Summer 2001
The
News Published by Local Union 98 - I.B.E.W.
Local Union 98, INternational Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 100 Years and Growing Stronger
Gala 2000
President’s Report
In the past twelve months our local union celebrated its 100th Anniversary. First I must thank all our members who attended this historical event. It was such a great honor for me to act as Master of Ceremonies for this magnificent tribute to Local Union 98’s past. The agenda for the evening began with an extravagant cocktail reception followed by a welcome by your President, introduction of guest speakers starting with your International President John Barry, Secretary Treasurer Ed Hill, The Mayor of Philadelphia The Honorable John Street, Executive Director of NECA Larry Bradley and finished with Business Manager Dougherty’s award ceremony presenting gifts to members representing each decade of service to the local starting in 1930 through today. Dancing and a laser light show finished this spectacular evening. Saturday night included a pre-game picnic and Philadelphia Phillies game. Sunday a Mass at the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul in honor of the Local followed by a brunch back at the Local Union Hall. All who attended are still talking of this historic and festive event. In August a picnic attended by 7000 representing members and their families concluded our 100th Birthday Celebration. This year has also seen many changes in our Local including your Business Office moving to a newly remodeled 1701 Spring Garden Street and the amalgamation of Local 1241 into Local Union 98 representing the TV Broadcasting industry in Philadelphia. Also, the electing of Kevin M. Dougherty to Court of Common Pleas, City of Philadelphia. Two well attended seminars by the membership, Retirement Benefit Fair and Sound and Communication Trade Show. Elected unanimously as Delegates to the 36th IBEW International Convention in San Francisco in September, 2001. John J. Dougherty Harry Foy Ed Coppinger Mike Hnatkowsky Tim Browne Jim Mink Jack Dershimer Ed Neilson Frank Goldstein Bill Corazo Alternates are: Ray Della Vella
Phil Rowan
John Rue
Steve Wolfe
Bob Bark
The Dougherty Team thanks our great membership for its ongoing support.
STRICTLY BUSINESS After major renovation Local 98 moved its Business Office in September 2000 to 1701 Spring Garden Street. The old hall is now going through extensive renovation to expand training facilities, credit union and the financial office. Most recently Local 98 purchased the property next to 1701 at 546 N. 17th Street to further increase the value of the new Business Office at 1701. No major plans are in the works. For all business needs the address is:
Local Union 98, I.B.E.W., 1701 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Local 98 Phone Numbers:
Business Office 215-563-5592
Financial Office 215-563-8991
Credit Union 215-563-5574
rt o s s M e p a e n n a i ger’s R Bu s “New beginnings are the end of other beginnings.” Our last year has been absolutely fabulous. Full employment, full employment and full employment with better working conditions are all reason to celebrate. Two new stadiums (“Thank you Mayor Street”), Republican National Convention, X-Games and WHYY (Channel 12) expansion not only attributed to our growth in man hours, but solidified our relationship with our new Brothers and Sisters in the Broadcast Industry. Personally as President of the Variety Club, I have seen Local 98 members connect disadvantaged and disabled children to the internet, helped create three after school programs and a Computer Corner at the Variety Club Camp. “Thank you Comcast.” s Chairman of the Redevelopment Authority, we are working to make Market Rate Housing a reality in the city of A Philadelphia. s a member of the Executive Committee at the Philadelphia Airport, we are working tirelessly to complete three A construction projects, which are well over $100 Million dollars of electrical and telecommunications work. “Thank you U.S. Air.” The 100th anniversary party, held at the Philadelphia Convention Center Train Shed, was attended by a “Who’s Who” of National, Regional and Building Trades dignitaries. Both President Barry and Building Trades Business Manager Gillespie stated that this was the finest extravaganza that either had ever attended. The Weekend Party (as seen in the Local 98 News), Ballgame, Mass and Picnic along with the published history of Local 98 were enjoyed by everyone and will be impossible to top. “Thank you National Electrical Contractors Association.” Personally I had been asked by the Mayor to represent the City of Philadelphia at the Canonization of Blessed Mother Katherine Drexel in Rome. Then being seated on the altar about twenty feet from Pope John Paul II is something that I never imagined in