L.U. 8 (as,em,i,mar,mt,rts,s&spa), TOLEDO, OH — I hope that you and your family are healthy and well. As 2021 begins, the pandemic is still surging at record rates. Please continue to be ever so vigilant for our family, friends and neighbors so that we can put this pandemic behind us.

Joe Biden is the president of the United States! Joe is 100% pro-union and will continue to have our backs. President Biden will even have one of our own on his team: Congratulations to IBEW International President Lonnie Stephenson for being selected to sit on Biden's Climate Engagement Advisory Council. Brother Stephenson will continue to push for use of nuclear power and natural gas, as well as carbon capture and sequestration technologies that will give fossil-fuel plants a second life.

Congratulations to the following Local 8 members who recently received their retirement watches and service pins: Chris Bonczek, Arnie Buehler, Kevin Crook, Phil Davis, Ron Erfman, Lawrence Kerstetter, Ellen Morris, Howard Show, William Widman and Chuck Wistinghausen. Thank you for your years of service!

Congratulations to the new inside apprentices and construction wiremen who were sworn in at the November 16, 2020, union meeting. New members include Brandon Abernathy, Jonathan Arman, Braxton Bowers, Jordan Chamberlin, Ronald Cheff, Hunter Dunn, Roman Epley, Brodie Gilsdorf, Stephen Harden, Stephen Hubbard, Elijah Kazan, James Lloyd, Dennis Meyers, Ian Nunamaker, Scott Oberski, Arne Ovall, Sterling Payne, Carson Selley, Trent Sloan, Harry Wallace, Erich Wallace and Jordan Weissinger. Construction wiremen sworn in were Eryce D. Finn, John M. Gonzlaes, Joshua J. Hill, Demetris D. Powell, Jacob T. Schneider and Earl Wilson. Congratulations, everyone!

Stay safe and healthy, brothers and sisters.

Mike Brubaker, P.S.

L.U. 16 (i), EVANSVILLE, IN — The 27th-annual Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights was blessed with good weather and a dedicated crew for its extensive setup. Fantasy is the largest fundraising activity for the Tri-State Rehabilitation Center, helping with the costs of therapy sessions for children and adults with disabilities in the Evansville area. While thousands of dollars are spent nationwide to advertise the skill, abilities and attitude of the IBEW, nothing proves more effectively what this union stands for than the brotherhood coming together for its communities. Special thanks are due to Assistant Training Director Roger Clark for his tireless commitment to this very worthy cause.

Local 16's RENEW Committee had a very busy holiday season. In addition to gathering supplies for a rural food bank, they held a clothing drive to support Hangers, a resource for Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation students that provides everyday living essentials that would otherwise be unaffordable. By making clothing, school supplies and hygiene products available, this program improves the life of each student served. RENEW is also creating a bust to honor founding father Harry S. Fisher.

Donald P. Beavin, P.S.

L.U. 24 (es,i&spa), BALTIMORE, MD — As of the submission of this article, the vote count says that we have a new president. We look forward to the positive change that President Biden will bring to the labor movement, especially with respect to organizing. By reversing anti-worker labor board rulings and removing anti-labor appointees, workers will find it easier to form and join unions.

We have a new 3-year agreement with Triangle Sign, which currently employs 60 of our members. We have also started negotiations with ABM Electrical Testing and Clear Channel Outdoor.

We would like to welcome 22 new members from Beech Tree Networks Inc., a telecom company that recently signed with Local 24.

We are still battling the coronavirus and the holidays have changed for all of us, more so for those families that have lost loved ones. A vaccine is on its way and will be available shortly, but until then, and after, please continue to do the right thing for your family, friends and co-workers by maintaining social distance, wearing your mask and washing your hands. We need you to help move this union forward.

Peter P. Demchuk, B.M.

