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Long before the nation’s latest eco-nomic troubles, some workers atNG Jensen, a custom brokeragefirm in the state of Washington on

the Canadian border, set their sights on aneconomic stimulus plan—a union. Theirorganizing campaign barely got off theground before it was shot down by manage-ment intimidation.

According to a 2006 poll by Peter D.Hart Research Associates, the custom bro-kerage workers are not alone. Fifty-eight per-cent of non-managerial working Americanssurveyed indicated that they would join aunion if they could. However, one worker isdisciplined or fired every 18 minutes for theirefforts to organize unions.

Much of the national narrative holdsunion membership is declining as a result ofthe shift from a manufacturing to a service-based economy. But a compelling body ofevidence points to a far more powerfulcause—the uneven playing field in U.S.labor law—a playing field that allows com-panies to threaten, intimidate and fire work-ers who want nothing more than the securityof a contract.

Labor organizations and our politicalallies have come up with an answer to thisstacked deck against hard-working men andwomen, the Employee Free Choice Act. Thismajor reform of U.S. labor law, which willsoon come before Congress for a second time,would make it easier for workers to organize

and fine employers who threaten and fireworkers. And the law would stop employersfrom endlessly delaying negotiating contractswith workers who have clearly chosen unionrepresentation.

If the Employee Free Choice Act hadbeen enacted in 2007, perhaps LilianaRobbins and other workers at NG Jensenwould be enjoying the benefits of unionworkers, who earn, on average, 35 percentmore than their nonunion counterparts.

In May 2007, Robbins, one of the mostsenior and respected workers at one of NGJensen’s customs stations in Blaine, Wash.,contacted Seattle Local 77 asking for help forherself and her co-workers, who assign tariff

numbers and clear lumber and otherCanadian goods for entry into the U.S.Organizer Chris Martin met with her.

Frustrated and angry, Robbins toldMartin how a decent job at one of the com-pany’s numerous locations had gone downhillas managers snatched away holidays andvacation time, changed work schedules atwill and engaged in blatant nepotism.

“There was huge support for the union atthe beginning,” says Robbins, who met withsome of her co-workers at a nearby gas sta-tion. They decided to put informational liter-ature about the benefits of unions on cars in

I n t e r n a t i o n a l B r o t h e r h o o d o f E l e c t r i c a l W o r k e r s Vol. 3 | No. 3 | March 2009

Lost Job, Lost Home, Lost Dreams

A Broken System’s Legacy

IN T H I S I S S U E

FREE CHOICE continued on page 2

‘This is America, the land of the free, and that includes the freedom to choose to be part of a union,’ saidLiliana Robbins, who was fired after attempting to organize a union.

2Employee Free Choice Act:Fact vs. Fiction

3Kansas City utility heroes

Verizon ordered to halt outsourcing

4North of 49°

5Cape Wind project advances

IEC meeting minutes

6Transitions

Circuits

IBEW on Duty

7Local Lines

14Editorials

15Letters to the editor

Who We Are

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2 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

the parking lot. Immediately, supervisorswent out and snatched the literature, soRobbins brought some pamphlets into workwith her.

Overnight, Robbins’ relationship withher employer changed. She was written upfor distributing pamphlets, even though co-workers routinely brought in catalogues tosell merchandise or distributed sign-up listsfor fund-raisers.

“I went full force at trying to find everyavenue that would help my co-workers, withthe same thoroughness that I applied to myjob,” says Robbins, who set up a meeting at anearby library for NG Jensen workers tomeet with Local 77.

Only three workers showed up for themeeting. Several drove by, but were afraidto show their faces after a rumor circu-lated about a supervisor who had lined upa snitch to report back on attendance. But,even more persuasive was watching howRobbins, a model employee, was singledout for harassment because of her supportfor a union.

The union drive was stillborn. But thecompany was not finished with Robbins. Shegot a phone call late one night from Jensentelling her that she was terminated becauseof “business conditions,” despite the fact thatmore junior and far less-experienced workersremained on the job.

With the help of Local 77, Robbinsappealed her dismissal to the National LaborRelations Board as discrimination for unionactivity. Her case looks strong. But relief hasn’tcome soon enough for Robbins to save herhome in Birch Bay, overlooking the Pacific,from foreclosure. After 20 years, she is mov-ing into an apartment.

“I couldn’t blame my co-workers,” saysRobbins. “It takes a strong person to gothrough what I did.”

Instead, Robbins blames a labor lawregime that is stacked against workers whosimply want the rights that come with collec-tive bargaining. “This is America, the land ofthe free, and that includes the freedom tochoose to be part of a union.”

As the Employee Free Choice Actcomes closer to a vote in Congress, compa-nies—defending the status quo—are invest-ing millions of dollars into an advertisingcampaign to paint courageous workers likeLiliana Robbins as the persecutors and theiremployers as the victims.

The key tactic in the employers’ campaignis to accuse the unions and their political sup-porters of being “anti-democratic,” by workingto pass a law that would permit employees toopt for a union through majority sign-up, ratherthan a secret ballot representation election.

“The employers are resorting to Big Liemanipulation,” says Brian Ahakuelo, Director

Free Choicecontinued from page 1

Myth vs. Fact

The Employee Free Choice Act

MYTH The Employee Free Choice Act Takes Away theSecret Ballot

FACT The Act provides that if a majority of employees signunion authorization cards, the companymust recog-nize and bargain with the union. Majority sign-up is afairer process than the current one, where employerscan coerce workers. But, if a majority of employees pre-fer instead to hold an election, they will have that right.

MYTH Union Elections Are Just Like Elections for Public Office

FACT Union representation elections have almost nothingin common with elections for public office.

In public elections, candidates have free speech. Inunion elections, managers can require employees toattend “captive audience” anti-union meetings.Union supporters can be forced to attend—butdenied the opportunity to speak out.

It is illegal for private companies to tell their employ-ees how to vote in a public election. In union elec-tions, supervisors routinely fire, demote, or reassignworkers who support the union.

There are limits to how much money candidatescan raise and spend in public elections. In unionrepresentation elections there are no limits to howmuch companies can spend on anti-union lawyersand consultants.

In democratic elections, the winning candidates usu-ally take office just two months after Election Day. Inunion elections, employers can appeal the result tofive different levels for several years.

MYTH Passing the Employee Free Choice Act Will HurtEconomic Recovery

FACT The best stimulus package for workers is a union job.Union jobs pay, on average, 35 percent more thannonunion jobs. The National Labor Relations Act wasfirst passed during dire economic times to encourageunionization so workers would have more buyingpower to fuel economic recovery.

MYTH Intimidation by Employers During Organizing Drivesis Exaggerated

FACT A study compiled from NLRB reports for 2007 revealsthat during that year, more than 29,000 people—oneworker every 18 minutes—were disciplined or evenfired for union activity. Thirty-two percent of

employers fire pro-union workers and 50 percentthreaten to close down their workplaces.

MYTH Majority Sign-Up Doesn’t Work

FACT Majority sign-up is not a new process. In fact,directly after passage of the NLRA, almost one-thirdof all union certifications took place as a result ofmajority sign-up.

Since 2003, more than half a million American work-ers formed unions through majority sign-up. Theyinclude UPS freight workers, reporters, hotel andcasino workers and nuclear engineers.

MYTH If the Employee Free Choice Act Passes, Workers Willbe Pressured to Join Unions

FACT Studies show that, with majority sign-up as com-pared to NLRB election campaigns, employees reportless pressure from co-workers to support the unionand less pressure from employers to oppose theunion. In the first 70 years of the NLRA, only 42 casesfound fraud or coercion by unions in the submittalof authorization cards. By contrast, there were 29,000documented cases of intimidation or coercion byemployers in 2007 alone.

MYTH The Union Representation Election Process Can BeFixed Without the Employee Free Choice Act

FACT It is impossible to enforce regulations that preventemployers from threatening workers for organizingunions without increasing penalties and allowingworkers to choose unions by majority sign-up.

The power relationship between union supporters andtheir employers isn’t subject to the strict rules that gov-ern other employer-employee relationships. Take, forexample, sexual harassment. There is no such thing asa non-coercive sexual approach (“pass”) by a supervi-sor to a worker, even though such an approach wouldbe perfectly normal in a non-workplace setting.

But, in dealing with union election campaigns,employers can engage in coercion and threats,defending their conduct upon “free speech.” Thismeans, for instance, that a supervisor can speculatethat—in his opinion—a facility would close if aunion wins an election, without being charged withactually making a threat. The Employee Free ChoiceAct is aimed at the elimination of this kind of unbal-anced and unfair power relationship.

Source: Economic Policy Institute

of Professional and Industrial Organizing.“They know how many workers—union andnonunion—fought in wars and in the civilrights movement to defend our right to voteand to practice democracy.” So, says Ahakuelo,they turn reality on its head and make it seemlike secret ballot representation elections are

run just like elections for public office. “Theydon’t talk about the tricks that they play toundermine any semblance of fairness,” he said.

Labor unions will never match the dol-lars of employers engaged in public relationscampaigns to defeat the Employee FreeChoice Act, says President Edwin D. Hill. But

average members can bring the truth to thelight of day, he says, by exposing the mythsbeing spread by the moneyed elite and sup-porting majority sign-up. “We owe that muchto workers like Liliana Robbins and herfriends who deserve the respect that comesfrom work and standing up for their rights.” �

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 3

Braving the aftermath of HurricaneGustav, four Kansas City, Mo., Local53 members rescued a woman from10-foot-deep floodwaters while

working to bring power back to storm-rav-aged Alexandria, La.

Journeyman linemen Ron Mareda, KipRorrer, Mark Boyer and Garret Crews werepart of a team from Independence Power &Light dispatched to Louisiana to aid victimsof Gustav, a Category 4 storm. On the rainymorning of Sept. 3, the men were on the wayto repair downed power lines and brokentransformers when they came upon a floodedsection of the highway. After getting out oftheir trucks to assess whether they couldcontinue, they saw a woman clinging to herfloating car adrift in a flash flood.

“That was when these regular guys sud-denly turned into heroes,” said Larry Starr,IPL line department manager and member ofthe relief effort.

Mareda, Rorrer and Boyer each dove intothe swift current to reach the vehicle 75 feetfrom the bank. Fellowmember Crews remainednearby to help everyone back onto dry land.

As soon as the men made it out to hercar, the vehicle started sinking. Panicked,the woman told the workers that she couldn’tswim, and there was no way of evacuatingher without facing the flood. Boyer, a formerlifeguard, quickly showed her how to positionher body to float in the current, and the four

gradually returned to the water’s edge.“I don’t think she would have lived if she

hadn’t climbed out of her car while the waterswere rising,” said Mareda, the group foreman.

The woman was uninjured and walkedaway from the accident.

For their bravery, the Independence,Mo., mayor’s office honored Rorrer, Maredaand Boyer with a special recognition awardat an October city council meeting.

“The rescue just goes to show you that,as linemen, we never know what we’re goingto run into on a day-to-day basis,” Starr said.“I have been in this industry for 35 years, andmembers amaze me all the time with theircourage, skill and determination.” �

Missouri Members Rescue Woman, Aid Hurricane Victims

Kansas City, Mo., Local 53 members Kip Rorrer, left, Ron Mareda and Mark Boyer were honored for theirbravery after rescuing a woman from a flash flood following Hurricane Gustav.

Telecommunications workers won abig victory in the fight against con-tracting when an arbitrator agreedwith a complaint filed by Seattle

Local 89 and ordered Verizon Northwest, Inc.to stop using outside nonunion contractorsto do the work of bargaining unit members.

“It’s going to have a snowball effect inending contracting as a means to weakenunions,” said Local 89 Business Manager RayEgelhoff.

In 2002, Local 89, which representsmore than 1,000 Verizon employees, negoti-ated a contract that included attractiveincentives for early retirement.

But instead of hiring new employees toreplace the newly vacated cable splicer andtechnician positions, Verizon contracted outmany of the long term jobs to nonunion firms.

“It was a clear violation of our contract,which prevents Verizon from using contrac-tors for work of a regular and routine natureand that is exactly what it was doing,”Egelhoff said.

The local filed a grievance in 2007,which went to arbitration last fall. In hisdecision, the arbitrator found Verizon guiltyof violating the contract by continuing to useoutside contractors for full-time bargainingunit work, requiring Verizon to hire one full-time employee for every 1,500 hours of con-tracting work.

The company has threatened to appealthe decision in federal court.

Contracting out bargaining unit workhas been an ongoing point of contentionbetween Verizon and the two employeeunions – CWA and IBEW – and many unionmembers at the company are hopeful thatthe arbitrator’s judgment will discourage thepractice.

“It’s a problem everywhere,” said Mason,Mich., Local 1106 Business Manager MichaelBrousseau, who represents more than 500Verizon employees. “Every time I talk withbusiness managers from other Verizon locals,it comes up.”

Local 1106 filed a grievance with thecompany over contracting last year, whichhas cost dozens of building service techni-cian positions. The company even reservedemployee parking space for the contractors.

The case has been in arbitration sinceNovember. “The decision in Seattle gives ushope that it will set a precedent for ourcase,” Brousseau said. �

Verizon Workers Win Outsourcing Decision

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4 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

tion. “We don’t want any power outages,” hesays. Local 258 crews will be on around-the-clock standby at Whistler, a world-classresort, during the games.

Olympic competitors and visitors willboard a new light rail line at VancouverInternational Airport to head downtown. Anaverage of 60 electricians has worked on sup-plying power to the railroad and new stationsfor the last two years. The light rail buildsupon the Sky Train system that was erectedfor the city’s Expo 86. “With the light rail,Vancouver, a younger city, will catch up to oth-ers its size,” says Brian Beddow, a Local 213superintendent at Western Pacific Enterprises.

Past Olympics utilized polluting, unreli-able generators to supply power to remotelocations. With environmental stewardshipas one of the goals of the 2010 games, morethan 100 Local 258 members have installedunderground and overhead cables to deliverpower to venues from normal distributionlines, eliminating the need for generators.

An average of a dozen wiremen andapprentices worked for over a year installingtimer systems and 800 lights on a new bob-sled track. “It’s one of the 15 best tracks inthe world,” says Gary Bowsher, an 18-yearmember and project manager. PierreLueders, a four-time Canadian Olympian andgold medalist, has already been practicing onthe bobsled run. At every corner of the track,

electricians installed multi-purpose panelswith Internet connections, microphones andcameras to provide TV access and givecoaches the capability of remotely watchingand listening to their athletes’ performanceson their laptops.

Crews installed lighting on a new ski liftand supplied fiber optic service and camerasto six new buildings. “The $8 million projectwas a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” saysBowsher, who supervised the installation of

40,000 feet of conduit, 48 light poles, 40-feethigh, with 15 meter arms and 1240 cable con-nections. “We did all this on a mountain andsometimes in the snow,” he says.