my wildest dreams. To have the Local represented at this type of International event only strengthens peoples’ image of us. The success and celebration make it easier and easier, but the accidents and deaths are tougher to take! Two situations that were tough for me were the catastrophe at the Avenue of the Arts Center at Broad and Spruce and the death of Bill Wusinich. I was at a meeting at the Reading Terminal at 9th and Arch Streets when I received a call that the lst floor had fallen into the basement. I literally ran the ten blocks to the RPAC center to be the first labor leader on the scene. The scene was scattered with bloody construction workers, some still trapped inside. Luckily, no one died but some were still severely hurt, including our own David Jennings. David fell over sixty feet, head first into RE-BAR and concrete, and still had enough strength to help others before going to the hospital. This type of accident makes us all realize the need for an increase in awareness of safety. “Thank you Job Stewards and David Jennings.” Comforting families during times of illness and death is something that I don’t look forward to but I know I must stand strong. The deaths of a couple of young members this year really makes us realize that the good of our lives really outweigh the bad. The death of Brother Bill Wusinich was extremely hard for myself. Besides being a mentor and friend, he was a tremendous human being who even in his illness never stopped representing the Union. He gave so much to Apprentice Training, CODE making panel and process, Journeyman education, as well as babysitting me in my early, tough days as Business Manager. I will miss Bill greatly especially as I write this article. I probably would have had a call from him to talk about the Eagles, Notre Dame or the next Union meeting. “Thank you Bill Wusinich.” Thank you members, agents and organizers for the support you have given me this last year. Looking forward to being your Business Manager for years to come. Fraternally,
John J. Dougherty
Gala 2000 100th Anniversary Not long ago the city of Philadelphia was in need of a major renovation. Our 100th Anniversary was held in the new Pennsylvania Convention Center, and the renovated Train Shed. Keeping intact its structure and original tracks on the ballroom floor.
It was on to the banquet room for the Gala 2000, hosted by IBEW Local Union 98 President Harry Foy. Guest speakers included International President J.J. Barry, Secretary-Treasurer Edwin Hill, NECA Rep. Larry Bradley, Building Trades Rep. Pat Gillespie, Local 98 Business Manager, John J. Dougherty and the Honorable Mayor of Philadelphia, John F. Street. Providing entertainment and a view of the speakers BUSINESS MANAGER JOHN were two large screens on each side of the podium with DOUGHERTY a surprise Rock Video featuring Local 98 Agents, Speaking at the Gala 2000 Organizers, Teachers, Students and others. The crowd got a big kick out of the video, that promoted the vision and Brotherhood of Local 98 and then later to an encore viewing. At the Head Table were Local 98 representatives from each decade 1930 to 2000. Conversations and meeting old and new friends were in full swing. Some retirees mentioned how they missed coffee breaks, but were also afraid that 39 hours offered to fill in on jobs was going to be mandatory. Laughter and memories filled the room. Dinner was followed by dancing to the Exceptions in the Ballroom, topped off by a Laser Show. Much has changed in the past 100 years, a Train Shed into a Ballroom and Convention Center. The city skyline, corporate sport and entertainment complexes. Our forefathers of Local 98 were an industrialized trade of which some still exist. The city and its suburbs are going thru constant changes. The center city is gearing up for the hospitality industry with waterfront development, new sport stadiums, airport expansion and renovations, new hotels and a historical visitors plaza all to attract conventioneers and tourists to Philadelphia, a city of history, wealth and pride. A great time was had by all.
John J. Killoran, Jr.
Mass & Brunch Topping off a weekend of festivities was a Mass in Honor of Local 98 at The Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, followed by a brunch back at the Local Union Hall.
98 & THE PHILLIES On July 8th, 2000 Local 98 celebrated their 100th Anniversary with the Phillies at the Vet. 98 reserved about 5000 seats to see the Phillies play the Baltimore Orioles. For about 10 bucks you received a great seat, soda, pretzel, hot dog and popcorn. Local 98 was congratulated on the Fanovision for the 100th. Also honored were the 1950 Wiz Kids. Soon to be history is the Vet, to be replaced by a state of the art old style stadium right next door. The Phillies won 14-3 and all had a great time.
John J. Killoran, Jr.