L.U. 26 (i,es,ees,govt,em&mt), WASHINGTON, DC — I hope that everyone enjoyed their holidays as much as possible during this pandemic. Local 26 wishes you and your family the safest and healthiest 2021!

Negotiations have started for the inside and residential agreements. Thank you to those who sent in suggestions.

It's scholarship time! Be sure to visit the local's website, ibewlocal26.org, for information and to download the application for this year's Local 26 scholarship. The award is $2,500 per year, for up to four years of college. The deadline to submit applications is March 31, 2021.

Best wishes to the following new retirees: Brian E. Bromley, Robert B. Cornish, Richard T. Douglas, James E. Means Jr., Michael O. Murtagh, Reggie L. Overfelt, Larry Quiroga, Warren W. Smith, Eric M. Thomas, Robert E. Truslow and Jorge J. Zalles.

The following members have passed away since our last article: William P. Gallagher, David Graham, Ralph V. Mills, Cristian J. Ramirez, Kevin M. Saunders and James E. Smith.

George C. Hogan, B.M.

L.U. 34 (em,i,mt,rts&spa), PEORIA, IL — I'd like to wish all IBEW brothers and sisters a happy new year. Let's hope that 2021 turns out a lot better for all of us. With all of the restrictions due to COVID-19, Local 34 was unable to have any events for the majority of 2020. We were unable to have our annual Big Brothers Big Sisters golf outing, but with the generosity of sponsors and members, Local 34 was still able to donate $3,618.19.

2020 was a good year for Local 34; we stayed busy with calls going to traveling members occasionally. As our year ended, we saw a few projects finishing up: LaGrange Lock and Dam project completed by Sachs Electric and Brown Electric, as well as the local's new home in Bartonville, Ill.

Marc Burnap, Treas.

L.U. 38 (i), CLEVELAND, OH — While some projects have pulled back in 2020 because of COVID-19, it appears that several of those projects are going to go forward in 2021. We expect electrical contracts to be let very soon for both of the Sherwin-Williams' projects. The new office tower in downtown Cleveland may be the first to start, followed by the massive R&D center in Brecksville. Reports indicate that these two projects combined could have electrical contracts of $150 million.

Apartment developers are optimistic that with the development of vaccines, people will want to continue to move downtown. They are taking advantage of low-interest rates and tax credits to start their projects in the near future. One of those projects that has reemerged is the Centennial, located inside the old Huntington Bank Building at East Ninth St. and Euclid Ave. Their latest plans show converting the massive building into 857 apartments and retail space on the first floor. There are also plans for a new 23-story apartment building to be built at University Circle. The $101 million building will have 298 units.

Dennis Meaney, B.M.

L.U. 40 (em,i&mps), HOLLYWOOD, CA — As we all work to battle COVID-19, we at Local 40 want to wish everyone a healthy, prosperous and happy new year. We know it's our members' preventative actions that are helping to defeat this virus.

We are looking ahead to the new year with optimism because we see a promising work picture at Local 40. The motion picture industry is beginning to return to normalcy and trying to catch up with the demand for new content. It's this demand that will create a need for more production space and electrical infrastructure that the new digital platform has created in this day and age.

So, as we celebrate a new year, let's all try to stay positive about what the future holds for us and know that when we all unite together, we can overcome all obstacles — including this virus. The IBEW has a history of perseverance when facing difficult challenges, and this time will be no different. Because of our members' strength and determination to succeed, we will defeat COVID-19. Thank you all, and stay safe in 2021.

Marc Flynn, B.M./F.S.

L.U. 46 (as,c,cs,em,es,et,I,mar,mo,mt,rtb,rts&st), SEATTLE, WA — We held two new hybrid method stewards' classes led by International Representative Dave Meyers and Ninth District Educational Representative Tracy Prezeau. Thanks to both of you for the modern approach and providing remote training using the new hybrid method on the Zoom platform. Local 46 staff attended as well and provided additional content. The two classes were held on September 11, 2020, and October 30, 2020. A total of 31 students attended these classes, and four of the students have already been appointed as jobsite stewards.