“The job is a feat in itself. Our memberswill never work on a project this large again,”says Ray New, a 38-year Local 213 memberand superintendent who led 124 electriciansand apprentices wiring Vancouver’s new 1.2million square foot trade and conventioncenter, due for completion in March. �

The daily labour of IBEW trades seemsa world apart from the high-risksports of freestyle skiing or bobsled-ding. But the lights, sound and rivet-

ing action at Vancouver, British Columbia’s2010 Winter Olympics will never reach theworld stage without the electrical work thathas modernized existing sports venues andcreated giant new facilities in the first “allgreen” Olympics.

From supplying power to a new trade andconvention center in Vancouver to energizinga new light rapid transit system and severalprojects on nearby Whistler Mountain, includ-ing a broadcast center and refrigeration unitsto make artificial snow, members ofVancouver’s inside Local 213 and utility Local258 have completed millions of dollars of workon budget and ahead of schedule.

“Our involvement will become evengreater as time goes by,” says Local 258 SeniorAssistant Business Manager Jim Greenwell,whose members work for BCHydro, one of theofficial supporters of the games, and for someof the utility’s contractors.

Chris Poullos, a Local 258 general fore-man at contractor Alltech, has been super-vising the rebuilding of cable along theSea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) intoWhistler. Electricians are installing auto-matic sleeves to protect cables from thedeterioration caused by salt air and vibra-

North of 49°

IBEW Members Power Up ’10 Winter Games

Vancouver’s 1.2-million-square-foot trade and convention center will serve hundreds of thousands of visi-tors to the 2010 Winter Olympics. The center showcases the work of Local 213 members on a $36 millionelectrical contract for Western Pacific Enterprises.

l’aéroport et le centre-ville de Vancouver, demême que plusieurs autres projets à proxim-ité de Whistler, notamment un centre decommunications ainsi que des installationsde fabrication de neige. Les travaux ont ététerminés avant la date prévue et le budget aété respecté.

Comme le souligne Jim Greenwell,adjoint sénior au Gérant d’affaires de la S.L.258, dont les membres sont à l’emploi de BCHydro, un des supporteurs officiels des Jeux,et d’autres entreprises de services publics,“plus le temps avance, plus notre contribu-tion sera importante”.

Le confrère Chris Poullos, un membre dela S.L. 258 et contremaître général pourAlltech, a supervisé la reconstruction du câblele long de l’autoroute “Sea-to-Sky” (autoroute99) reliant Vancouver à Whistler. Les élec-triciens ont installé des gaines de protectionafin de prévenir la détérioration causée par

l’air salin et la vibration. “Nous voulons éviterdes coupures de courant”, dit-il. Des équipesde la S.L. 258 seront disponibles en perma-nence à Whistler, un lieu de villégiature deniveau mondial, pour toute la durée des Jeux.

Les athlètes compétiteurs auxOlympiques ainsi que les visiteurs pourrontmonter à bord d’un nouveau métro léger àl’Aéroport international de Vancouver pourse rendre au centre ville. Au cours des deuxdernières années, environ soixante élec-triciens ont travaillé à l’alimentation élec-trique du réseau et des nouvelles stations quisont des extensions des lignes qui avaientété construites pour l’exposition universellede Vancouver en 1986. “Grâce à ce métroléger, cette plus jeune ville pourra rejoindreles rangs des autres villes de son calibre”déclare Brian Beddow de la S.L. 213 et chefde chantier à l’emploi de la compagnieWestern Pacific Enterprises.

Lors des jeux olympiques précédents, onavait eu recours à l’utilisation de génératri-ces polluantes et peu fiables pour alimenterles emplacements plus éloignés. La gestionenvironnementale étant une des prioritésdes Olympiques de 2010, plus de 100 mem-bres de la S.L. 258 ont installé des câblessouterrains et des câbles aériens qui servi-ront à alimenter les sites à partir des lignesde distribution normale, éliminant ainsi lerecours aux génératrices.

“Nos membres n’auront probablementjamais l’opportunité de travailler sur un aussigros projet” déclare Ray New, membre de laS.L. 213 depuis 38 ans et surintendant pour les124 électriciens et apprentis préposés à l’in-stallation électrique du tout nouveau Centredes congrès de Vancouver couvrant une super-ficie de 1.2 million de pieds carrés et dontl’achèvement substantiel est prévu pour lemois de mars. �

Il semble y avoir un monde entre le tra-vail effectué au quotidien par les gens demétier de la FIOE et les disciplinessportives à hauts risques, telles que le

ski acrobatique ou le bobsleigh. Pourtant, lesactivités d’animation, de diffusion et de com-munication reliées au déroulement des Jeuxolympiques d’hiver 2010, lesquels ont étéproclamés les “Olympiques verts”, ne pour-raient constituer un évènement de calibremondial, sans les travaux électriques exé-cutés pour la réfection des installationssportives déjà en place et la construction degigantesques nouvelles installations.

Les travaux réalisés par les membresdes sections locales 213 [intérieur] et 258[secteur public] de Vancouver, se chiffrent àdes millions de dollars et incluent, entreautres, l’alimentation électrique d’un nou-veau Centre des congrès à Vancouver et d’unnouveau système de métro léger reliant

Au nord du 49° parallèle

La FIOE alimente les Jeux olympiques d’hiver 2010

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 5

In February, the Global Wind Energy Councilannounced that the U.S. is now ranked firstworldwide in wind power installations.

But the industry is far from recession-proof. Last summer, factories rushed tokeep up with demand for turbine parts.That demand has fizzled during the currentrecession. Storm clouds are on the horizonfor the green sector as many companies arelaying off workers. If the economy fails toget a needed shot in the arm, some smallerwind projects may fall by the wayside,American Wind Energy Association CEODenise Bode said.

Aikens and Monahan stressed that withits strong financial backing, public interestand political support – Massachusetts Gov.Deval Patrick is an outspoken booster of theproject – Cape Wind remains fairly immuneto market whims. There is a chance that law-suits by the Alliance to Protect NantucketSound could hinder progress, but Local 103leaders remain optimistic.

“Our opponents’ arguments are appear-ing less credible, the project has the neededmoney and we have a lot of momentum on ourside,” Monahan said. “I’m confident that we’llsee the light at the end of tunnel very soon.” �

When completed, Cape Wind will closely resemble Utgrunden Wind Farm, off the southeastern coast of Sweden.

Weathering Opposition, Cape Cod’s Cape Wind Prevails

Minutes and Report of the InternationalExecutive Council Regular MeetingChairman Pierson called this regular meeting of theInternational Executive Council to order at 8:00 a.m.,Monday, February 2, 2009. Other members of the Councilin attendance were Lavin, Schoemehl, Dowling, Riley,Calvey, Clarke, Calabro, and Lucero.

International President HillInternational President Edwin D. Hill met with the Inter-national Executive Council a number of times to discuss avariety of matters affecting all branches of the Brotherhood.

International Secretary-Treasurer LeeInternational Secretary-Treasurer Lindell K. Lee presentedfinancial reports covering the IBEW Pension Fund and theInvestment Portfolio of the Brotherhood both in Canadaand in the United States.

Legal DefensePayments for legal defense made from the General Fundwere examined and approved in accordance with therequirements of Article X, Section 1, of the IBEW Constitution.

Financial ReportsThe International Secretary-Treasurer’s reports for thevarious funds of the Brotherhood were presented to theInternational Executive Council, examined and filed.

PBF TrusteesThe International Executive Council, sitting as the Trustees,along with the International President and the InternationalSecretary-Treasurer of the IBEW Pension Benefit Fund,reviewed Fund investments and related matters.

Investments*The report of the fund investment action by the InternationalPresident and by the International Secretary-Treasurer, since

the last Council meeting, was presented to the InternationalExecutive Council, and it was examined and approved.

*The members of the council recognized the effect down-turned markets have had on the investments of the IBEW.

Local Union(s) Under InternationalOffice SupervisionInternational President Hill advised the Council that thereare no local unions under the supervision of theInternational Office as of this meeting.

“Revised” IBEW Relocation PolicyThe International Executive Council unanimously approvedthe adoption of the “Revised” IBEW Relocation Policyeffective February 1, 2009.

Retirement Of International RepresentativeNathan C. Edgar Effective March 1, 2009International RepresentativeTenth District, IBEW

Vested Pension of International Office EmployeeJoan Berg Effective January 30, 2009SupervisorInternational Office

William Riley AppointmentDecember 31, 2008Effective December 31, 2008, International ExecutiveCouncil member Jackie Goodwin, representing the FourthInternational Council District, submitted his resignation. OnJanuary 5, 2009, on a conference call with the IEC,President Hill appointed, and the International ExecutiveCouncil unanimously confirmed, the appointment of William(Billy) W. Riley, Business Manager of Local Union 349,Miami, Florida, to fill his unexpired term. Billy Riley wassworn into the council, on Monday, February 2, 2009.

Charges Filed with the InternationalExecutive Council AgainstBertram B. Noll, Retired Member ofLocal Union 429On January 27, 2009, charges were filed with theInternational Executive Council against Bertram B. Noll, CardNumber D200336, for violation of Article XI, Subsection 6(d),of the IBEW Constitution, by Michael Bearden, a member ofIBEW Local Union 429, Nashville, Tennessee.

After a thorough review of the facts presented by theHearing Officer, International Representative, Brent Hall, it isthe determination of the International Executive Council thatBrother Noll is guilty of the charges brought against him byBrother Bearden, inasmuch as working for a non-union con-tractor is a prohibition to collecting PBF pension benefits.

It is the decision of the International Executive Council totake action to suspend the PBF pension benefits currentlybeing received by Brother Noll, effective February 2, 2009.Brother Noll is also hereby directed to return all PBF pen-sion benefits paid by the IBEW from September 1, 2008until February 2, 2009, to the IBEW InternationalSecretary-Treasurer, ex-post-haste. Furthermore, BrotherNoll is directed to redeposit his membership card withLocal Union 429, and to pay back per-capita payments,from September 1, 2008 until such time that he reappliesfor PBF pension benefits through the normal course ofaction called for in the IBEW Constitution and it isapproved by the International Executive Council.

Charges Filed with the InternationalExecutive Council Against Thomas L. Cobble,Retired Member of Local Union 429On January 27, 2009, charges were filed with theInternational Executive Council against Thomas L. Cobble,Card Number D200303 for violation of Article XI, Subsection

6(d), of the IBEW Constitution, by Michael Bearden, a mem-ber of IBEW Local Union 429, Nashville, Tennessee.

After a thorough review of the facts, presented by theHearing Officer, International Representative, Brent Hall, it isthe determination of the International Executive Council thatBrother Cobble is guilty, of the charges brought against him,by Brother Bearden, inasmuch as working for a non-unioncontractor is a prohibition to collecting PBF pension benefits.

It is the decision of the International Executive Council totake action to suspend the PBF pension benefits BrotherCobble receives for a three month period commencingwith March 1, 2009.

Brother Cobble’s PBF pension benefits will be reinstatedon June 1, 2009.

The Next Regular MeetingThis regular meeting of the International Executive Councilwas held in Naples, Florida. This meeting adjourned onMonday, February 2, 2009, at 5:00 p.m.

The next regular meeting of the International ExecutiveCouncil is scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m., onMonday, June 1, 2009, in Napa, California.

For the International Executive CouncilPatrick Lavin, Secretary February 2009

The IEC acted on numerous applications dealing with pen-sions under the IBEW Pension Benefit Fund. For a completelisting, consult www.ibew.org, clicking on the InternationalExecutive Council link on the “About Us” page.

February Executive Council Meeting

agencies have vetted the Cape Wind projectto determine its potential effects, primarilyon tourism and wildlife. The MineralsManagement Service, an agency under theU.S. Department of the Interior, released amassive report last spring showing that thefarm will have little to no adverse effects.

Cape Wind proponents are hoping forfinal approval from Secretary of the InteriorKen Salazar soon.

But Cape Wind hasn’t been without con-troversy. Opposition from some residents in thearea has centered on concern for wildlife andthe turbines’ aesthetics. Cape Wind’s majoropponent, the Alliance to Protect NantucketSound, has spent $15 million fighting the proj-ect. Local 103 Business Manager MikeMonahan said the group is mostly helmed by asmall, moneyed few with beachfront propertywho see the project as a potential eyesore.

“They talk like they’re concerned aboutthe environmental impact, but they’re reallyjust a wealthy minority taking a ‘not in my back-yard’ approach to the issue,” Monahan said.

Surveys show that an overwhelmingmajority of residents in Martha’s Vineyard,Cape Cod and Nantucket support the project.

The wind sector has enjoyed some robustgrowth lately. Employment in the industryshot up from 50,000 workers in 2007 to 85,000last year. At the same time, the nation’s windpower generating capacity rose by 50 percent.

While Cape Wind has been miredfor nearly a decade in red tapeand agency reviews, advocatesfor the nation’s first proposed

offshore wind farm cleared a major hurdle inJanuary when the U.S. Minerals ManagementService issued its positive final assessment ofthe project.

According to clean energy activists andexperts, the review essentially clears thelane for the construction of the $1 billionproject consisting of a 130-turbine farm fivemiles off the coast of Massachusetts inNantucket Sound. The wind farm could gen-erate 454 megawatts, or about 75 percent ofthe area’s electricity.

Labor leaders are looking forward to the1,000 union jobs the project will create, 60 per-cent of which will be with the IBEW. BostonLocal 103 has had a large stake in the develop-ment of the project since the beginning.

“When this finally goes through, it’sgoing to be huge,” Local 103 Business AgentMarty Aikens said. He estimates that morethan 50 applications for similar projects willsprout up across the East Coast once CapeWind’s mettle is tested. “Lawmakers aroundthe nation are going to look at this and say,“Hey, we can do that for our state, too.’

“This is the perfect job at the perfecttime,” Aikens added.

Since 2002, various state and federal

6 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

AppointedWilliam W. Riley

IBEW InternationalPresident Edwin D. Hillappointed Miami Local349 Business ManagerWilliam “Bill” RileyFourth DistrictInternational ExecutiveCouncil member, effec-tive Jan. 1. Brother

Riley replaces former Fourth District memberJackie Goodwin, who resigned.

“It’s truly an honor to serve theBrotherhood in this new capacity,” Riley said.“I look forward to the opportunities and chal-lenges ahead.”

The appointment, to fill Goodwin’s unex-pired term, was confirmed unanimously by theIEC. He was sworn in to the council on Feb. 2.

“I could not be part of a better team,”Riley said, citing President’s Hill organizingefforts and the success of the FloridaInitiative. “This union is firing on all cylin-ders, boosting the membership and ensuringbetter wages and working conditions forthousands of men and women.”

Riley’s interest in the industry started atan early age. His aptitude for electronics andtechnology bloomed at Miami Senior HighSchool in the 1960s. Soon after graduation,he entered the apprenticeship program andwas initiated into Local 349 in 1971. Heserved on various committees throughout thefollowing decades, addressing apprentice-ship, business development, finance, politicalaction and organizing issues.

Brother Riley was elected business man-ager of Local 349 in 2003 after serving asassistant business manager for nearly threedecades. He and his wife, Carolyn, have twochildren and three grandchildren. He enjoysplaying golf and fishing.