100TH ANNIVERSARY PICNIC
In August 2000, Local 98 hosted it’s annual picnic, still celebrating it’s 100th Anniversary. Members and their families were given commemorative beach towels with the American Flag and Local 98 Build Union, Buy American, 100 years of Excellence. The picnic at Clementon Park was a huge success. The weather was great. As always there was too much to do. A water park, amusements for kids and adults, the lion show, games of chance, door prizes, horseshoes and a picnic grove accommodating 98’s 7000 members and families attending.
Local News ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE 2001 Another great parade in March of 2001. Local 98 along with Sprinklerfitters 692 marched in the St. Patrick’s Day parade.
Members wore green fleece pullovers, green Local 98 baseball hats and a special memorial badge in
honor of 98’s Leo Clark, who recently passed away and helped found Local 98’s St. Patrick’s Day parade. His rosey cheeks and bright smile will be missed. After the march members filled Finnigan’s Wake for food and cheer. A good time was had by all.
“TOO MUCH SALT TO HANDLE” Question? Who said too much SALT was bad for you? Answer: The non-union contractor that Michael Kolachny from Local Union 98 was employed by. Local Union 98 Business Manager John J. Dougherty looks on as Assistant Business Manager, Ed Coppinger presents Sound and Communication member Michael Kolachny with a back pay award of $7,500.00. Michael assisted Local 98 as a SALT and part of the COMET program. The Salting Program proved to be very successful for Local 98 last year. In addition to Michael, there were a number of other successful campaigns resulting in back pay awards for other S & C members. To assist the Local Union and participate in this program, please contact Ray Della Vella at 215-563-2276.
THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE LOCAL 98 FAMILY The nearly 400 members from the former Philadelphia IBEW Broadcast Local 1241 merged into LU 98 on July 1st, 2000 following many meetings, phone calls and discussions. This “marriage” was brokered by International Representative Don Siegel. Mr. Siegel was the rep assigned to the former Local 1241 and currently serves as the rep to Local 98. In this “marriage” there wasn’t any time for a honeymoon. Frank Goldstein, the Business Manager of the former Local 1241 immediately joined the Dougherty Team as Assistant Business Manager for Broadcasting and Entertainment. Steve Dorfman, former Financial Secretary from 1241 came on board as well for the Broadcasting unit. To help things move smoothly, Business Manager, John J. Dougherty, assigned B.A. Larry DelSpechio to work with the new Broadcast Unit in 98. “We hit the ground running,” says Goldstein. As of July 1st we were in very difficult negotiations with NBC 10 for the 100+ Technicians that are represented by the NBC owned station. Along with the NBC talks, we were actively negotiating an initial contract for more than thirty news photographers and editors at FOX Philadelphia. In the midst of negotiations, A.B.M. Goldstein worked with B.A. Larry DelSpechio on media issues at the very successful Republican National Convention. As a new unit to this growing organization, all of our members should know that we now represent the technical staffs at many of the television and radio operations in Philly. As a matter of fact, you could say that Local 98 now proudly “Shows the world to Philadelphia, Philadelphia to the World!” Our very talented Brothers and Sisters operate at: NBC 10, WPHL-TV, FOX 29, WPSG, WHYY-TV and Radio and WOGL/WPHT, your Brothers and Sisters also staff the TV Crew for all of the games carried by Comcast SportsNet and you will also be happy to learn that the IBEW has national agreements to staff all of the events for both CBS and FOX Sports. This fall, contract talks came to an end at NBC 10 in a contract that was narrowly ratified by our members at the station. New technologies and challenges to jurisdiction were among the major problems we faced at NBC. The biggest problem at NBC 10 is also the biggest problem nationally in all labor agreements in broadcasting…the use and abuse of so-called “perma-temps”. Perma-temps don’t enjoy the same status and benefits of Staff Technicians at the station. Some have been in this situation for more than 10 years. Our Union has been able to make substantial inroads in the area. But it won’t be enough until we can eliminate the opportunity for companies to have multitiered employment. At FOX we settled our first contract for News Photographers and Editor. The negotiations followed an election in the spring when these talented News Pros said “Union Yes” in a Labor Board election. The new Agreement will, in a couple of years, bring wage parity with the Engineering Staff at FOX. The Engineering Techs at FOX have been in the IBEW for more than 30 years. Our long time Steward at FOX Engineering, Bob Fleischer, played the role in our organizing efforts and success at the Station. Special thanks must also go to Elliot Feinstein, Mark LaValla and Erik Smith who gave countless hours in preparation for negotiations of the Agreement. Our organizing efforts continue with several opportunities in our area. In fact, with the resources and reputation of Local 98 we hope to double the size of our newest unit in a few years. Like any new “relationship” we in the Broadcast Unit of IBEW Local Union 98 are still getting to know each other. What better way to welcome our new Brothers and Sisters to Local Union 98 than to say hello when you see a news crew from NBC 10 or FOX near your worksite.