Our EWMC, Women's Committee and Union for Black Lives sponsored a Halloween drive-in-movie night at our union hall. We had 20 cars, and approximately 50 people attended. The "Nightmare Before Christmas" was the first movie shown, followed by "The Fog." Fun was had by all. A special thanks to members Adrienne Miller and Donesha Hall for planning this event.

Local 46's wireman unit received a $3.25 wage-and-benefit increase on February 1, 2021.

Deva Nelson, P.S.

L.U. 48 (c,em,i,rtb,rts,st&tm), PORTLAND, OR — In part, the IBEW Constitution states, "Our cause is the cause of human justice, human rights, human security." Garth Bachman, business manager/financial secretary, is exhibiting leadership and developing new programs to address issues and concerns that attract new, and retain current, members. We have full employment and a rolling book, and 2020 provided Local 48 with an opportunity to make lemonade during these challenging times. However, we must not lose sight of the big picture.

As we actively continue to outreach and work to support all members, Brother Garth has worked with Sister Bridget Quinn, workforce development coordinator for NIETC (NECA-IBEW Electrical Training Center), to establish and support a maternity-leave program.

On January 1, 2020, NECA/IBEW launched an expanded maternity benefit plan that includes six months of paid maternity leave, including 13 weeks before and after delivery. In addition to paid leave, female NECA/IBEW electricians and technicians also receive $800 a week along with FMLA benefits. The trust also pays health insurance premiums, which means free health insurance coverage for expecting mothers and their families. To date, 17 sisters, their families and our industry have benefited.

In September 2020, again in partnership, NECA/IBEW launched a 5-year Inclusivity training program. This industry-wide training program has been contracted out to Commonway Institute here in Portland, Ore., with a launch date in mid-spring at NIETC. This training will provide leadership and training to address some of the issues and concerns that 2020 (and the last few years) has revealed within society. The goal is to truly create a union that works for all — a union that lives up to the oath we all took to uphold the Declaration and Objects of the IBEW Constitution.

Donna Hammond, B.R.

L.U. 80 (i&govt), NORFOLK, VA — Hello to all our brothers and sisters. I hope everyone had a joyous Christmas and a happy new year. All of our local events were canceled due to the pandemic. Work in our area has remained steady.

The work outlook for 2021 looks promising. The majority of our work is on our military facilities, including the largest naval industrial base, Norfolk Naval Shipyard (NNSY). An executive order limiting the time each week to provide representation to bargaining unit employees was placed on our shipyards, coastguard bases and other military installations. This new order has put a strain on our stewards and union council members. We will continue to fight and show our solidarity for IBEW members and their families. The Microsoft project should be ramping up soon with an outlook of around 150-plus electricians.

In October, Brother Mike Iacobellis, who did an outstanding job as the NJATC director, retired. Brother Allan Frazier, formerly the president of our local, is our new NJATC director. He has done a superb job with our apprenticeship program.

Congrats to the NJATC graduating class of 2020! Your hard work and devotion have paid off.

We would like to welcome our new membership development coordinator, Brother Christopher Query. Chris has been a member for 15-plus years in the IBEW.

Local 80 would like to send our condolences to the family and friends of following deceased bothers: Jeffrey Brogden, Henry Cahoon, Roland Dillon, Charles Harris and Garland Speight.

Congrats to all our brothers and sisters who recently retired. Always remember: "United we stand. Divided we fall." Let's all work hard for what we want, because it won't come to us without a fight. Stay strong and courageous and know anything can be accomplished by putting our minds together. Work safe.

Wil Morris, A.B.M.

Editor's Note: Visit IBEW.org to read more about the Trump administration's executive orders limiting "official time" and other attacks on federal workers, like those IBEW members working in U.S. military shipyards and more.