“I think the labor movement is going tosee an even brighter future in the years tocome,” Riley said. “I’m glad President Hill hasallowed me to be a greater part of it.” �

DeceasedJoseph Cavanagh

Former LegislativeDepartment DirectorJoseph Cavanagh diedon January 8. A formerbusiness manager ofLong Island, N.Y., Local25, Cavanagh sparkeda long tradition ofIBEW political

activism and leadership in Suffolk County.Brother Cavanagh drew notice at the

International Office after he helped upset aRepublican congressman, electing staunchlabor supporter Thomas Downey to Congress in1974. Downey served for 18 years.

A member of the Committee for a NewIreland, Cavanagh joined former Sen. GeorgeMitchell (D-Maine) during peace talks in hisancestral home.

“My dad had no patience for phonies,”says Mike Cavanagh, a retired member ofLocal 25 who now works as an aide to thepresiding officer of the county legislature.“He wasn’t complicated. He loved to helppeople, but he’d get his temper up at what hecalled the ‘chiselers’ among electrical con-tractors.” Another son, Kevin, was a journey-man wireman in Boston Local 103, before hisdeath four years ago.

A native of the Bronx, N.Y., Cavanaghserved in the U.S. Army during World War IIin Alaska, the Philipines and Japan. He mar-ried his wife, Margaret, on his 23rd birthdaywhile on a weekend furlough. They weremarried 64 years and had six children.

Starting out as a residential member ofLocal 25 in 1953, Cavanagh advocated for thelocal to take in more “A” members. After heachieved the top rate, he served on numer-ous union committees and took labor coursesat Cornell University.

During his term as business manager ofLocal 25, Cavanagh was appointed to thestate Economic Development Board and theHuntington Zoning Board of Appeals andserved as Suffolk County’s labor commis-sioner for two years. Cavanagh’s activism setin motion a chain of political service thatcontinues today. Former Local 25 BusinessManager Bob Dow serves as Suffolk CountyCommissioner. Bill Lindsay, another formerbusiness manager, is the presiding officer ofthe county legislature.

In 1978, Cavanaugh arrived at theInternational Office as assistant to then-International Secretary Jack Moore responsi-ble for IBEW-COPE activities, eventuallytaking over in 1983 as legislative director. Heretired in 1987. “Joe was highly respected onthe Hill and well-liked by his peers in otherunions,” says Mike Emig, who succeededCavanagh as IBEW Legislative Director.

At the Capitol, Cavanagh was oftenmistaken for then-House Speaker Thomas“Tip” O’Neill. His son told Newsday thatO’Neill referred to Cavanagh as “the electri-cian” and joked that electrical workers are“the guys who make the big money,” towhich Cavanagh responded, “And we’reworth every penny.”

The officers and members of the IBEWoffer our heartfelt condolences to his wifeMargaret, and the rest of the Cavanaghfamily. �

Transitions Circuits

New Apprentice Serves in AfghanistanDecatur, Ill., Local 146 journeyman wireman KenMusick is proud that his son, Joe, is following inhis footsteps toward a promising career in theelectrical industry.

He’s also proud of his son’s patriotism. Joewas accepted to the NJATC apprenticeship pro-gram in August – the same month that the 24-year-old National Guard reservist got orders todeploy to Afghanistan.

“I’m happy that Joe has a strong work ethicand a sense of loyalty,” Ken Musick said. “That will

serve him well during his time overseas and when he starts in the trade.”Spc. Joe Musick began six weeks of training August 20 at Fort Shelby in Mississippi

before deploying with the 783rd Military Police Battalion out of Inkster, Mich., for a 400-day tour.

As an MP, Spc. Musick often spends up to 12-hour days monitoring his base’s walledperimeter, guarding prisoners and performing some classified tasks. Free time is scarce,so he gets the chance to talk with family back home only every couple of weeks.

A 30-year IBEW member, Ken said his son is looking forward to beginning in thetrade and expressed gratitude to the NJATC and the union for delaying Joe’s apprentice-ship start date while he serves overseas.

“It was nice of the apprenticeship committee to take a chance on him,” Ken said.Local 146 training director Steve Wrigley anticipates Spc. Musick being a valued

member of the union.“We told him before he left to keep his head down and be safe – just like he would

on a job site – and to remember that all of us are praying for him,” Wrigley said. �

IBEW On Duty

Agreement Launches IBEW Utility Training CentersThe IBEW reached across the aisle to utility industry leaders January 8 to sign a trainingtrust that will support multiple regional utility training centers across the U.S. Funded byindustry and labor contributions, the partnership will boost the utility sector while shoring upjob options for prospective new union members.

Utility leaders from Kansas City Power & Light in Missouri, DTE Energy in Detroit andTucson Electric in Arizona were the first to sign on to the trust. Business leaders said thealliance will ensure the long-term health of the industry, as up to 200,000 workers are slatedto retire in the next five years.

“This collaboration with the IBEW is perfect,” said Bill Herdegen, vice president oftransmission and distribution operations at KCP&L. “We want to make sure that there’s aqualified group of skilled craftsmen who can follow in the footsteps of those leaving thework force.”

IBEW International President Edwin D. Hill said that the trust is crucial to extend a life-line to unemployed people looking to regain a footing in the slippery economic climate.

“Across the nation, people are hurting for jobs,” Hill said. “For many, the picture isgetting bleaker every day. We believe the trust is largely designed to help the unemployedpeople in this country to not just stay afloat, but to have the chance of good-paying, thriv-ing careers.”

In an era where deregulation and massive downsizing has dealt a sharp blow to theindustry, training has taken a back seat to keeping budgets lean and hiring low. That, mixedwith the retirement forecast, mandated the need for creative solutions, IBEW Utility DirectorJim Hunter said.

“There’s a tremendous need to hire and train people within the industry, and we need toget started right now,” Hunter said. (See “Regional Training Centers: Solutions to Utility SkillShortage,” IBEW Journal, Winter 2008).

Classes are scheduled to begin this spring in Detroit, Tucson, Ariz., and Kansas City, Mo. �

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Honorary TributeL.U. 1 (as,c,ees,ei,em,es,et,fm,i,mt,rts,s,se,spa,st&ws),ST. LOUIS, MO—Local 1 recently honored Bro.Vito Gowatch, who turned 100 on Dec. 5, 2008. Bro.Gowatch received recognition at the union hall,where a resolution was read in his honor. Theresolution, sponsored by State Rep. Tony George,an IBEW Local 1 journeyman wireman, high-lighted Bro. Gowatch’s life and the dramaticchanges he has seen over the last 100 years.

Bro. Gowatch was born Dec. 5, 1908, in St.Louis. His parents immigrated to the UnitedStates from Italy. In 1942 Bro. Gowatch was initi-ated into IBEW Local 1 as a journeyman wireman.He retired from the trade in good standing in1975. Bro. Gowatch is well-known for his passionfor sports, and was a member

Guest speakers included IBEW Int. Vice Pres.Michael S. Mowrey and U.S. Rep. Laura Richardson.

Congratulations to all the gratuates.Receiving outstanding apprentice awards were:Geoffrey R. Marquez, inside wireman; Belete W.Belhu, sound and telecommunications; andGregory A. Case, transportation systems.Meritorious awards for grade average went to:Michael F. Vaverka, Carlos H. Melendez, RobertB. Kueppers and Jose A. Banuelos.

The organizing department held an industrynight event at the Electrical Training Institute.Interested candidates toured the facility andexplored opportunities with Local 11. The first50 attendees received door prizes. Thank you toKaiser Permanente and Walter’s WholesaleElectric for participating.

Bob Oedy, P.S.

Utility Local UpdateL.U. 15 (u), DOWNERSGROVE, IL—We mournthe loss of Bro. AlexCollazo, who died Dec. 11,2008, as a result of criticalburns caused by an elec-trical explosion thatoccurred at a 12,000-voltcable splice inside a man-

hole cubicle. Local 15 mem-bers showed overwhelmingsupport for Alex and his

family with cards, visits and donations.We hope for better times ahead for working

families under Pres. Obama’s administration. InDecember 2008, our members at the Exelon sub-sidiaries in Illinois overwhelmingly ratified afive-year contract that includes a 19 percentwage increase over the term of the agreement.

Our Dominion Energy/Kincaid Stationmembers helped the station surpass its UnitedWay goals. In late 2008, after discussions withthe company, we also succeeded in improvinghealth care benefits for our members.

Also in December, our members at MidwestGeneration received their compensation from the2001 illegal lockout/contract resolution, declaredby the NLRB. The local is discussing a “new hirebonus” to be paid to our members for successfulreferrals of future employees. Negotiations areongoing on reducing the months between time-step increases for our members advancingthrough the Progression Series/Time Steps.

At press time Local 15 and ExelonCorporation were scheduled to arbitrate, in lateFebruary, the question of whether the companyhad the right to unilaterally change retirees’ med-ical coverage/premiums without negotiations.

Ronald V. Welte, P.S.

EWMC Service ProjectL.U. 17 (catv,em,lctt,o&u), DETROIT, MI—Local17, partnered with Local 58, started theElectrical Workers Minority Caucus in theDetroit area. Spearheaded by Local 17 Vice Pres.Lamar Williams and Local 58 Pres. ElaineCrawford, the EWMC’s mission is promotingequal opportunity and employment for minoritiesat all levels of IBEW’s structure. Our EWMCdecided to do a public project each year. For the2008 community service project, they removedseveral large dead and dying ash trees from thegrounds of a local church. Over 30 members par-ticipated from both unions.

of Local 1’s bowling team for many years. Local 1congratulates Bro. Gowatch on his remarkableachievement and thanks him for his longtime,dedicated service.

We mourn the following members’ deaths:Anneliese Setzer, Edward Wipfler, RaymondGable, Scott Price, Norman Singler, KennethRodgers, Steven McIntyre, James Sellers, ElmerWagner, James Gibson, Jonathan Shaffer, OraHendrickson, Amalia Schager, James Manning,Henry Bellinger and Eugene Stillman.

Matt Gober, P.S.

Graduation CelebrationL.U. 11 (i,rts&spa), LOS ANGELES, CA—Congratulations to Joel Barton, who wasappointed president of Local 11 at the December2008 general membership meeting. He replacesformer president Dean Todd, who retired. Dean’slongtime service and his work to help move Local11 into the future are greatly appreciated.

A graduation ceremony for 127 apprenticeswas held aboard the historic Queen Mary in LongBeach. Graduates were honored by Local 11 Bus.Mgr. Marvin P. Kropke; Jim Wilson, Los AngelesCounty NECA executive manager; and Don Davis,Electrical Training Institute executive director.

Our Tree Trim Jamboree was a great suc-cess. A total of 37 trimmers and apprenticescompeted; winners were Mike McClellan(apprentice) and Adam Churilo (journeymantree trimmer). A big thanks to all volunteers.

Local 17 hosted a Detroit Edison LinemanSoftball Tournament, won by the Pontiac ServiceCenter’s team, and a union picnic at BloomerCity Park. Thanks to Chuck Dortenzio, whoorganized both events.

We are saddened to report the loss of Bros.Bruce Robertson, Bruce Tackett, TimothyDembowske, Jonathon Abbott, Herman Hamric,Maurice Thompson, Stephen Gutmann, NeilHintze and John B. Sheridan.

James H. Beaubien, P.S.

Team ‘Positive Energy’L.U. 37 (em,o&u), FREDERICTON, NEWBRUNSWICK, CANADA—IBEW Local 37 membersfrom the Point Lepreau nuclear facility recentlyparticipated in the Saint John Dragon BoatFestival to raise funds for the St Joseph’s HospitalFoundation. Their team, “Positive Energy,” made itinto the “B” group finals, where they finished aclose second to the Rothesay Regional PoliceForce team. More importantly, however, the teamraised over $18,000 for the foundation, the secondhighest amount raised by any team. Overall, it wasa great day and a great event.

The team was supported by a grant from thelocal’s Health, Wellness & Benefits committee. In2007 a program was established offering financialsupport for members who want to get involved incommunity fundraising projects related to healthand wellness issues. Local 37 members who areinterested in participating in similar eventsshould contact the office for further details.

Ross Galbraith, B.M.

Nine Mile Point Refuel OutageL.U. 43 (em,i&rts), SYRACUSE, NY—Work andthe economy remain slow in our area. There willbe a refuel outage at Nine Mile Point in March,with a few projects at the plant that shouldextend after the outage is over.

Local Lines

(as) Alarm and Signal

(ars) Atomic Research Service

(bo) Bridge Operators

(cs) Cable Splicers

(catv) Cable Television

(c) Communications

(cr) Cranemen

(ees) Electrical Equipment Service

(ei) Electrical Inspection

(em) Electrical Manufacturing

(es) Electric Signs

(et) Electronic Technicians

(fm) Fixture Manufacturing

(govt) Government

(i) Inside

(it) Instrument Technicians

(lctt) Line Clearance Tree Trimming

(lpt) Lightning Protection Technicians

(mt) Maintenance

(mo) Maintenance and Operation

(mow) Manufacturing Office Workers

(mar) Marine

(mps) Motion Picture Studios

(nst) Nuclear Service Technicians

(o) Outside

(p) Powerhouse

(pet) Professional, Engineers and Technicians

(ptc) Professional, Technical and Clerical

(rr) Railroad

(rtb) Radio-Television Broadcasting

(rtm) Radio-Television Manufacturing

(rts) Radio-Television Service

(so) Service Occupations

(s) Shopmen

(se) Sign Erector

(spa) Sound and Public Address

(st) Sound Technicians

(t) Telephone

(u) Utility

(uow) Utility Office Workers

(ws) Warehouse and Supply

IBEW Local 15 Bro.AlexCollazo (1970-2008).

IBEW Local 37’s team “Positive Energy” participatedin the Saint John Dragon Boat Festival fundraiser.

IBEW Local 1Pres. Tom George(left) and Bus.Mgr. SteveSchoemehl (right)present retiredBro. Vito Gowatchwith a resolutionmarking theoccasion of his100th birthday.

Trade Classifications

IBEW members from Detroit Locals 17 and 58remove dead trees from a local church yard as partof a community service project.

8 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

14 units on receiving years-of-service awards.On the organizing front, a first agreement

was reached at the City of Oglesby, while negotia-tions continue for a first agreement with the Cityof Geneseo. In regard to the campaign at the Cityof Peru, the State of Illinois and the administra-tive law judge ruled for the second time in Local51’s favor. We are waiting for the Labor Board toset a date for an election to be held.

Remember to work safe, give eight hours’ workfor eight hours’ pay and attend your union meetings.

Dan Pridemore, Pres.

‘26 For Africa’L.U. 77 (lctt,mt,o,t&u), SEATTLE, WA—Bro. CraigConover and his daughter Becky recently returnedfrom a trip to Uganda, where they visited schoolsthey support through their non-profit, 26 For Africa.Bro. Conover founded the charity after traveling toKenya and Uganda and witnessing the effects ofextreme poverty, disease and hardship on manychildren in Africa. The “26” in the name stands forthe 26 miles Bro. Conover ran in the SeattleMarathon on Nov. 30, 2008, to increase awarenessand raise funds for the three schools and approxi-mately 400 students they support. All monies raisedgo toward school construction, food for the children,school supplies and teachers. IBEW Local 77, alongwith Unit 115, was proud to help sponsor such aremarkable cause. If you wish to know more about26 For Africa and Bro. Conover’s mission to bringhope to impoverished children through education,visit Web sitewww.26forafrica.org.

