirty of those service-pin recipients had 50 or more years of service!

50-year pins were presented to: Sam Allen, Bill Campbell, Mel Cave, Thomas Farmer, Earl Garner, Walter Moos, Robert Palmer, Gunter Schneider and Archie Scott.

55-year pins were awarded to: Robert Andrews, Robert Cox, John Dake, Roger Fletcher, Donald Fuhs, Fred Mauch, John McNamara, John Middle and William J. Smith.

60-year pins were presented to: Jim Blanc, Phil Hunt, Al Kunau, Randall Newendyke, Edwin Perschbacher, Norman Pledger, Ray Sears, Andy Stone and Rolland Wilcox.

A 65-year pin was awarded to Keith Wiley.

The officers, staff and members congratulate all the pin recipients for their longtime, dedicated service to our union, our industry and our community.

Bill Campbell, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 124, KANSAS CITY, MO — The Local 124 Retirees Club spring event hosted 35 retirees, their wives and friends as they took in a concert at the Quality Hill Playhouse. The performance, "What They Did for Love," included Broadway hit songs of Marvin Hamlisch and Burt Bacharach, movie theme songs and other songs that we all knew way back when and can still appreciate today.

It was a very enjoyable afternoon and everyone came away with their spirits lifted. Thanks to retired member and former financial secretary Denny Liston for the help securing the tickets and making transportation arrangements.

We remember the following deceased members: Emmett P. Altis, Robert E. Brink, Marion W. Felkins, Larry E. Hampton, Stephen J. Hruska, William C. Kendall Sr.

Congratulations to the following recently retired members: William L. Baker, Bobby L. Evans, Thomas M. Ferman, Dennis K. Hatch, David H. Hill, Jack E. Joyce, Paul J. Joyce, Kenneth E. Kenyon, Thomas K. Lockwood, Michael R. McGill, Vincent A. Mannino, Michael D. Rimel, Gary E. Staatz and Charles S. Yaeger.

Ken Starr, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 130, NEW ORLEANS, LA — On May 13, we held our annual Crawfish Boil in the Alexander Room. Over 100 people attended. As usual, the crawfish were great; there was an abundance of "mudbugs" to be eaten.

At our regular meeting on March 26, our president, George Clesi, decided to retire and enjoy our meetings as a spectator. After a long and successful term as president, George certainly has earned his retirement. However, he will still be offering his years of experience to us. On behalf of all the members we say: "Thank you, George, for a job well-done!"

At the April board meeting, Bro. Rodney Dupuis was appointed as club president. All other positions were filled by incumbents. On June 25, we held our quarterly meeting, with 70 in attendance. At this meeting, the president's gavel was transferred.

Rodney T. Dupuis, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 134, CHICAGO, IL — On June 10, our annual luncheon honored our 50-, 55-, 60- and 65-year members with live musical entertainment and photo taking. Congratulations to these longtime IBEW members. The celebrants are as follows:

50-year members — Nick Alex, John M. Armstrong, Robert W. Crock, Ronald C. Gibson, Richard C. Leonatti, William T. Lindahi, James E. McMahon, Daniel G. Meyer, James H. Schultz, Nickolas P. Speziale, Richard Swanson and Vito Terenzio;

55-year members — Robert Burzek, Richard C. Casale, James J. Fliris, Richard A. Grove, Steven C. Lindskoog, Arthur D. Minsky, James F. Popp, Roger C. Spike, Michael B. Tuner and Michael P. Wilkiel;

60-year members — Marvin W. Ball, Peter C. Canuso, Ronald Fibiger, Sam Guzzo, John F. Jeeger, James D. Kassner, Jerome F. Koch, Eugene Lewaniak, Ronald H. Marsden, Daniel J. McNamara, Robert J. Mersch, Kenneth W. Mueller, George E. Randle, Wayne H. Schroeder, James P. Walsh, Claude A. Wolcott and Donald F. Yara; 65-year members — Edward J. Dewbary, Daniel M. Fegan, Joseph D. Keenan and Henry J. Mueller.

It is with deepest regret that I report the death of Louis Andreoni on Feb. 16 this year. Bro. Andreoni was a 50-year IBEW member. May he rest in peace.

Louis Rodriguez, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 212, CINCINNATI, OH — With deepest regret, I report the passing into eternity of four members: Bros. James "Jim" Zeinner, a 56-year IBEW member; Corwin Paris, 25-year member; Clifford North, 36-year member; and Albert Ihle, 46-year member.

Bro. Zeinner was also a signatory contractor for several years. His sons Jim, John and Doug are members of Local 212.

Bro. Ihle, a dear friend of mine, suffered with deteriorating health for a decade. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Al had a keen sense of humor and an infectious laugh. Al and Jean, his wife of 46 years, retired to Vero Beach, FL, in 1996. Our departed brothers are gone, but never forgotten. Farewell, dear brothers; may you rest in God's hands, near to His heart.