L.U. 108 (ees,em,es,lctt,mar,mt,rtb,rts,s,spa,t&u), TAMPA, FL — IBEW service awards were presented by Local 108 Assistant Business Manager Robert Thomas. Holding his IBEW awards, Mike Anderson celebrated a long-awaited retirement with coworkers from the Big Bend Power Station. Mike invested a lifetime of manual labor in the energy industry. During his impressive 42-year career at Tampa Electric, Mike contributed to the plant's massive modernization program. Local 108 wants to wish Mike a successful new life experience as he enjoys every day feeling like it's Saturday. Congratulations, Mike!

Bruce Bailey, P.S.

L.U. 130 (i), NEW ORLEANS, LA — Our election of officers and board members was postponed to September. Incumbent Business Manager Paul Zulli was re-elected, as were most existing officers. Paul would like to thank the election judge and his committee for conducting a professional performance. He also thanks everyone who participated in the election for their interest in wanting to serve the membership. He welcomes our newly elected officers and board members and looks forward to working with them to serve the membership.

On the national level, we have been very busy promoting Joe Biden and all our political friends. There have been phone banks, sign building and erection, social media events and just about everything that could be done to win one of the most important elections for unions in recent history. Thanks to our members and many other concerned citizens, we managed to elect Joe Biden to the presidency. Now our attention now must shift to the Georgia senate race to gain some control on Capitol Hill.

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, and the hurricane season this year gave Louisiana a hell of the time, especially for our brothers and sisters repeatedly hit in Lake Charles. We wish them well with their recovery, including the damage sustained to their hall. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

Billy Buckel, P.S.

L.U. 150 (es,i,rts&spa) WAUKEGAN, IL — What a crazy, insane year! Yes, 2020 was definitely one for the history books! Between the insane, poisonous political atmosphere and being in what apparently is indefinite lockdown due to the global pandemic — well, let's hope things improve dramatically in 2021! Certainly our president-elect, our first woman vice president and their administration will have their work cut out for them.

Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we had to cancel all local social activities for 2020, including the annual picnic, golf outing, children's Christmas party and sadly, the annual December Christmas meeting for the membership.

This past year we lost the following retired members: Tom Bock, Corky Bruckner, Steve Craft, John Dollenmaier, John Foli, Tom Gad, Joe Giraldi, Denver Kelly, John Kolar, Steve Lahey, Chris Lazzaretto, Jim Lubkeman and Mike Templeton. We also lost active members Bill Letkey and Damian Rivis. They represent many years of service to Local 150, and as is the case with each member that passes away, they helped build Local 150 into what we are today. Godspeed to each of them.

Please be safe and follow the CDC guidelines, both at work and away from work, and be respectful of others around you. Here's to a healthier 2021.

Wendy J. Cordts, P.S.

L.U. 292 (em,govt,i,rtb,rts&spa), MINNEAPOLIS, MN — As of Dec. 1, heading into winter, calls for work continued to be slow. As anticipated, the construction industry in our area is experiencing a lag because of the COVID-19 crisis. Work in our area has dried up as existing projects come to an end, and new construction starts slowed amid a cautious economy.

In late fall, Minnesota Legislature passed a significant borrowing bill to enable cash flow for publicly funded capital investment projects throughout the state. We are hopeful that once these projects get off the ground, we will be able to see those publicly funded projects help close the work opportunity gap as private investment in capital projects has dropped off. In Minnesota, publicly funded projects — funded by the state — carry with them prevailing-wage requirements, which will help guarantee good paying and highly benefited union jobs for our members.

Writing this article shortly after the 2020 election, we are happy to report that Minnesota once again voted blue, delivering our 10 electoral votes for IBEW-endorsed candidates Biden/Harris. Locally, Minnesota didn't see too much change and continues to have a divided state government, with the GOP controlling the Senate and the Democrats controlling the House along with a Democratic governor.

Andy Snope, P.S.