David Wheeler, P.S.

Linemen Assist Scouts CampL.U. 97 (u), SYRACUSE, NY—On Nov. 15, 2008,eight members of Local 97 volunteered to rebuilda 4,800-KV line to a Boy Scouts camp in upstateNew York. The line was destroyed years earlier ina storm. Local 97 linemen spent 10 hoursrebuilding roughly eight broken poles as well asa new wire run, and completed additionalupgrades at the Scouts camp. Staff members ofthe Hiawatha Council of the Boy Scouts ofAmerica were greatly impressed with the Local97 linemen’s excellent work done so quickly.

Some of the members who participated inthe volunteer effort are shown in the accompa-nying photo.

Ronald Gosson, P.S.

Guest Speakers Laud ServiceL.U. 103 (cs&i), BOSTON, MA—Local 103’sannual retirement party was Sept. 27, 2008. Fortyof our newly retired members attended. Theyeach received an IBEW watch and were recog-nized for their service. Congratulations and bestwishes to all recent retirees.

The Local 103 children’s Christmas partywas Dec. 7. Nearly 650 children attended andenjoyed exciting entertainment as well as giftsand a visit from Santa. We thank committeechair Gary Walker, apprentices and volunteerswho made this event happen.

The Dec. 9 union meeting featured twoguest speakers. Golf Committee Chair EddieKeough welcomed guest Keegan Clark, chair ofthe Jimmy Fund affiliate of the Dana FaberCancer Institute. Bus. Mgr. Michael Monahanintroduced Clark and presented the Jimmy Funda $31,000 check from the Golf Committee. TheIBEW Golf Tournament raises money for cancerresearch. Over the years the membership hasraised over $500,000 to help find a cure.

Guest speaker Richy Eckley, Helmets toHardhats regional director, praised Local 103 andBus. Mgr. Mike Monahan for participation in theHTH program. Helmets to Hardhats providesopportunities for transitioning veterans to trainfor a career in the construction industry. Thusfar, we have placed over 70 returning veterans,providing career opportunities through our JATC.

The annual Christmas party followed theDec. 9 meeting. Nearly 500 members enjoyed thefestivities.

Bill Molineaux, P.S.

Poudre Valley REA DriveL.U. 111 (em,govt,lctt,mt,o,rtb,spa&u), DENVER,CO—We welcome the newly organized members ofPoudre Valley Rural Electric Association, whorecently voted to be represented by IBEW Local 111.

A special thank-you to lead lineman LennieJordan, member and employee of Poudre ValleyREA, for his efforts in this internal organizingdrive, which resulted in employees of theOperations Department choosing to be organizedinto the existing bargaining unit. Local 111 Asst..Bus. Mgr. Timio Archuleta and Pres. Duane Lawlorappreciate the support and dedication Lennie con-tributed in the workplace in helping this group seethe advantages of a collective bargaining agree-ment. The new members were globed into the cur-rent agreement and negotiations are currentlyunder way for wages and work rules.

Dennis Z. LeTurgez, P.S.

Annual Retirees LuncheonL.U. 115 (i&o), KINGSTON, ONTARIO,CANADA—Local 115 hosted our annual Retireesluncheon Dec. 1, 2008. The event was well-attended with 120 present. Attendees weretreated to a wonderful luncheon and many doorprizes were presented. The organizing committeethanks our Contractors’ Association for its gener-ous contribution, which enabled the committeeto provide for the many door prizes.

Thanks also to our local for providing theexcellent opportunity for retirees and guests toenjoy a great afternoon of fellowship. Servicepins were awarded at the event as follows: for 15years of service – Robert Norman; 20 years –Frank Doughty, Gord McArthur, Bill McDonald,Ray Sanchez; 45 years – Wally Hilts, Ed Long,Neal Storring; and 50 years – Stan Holland, MikeHamilton, Joe Law, Sam McArthur, Arthur “Bud”Saxton and Richard Soroka.

Our retired member Len Coyle was honoredin Kingston by being inducted into the KingstonSports Hall of Fame. Len was a fixture at QueensUniversity football games since 1947 as scorecrew member and timekeeper. He was an origi-nal member of Kingston’s junior hockey fran-chise, starting in 1973 as assistant trainer, and asreferee of the historical hockey series since 1975.Well done, Lennie.

J. Richard Soroka, P.S.

Oregon Burn CenterL.U. 125 (lctt,o,t&u), PORTLAND, OR—The OregonBurn Center at Legacy Emanuel Hospital inPortland continues to reap benefits from Local 125members who are committed to supporting the BurnCenter and its patients. For years, our membershave donated time and money to the Burn Center.

Recently, the Northwest Lineman’s RodeoCommittee presented a check for $15,000 to theBurn Center. Additionally, Local 125 members

Shown in the accompanying photo are the2008 apprentice graduates, our newest journey-men. The photo was taken at the dinner andawards ceremony, where two special awards werepresented. Bro. Brandon Reese received theAcademic Achievement Award for highest five-year cumulative average, and Bro. BrandonIsaacs received the Outstanding ApprenticeAward. JATC Dir. Peter Dulcich has done anotheroutstanding job with this current crop of newjourneymen. Congratulations to all.

Jim Corbett, P.S.

SCE Contract RatifiedL.U. 47 (lctt,mo,o,u&uow), DIAMOND BAR,CA—Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Along with the restof the IBEW, we are hoping for Pres. Obama toturn this economy around. Thank you to IBEWmembers throughout the country who volun-teered during the 2008 presidential and otherfederal, state and local races.

We have several transmission line projectsready to start but have not yet broken ground.Our utility workers at Southern California Edisonand the municipalities remain largely unaffectedso far by the economic downturn. We are workingwith SCE and the inside locals in our jurisdictionto promote rooftop solar projects under a projectlabor agreement.

We are in bargaining for several groupsrecently organized, including the planners at SanOnofre Nuclear Generator Plant and the SCEutility workers on Catalina Island.

Our SCE members ratified a three-yearagreement by a margin of 92 percent to 8 per-cent. Wages will increase 3.5 percent in 2009; 4percent – 2010; and 4 percent - 2011.

We completed negotiations on our “under-ground agreement.” The one-year agreementcalls for a 3.25 percent increase.

We are saddened to report the passing of:Rubin Lopez, Joshua Fulayter, Tony “Penguin”Avila and David Mendoza. Our thoughts andprayers are with their families.

Live safe, live well, work union!

Stan Stosel, P.S.

Years-of-Service AwardsL.U. 51 (catv,lctt,o,rtb,t&u), SPRINGFIELD, IL—Local 51 presented years-of-service awards to itsmembership at the December 2008 unit meetings.

Construction unit recipients were: StaceyEdwards, Paul Harris, Levi Rankin, Sean Traceyand Chad VanCamp (for 10 years of service); WesHardin, Dan Johnson and Terry Long (15 years);Ron Breeden and Johnnie Horton (20 years); BradKeffeler (25 years); Paul Blake, Mike Cone, DavidFry and Greg Hall (30 years); Lynn Sass and JesseWake (35 years); and Carl Theobald (40 years).Local 51 congratulates all members from the local’s

IBEW Local 43 apprentice graduates attend gradua-tion ceremony. Also pictured is JATC Dir. PeterDulcich (middle row, far left).

Local 77 member Craig Conover (wearing red IBEWshirt) visits schools in Africa.

IBEW Local 97 volunteers who provided elec-trical repair work at an upstate New York BoyScouts of America camp included: from left,kneeling, Sam Maalouf, Jerome Sauta, LynnRoot, Local 97 Vice Pres. Steve Delaney;standing, Ken Bundy, Dan Hefti, Paul Wilsonand Don LeBeau.

Local 115 retired members receive 50-year serviceaward pins. From left: Mike Hamilton, Neal Storring,Richard Soroka, Arthur “Bud” Saxton and Joe Law.Not pictured is Stan Holland.

IBEW Pacific Northwest Lineman’s Rodeo Committeemembers present check to the Oregon Burn Center.From left are Local 125 PNLRC members DougShaffer, Rob Wales, Bill Quimby; OBC Mgr. CherylRitz; Local 125 PNLRC member Brian Williams; andKathleen Buckley, OBC Foundation specialist.

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 9

employed by Bonneville Power Administration atChemawa donated $500 as well. Thank you toour many members who continue to support thisvaluable resource.

While we hope no one has to use the BurnCenter, we should feel secure knowing the bestcare is available for burn victims if ever needed.In addition to the treatment of actual patients,the Burn Center provides a variety of burn edu-cation programs to the community. To learnmore about the Burn Center and how you cansupport it, please contact Karis Stoudamire atkstoudam@lhs.org or (503) 413-6954

Marcy Putman, P.S.

Wheeling Work SlowsL.U. 141 (ees,i,o&u), WHEELING, WV—Work in thearea is slow while waiting for the economy to turnaround. As with many local union jurisdictions,plants and mills in our area are cutting back and notmany companies are spending or building right now.

The 2008 Christmas party was well-attended.Service pins were handed out. Members receiving50-year pins were: Werner Bechtel, John Dusci,David Hicks, John Kapak, Charles Knight, RichardC. Mayeres, Harry Orth, Joe L. Sberna, RobertScheid, Charles Strahl, Joseph J. Straughn andLawrence D. Wallace. A 55-year pin went to WillisAmend. Receiving 60-year pins: Melvin Fankhauser,Robert Helfer, Henry Miller and Miles Witchey. Bro.Thomas J. Myers, who passed away earlier last year,was posthumously awarded a 55-year pin.

The social committee won second prize in theMarshall County Christmas parade with the local’sfirst float entry. Winnings were donated to theMarines’ Toys for Tots program. Congratulationsand thanks to everyone for giving their time andhard work.

Our condolences go to the families of Bros.Jerry McDermott and Howard Pickering, whopassed away. These brothers are greatly missed.

Justin Klempa, P.S.

Hope for Improved OutlookL.U. 143 (em,i&spa), HARRISBURG, PA—OnDec. 6, 2008, Local 143 held our annual children’sChristmas party. We had 60 kids and their parentsin attendance. On Dec. 13, we held our localChristmas party. We thank everyone who volun-teered their time to make these events a success.

The work picture here slowed down overthe winter but we hope things will pick up soon.

Mark Holder, P.S.

Awards PresentedL.U. 153 (em,i,rtb,rts,se,spa&st), SOUTH BEND,IN—Mike Popovich was honored during theDecember 2008 union meeting with the IBEWLifesaving Award for his quick action in perform-ing CPR on an AEP employee at DC Cook nuclearfacility. Thanks to Mike, that gentleman was alsoable to enjoy the holidays with his family, too!

Troy Warner was also honored during themeeting with the Distinguished Service Awardfor his work with COPE and with the Obamaelection campaign over the past year.

It was another banner year for the “Stuff aBus” event, the local’s annual food drive. The foodcollected is needed more than ever this year.

Troy D. Warner, A.B.A.

75-Year Membership PinL.U. 193 (i,lctt,o,rts,spa&u), SPRINGFIELD,IL—Local 193 honored retired Bro. ThomasRachford with a 75-year membership pin on Dec.13, 2008, at the annual Christmas dinnerdance/awards ceremony. Congratulations andthank you, Bro. Rachford, for your years of dedi-cation and service.

Bro. Andy Hart won the 50/50 HELP (HelpElectricians Live Proud) Fund drawing thatevening. We thank Bro. Hart for donating his$600 winnings back to the fund to help fellowmembers who are unable to work due to illnessor injuries.

Also that evening, a special raffle and draw-ing was held for Bro. Ed Shelton, who is under-going a stem cell transplant. Sara Peterson wonthe beautiful jewelry donated by Giganti &Giganti Jewelers. $1,100 was raised for Bro.Shelton to provide assistance during this diffi-cult time. Our best wishes go out to Bro. Shelton.

We extend sympathy to the families of threemembers who recently passed away: ThomasRedpath, Larry Keafer and Darrell Leesman.

Don Hudson, P.S.

‘Hope for Better Times Ahead’L.U. 197 (em&i), BLOOMINGTON, IL—We hopefor better times ahead in 2009. Unfortunately,our local had about 25 percent unemploymentduring 2008. As our economy worsens and plantsand retail stores close, this is the time to keephoning our skills to be the very best in our field.Attend journeyman classes when offered. Let’shelp our Brotherhood by attending these classes,thus showing customers and contractors that weare professional, committed and proud to be thebest electrical workers anywhere.

Our 2008 Christmas party featured greatfood and entertainment, and service pins wereawarded. The Chestney family band, comprised ofunion family and friends, entertained. Two band

members, Tim Mattson and Jeff Swartz, are fromour own local; and three are union pipefitters.

Service pin recipients in attendanceincluded: 35-year members Elmer Alsene, LarryMathis, Michael Mulcahey, Zeke Paire, LanceReece; 30-year members Larry Bartosik, BillSwindle; 20-year members J.R. Gordon, DarrinRexroat; and 15-year member Eric Post. RetireesRobert Branom (40 years) and James Maginellalso received awards.

Thanks to Steve Rousey, who planned theparty, and all who helped make it a success.First-year apprentices set up; Don Armstrongstrung Christmas lights; and assistantsincluded Dale Glasscock, Ken McLean, TomPeasley, Clint Miller, Matt Wall, Rob Strasser,Rich Veitengruber and Bernie Uscienski.

Mike Raikes, P.S.

Informing the PublicL.U. 229 (em&i), YORK, PA—The evening of Nov.15, 2008, marked the 90th anniversary of Local229. We gathered at the Valencia Ballroom in Yorkfor a phenomenal night of great food, conversa-tion and dancing. Service awards were handedout for members with five to 60 years of service.

The local is busy educating the public aboutthe Employee Free Choice Act by such means asletters to the editor in the local newspaper; also,at press time, we anticipated a future article inthe local newspaper featuring interviews withorganized members and the business managerdescribing how they were harassed during recentorganizing campaigns.

We believe the Employee Free Choice Actwill greatly increase our chances of signing con-tractors in the future. The work picture for thelocal continues to look promising for 2009. We willpossibly be putting out Book II in spring 2009.

Mark Tomes, P.S.

Holiday FestivitiesL.U. 265 (i,mt,rts&spa), LINCOLN, NE—OnDec. 7, 2008, Local 265 members held theirannual Christmas party for their families.There was a pretty good turnout consideringthe number of members working out of juris-diction at the time.

Festivities began with great entertainment bythe Shriners, who entertained for an astounding90 minutes. A clown-magician performed magictricks and another clown made balloon animals forthe kids. When Santa Claus showed up, all thechildren’s faces lit up with anticipation. Therewere so many children, it took Santa 60 minutes tocall their names and give them their gifts. All theexcitement was topped off by excellent homemadebaked goods. Many thanks to everyone who helpedmake our Christmas party a success.

Joe Davis, R.S.