MESSAGE FROM THE FINANCIAL OFFICE Now that all Construction and Sound and Communication members have Local #98 credit union accounts, you can have your quarterly dues deducted automatically from your credit union account. Simply call the credit union office at 215-563-5574 and never worry about paying your dues late again. I f you should be injured on the job and need to file a Workers Compensation Claim, be sure to name your Contractor as your employer, not Local #98, since your Contractor has your Workers Compensation Insurance, and also remember to submit a doctor’s note stating diagnosis and date of disability to the Financial Office to cover your Health and Welfare hours for eligibility if you are a construction member or to Vaccaro if you are a Sound and Communication member.
Fran Walsh
Financial Secretary
Retirees Reminder Retirees meet at the hall (1719 Spring Garden Street) 2nd Tuesday of each month at 10:30 a.m.
HEALTH AND WELFARE Local 98 Health and Welfare Fund provides coverage for you and your family members for professional assistance for problems related to mental or nervous disorders and drug and alcohol dependency problems. The benefits are available through the Allied Trades Assistance Program. The program is completely confidential. In order to obtain benefits on an inpatient or outpatient basis, you must call 1-800-258-6376. The trustees urge you to take advantage of this benefit if you have the need and call Allied Trades Assistance Program 1-800-258-6376.
P o l i t i cs LABOR DAY 2000-NOT POLITICS AS USUAL Last year many of the workforces spent the better part of their weekend concentrating more on politics than down on the beaches of North Wildwood. With elections coming close and various candidates flying around the country, Philadelphia had the honor of kicking off the Gore/Lieberman Labor Day. The two candidates visited the Hyatt Construction Site on Columbus Boulevard with many of our own members present, including a private lunch session with 6 people, four of whom were members of Local Union 98. Afterwards, Ed Neilson persuaded them to take in some of the Eagles/Dallas game at Doc’s Union Pub on 2nd Street. The last time a presidential candidate visited South Philly was John F. Kennedy in 1963 during his successful bid to become President.
Election 2000 – Did We Win? We faced one of the most important elections of our lifetime in 2000. Although the country may say that we were unsuccessful in our attempt to elect Al Gore as President, we did have victories that most do not see. It started out prior to the Democratic Convention in Los Angles when our own Ed Neilson was appointed to the National Democratic Platform Committee. This in turn gave Local Union 98 and the labor community a voice to be heard during the process of picking a Democratic Candidate for the Presidency of the United States as well as laying out the agenda for the party for the next four years. This sent Bob Henon and Ed Neilson to the Convention, after Philadelphia had just hosted the Republican Convention, to ensure that the labor organizations in our area had their best interests looked after. When the conventions were over, they got down to campaigning. Ed Neilson was appointed by the International Office to coordinate the State of Pennsylvania on behalf of the IBEW. Both Bob and Ed also became the force behind the AFL-CIO and the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades in Philadelphia having a coordinated effort to get out the vote and all events tied to the election of the next president. These tasks have brought major attention and recognition to Local 98 and Business Manager Dougherty. Labor Day 2000, both Al Gore and Joe Lieberman visited Philadelphia. The visit was the first of many that Ed Neilson coordinated with Bob Henon at his side. Both candidates visited the Hyatt construction site on Delaware Ave. and enjoyed lunch with many of our members and then went to Doc’s Union Pub to watch the Eagles beat up on the Dallas Cowboys with Business Manager John Dougherty at their side. Anytime a candidate was in town, Local Union 98 had representation. The Gore/Lieberman team needed to leave Philadelphia with 300,000 votes in order for them to win the State of Pennsylvania. We proved once and for all to see across the country that labor delivers by topping that goal. Thanks to you and your families for the winning effort you have put forth and making Local 98 the winner in Election 2000. As we all know, without the loyal support of the membership the political successes that we experience would not be possible.