At the May Retirees Club meeting, six members were awarded service pins. Ray Kathman received his 60-year pin. Awarded 55-year pins were: Al Niederhelman, Tom Ruehl and Ray Schoster. A 50-year pin went to Fred Holthaus. The late Bro. Fred Kaufman was posthumously awarded a 60-year pin. Congratulations to all for your accomplishments.

Welcome to new members: Mike Kiefer, Terry Elfers and Nick Abernathy.

The annual club picnic was July 1. Bros. Jim McInerney, Earl Stalf and Danny Johnson, all 90+ years old and in good health, were among the 135 members and guests in attendance. Danny was visiting Cincinnati from his home in Florida.

Bob Schaefer, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF LU 257, JEFFERSON CITY, MO — On July 28 we held our luncheon/meeting at Westphalia, MO, and as usual the meal was enjoyed by all.

For our summer trip, Juanita Fischer made arrangements for us to see a play in August at the Lyceum Theater in Arrow Rock, MO. Bill Lang made arrangements for lunch at the 87 Diner before the play. At this writing, we were all looking forward to the trip.

Because of so much rain in the spring and summer months, it seems that many of us weren't able to get gardens out and those who did had little to show for it. And now the fall season approaches and winter will be around the corner again.

With the help of many of our members, along with Jerry Rehagen's offer of the use of his truck, our next event as of press time was to get a retirees' float ready for the Labor Day parade in Jefferson City.

Delores Melloway, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 530, SARNIA, ONTARIO, CANADA — As I reported in our club's March 2015 article, the office of club president and secretary-treasurer changed hands in November 2014, and I wish to touch briefly on the two men who served us so well for the past 13 years.

Bohdan Kohut, our past president, took up the tools of the trade when he was only 18 years old. He served as president of Local 530 for several years. He also has the distinction of having four sons and three grandsons follow him into the trade, all members of IBEW Local 530. At the Christmas Banquet in 2014, Bo received his 55- year service pin.

Edward McCormack, our past secretary-treasurer, also started working at the trade at a very young age and spent his entire career working in the Sarnia area. Ed also received his 55-year service pin in December 2014.

I must mention that Bo's wife, Marie, and Ed's wife, Carol, worked alongside these two men, helping to research and organize the countless events and outings we attended through these years.

Thirteen years of organizing and making our club run well is no small feat. So, once again, thanks to Bo and Ed — from the membership.

Nancy Stinson Philbin, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 611, ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Local 611 retirees volunteered their time at the first Roadrunner Food Bank distribution, held in April, May, June and July in the local's parking lot. Food was distributed to some 150-200 needy families. Retirees assisting with the project included: Brian Dougall, Tracy Hall, James Moran, Joe Romero and Adolfo "Al" Trujillo.

Union members, including retirees, attended a Workers Memorial Day event in April at the Memorial Park. Every year on April 28, Workers Memorial Day is observed to remember and honor workers who were injured or have died on the job.

In May four retired members, their wives, and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Pete Trujillo attended the annual Rank-and-File Heroes Banquet, sponsored by the New Mexico Central Labor Council. The council recognizes and gives certificates to union members who have given special time and talents in the past year for labor unions.

An historical scrapbook of pictures and Local 611 events is now available for viewing at all future regular union meetings. But you need to attend the union meetings, held the third Saturday of each month, in order to see the contents.

We offer our condolences to the families of several retirees who recently passed away: Robert L. Wicox, Fred W. Ringe, James W. Holdman, Charles W. Atkinson, James Hicks and Kenneth T. Miller. Our condolences also go out to the families of Christopher A. Tester and Richard Stafki.

Tracy Hall, Pres.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 995, BATON ROUGE, LA — On the first Monday in June we held our meeting and luncheon for members and spouses.

We had a good turnout with about 30 spouses also attending. The food was great and everyone seemed to enjoy the social.

We are still looking for new members to join us. The meetings are the first Monday of every month. If you are a retired IBEW member come join us.

W. Roland Goetzman, P.S.

RETIREES CLUB OF L.U. 1245, VACAVILLE, CA, RENO-SPARKS CHAPTER — In the Reno-Sparks area of Nevada, triple-digit temperatures in late summer aren't uncommon. Unfortunately, many seniors cannot afford to pay for air conditioning, and the sweltering heat makes summertime uncomfortable and downright dangerous for low-income seniors.

After seeing a local TV station urging individuals to donate electric fans for seniors, IBEW Local 1245 retiree and Reno-Sparks Retirees Club Pres. Ron Borst challenged the other members of his retirees club to get involved in the effort. He called on the IBEW retirees to bring fans to the group's monthly meeting in July. The retirees only had three days' notice but managed to bring in 21 fans, which they donated to Washoe County Senior Services, an organization that provides support and resources to low-income seniors in the Reno-Sparks area.

"We're the lucky ones." Borst said. "We had a good union contract to work under and now we have a good retirement. And if we can help others out who weren't so fortunate … that's what we should do."

Ron Borst, Pres.