Wichita Members Give BackL.U. 271 (i,rtb,rts&spa), WICHITA, KS—Theyear 2008 saw several volunteer opportunities forthe membership. Last April, Local 271 was repre-sented at the annual SIDS walk at Wichita StateUniversity. The SIDS walk supports prevention ofsudden infant death syndrome.

Last October, 65 members and family cametogether with friends and family of Bro. ChrisFreed to participate in the annual walk to defeatALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Bro. Freedwas diagnosed with ALS in June 2008. Five teamscombined donations, pledges and contributionswith matching contributions by local contractorLinder and Associates for a total of nearly$21,000 for ALS research.

In November, about 15 members volun-teered to install seasonal power distribution forHeartspring, a non-profit school and life-skillsinstitution for handicapped children. This worksupplied power for Heartspring’s “Lights on theLake” program, the school’s primary fundraiserfor the year.

Thank you to all the members who helpedwith these noble causes.

The work picture in Wichita has taken aturn for the worse recently due to the downturnin the economy. We are encouraged by the prom-ise of change and look forward to new leadershipin Washington, DC.

Jay Thomas, Ex. Bd. Chmn./P.S.

Annual Holiday SocialL.U. 307 (ees,es,i,o&u), CUMBERLAND, MD—OnDec. 20, 2008, local members enjoyed our annualholiday social. The evening featured a socialhour with hor d’oeuvres, followed by the 2008awards ceremony, and concluded with electri-cians showcasing their talents on the dance floor.(See photo on next page.)

Bus. Mgr. Rich Carder requested a moment ofsilence to honor members who passed away in 2008:Archie Dean, Bud Jewell, John Courrier, Robert“Rabbit” Weber, Mike Conner and Mike Lehman.

2008 retirees, who received gold IBEWwristwatches, were: George Shaffer, JohnHinebaugh, Dave Dellinger, Ed Harvey, KeithPhllips, Terry Himmler, Bill Shoup, ArtStrietbeck and Denny Walters.

Among 2008 service-pin recipients were: For 60years of service - Darrell Diehl, 55 years - CharlieFinkenbinder, Robert Long, Ted Lynch andLawerence Stevens; 45 years - Ken Park and JohnRitchie; 40 years - Sam Greise, Harold Logsdon andDon Reid; 35 years - Bob Boyle, Rich Carder, AlfredFairall, Marty Fornwalt, Craig Henry, Rob Klinger,Dennis McCagh, Gene Newhouse, Keith Phillips,William Renner, Murt Robey, Bill Seeders, KenSkidmore, Art Streitbeck and GaryWallizer; 30 years -

Local 153 Bus. Mgr. Michael Compton (right) pres-ents IBEW Lifesaving Award to Mike Popovich.

Local 197 members receive service pins at2008 Christmas party. From left, front row, Bus.Mgr. Lance Reece, Larry Mathis, Elmer Alsene,Darrin Rexroat, James Maginell, MichaelMulcahey, Larry Bartosic and Eric Post; backrow, J.R. Gordon, Zeke Paire, Bill Swindle, Pres.Rich Veitengruber and Robert Branom.

Local 271 Bro. Chris Freed (center) is joined by fam-ily, friends and fellow union members at theOctober 2008 ALS walk.

Kelly Adams, Gary Blake, Jerry Chungo, HaroldCline, Rick Emerick, Denzil Hott, Denny Jedlowski,Frank Ratke, Rick Twigg and Steve Wigfield.

Local 307 congratulates all award recipients.

Jon “Rosey” Rosenberger, R.S.

Work Holds SteadyL.U. 309 (i,lctt,mo,mt,o,rts,spa&u),COLLINSVILLE, IL—Despite the current eco-nomic downturn, the work picture for the insidebranch should hold steady. The two big projectsin our jurisdiction are Suncoke at U.S. Steel andAbengoa Ethanol Plant in Granite City.

The outside branch is experiencing fullemployment and working many travelers.

Our 50-year dinner was held at Sunset HillsCountry Club. The event was well-attended asusual. It is always nice to see our retired mem-bers enjoy themselves.

The date has been changed for our annualPAC golf tournament. It will be held at LocustHills Golf Club in June 2009.

Stay involved and attend your local unionmeetings. Work smart and work safe.

Scott Tweedy. A.B.M.

Statewide Electrical LicensingL.U. 347 (em,i,mt,rtb,rts&spa), DES MOINES, IA—It should be no secret that Local 347 has worked fora few years advocating the implementation ofstatewide licensing, and it’s finally being successful.

Our motive in this effort was to provide thepublic with a safer and more reliable end productand to create a reasonable standard that we canall live with in the electrical industry. Just as theIBEW was instrumental in establishing workrules and labor regulations in the past, whichwere eventually adopted as the law of the land,we feel that these efforts with regard to licensing,electrical permits and inspections will have thesame impact on our state. The requirements forlicense renewal of the Continuing EducationUnits (CEU) will certainly help bring conformityto all electrical work done in the state. We seethis as the IBEW working for the public good. OurJATC is working closely with the State of Iowa tofulfill the requirements for journeyman training.

Mike Schweiger, P.S.

‘Keep Our Union Strong’L.U. 349 (em,i,mps,rtb,spa&u), MIAMI, FL—OurEntertainment Committee did a great job on allthe 2008 events. Closing out the year were twosocial events, both a great success.

The Friends of Labor event saw a turnout ofabout 600 friends for food and socializing.

At our annual children’s Christmas party,Santa and his helpers handed out toys and prizesfor the kids. They also gave out hams and turkeysto the members. Our thanks to Oscar Ordaz forhis help with the children’s Christmas party.

With the arrival of 2009 and the change to aDemocratic president, we hope the work picturepicks up by mid-year or sooner. We look forwardto a successful year.

We look back with fond memories of ourmembers who passed away in 2008.

Keep our union strong; attend your localunion meetings. Remember our troops overseasand away from home.

Frank Albury, P.S./Ex. Brd.

10 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

Service Award HonoreesL.U. 357 (c,i,mt&se), LAS VEGAS, NV—On Dec.11, 2008, we had our annual dinner for ourretired members. We had a good turnout, and alot of fun. The evening was topped off by a pres-entation of service award pins.

A 30-year pin was awarded to Glennwood L.Nason. Awarded 50-year pins were: Oscar W. Bolen,Horace E. Brady, Robert T. Gurdison, Thomas C.Harmon, Calvin E. Henry, Jack D. McClure, Dan A.Moore, Erno Nagy, Everett D. Nason, Raymond A.Trousdale, Michael B. “Brian” Ward, Paul G. Willis,Gerald T. Huston, Frederick S. Baker, and posthu-mously to Donald M. Giles and Paul B. Schmutz.Awarded 55-year pins: Obrey L. Davis, Mark A.Ebarb, Oscar K. Freeman, Arnoldo “Arnie” N.Garcia, Thomas B. Nowlin, Thomas P. Scanlan,Ralph R. Stockton, Earl E. Wescoatt, Hugh E.Shirley, Frank R. Helbert, Mario D. Colapelle,Edwin C. Clover, and posthumously to Gene Janski.

Awarded 60-year pins were Joe M.Dominguez, and Lorne R. McKay.

The Dec. 13 Christmas party for Local 357families was our biggest holiday party ever and agreat success.

Timothy W. Bolton, P.S.

Election & Organizing SuccessL.U. 375 (catv,ees&i), ALLENTOWN, PA—Ourlocal thanks all members and their families whoparticipated in 2008 election volunteer activities,whether for phone banks, labor walks or assis-tance with mailings. All our hard work and sacri-fices during the election cycle were greatlyrewarded by the election of Pres. Barack Obamaand also by enhanced Democratic majorities inthe U.S. House and Senate! It was also rewardingto receive many thanks and praise from local andnational labor organizations, as well as otherpolitical organizations that acknowledged ourlocal’s dedication!

Our appreciation also goes to the Local 375organizers, who had a successful 2008.Organizers held four elections for representation,and three of the elections resulted in a ‘yes’ vote.The three victories are with PHI/Conectiv PowerGenerating Plant, Upper Macungie TownshipPublic Works Department, and with NorthWhitehall Township Public Works Department.

With these elections the IBEW gained 52 newmembers. The negotiating committees workedtirelessly to negotiate first agreements for thesenew units. We welcome the new members and lookforward to seeing them at future local union familypicnics, Christmas parties and clam bakes.

Roger D. Gaydos, P.S.

Promoting UnionismL.U. 449 (catv,em,i,o,rtb,rts,spa&u),POCATELLO, ID—As of this writing the workpicture looks promising for Local 449 membersand traveling brothers and sisters. With threeorganizers on staff, we are targeting contractorsand learning of their misconception of the IBEW,and of the second and third generation of resent-ments of those denied membership in the 1960sand ’70s.

As I was organized myself, I feel it’s myresponsibility, and that of the membership, towelcome, help and teach the newly organizedcontractors and members.

With participation of the local buildingtrades, police, firefighters, teachers, etc., andtheir retirees, we will soon begin airing a pro-gram on the local community access channel andadvertising on a local cable channel to promoteorganized labor and unionism.

With the new presidential administration inplace, it’s time to promote organized union laborand enhance unity with the passion of our forefa-thers. Internally we can get involved in our localunion, attend meetings, participate in solutionsand adhere to our collective bargaining agree-ments. May we never forget where we came fromand always remember, it is “unionISm,” not“unionWASm.”

Local 449 extends condolences to the fami-lies of deceased Bros. David Long and WilbertMcCurdy.

Happy retirement to Bro. Victor Braegger.

Mike Lee Miera, V.P./Org.

‘United We Bargain’L.U. 459 (ees,em,govt,so&u), JOHNSTOWN,PA—Local 459 officers thank the members whostepped up and volunteered during theNovember 2008 presidential election. The localwas actively involved with the Central LaborCouncil neighborhood walks and phone banking.We also phoned our members and sent out

numerous mailings. Thanks to all volunteerswho participated and to all members who gotout and voted.

Local 459 conducted its annual food drivein December 2008 and it did very well.

Bus. Mgr. Don Hoak and staff successfullynegotiated and finalized six contracts in 2008.The local has seven contracts to be negotiated in2009. Hopefully, Local 459 will be as successfulin 2009 as it has been in past years. To accom-plish this, we must all work together. United webargain. Divided we beg.

Kenneth L. Richards, Pres./A.BM.

Electrical Code ReviewL.U. 531 (i), LaPORTE, IN—Having recentlyattended an electrical inspectors code review, puton by NECA and IBEW Locals 531, 697 and 134, Ifound some of the 2008 changes very interesting.

Some of these changes are as follows:Receptacles for garage door openers shall

now be GFCI protected, as well as all others inthe garage. GFCI protection will now be addedfor all drinking fountains.

Tamper resistant receptacles were alsoadded for dwelling units. All 15- and 20-amp,125-volt receptacles shall be listed as tamperresistant. This rule applies to receptaclesbehind appliances, as well as the rest of thedwelling. Tamper resistant receptacles basi-cally have shutters that prevent intrusionunless the device senses two prongs entering atthe same time.

New for the 2008 addition of the NEC is fur-ther expansion of the requirements that haveoccurred, with combination type AFCIs nowrequired for all 120-volt, single phase, 15- and 20-amp branch circuits supplying outlets installedin dwelling units, which includes all rooms.Branch feeder type AFCIs are no longer permit-ted in these applications.

The above are just some of the 2008changes, which is not to say that the state ofIndiana will accept all these changes.

Jim Switzer, P.S.

Santa Rosa Solar ProjectL.U. 551 (c,i&st), SANTA ROSA, CA—For

you folks out there who don’t believe politicsplay a big part in your work picture, think again.Our Bus. Mgr. Jack Buckhorn, attending to apolitical matter, was having a cup of coffee withSanta Rosa City School Board member JimLeddy. While in conversation, Leddy mentionedthat Borrego was to finalize a bid on installing asolar system for three area schools. Bus. Mgr.Buckhorn let Leddy know that the company is anonunion contractor and said he wished theyhad this conversation sooner.

This conversation led to a phone call thenext morning from Leddy asking Bus. Mgr.Buckhorn for his help to find a contractor toinstall the system, as Borrego at the last minutehad pulled out of the deal. Bus. Mgr. Buckhornand Dispatcher Steve Stobel got on the phoneimmediately calling all contractors.

Union contractor Bass Electric commis-sioned the job on Dec. 22, 2008, making the end-of-the-year deadline.

Andre Parlett, the foreman on the job, saidthe deadline was met because of the trainedunion inside wiremen. He said “I was verypleased with the hands on this project.”

Completed in three months, Elsie Allen

Local 357 service award recipients are recognizedat December 2008 dinner for retired members.Extending congratulations are Bus. Mgr./Fin. Sec.David R. Jones (back row, left) and Pres. CharlesTom Stetson (back row, right)

Local 307 retired members and officers enjoy the 2008 holiday social. From left are retired members BillShoup and Keith Phillips; Bus. Mgr. Rich Carder; retired member Terry Himmler; and Pres. George Koontz.

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 11

High alone has 2,700 solar panels installed. Incomparison the San Francisco Airport has a3,000 panel system. Another job well-done.

Denise D. Soza, V.P./P.S.

‘Jim Westfall Day’L.U. 569 (i,mar,mt,rts&spa), SAN DIEGO, CA—Congratulations to Jim Westfall on his Jan. 1retirement. A reception was held Dec.15, 2008,with approximately 130 people in attendance, tohonor Jim for his accomplishments and dedica-tion to our industry. At the reception, the Countyof San Diego declared Dec. 15 as Jim Westfall Day.

Jim served as training director of the SanDiego Electrical JATC for 21 years. In 2004, hewas awarded the Founders Trophy for exemplaryservice to the electrical industry. In 2006, he wasinducted into the California Apprenticeship Hallof Fame by the Governor’s Commission onApprenticeship.

Jim completed the inside wireman appren-ticeship in San Diego, worked as a journeymanwireman, foreman and general foreman for anumber of years before serving six years as abusiness representative and one year as anorganizer for IBEW Local 569 prior to becomingthe training director.

Jim co-founded the Construction TechAcademy, with over 400 full-time high school stu-dents, for the purpose of providing the studentsan opportunity to explore careers in constructionand to prepare them for entry into college orapprenticeship. Jim received two associatedegrees in business management and electricityfrom Palomar College.

Nicholas J. Segura Jr., P.S.

A New Day in WashingtonL.U. 595 (c,govt,i&st), DUBLIN, CA—We cele-brate the historic presidential inauguration anda passage from eight years of attacks on thelabor movement to the onset of repair. We lookforward to a new day of hope in Washington fororganized labor.

Local 595 members helped elect a presidentwho will bring back the middle class, support theEmployee Free Choice Act, and more. We arealso excited about some of Pres. Obama’s earlynominees, such as Steven Chu to head theDepartment of Energy and Hilda Solis forSecretary of Labor. With such choices, we areencouraged about the future of renewable energyand workers’ rights in America. Our new presi-dent instills hope for working Americans.

Local 595 ended 2008 with wonderful activi-ties for members. Over 200 children attended ourtwo “Santa at the Hall” events, in Dublin andStockton. Thanks to office staff and retirees fortheir work on the event. Our annual Old Timers’Night on Dec. 11 at Centennial Hall in Haywardsaw a large turnout. Service pins were awarded,including two 60-year pins.