Here comes our Judge! In the May 2001 primary election much of Local 98’s focus was on the Judicial Candidacy of Kevin Dougherty, John’s brother. With all the help and support of the membership Kevin’s quest became a reality, by winning both the Democratic Primary and the Republican Primary election. Governor Ridge appointed Kevin to the bench and was sworn into office in July by Judge Lynne to help rid the back load of cases in the Court of Common Pleas. He will however need our help once again in November. The Dougherty family would like to THANK YOU and your families for the support.
McGreevey for Governor
Local 98’s Candidate for Governor of New Jersey, Jim McGreevey, with Business Manager John J. Dougherty and (from left): Bob Henon, Bill Edwards, Mike Neil, Steve Marino, Esq., Honorable Judge Kevin Dougherty, Chris Owens, Timothy Strange, Esq.
Hot Jobs Back at Haverford College
Thanks to an intensive handbilling campaign, and a friendly teachers union and many students, Local 98 secured work on Stokes Hall that is being performed by Spectrum Electric. It has been quite a while since Local 98 has had work on the College grounds.
Warrington Home Depot Pictured above the crew with foreman Erik Kiesling and steward Ron Carr
Quest Diagnostics
Pictured above, the crew with foreman Jim Calhoun and steward Jim Purcell
THE CREW AT ACME SUPERMARKETS
The Crew at Mercy Catholic Medical Centre, Miseracordia Division, in West Philadelphia...
On T he Line Pictured below are members at various locations picketing to better wages and conditions
K & A RALLY Recently, Assistant Business Manager Mike Hnatkowsky and about 1000 tradesmen led a rally against Nicolletti, head of Philadelphia Suburban Development Corporation (PSDC.) Nicolletti purchases run down properties in the city and rehabs them with unskilled and unqualified labor, under substandard conditions. Nicolletti also houses his labor with paycheck deductions for their room and board. Thanks to all who participated in this rally to expose Nicolletti as a rat and a scab.
Charities VARIETY CLUB GOLDEN GLOVES HALL OF FAME In April of 2000 John Dougherty was presented a Golden Glove Hall of Fame Trophy by Joe Hand for help with inner-city youth.
With the many hats of Business Manager John Dougherty, he has always found time to give back to the community. Among those many endeavors, John has been named President of the Philadelphia Variety Club. He was elected to a two-year term; also Ed Neilson has been named to the Executive Board.
Neilson Named Top 40 under 40 For the past 11 years, the Philadelphia Business Journal has named the top forty individuals under the age of forty years who are making their mark on the Philadelphia Community. In March 2001, Ed Neilson was honored and made the list being the second labor leader ever to make it, the first being BM Dougherty a few years back. Like Doc it didn’t stop there, in May 2001 Ed Neilson was inducted into Abraham Lincoln High School Hall of Achievement for the work he does around the City and various charities in which he represents IBEW Local 98. Congratulations and keep up the good work!
Fundra Maloney’s Bike-A-Thon September 10, 2001 Anyone interested Contact Joe Cotton Phone Number 856-227-7551
WALK THIS WAY! What: Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation WALK TO CURE DIABETES-Fun for the whole family! Where: Fairmount Park, Memorial Hall, and Philadelphia When: Sunday, September 23, 2001 Registration: 9 a.m., Walk: 10 a.m. Why: To raise money to fund research to find the cure for diabetes, a Disease affecting more than 250,000 Delaware Valley residents. Diabetes complications can include blindness, limb amputation and Heart
i sers and kidney disease. Insulin is a treatment, not a cure. Any questions call Bob Hasty, Iggy Fletcher at (215-567-6405) Local Union 98 will once again be helping.
OCTOBER 2000 HEALTH FAIR I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the membership, and your families for another successful Local Union 98 Blood Drive that was held at the Local Union 98 Health Fair this past October. Because of your generosity, we have reached our Blood Drive quota for the 5th year in a row.