L.U. 302 (i,rts&spa), MARTINEZ, CA — This year has been difficult for everyone for so many reasons. In an effort to bring some good will into the community, we were pleased to participate in a turkey drive put on by Concord City Councilman Dominic Aliano in conjunction with the Unity Council and Refuge Church. A thousand turkeys were donated by Albert Seeno III of Discovery Homes. IBEW Local 302, Sheet Metal Workers Local 104 and Sprinkler Fitters Local 483 delivered the turkeys to Concord residents in need, seniors and local nonprofits.

When so many lives are being devastated by COVID-19 and its economic repercussions, it is important that we come together and support each other. United we stand.

Melissa Vaughn, P.S.

L.U. 440 (i,rts&spa), RIVERSIDE, CA — Member participation will always be a key component to the success of our brotherhood. However, member apathy has always been our No. 1 problem. So when members go above and beyond, it's nice to take the opportunity to showcase them.

A couple of months ago, an American Legion post in our jurisdiction was vandalized. One of our first-year apprentices, Jorge Guerrero, who is also a veteran, saw what had happened and had the desire to help. He knew that the union, with its reputation of prioritizing family and brotherhood, would be able to make that help happen.

While on his jobsite, speaking to his crew, one of our past Executive Board members Kasey Wooldridge, recommended that he submit to the Executive Board to do something on behalf of our local for that post.

Jorge contacted the hall and spoke to organizer Jeremy Forshaw, who worked with him to write up his request. Once presented to our Executive Board, they unanimously recommended and approved to help in any way possible. In addition to tools donated on behalf of Local 440, one of our signatory contractors, RIS, has graciously agreed to donate electrical materials needed for long-overdue improvements.

The tools and free materials are not the takeaway from this story; instead, it speaks to the saying, "All of us need all of us." Had this brand-new apprentice not had the desire to help or the people to steer him in the right direction, then this American Legion post would not have received our help. Unions have historically fought for the betterment of our members and communities; and when our rank-and-file members chip in to ensure that continues, then we all win. Thank you, Jorge, for stepping up and bringing this to our attention, so that Local 440 could help our community and our veterans.

Bernie Balland, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 494 (em,govt,i,mt,rts,spa&t), MILWAUKEE, WI — On Nov. 10, 2020, Molson Coors held a memorial service to remember those we lost on Feb. 26, 2020, in a mass shooting. One of the individuals we lost was Brother Dale Hudson, a member of Local 494. Dale Hudson — "Huddy" to his co-workers — was an avid hunter and fisherman with a wife and three children. He planned to retire at the end of 2020. At the ceremony, two IBEW Local 494 members laid a wreath to honor Dale Hudson next to the permanent memorial.

All of us at the IBEW 494 are still shocked by these senseless deaths. We continue to pray for the friends and families of those who were lost and for those fighting to recover, and we continue to offer our support to all of those involved. IBEW members work hand-in-hand with other tradesmen and tradeswomen to make the brewery operate, and a tragic event like this has rocked our entire labor community.

We thank our partners at Molson Coors, who launched a fund to support the families of the five victims and kicked in $500,000, with IBEW Local 494 donating $10,000 from members, joining more than 2,000 community donors raising $1,879,800.

John T. Zapfel, Political Dir.

L.U. 520 (em,i&spa), AUSTIN, TX — On Nov. 10, IBEW members in San Angelo, Texas, received the Community Impact Award from the San Angelo Chamber of Commerce. Local 520 was selected to receive this award based on membership's commitment to improving both work and community environments. Each and every brother and sister is commended for stepping up to make a difference on a daily basis.

Some of the projects undertaken by our members include: teaming up with local food banks to distribute boxes of food to local families in need; donating countless bottles of hand sanitizer and hundreds of masks to members, contractors and local businesses throughout the community; donating time and money to local nonprofits like Boys & Girls Club, Sonrisas Trails, Open Arms and the Junior League.