Our Retirees Club’s holiday luncheon atFrancesco’s Restaurant in Oakland on Dec. 18featured entertainment and prize raffles. Theclub has many trips booked for 2009.

We mourn the death of retired former Local595 business representative Wayne Livingston onNov. 6, 2008. Bro. Livingston previously was pres-ident/business manger of former Local 591.

Tom Mullarkey, B.R.

Wind and Tank Farm ProjectsL.U. 601 (i&rtb), CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL—Local 601 held a “steak stag” in the Streator areaNov. 1, 2008. There was a good turnout of about40 members and everyone had a great time.Several retired members also attended and itwas nice to see them. Thanks to the StreatorSteak Stag Committee for a well-prepared meal.Raffle drawings were held for electrical tools,IBEW shirts and IBEW hats. We thank the busi-nesses that donated raffle items.

The northern area of the jurisdiction haswind turbine projects starting, with 67 wind tur-bines on one project and 22 turbines on another.

Also in the jurisdiction is a tank farm proj-ect, an 80-tank Canadian crude pipeline andstorage facility; this project should last for thenext five years. When completed, there will befour pipelines from the facility running fromcoast to coast.

Additionally, a Wal-Mart project is sched-uled to start in March. The LaSalle Powerhouse

security projects have started and should becompleted sometime in October. At this time,with the way the economy is, we are thankful tohave work in the area.

Dan Hatter, P.S.

Work Picture SlowL.U. 611 (catv,es,govt,i,lctt,o,spa,t&u), ALBU-QUERQUE, NM—In my last article (ElectricalWorker, January 2009), I left out the name ofone of our recent apprentice graduates; JuanSolano was inadvertently omitted from the list ofgraduates. The 2008 outstanding apprentice wasPeter Lohberger, and David Schroeder had per-fect attendance. Congratulations to all.

As of this writing there has been little activ-ity work-wise. There have been a few calls toEunice and to Farmington, but other than thatwork has been slow.

Local 611 extends condolences to the fami-lies of our members who recently passed away:Lonam Fogelman, Eddie C. Apodaca, Marvin H.Stone, Raymond L. Coen and Scott D. Fincher.

Darrell J. Blair, P.S.

Annual PAC BreakfastL.U. 613 (em,i,o,rts&spa), ATLANTA, GA—Atthis writing, our work has slowed a little, but weare very hopeful about the rest of this year. We’llhave to wait and see. Our thanks go out to all thelocals working our members.

Our annual PAC and friends of the IBEWbreakfast (which was started by our past busi-ness agent Ron Napty) was a huge success lastyear. U.S. Rep. David Scott joined us, as did ourcontractors and many other politicians.Everybody looks forward to this event every yearand we appreciate everyone’s support.

Our annual kids Christmas party was a hugesuccess with over 500 attending, 350 of whomwere children who received presents. (Seephoto.) We deeply appreciate the support of ourmembers with union events. Remember, none ofthis would be possible without you the members.

Union meetings are where your union busi-ness is handled. Meetings are held the thirdTuesday of each month. The May 2009 union meet-ing was moved from May 19 to May 26. The E-Board will meet May 25. Your business managerhas graciously been having a hot meal prepared foryou before each meeting. Meals are served from 4p.m. to 5:30 p.m., so come join us for supper.

Steve Warren, A.B.M.

‘Solidarity at Its Best’L.U. 617 (c,i,mo&st), SAN MATEO, CA—The eco-nomic climate has created serious need for manyworking families, and here in San Mateo our

members have responded with robust generosity.The union food bank helps families in needthrough monthly food distributions. Donationreceptacles await eager donors at both the unionhall and the training center. The difficulties ofthe holiday season have continued into the firstmonths of the new year and our membership’ssustained charitable response continues to makea difference for many local families.

The Local 617 Electrical Workers MinorityCaucus chapter arrived at the January NationalConference in New Orleans with tools at hand!The two days prior to the conference were spentrepairing homes and structures damaged byHurricane Katrina. Officers of our chapter plansimilar efforts at home in coordination withRebuilding Together on the Peninsula.

Our motorcycle club joined Local 6’s ToyDrive on Dec. 6, 2008, with a few hundred otherbikers. After dropping off toys and enjoying ahearty pancake breakfast, we enjoyed a sunnyand relatively warm ride through the city and upto Point Reyes. It was solidarity at its best!

Dan Pasini, V.P.

Service AwardsL.U. 625 (ees,em,i,mar&mt), HALIFAX, NOVASCOTIA, CANADA—As I write this article, a newyear is upon us. Best wishes to all IBEW bothersand sisters for the year ahead.

Local 625 members who received 40-yearpins in 2008 are as follows: In Unit #1 - AngusBartlett, Arnold Booth, Ken G. Boutilier, AlexBresson, Leroy Burns, Laurie Card, Ambrose Cole,Leonard Cole, Murray Conrod, Bill Crowell, AllanCurrie, Bob Fader, Robert Gogan, Mike A. King,Dwight Ross and Paul Singer; in Unit #2 - ConnieBeaton, Craig Buckley, Sandy MacAdam, DonnieJoe MacDonald, Ray MacDonald, John MacKinnonand Reg Robicheau; Unit #3 - Ed Atwell; Unit #4 -Fred Brunt and Frank Hubley; and Unit #5 - DanielConrod. Receiving a 45 year pin was Frank Holmanin Unit #1. Congratulations, brothers, and thankyou for proving the IBEW is the right choice.

Several members received journeyman sta-tus recently: Jonathan McAllister, David Lade,Mark Stanford, Chris Church, Ben Colter, BradBoyle, Derek Sampson, Kenny Burt, TrevorSmith, Jonathan Faulkner, Jason MacInnis,

Standing by the grill at Local 601’s “steak stag” areAdam Yuhas (left) and Asst. Bus. Mgr. Lee McMahan.

Local 595 Bro. Rich Redgrave (at podium) receiveshis 60-year pin. Also shown are, from second left:Jeff Redgrave, 25-year pin recipient; Rec. Sec. EarlHampton; Allen Redgrave; David Redgrave, 35-yearpin recipient; and Paul Redgrave.

Local 611 congratulates its most recent inside wire-man graduating class.

Atlanta Local 613 members and their children enjoy2008 holiday party.

Local 625 Bro. Ray MacDonald (center) receives 40-year service pin at 2008 Christmas dinner/dance.Presenting the award are Bus. Mgr. Tim Swinamer(left) and Pres. Tom Griffiths (right).

IBEW Local 551members receivedplaudits for theirinstallation of a bigsolar system proj-ect at a SantaRosa, CA, school.

James Hubley, Mike Potter, Joe Saulnier andStephen Foster. That makes 21 total new jour-neymen in 2008. Congratulations, brothers.

Tom Griffiths, Pres.

Diablo Canyon Plant WorkL.U. 639 (i&rts), SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA—As2008 came to a close, Local 639 was busy dis-patching electricians to Diablo Canyon NuclearPower Plant. A majority of the work was with Day& Zimmerman NPS performing the usual refuel-ing outage work, while a second contrac-tor, Washington Group International, workedon the Unit 1 Steam Generator Replacement(SGR). The Unit 2 side of the SGR project wasdone in early 2008. Together, over 120 wiremenwere sent out to the plant. A big thank-you goesto the traveling brothers and sisters who helpedon both phases of the project.

The local just completed a remodel on theback half of our building, transforming therather dreary rooms into state-of-the-art class-rooms for the ever-growing apprenticeship pro-gram. Plans are now underway to improve theoffice area in the front of the building as well asthe barbeque grounds in the back.

Local 639 continues to position theIBEW/NECA team to be leaders in the emerging“green” technologies in California. We will offerour ongoing solar photovoltaic class again thisspring and are involved in an energy efficientlighting and control certification training programbeing developed by the IBEW/NECA CaliforniaState Labor-Management Cooperation Committee.

Hank Lewis, B.M.

Year End Wrap-UpL.U. 683 (em&i), COLUMBUS, OH—November2008 ended with the Sports Committee hostingthe annual OSU/Michigan game party and theBuckeyes scored another big win.

In early December the annual Christmaslights/White Castle breakfast was held on a cold,rainy Saturday morning. Bill Davies organizedthe event. (The crew is pictured in the accompa-nying photo.)

The retirees Christmas luncheon on Dec. 13was well-attended, and the invitation to currentofficers was greatly appreciated.

Thanks to the volunteers who helped out onDec. 13-14 for the Annual One New Toy Program.This Christmas time program is to help unionmembers who have been laid off.

The 2008 union meeting/Christmas partybrought in many members; raffles were held forBlue Jackets tickets, a rifle, money and unionapparel. At that event the Volunteer of the YearAward was given to Skip Teaford.

Also in December was the Friends of Laborluncheon, held to extend our thanks to the manypeople, including politicians, contractors andothers, who helped labor during the year.Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

Hopefully the new president and Congresswill work as hard as we did, getting themelected, to better the lives of all union members.

Rick Deime, V.P./P.S.

Scholarship AwardedL.U. 723 (em,govt,rtb,rts&t), FORT WAYNE, IN—We received seven entries for the Local 723 schol-arship contest last year. The 2008 essay topic was

“A native Hoosier and American labor hero,Eugene V. Debs, and his contribution in the labormovement.” We have a winner. Congratulations toMolly Getts, who won the $1,000 scholarship.

Shelly Barbour, R.S./P.S.

Spirit of Union VolunteerismL.U. 725 (i,rts&spa), TERRE HAUTE, IN—Wehave been fortunate to have steady employmentdue to large projects continuing at Union Hospitalin Terre Haute, the Edwardsport Coal Gasificationplant, and work at the Marathon Refinery inRobinson, IL. We have over 300 currently on BookII and welcome travelers to sign in.

During the flooding in our area last sum-mer, many of our members volunteered theirtime and assisted those who needed helprebuilding. The parents of member Erin Algoodencountered damage, and six of Erin’s unionbrothers from Cassady Electric rewired theAlgood’s home in a day. Thanks to all the volun-teers out there who are doing great deeds anddisplay the spirit of unionism!

We are excited that for the first time since1964, Indiana went “blue” in the presidentialelection! Congratulations to President Obama.We hope to see some great things from the newlyelected Congress. We need to stay active andcontinue to inform our elected representativesabout much-needed change in labor law, startingwith passage of the Employee Free Choice Act.

Tom Szymanski, Org.

Three Shops OrganizedL.U. 773 (as,em,i,mo&o), WINDSOR, ONTARIO,CANADA—Work in our jurisdiction remains veryslow and we have many members on the road.

In town, work has finished on the WFCUCentre, home of the Windsor Spitfires hockeyclub. Demonstrating their first-class workman-ship, IBEW members employed by Vollmer andAssociates wired this beautiful facility.

Work also continues on the East WindsorPower Co-Gen with many members on site work-ing for Aecon; and on the Union Gas building forVollmer and Associates.

We also have members working on the jobthat has the only tower crane in Windsor, at theAmica high rise on Riverside Drive with MidSouth Contractors.

The local continues to regain our work withthe use of our market recovery programme andorganizing.

In the last quarter of 2008 we organized threenew shops, Lear Electric in Leamington, AmbassadorElectric in Windsor, and Pro-Trades in Windsor. Wewelcome the newmembers to our family, and Local773 is committed to work with these new shops andall of our contractors to increase our market share.

Our annual retirees Christmas party lastyear was a big success (see photo). See you atthe next union meeting

Dave Spencer, P.S.

Tampa Hospital ProjectL.U. 915 (i&mt), TAMPA, FL—With our economyin a downward spiral, the need to buy American-made products to save American jobs has neverbeen greater. We have a project in full swing nowthat requires only USA-made materials be used inall installations. In Tampa, the $48 million VA hos-pital repowering project, being run by DoanPyramid, is working about 30 of our members. Thework under way at the James A. Haley VeteransHospital involves adding new generators to accom-modate power outages when a natural disaster orstorms hits. This is a two-year project and it is run-ning on schedule. A&A Electric and DelgadoElectric are doing other smaller projects on thissite as well. Doan Pyramid is an out-of-town con-tractor looking at other projects in the area.

Congratulations to Bus. Mgr. William Deveron his appointment to the Council on IndustrialRelations board. To our knowledge, Bus. Mgr.Dever is the first Local 915 business manager tohave been appointed to the CIR board and tohave received the accredited CIR lapel pin.

Our second annual Christmas party was

hosted by Bro. Roberta Rosa and volun-teers. The meeting hall was beautifully deco-rated and lots of door prizes were given. Thisevent is a good tradition for our local.

Theresa King, P.S.

Members Lend a HandL.U. 953 (catv,em,lctt,o,spa,t&u), EAU CLAIRE,WI—On a cold, wet November day last year, friendsand fellow union members came together to help abrother in need. The crew cut and split enoughwood to get their fellow brother through the winterheating season. Steve Secrist, line foreman at XcelEnergy, was injured on the job during a storm breaklast July. He is recovering well and is looking for-ward to returning to work in 2009. The wood cuttingcrew is pictured in the accompanying photo.

Chippewa Valley Cooperative union employ-ees donated their union Christmas party money tothe local food pantry for the second year in a row.

What great gestures from our fellow unionbrothers.

Arlin Ziemann, B.M./F.S.

‘A Banner Year’L.U. 1049 (lctt,o,u&uow), LONG ISLAND, NY—2008 was another banner year for IBEW 1049.Under the leadership of Bus. Mgr. Robert Shand,we negotiated new collective bargaining agree-ments for members in our Gas and Electric CraftDivisions. We ended the year negotiating on

12 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

Local 683 crew gathers for the local’s annualChristmas lights/White Castle breakfast event.Shown are:: Chief Dan George, Jeff Kulp, JerryLang, Steve Smith, Dennis Austin, Bill Davies, GaryGrcic, Rick Deime, Mike McNeeley and JoshMarcum. Dennis Mullen snapped the photo.

In Tampa, FL, IBEW Local 915 members are workingon a veterans hospital project with Doan Pyramid.

A hearty wood cuttingcrew, comprising friendsand fellow union members,pitches in to assist a Local953 brother who is recov-ering from a job injury.

Local 773 memberssocialize at the 2008retirees Christmas party.

60-Year Service Award

Madison, WI, Local 965 retired member Glen Linde(right) is awarded his IBEW 60-year membershipcertificate. Presenting the award is E-Board mem-ber Mike Broome of Unit 3, Beaver Dam.

Local 725 volunteers assist with electrical repairsfollowing 2008 summer flooding. From left, backrow, Shawn Trendelman, Fred Wellman, J.R.Sturgeon, Earl Stines; front row, Erin Algood, DaveMcNally and Chuck Kiser.

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 13

behalf of members employed by WRSEnvironmental Services Inc. In each of thesecontracts we successfully negotiated increases inthe wage, benefit and training packages. Eachagreement was overwhelmingly ratified by themembership.