James Huston SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET he Annual Local 98/NECA Scholarship T Banquet and Awards Night was held on Saturday, March 3, 2001 at Penn’s Landing Caterers (Sheet Continued next page
Metal Workers, Local Union 19) 1301 S. Columbus Boulevard. The evening began with cocktails at 6:00 P.M. and dinner served at 7:00 P.M. We would like to congratulate our award recipients who are listed below:
SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS William Corazo – Abigail Coyle – Julie Donahue John Hamilton – Patrick Magee Timothy McGuire – Lone Reed – Matt Rowan – George Senick – Joseph Shuman
IBEW PIN AWARDS 70-YEAR James P. Henry
65-YEAR William Doughty
Charles A. Carr – Francis W. Uhlein John R. Wenrich, Jr.
55-YEAR Norbert R. Davis – Joseph F. Healy, Jr Peter J. Marino – Tad F. Martin Milton H. Robinson – John C. Toland
50-YEAR George N. Caldwell – Joseph B. Fite, Jr. William H. Hohfield – James J. Kearney William Macfarlane – Lawrence J. McCarty, Jr. Joseph J. Mickle – John T. Perry – Robert L. Robinson – John J. Schultz – Thomas J. Sparks Edward Spivack Your support is what makes this event possible. Please contact Local Union 98 at 215-563-5592 for more information.
60-YEAR
Retirees RETIREES – NEW PENSIONERS 2001
January
April
Manny Green
Robert Chavous
George Ritchie
William Martin
Daniel Spaeth
Kenneth Saalfrank
Robert Francis
John Whalen
Robert Drazek
May
February
James Surdykowski
Joseph Bach
Joseph Warren
Donald Felice
Charles McMaster
March
June
Robert Geary
Paul Kelleher
LOCAL 98 RETIREMENT BENEFITS FAIR On April 28th Local 98 held it’s Retirement Benefits Fair. In attendance were over 200 members and their wives. Breakfast and lunch was served and each member received a small gift. The fair included presentations on Pension, Deferred Income, Social Security, N.E.B.F. and I.O. Pension. There was also professional discussions of Long Term Care and Retirement Planning. The fair turned out to be a complete success. Many thanks to Lisa Ketterlinus, Ralph Caponigro, Fran Walsh, Bob Poston and our administrators, who all played an important part in the Retirement Benefits Fair.
President
USHIRIKA FUNDI Local 98 Electricians of Ushirika Fundi threw a retirement banquet dinner for Brother Mannie Green Jr. at the “Rivage” Ballroom on July 20th, 2001. President Harry Foy, Robin Tasco and Bruce G. Fulton were guest speakers, along with local City and State officials. Citations and awards were presented to Mannie for his many years of service with Local 98, his community and his unselfish commitment to help youths. Close to 200 people were in attendance, along with our own Business Agents Tim Brown, Jack Dershimer, Jim Mink, just to name a few. All who attended enjoyed themselves and to wish Mannie a Happy and Healthy Retirement.
Brother Bruce G. Fulton (Sarge)
Local 98 Softball For the fourth consecutive year, Local 98’s Double A Softball Team won the Philadelphia Building Trades Championship, under management of Keith Ebner and help from All Star pitcher Ray Morris (who has been in the league since its inception in 1975), and All-Star home run hitter Joe Granroth. 98AA’s swept Local Union 692 Sprinkler Fitters 3 games to none. Congrats to all the players and thanks to their supporters. For information on how to join please contact: Steve Koz (98 A’s) Keith Ebner (98 AA’s)
rentice Training p p A
APPRENTICE BANQUET 2000 n October 13, 2000, Local 98 held its annual apprentice training banquet at Penn's Landing O Caterers. The graduation ceremonies were extra special this year because it combined the inside journeyman wiremen class with the telecommunication class for the first time. The graduating class was addressed by a number of area politicians including Local 98’s very own, Continued on page 20
Philadelphia City Councilman, Richard Mariano. Included in this distinguished list of speakers was NECA Executive Director of the Penn-Del-Jersey Chapter, Larry Bradley and Business Manager John Dougherty. usiness Manager Dougherty encouraged the graduates to take their experiences as apprentices and B continue their involvement, not only as journeymen on the job, but also as leaders in the community. Awards were received by: Edward Coppinger, Kelleher Award Ken Wolf, Klein Tool Award Aaron Johnson and Lloyd Trader, Perfect Attendance Joe Brassell, Highest Average Michael Yates, Most Improved Good Luck and best wishes to everyone in the future.