The impact the IBEW has had on San Angelo and the surrounding areas is immeasurable, and we are lucky to be a part of an organization that values building a strong, diverse community and that gives every member an equal opportunity to succeed.

Our local feels tremendous pride in our fellow brothers and sisters for their efforts that led to this award. IBEW 520 looks forward to our continued partnership with our community.

Diarmid Campbell, Career Dev. Organizer

L.U. 640 (em,govt,i,mo,mt,ptc,rts,spa&u), PHOENIX, AZ — On Aug. 31, our local and the Arizona Democratic Party signed an agreement giving union representation for the Democratic Party's organizers and organizing directors. The new members were very happy to become a part of the union, and even though the agreement was not signed until election crunch time, we had 42 new members sign up. The term runs through May of 2023, and with the agreement in place for the next election season, membership will be even higher.

Work in the local has been steady throughout this year of the virus, and next year the work picture still looks strong. Safe and happy holidays to all!

Tim Wilson, P.S.

L.U. 654 (i), CHESTER, PA — On Dec. 12, our local celebrated Christmas a little differently than in years past. Following social-distancing guidelines, we hosted our first ever drive-through Christmas party. Local 654 contractor Ford Brothers strung Christmas lights all over the hall grounds, transforming it into a true holiday wonderland. Several stations were set up with tents for members and their families to drive through and enjoy. Santa seekers were greeted by Local 654 officers, Frosty the Snowman, the Grinch and an assortment of Christmas elves. Catered meals and cups of hot chocolate were given out, and the children received presents from Santa and Mrs. Claus. "Being able to still celebrate the holiday this year responsibly was huge for us," said Local 654 member Karl Blaier. "It was great to be able to see everyone and their families."

Timothy McLaverty, R.S.

L.U. 684 (c,i,rts&st), MODESTO, CA — We send our congratulations to President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris for their victory to the White House. The IBEW looks forward to working alongside the new administration in pursuit of helping all organized and unorganized workers in the United States.

As a local, we move from a destructive fire season throughout California, with only a few projects briefly interrupted in our area, to a slow winter season, as many projects have wrapped or are close to it. We are saddened by the loss of many of our local brothers and keep them in our hearts getting through the holidays going in to 2021.

As we move into the holiday season, Local 684 and the LMCT have teamed up again to brighten the holiday season for numerous children around the Modesto area. Alongside the LMCT, we will be donating 32 bicycles and 4 toddler tricycles to the area U.S. Marine Corps' Toys 4 Tots Drive.

We are optimistic for 2021 and hope it will be a prosperous work year, as there are many projects planned to keep us busy.

Mike Mendoza, P.S.

L.U. 692 (i,mt&spa), BAY CITY, MI — As we celebrate the countless accomplishments of Black Americans during Black History Month, it's important to recognize the efforts of lesser-known labor activists and union leaders who helped pave the way to a more inclusive and just workplace. Leaders like A. Phillip Randolph, who organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) in 1926. Randolph fought tirelessly for fair wages and against unfair labor practices, even lobbying President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue an executive order in 1941 that banned racial discrimination in the defense industry during World War II.

E.D. Nixon, a porter and the eventual head of Alabama's BSCP, was responsible for selecting and coaching Rosa Parks for her historic act of disobedience in 1955, even arranging for her bail and securing her a lawyer. Nixon also enlisted a then-little-known pastor named Martin Luther King Jr. to lead the ensuing Montgomery bus boycott.

Unfortunately, a deep history of racism does exist within the labor movement; but acknowledging our past shortcomings does not prevent us from working towards a more just future for all workers. The IBEW Constitution is an inclusive document that we all swore allegiance to. Recognizing historical contributions from marginalized brothers and sisters is just one way we can uphold that oath.

Brendon Baranek, Mbr. Dev.