With the merger of IBEW Locals 1049 and1381 complete, we are now in an even betterposition to represent our members. With a largerand more active membership, we are better ableto support the entire Long Island community. Wehave been able to do this through our CommunityAffairs, Governmental Affairs and Organizingcommittees, all of which actively support thelabor’s various missions.

In 2008 we also began several initiatives, thelargest of which is our Safety Advocate Program.This program has been so successful that severallocals have established their own safety advocateprograms using ours as a model. We have alsoendeavored to completely update and modernizeour union hall, including the means by which wecommunicate with members. We have alsoenhanced our relationships with the local unionsthat also work for our largest employer, NationalGrid. Please continue to work safely.

Thomas J. Dowling, R.S.

Public Sector Stewards MeetL.U. 1245 (catv,em,govt,lctt,o,pet,t&u), VACA-VILLE, CA—Robert Mettalia, a GC Painter “A” atPacific Gas & Electric Company and 24-yearmember of the IBEW, was honored at the SantaCruz Unit meeting last December for taking firstplace in the IBEW Safety Poster Contest. Earlierin 2008, Bro. Mettalia won first place in the IBEWPhoto Contest. He scored again with his safetyposter themed, “Stay on Track: Pay Attention tothe Details.” Mettalia says he thought up the slo-gan first and then took the picture. He did theadditional design work in Photoshop.

In other news, the local’s public sectorstewards met amidst an atmosphere of growingconcern over rapid deterioration of the economyand what it could mean to public sector employ-ees. Besides potential layoffs, the declining econ-omy could lead to reduced crew sizes, changedwork rules, “doing more with less,” and reclassi-fying jobs. More than ever, it will be importantfor public sector stewards to be thoroughly famil-iar with the grievance procedures under theirlabor agreement.

Members at PG&E in December ratified newPhysical and Clerical agreements, which containedsignificant wage improvements but did not address

the growing concern over retiree medical costs.The issue of medical costs for both current andretired PG&E employees will be the subject of con-tinued negotiations in 2009.

Eric Wolfe, P.S.

2008 A Good YearL.U. 1249 (catv,lctt,o,t&u), SYRACUSE, NY—As wecontinue ahead into a new work year, let us hopethis year will be as productive as last year was.

In 2008, the local was fortunate to have awide range of jobs in distribution, transmission,substation and wind projects. We carried fullemployment in our “A” and “BA” chapters; at onepoint we also had over 200 travelers employed, pluswe increased our apprentices to 146. As of thiswriting work has slacked off somewhat but is hold-ing steady. Hopefully 2009 will be a good year, too.

The local welcomes Charles Brigham to thestaff as an assistant business agent. Charlie ispresently our president and has 30-plus years inthe field.

Jay Matthews, P.S.

Congratulations to RetireesL.U. 1307 (u), SALISBURY, MD—Happy retire-ment to five recent retirees: Wade Willey, JaneMoore, Robert Bailey, Mary Ann Bailey andBrooks Bowman.

In 1971, Bro. Willey began work atDelmarva Power at Vienna Power Plant. Hetransferred to Cambridge District as an engi-neer’s helper in 1974 and was an engineeringfieldman in Salisbury from 1981 until his July2008 retirement.

Sister Moore began at Delmarva Power 1968as a clerk in Salisbury. In 1981 she became acustomer information specialist in Ocean CityDistrict. She worked as a division helper inMillsboro District in 1999 before returning to thecustomer information specialist position. Sheretired in July 2008.

Bro. Bailey started with Delmarva Power in1987 as a groundman in the Exmore District. Hecompleted the apprentice program and became ajourneyman lineman in 1998. Bro. Bailey retiredAug. 1, 2008.

Sister Bailey began at Choptank ElectricalCo-Op in 1998 as a regional customer service repin Berlin. She transferred to Pocomoke Districtin 2002 and retired Nov. 1, 2008.

Bro. Bowman started with ChoptankElectrical Co-Op in 1971 as an apprentice linemanin Denton. He completed the apprentice programand became a journeyman lineman in 1974. Hewas a serviceman in the Chestertown Districtfrom 1984 until his November 2008 retirement.

Edward D. Sparks Jr., F.S.

Hubble Space TelescopeL.U. 1501 (ees,em,mo,pet,rts&t), BALTIMORE,MD—Our members at Goddard Space FlightCenter in Greenbelt, MD, are employed byAnalex, and Jackson and Tull CharteredEngineers; all are part of the team who are hardat work repairing and upgrading the HubbleSpace Telescope.

The failure of the on-board science datacomputer caused a major shutdown, but theproblem was diagnosed and a backup systemengaged. Fortunately, NASA had a spare com-puter that was on the shelf for 18 ½ years. They

are confident that they will get it up and run-ning. Tools to repair it are being developed andastronauts trained to install it. They will alsoinstall two new instruments and replace batter-ies and gyroscopes. These repairs will restore thetelescope Advanced Camera for Surveys and itsSpace Telescope Imaging Spectrograph, thusextending Hubble’s useful life. If this all soundscomplicated, it is. The astronauts will do theserepairs in outer space, wearing space suits.

Mike Kurtz, Local 1501 vice president andchairman of 1501-2 at Goddard, told Bus.Mgr./Pres. Dion F. Guthrie that plans are to shipthe equipment to Kennedy Space Center in Aprilso it can be on the launch of the shuttle Atlantisas it embarks on its final mission to repair andupgrade the Hubble Space Telescope, with assis-tance from IBEW Local 1501 members.

Thomas J. Rostkowski, P.S.

Wichita Membership DriveL.U. 1523 (u), WICHITA, KS—2008 ended with arunning start into 2009. With the additional newmembers and healthy meeting attendance, wehave stood strong.

Membership drives are always kind ofstressful. We want our fellow workers to knowwhat the union is about. I know we often get thesame answers. Some co-workers say, “I can’tafford it.” This would be true if they were surethey would never need the union to protect theirrights, or if they knew they would always betreated fairly.

Maybe some co-workers don’t know whattheir rights are. Some say, “I don’t have time” forthe union. I don’t understand this answer. Mytime is valuable to me and when I spend eighthours a day at work, I want to know that some-one has my back and that I will be treated fairly.

Maybe some co-workers don’t know whotheir steward is. Maybe no one has approachedthem. Stewards are busy people. When was thelast time you spoke to a co-worker about theunion? When was the last time you asked yoursteward, “What can I do to help you?”

Our Web site is up and running in a verylimited capacity; we are updating as we can andare new at this. Please send in your suggestions,photos and ideas to improve the Web page.

Candy C. Cruz-Dodd, P.S.

Anchorage Members AwardedL.U. 1547 (c,em,i,o,t&u), ANCHORAGE, AK—Local 1547 honored outstanding members at ourNovember 2008 Shop Steward and LeadershipConference. Ed Gardiner was awarded ShopSteward of the Year. Volunteer of the Year Awardswent to: Erika Kelly - Unit 101; Billy Stewart -Unit 102; Vicki Van Fleet - Unit 103; and GingerHayter - Unit 104. Larry Metzler was awardedOrganizing Volunteer of the Year. Gene Whitewon Political Volunteer. Ralph Klassen receivedthe newly created Safety Award. Shay Malonee,Pamela Cline and Debbie Sullivan were awardedas Rookie Shop Stewards of the Year. TheMunicipality of Anchorage was chosen Employerof the Year for honoring its commitment to theEmployee Free Choice Act. Power lineman HugoSnell received a special honor for 32 years ofunwavering advocacy for the rights and responsi-bilities of working people.

Local 1547 recently adopted the Code ofExcellence into our Inside ConstructionAgreements and we’re looking forward to a busy2009 for all of our construction members.

Melinda Taylor, P.S.

‘Stay Involved’L.U. 1579 (i&o), AUGUSTA, GA—Attendingunion meetings keeps Local 1579 membersinformed and involved. Our meetings are heldthe third Monday of each month at 8 p.m. withsupper and social time starting at 6:30 p.m.

The Local 1579 Web site atwww.ibew1579.org is another great way to stayinformed and involved. Information posted thereranges from the dates and menus for upcomingunion meetings and the current number onBooks I and II, to pictures from years ago andthe present day.

Work projections for 2009 are encouraging,but a lot depends on funding and the economy.Various jobs at the Savannah River site areawaiting funding. Pres. Obama is already takingsteps to help through a stimulus package.

Many IBEW members in Augusta andaround the country are having a difficult timemaking ends meet. With the previous presiden-tial administration’s policies against workingfamilies, it was only a matter of time before theeconomy made a complete downturn. Pleasekeep the IBEW and its members in your prayers.

Will Salters, A.B.M.

LOCAL LINES continued on page 16

Jeremy Carlin (left), a Local 1245 steward atSacramento Municipal Utility District, raises anissue during a recent Public Sector StewardsConference. Looking on are Robert Skordas (right)and Patrick Pipis, Local 1245 stewards at the U.S.Bureau of Reclamation.

Shown are those present at the signing of therecently negotiated IBEW Local 1501-2 bargainingagreement. From left, front row: Chuck Chidekel,programming manager, ETIS; Mossi Tull, chief exec-utive officer, Jackson & Tull; IBEW Local 1501 Bus.Mgr./Pres. Dion Guthrie. Back row: Bob Denhardt,IBEW Local 1501-2 vice chairman; Rob Taminelli,Local 1501-2 recorder; Paul Lockhart, Analex seniorvice president; Local 1501-2 Executive Board mem-bers Neil Becker and Fred Richards; Local 1501-2Vice Pres./Chmn. Mike Kurtz; and Walt Plesniak,Local 1501-2 Executive Board member.

IBEW Local 1547 members and their families pre-pare to go door-to-door for then-U.S. Senate candi-date Mark Begich (center in tan pants) on a coldNovember 2008 day. After defeating then-incum-bent Ted Stevens, Sen. Begich reaffirmed his com-mitment to support the Employee Free Choice Act.

Michigan was already suffering worse than mosteven before the current economic downturn.Local 58 in Detroit has about 1,000 members onthe out-of-work list and more jobs are threatened

by the downward slope of the “Big Three.” But Local 58 is nottaking any of this lying down.

During some of the coldest days of the harsh Detroitwinter, nearly 100 members have gathered along heavily trav-eled Woodward Ave., protesting the use of a nonunion con-tractor converting a historic building into a medical center.As reported on the IBEW Web site (see the “Read MoreNews” link on the www.ibew.org home page), the membersdecided not to stand by while doctors who have no problemgetting paid by patients covered by collectively bargained

health insurance let their building be constructed by nonunion carpetbaggers.There’s a lesson here for all of us.While the stimulus package carries hope of putting some of our members back to work,

Detroit will not be alone in facing months and years of difficult times. We cannot sit by andthink the work will come to us. We cannot assume that people in our communities know thevalue of what we do and how we contribute to the standard of living in cities and towns acrossthis continent. We need to fight for our jobs and spread our message.

This is no time for passive union membership. We face hostile employers who will sayand do anything to prevent us from organizing – like the current Big Lie campaign against theEmployee Free Choice Act. We need to pull together and realize that we are only as strong asour solidarity allows.

We can’t wish ourselves out of this predicament. But we can take our cues from Local 58and others by fighting for our jobs while also persuading our neighbors and political leadersthat the IBEW has a key role to play in the economic recovery in our communities. �

I n t e r n a t i o n a l B r o t h e r h o o d o f E l e c t r i c a l W o r k e r s

HOWTO REACH US

We welcome letters from our readers. The writer should include his or her name, address and, ifapplicable, IBEW local union number and card number. Family members should include the localunion number of the IBEW member to whom The Electrical Worker is mailed. Please keep lettersas brief as possible. The Electrical Worker reserves the right to select letters for publication and editall submissions for length.

Send letters to:Letters to the Editor, The Electrical Worker, 900 Seventh Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001Or send by e-mail to: media@ibew.org

©2009 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. on Union-made paper.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Electrical Worker, 900 Seventh Street, N.W.,Washington, D.C. 20001.

The Electrical Worker will not be held responsible for views expressed by correspondents.

Paid advertising is not accepted.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40011756.Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:P.O. Box 503RPO West Beaver CreekRichmond Hill, ON L4B 4R6

The Electrical Worker was the name of the first official publication ofthe National Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 1893 (the NBEWbecame the IBEW in 1899 with the expansion of the union intoCanada). The name and format of the publication have changed overthe years. This newspaper, along with the IBEW Journal magazine,now published quarterly, now constitute the official publications ofthe IBEW and seek to capture the courage and spirit that motivatedthe founders of the Brotherhood and continue to inspire the union’smembers today. The masthead of this newspaper is an adaptation ofthat of the first edition in 1893.

14 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

The Chamber of Commerce and the ChineseCommunist Party coming together to lobby Congresswould have stunned our grandparents, but theyrecently found unity in opposition to the “Buy

America” requirements in the economic stimulus packagesigned by President Barack Obama in February.

The provision requires that tax dollars used to fund therecovery package are – when economically feasible – spenton products made in America. It’s smart policy to encouragethe purchase of domestically made steel and other manufac-tured products, which puts the stimulus bill one step closer toits goal of pulling the nation out of the economic doldrums.

And despite the accusations of protectionism, the meas-ure would not harm relations with those nations – likeCanada – with whom we have a mutually beneficial tradingrelationship, a promise reiterated by Obama during his recent trip to Ottawa.

The provision created a firestorm. A coalition of major corporations lobbied the Senate tokill the measure, while the Chinese Communists predicted a trade war if it became law.

With China’s economy serving as a low-wage haven for global exporters, its makes sensefor its government to oppose any measure that might boost production here in North America.

And it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s loyalty is to aquick buck, not to the men and women of the nation they purport to represent.

What they describe as ugly protectionism is a guarantee to working people that federalspending will help rebuild domestic manufacturing and create good jobs, not keep China’sauthoritarian economy afloat with taxpayers’ money.

Despite the noise made by the big-bucks lobbyist machine, it’s encouraging that leaderslike Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Rep. Peter Visclosky (D-Ind.) stood up to its wrath tomake sure that the American Recovery Act does what it’s supposed to do – lay the foundationfor a re-energized economy that will benefit workers on both sides of the border. �

F R OM T H E O F F I C E R S

EXECUTIVEOFFICERS

Edwin D. HillInternational President

Lindell K. LeeInternational Secretary-Treasurer

INTERNATIONALEXECUTIVECOUNCIL

ChairmanRobert W. Pierson

First DistrictJoseph P. Calabro

Second DistrictMyles J. Calvey

Third DistrictJohn R. Clarke

Fourth DistrictWilliam W. Riley

Fifth DistrictStephen Schoemehl

Sixth DistrictGregory A. Lucero

Seventh DistrictPatrick Lavin

Eighth DistrictRick Dowling

INTERNATIONALVICE PRESIDENTS

First DistrictPhillip J. Flemming

Second DistrictFrank J. Carroll

Third DistrictDonald C. Siegel

Fourth DistrictSalvatore J. Chilia

Fifth DistrictJoe S. Davis

Sixth DistrictJoseph F. Lohman

Seventh DistrictJonathan B. Gardner

Eighth DistrictTed C. Jensen

Ninth DistrictMichael S. Mowrey

Tenth DistrictRobert P. Klein

Eleventh DistrictCurtis E. Henke

THE ELECTRICALWORKER

EditorEdwin D. Hill

C. James Spellane

Mark Brueggenjohann

Mike Nugent

Malinda Brent

Len Shindel

Carol Fisher

Alex Hogan

Lucas Oswalt

James H. Jones

Lindell K. LeeInternational Secretary-Treasurer

Investing in Our Future

Sending the Message

Edwin D. HillInternational President

w w w. i b e w. o r g T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009 15

W hen 30-year-old journeyman wire-man and Gary, Ind., Local 697Assistant Business Manager Randy

Palmateer was nominated to serve as busi-ness manager for the Northwest IndianaBuilding and Construction Trades Council,a lot of heads turned. As tradition had it,the job was usually filled by an olderleader—a last job before retirement.

“Randy was an ‘up and comer,’ not justwith the IBEW, but with all of the buildingtrades,” says the council’s president, ChrisHernandez, a Pipefitter assistant businessmanager who teamed up with Local 697Business Manager Ray Kasmark to help getPalmateer elected. Palmateer began workon Jan. 1.

“I always made sure [as a delegate]that I had something to report at councilmeetings,” says Palmateer, who was nur-tured in a union family and was going door-to-door on political campaigns in LakeCounty at age 12. He was elected vicechairman of his local Democratic precinctorganization at age 26.

“I’m humbled that people supportedme,” says Palmateer, the grandson of a unionplumber, son of a union printer who becamea county clerk, and nephew of retired Local697 member Bill Palmateer.

Palmateer has already helped to secureproject labor agreements and is setting upquarterly meetings with mayors in surround-ing communities to keep the lines of commu-nication open on new construction projects.Rounding out his service to the communityand organized labor, Palmateer serves on hiscity’s redevelopment commission and histownship’s advisory board.

“Out-of-town contractors are picking upwork, but they aren’t putting money into ourcommunity,” says Palmateer, who offers tohelp town council presidents in the permit-ting process for PLA’s and educates planningand building departments on the benefits ofusing signatory contractors.

While the trades have taken some hitswith the downward spiral of the steel indus-try, Palmateer will be monitoring the tradeson some promising new projects, includingthe first garbage-to-ethanol plant in theMidwest and an upgrade to BP’s refinery toprocess crude oil from Canada’s tar sands.

“The other trades were convinced thatwe needed vision and energy, not putting

somebody in a rocking chair job,” saysKasmark. Palmateer was hired on a three-year contract which includes annual reviews.He will help coordinate joint activities with17 building trades and 38 AFL-CIO affiliates.“[With Randy] we have accountability andtransparency.”

“Randy will be successful in whatever hechooses to do,” says Hernandez. “He’s alreadyturning over some new rocks, developingnew relationships, and bringing some ofIBEW’s membership development [strate-gies] to the council.”

“We are a great craft and a great trade. Iwouldn’t do anything else,” says Palmateer.“I’ve had a lot of mentors,” he says, thankinghis uncle, Chris Hernandez and Ray Kasmarkfor their advice. “Ray keeps the local on thecutting edge,” says Palmateer, who notes thatSixth District International RepresentativesMike Daugherty and Tim Collins began theirunion careers in Local 697. �

Young Activist Leads NorthwestIndiana Building Trades

Lettersto theEditorLettersto theEditorGoing Green?I read with interest the article in the Electrical Worker concerning the IBEW’s role at theU.N. Climate Change Conference. I see a desperate need for everyone to do something tohelp this planet. I am also very frustrated by the fact that so many people and organiza-tions give lip service to the issue but do not take action to help.

I receive a newspaper from my union every month called the Electrical Worker. I canassume that there are at least 4 million more that are delivered each month to my broth-ers and sisters. How many trees are used to accomplish that? How much diesel fuel andjet fuel and gasoline are used to deliver them? What is the effect of our union on the localenvironment? On top of the energy used to receive the copy there is the energy and fuelused to recycle or throw away the publication once I am done with it. We can do better.

If you are going to participate in this conference the IBEW must lead the way. In the cur-rent computer age we can certainly have an electronic copy of The Electrical Worker. Please,live up to what you say is important and actually do something for our environment.

Mark CowieLocal 213 member, Vancouver, British Columbia

[Editor’s Note: We do offer members the choice of receiving a link to the Electrical Workereach month. Those members who opt for the electronic link are no longer mailed aprinted copy. See the front page for instructions. Brother Cowie has opted for this link, justas hundreds of other members have. And, just to set the record straight, our press run isabout 786,000, not 4 million.]

Debating Employee Free ChoiceAfter spending 30 years in the trade, I am sincerely disappointed in your backing openchoice. The secret ballot has protected the working man and his right to approve a union.Surely you have to be aware of the intimidation of people’s right to vote for unions. Thiswould once again give employers a tool with which to intimidate workers and their secu-rity of a vote without someone looking over their shoulder. I would hope you would recon-sider your endorsement.

James K. MurphyLocal 134 retiree, Chicago

I feel compelled to respond to the letter from Brother Vander Brent regarding his view ofthe Employee Free Choice Act. It seems the message from Wal-Mart and the Chamber ofCommerce has gotten through. They want to distort the real meaning of the act and makeit un-American to support this good bill. Presently, a secret ballot is available to theemployees under the act and it will still be available under the changes supported bylabor. The big change Wal-Mart does not want is the increased penalties for their contin-ued violations of the law and employee rights. Every member needs to go to the AFL-CIOWeb site and get the real facts on this act.

John F. SchantzenRetired Fifth District International Vice President, Merritt Island, Fla.

In his letter to the editor, Gary Vander Brent implies that the Employee Free Choice Act will“take away the secret ballot.” This implication is utterly false. There is currently no secretballot in union elections. Unlike true democratic elections, which are regularly scheduledevery two years, workers must demand a union election. Obviously, the only workers whoask for elections are those workers who are already pro-union. Anti-union employers usethis knowledge to harass and fire those pro-union workers. Their right to a secret ballot isviolated by the current system. The Employee Free Choice Act simply allows a worker tojoin a union without waiting for his co-workers’ permission. Brother Vander Brent men-tions that he was in the Navy. How would you feel, Brother Vander Brent, if before youwere allowed to join the Navy, you first had to convince a majority of your peers to join upas well? The same right you had to join the Navy without anyone’s permission should beextended to workers who want to join a union.

Damien FinneranLocal 3 member, New York

If you have a story to tell about your IBEW experience, please send it tomedia@ibew.org.

Who We Are

Gary, Ind., Local 697 member Randy Palmateer tookthe helm of the Northwest Indiana Building andConstruction Trades Council in January.

Send letters to:Letters to the Editor, The ElectricalWorker, 900 Seventh Street, N.W.,Washington, D.C. 20001

Or send by e-mail to: media@ibew.org

How to Reach Us

Mike Roby MournedL.U. 1701 (catv,ees,i,o&u),OWENSBORO, KY—Wemourn the loss of Bro.Mike Roby, who passedaway suddenly Dec. 17,2008. Mike was our mem-bership development coor-dinator and a 40-yearmember. He was a trusteefor the NECA-IBEWhealth insurance fund,JATC secretary, and local

union recording secretary. Mike’s father, James,(now deceased) was a longtime member; Mike’sbrother Larry (retired), is a 35-year member. Mikeis survived by his wife, Marsha, and three daugh-ters. Mike was a good friend to all. We will miss him.

At our December monthly meeting, Bus. Mgr.Gary Osborne presented numerous service pins.

We congratulate all awardees, too numerous tolist here. Among honorees were: 60-year membersRobert Clark, James Weakley; 55-year membersClarence Elder, Richard Elder, Bob Elder, JamesGay, Edgar Nave, Paul Puckett; and 50-year mem-bers Donald Brey, Buddy Kemp and Jerry Rouse.

Also recognized were several 2008 retirees:Jesse Boling, Pat Cureton, Matt Heltsley andSteve Thomson. Congratulations, brothers.

Remember union meetings, held the thirdMonday of the month.

Tim Blandford, P.S.

Work Remains SlowL.U. 1739 (i&o), BARRIE, ONTARIO, CANADA—The work picture remains slow in our area as wellas for many other locals in Ontario. The economicdownturn in the auto sector has greatly affectedthe Ontario economy. Many of our members arecurrently working in Northern Ontario at severalhospital projects. Sincere thanks to members ofour sister Sudbury local for providing travelopportunities for our members. Let’s hope that2009 brings a good year for all IBEW members.

Frank Kastle, P.S.

16 T h e E l e c t r i c a l Wo r k e r � March 2009

Local Linescontinued from page 13

Holiday Spirit of GenerosityL.U. 1749 (u), NEW JOHNSONVILLE, TN—LastDecember, the folks at the TVA CumberlandGenerating Station’s electric shop donated toys,clothes, food and furniture to several needy fami-lies from six area counties. Several members andtheir spouses purchased the holiday gifts,wrapped them and delivered them to the recipi-ent families, who live inthe following counties:Dickson, Houston,Stewart, Montgomery,Henry and Benton.

Special thanks goto all who assisted withthis holiday effort. Theshop donated $5 a payperiod throughout2008 to finance theproject. Thanks also toall who contributed. Thiseffort proves the IBEWis a union of heartsand minds!

Thanks to all who updated their voterregistration information and voted in the veryimportant 2008 election. We have taken backthe presidency and the Congress. For thosewho did not respond, get on the ball. Last year,the majority in the House held up the last twoappointments to the TVA Board for a reason,until after the inauguration of Pres. Obama.

Mark DeJuliis, P.S./E-Brd.

IBEW® FOUNDERS’ SCHOLARSHIPAWARDED ONLY TO IBEW MEMBERS

The IBEW Founders’ Scholarships honor the dedicated wiremen and lineman who, on November 28, 1891, organ-ized the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. Each year the officers of the IBEW are pleased to offer itsworking members scholarships on a competitive basis. It is hoped that the awards will not only contribute to thepersonal development of our members but also steward the electrical industry that our founders envisioned.

This award is for $200 per semester credit hour at any accredited college or university toward an associate’s,bachelor’s or postgraduate degree in an approved field. The maximum distribution is $24,000 over a period not toexceed eight years.

RULES FOR ENTRY

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Founders’ Scholarship competition is an adult program, to be used solely by IBEW members. It is NOT for the chil-dren of members.

1. Applicants must have been in continuous good standing and have paid dues without an Honorary Withdrawal forthe four years preceding May 1 of the scholarship year, or be charter members of a local union.

2. Each applicant must be recommended in writing by the local union business manager. If there is no office ofbusiness manager, then the recommendation must come from the local union president, system council chair-man or general chairman.

3. At least two additional letters of recommendation must be sent by individuals who are familiar with the appli-cant’s achievements and abilities.

4. Copies of all academic transcripts from high school, college, apprenticeship or other educational and develop-mental programs must be submitted.

5. A complete personal resumé is required. The resumé should outline education and work history, any specialhonors or awards, military service, plus involvement in union, local, civic, community and religious affairs.

6. Applicants are required to submit a 250-500 word essay. The title and topic must be: “How the Founders’Scholarships will benefit the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the electrical industry.” The essaymust be typewritten and double-spaced.

7. Applicants must submit a test score from the SAT I or the ACT. NO OTHER TESTING SERVICES ARE ACCEPTABLE.Archived scores or new test registration may be obtained by contacting: SAT (609) 771-7600,www.collegeboard.org, SAT Program, P.O. Box 6201, Princeton, NJ 08541-6201; or ACT Records (319) 337-1313, www.act.org, ACT Records, P.O. Box 168, Iowa City, IA 52243-0168. To send scores directly to the IBEWFounders’ Scholarship, the code numbers are 0485 for SAT and 0697 for ACT. It is strongly suggested that anynew test taken should be the SAT I.

8. Materials need not be sent at the same time but must be postmarked prior to May 1 of the scholarship year.

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Awards will be based on academic achievement and potential, character, leadership, social awareness and career goals.

The independent Founders’ Scholarship Selection Committee will be composed of academic, professional andcommunity representatives. They will examine the complete record of each scholarship applicant to choose thewinners. All applicants will be notified, and the scholarship winners will be featured in the Electrical Worker.

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Scholarship winners must begin their studies in their next term or, at the latest, in January of the following year.Each term’s earned grades must be sent to the Founders’ Scholarship Administrator, together with a Founders’Scholarship Progress Sheet. After the first calendar year in the program, and by each August 1 thereafter, theannual Founders’ Scholar paper is due. It must be at least 1,000 words on a labor-related topic, covering anyaspect affecting the current labor movement or labor history. Scholarships are not transferable and are forfeited ifthe student withdraws or fails to meet the requirements for graduation from the college. If a serious life situationarises to prevent continuation of studies, the scholarship winner may request that the scholarship be held inabeyance for a maximum of one academic year.

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The creation of thisscholarship program is afree act of the InternationalBrotherhood of ElectricalWorkers. The IBEW retains itsright to alter, suspend, cancel or halt the IBEW Founders’ Scholarship Program at any time and without giving anyreason, provided that scholarship winners already in college under the program will continue to receive thestipends until graduation or the receipt of $24,000 for undergraduate study under their IBEW Founders’Scholarships—whichever comes first.

APPLICATION (IBEW® Founders’ Scholarship Awarded Only to IBEW Members)

Name ________________________________________ Home telephone # (____)____________________(Please print or type)

Address _______________________________________________________________________________

City/State _________________________________________________ Zip/Postal_____________________

SS/SIN #_______________________ Birthdate _____________ Member of local #_____________________

Card # _________________________________________ Initiated into IBEW _________________________(On IBEW Journal Address Label or Dues Receipt) (Month/Year)

Most recent employer ____________________________________________________________________

Job classification __________________________________ Work telephone # (____)__________________

I wish to study for a ___________________________ degree in ___________________________________(Note: Field of study must contribute to the development and improvement of the electrical industry as determined by the Founders’ Scholarship Administrator.)

List your first and second choices for college:

1_________________________________________ 2 _________________________________________

Did you complete high school or the GED? Yes � No �(Send transcripts or other evidence to the Scholarship Committee.)Did you have the opportunity to take apprenticeship or skill improvement training? Yes � No �(Send transcripts or your courses to the Scholarship Committee.)Do you have any education certificates or professional licenses? Yes � No �(Send evidence to the Scholarship Committee.)Have you taken any college courses? Yes � No �(Send transcripts of all college courses to the Scholarship Committee.)

Name used on class records ________________________________________________________________

When did you take the SAT I or the ACT? (Month/Year) _____________________________________________(To submit new test scores, it is strongly suggested that you take the SAT I. We will use your highest score; therefore, it is in your best interest to retake the test.)

My signature is evidence that I understand and agree to all the rules governing the scholarship as listed on the backof this application.

___________________________________________ _________________________________________(Signature) (Date)

Mail application materials postmarked prior to May 1 to:IBEW FOUNDERS’ SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE900 Seventh Street, NW Form 172WASHINGTON, DC 20001 Revised 02/09

Local 1701 late Bro.Mike Roby.

IBEW Local 1749 members at the TVA Cumberland Generating Station’selectric shop assisted with holiday donations for needy families.