L.U. 702 (i,o,u,uow,em,rts,rtb,spa,t,catv,lctt,cs,c,es,govt,mt,mo,ptc,se,st,
ws,as,et,it,p&pet), WEST FRANKFORT, IL — On Oct. 23, 2020, we were excited to host our modified golf outing. Although the event was delayed from its usual third Friday in June date, and we were only able to accommodate one flight of golfers, it was heartwarming to raise money for the Poshard Foundation for Abused Children, poshardfoundation.org, and NubAbility Athletics, nubability.org. The support from our labor friends all across our jurisdiction and beyond is what makes this happen, and we extend our deepest appreciation to all of our sponsors and participants: These donations would not be possible without your continued involvement and generosity.

At Alcoa, members have ratified a one-year contract extension with a 2.75% general-wage increase.

We have a new three-year agreement in the city of Miner, Mo., with annual wage increases of 1, 2 and 3%. Members have ratified a new five-year agreement in the city of Poplar Bluff, Mo., at Municipal Utilities that provides for annual 5% wage increases; but for new hires, the entire cost of dependent health care shifts to the employees and eliminates city-paid retiree healthcare.

As of this writing, our referral books are as follows: inside construction, 93; outside construction, 17; line clearance, 4.

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

L.U. 1116 (em,lctt&u), TUCSON, AZ — Brothers and sisters, by now you have heard about the changes in leadership at Local 1116. We wish to thank Scott Northrup for all of his dedicated years of service to our membership. Scott always led with his heart, and he did the things that he felt were right for us as a whole. He was always available and did his best for us. We wish Scott every success, with much happiness and good health in his new endeavors.

The Executive Board nominated Business Representative Sarita Morales to fill the remainder of Scott's term. Please join us in congratulating Sarita, our first female business manager, who is excited to take on this challenge. The Executive Board members are all prepared to support Sarita during this transition and beyond. We are confident that she will do a good job.

As we continue to struggle with COVID-19, please remember to take precautions. Wear your masks, wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with others. Think of those who rely on you and want you to stay healthy. As electrical industry employees, we play an integral part in keeping America's infrastructure intact.

Please attend your unit meetings. Get involved. Thank you for all that you do each day, for working hard and showing those around you what it means to be a member of the IBEW. Remember, this is your local, and you have a voice.

Sharon Williams, R.S./P.S.

L.U. 1426 (govt,i,o,rtb,spa&u), GRAND FORKS, ND — The Veterans Memorial Wall project came to us in 2015, three business managers ago. With great pride we applaud past Business Managers Tim Hughes and Jeremey Denault, and current Business Manager Jamie Helgeson, who were all in front of this project to make it happen. The project laid idle with many delays until early spring 2020, but our Executive Board did not let this project fall to the wayside: We made a commitment to our local veterans to power up this park.

Local 1426 members were a valuable part of this project. They dedicated their personal time to complete it to show respect for those who have given us the ability to live freely. The project consisted of five shelters, honoring each branch of service with three 60-amp and two 100-amp power panels with lights, receptacles and five separate static displays. One of the displays is an anchor that came from the Kiska, a retired Naval ship. The other four are still waiting to be set and are expected to be completed by June 17, 2021. The mural and obelisks all have LED in-ground lighting that is controlled by photo eyes. The installation used thousands of feet of conduit ranging from 3/4 to 1-1/2 and required more than 500 hours of labor.

A special thanks to the members of Local 1426 who donated their time to help on this project honoring our veterans: Nathan Adamski, Josh Anderson, Steve Atkinson, Erick Brekke, Troy O'Donnell, Dillon Enninga, Matt Fjelstad, Mike Fjelstad, Zerian Franck, Kent Griggs, Dave Halverson, Jeremiah Johnson, Evan Lautt, Michael Moore, Scott Sansburn, Cody Schroeder, Dennis Schroeder, Miguel Shockman, Erik Shulind and Steve Walsh.

Steve Walsh, B.R.