Edward J. Coppinger, III TELECOM EXPO 2001
n Saturday, May 12th Local Union 98’s Apprentice Training sponsored its first Telecommunications O Trade Expo. Over 700 of our members and guests attended. The show featured over 40 of the leading Tele-data manufacturers and distributors in the area. his show provided the opportunity for our members to meet and learn from the telecommunication T experts in attendance. Exhibitors presented the latest technologies available today. uring this Expo there were various educational break out sessions where vendors demonstrated their D products hands on. We thank apprentice training for supplying gifts for all in attendance and also the vendors for supplying the door prizes.
Michael Neill
Local 98 Prepares for the Future ON-LINE TRAINING AVAILABLE FOR ALL 98 MEMBERS Earn an Associates Degree in Telecommunications at Local 98. Our new state of the art computer lab will be available for this training. NACTEL (National Coalition for Telecommunication Education and Learning) has partnered with the IBEW and PACE University to offer on-line training. NACTEL is instructor led, but totally on-line so students can study any time from anywhere by accessing the Internet. This on-line program offers Local 98 members the opportunity to receive a college degree that will help obtain the technical jobs that are in demand in the industry. This program is offered to anyone and members are eligible for tuition assistance. For more information log on to www.NACTF-L.org or contact Mike Neill at Apprentice Training.
Local 98 Automates Fund Collection Procedure n August 9, 2001, your Labor Management Committee amended the collective bargaining agreeO ment to allow for automated collection of benefits. It works as follows: Any employer participating will be required to submit a file containing wages, hours, and job classifications. Based on this information, First Union will upload the file and calculate the benefit due. The wage, hours, and classifications are due by the eighth (8thÂ) day of the month following the month in which work has been performed. After contractor approval, First Union can either charge the employer’s account via ACH or, if the contractor has a First Union account, a direct charge. An incentive for contractors who participate will mean their accounts will be debited on the twentieth (20th) of the month. Anything after that date will be considered delinquent. Currently, information will be received via a disk. During the fourth (4th) quarter of 2001, we will roll out the process for electronic mailing of the data. This is just one more step in taking Local 98 into the 21St Century.
President
NLRB ORDERS CONTRACTOR TO PAY LOCAL 98 OVER $63,000 TO REMEDY UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE On July 5, 2001, the National Labor Relations Board ordered Ray Angelini, Inc. (“RAI”) to
pay Local 98 over $63,000 to remedy an unfair labor practice committed by RAI’s pursuit of a meritless federal court lawsuit against Local 98. AI is a large non-union electrical contractor based in Sewell, NJ. In 1995, it bid on an R electrical contract at Philadelphia International Airport. RAI was the low bidder for the project, and was about to be awarded a contract by the City. ocal 98 representatives researched RAI, and discovered that the company had violated L prevailing wage laws in New Jersey on three separate occasions. Local 98 then submitted this information to City officials, leading the City to disqualify RAI from the bidding on the project. The project was ultimately awarded to a contractor signed with Local 98. I n 1996, RAI brought a federal civil rights action against Local 98, the City, and a number of City officials. The lawsuit alleged that Local 98 and the City officials had unlawfully conspired to deprive RAI of the ability to obtain the Airport project. Local 98 filed an unfair labor practice charge with the NLRB at that time, contending that the lawsuit interfered with rights protected under federal labor laws. After lengthy proceedings and 8 days of trial, the federal court, in November 1997, found in favor of Local 98 and the City defendants in RAI’s civil rights suit. Unfortunately, Local 98 was forced to spend $63,521.24 in attorneys fees, and over $9,100 in court costs to defend the lawsuit. The court ordered RAI to pay Local 98’s costs, which RAI ultimately did, but did not deal with the attorneys’ fee issue leaving that issue to the NLRB to determine. pon dismissal of the federal lawsuit, the NLRB issued a complaint against RAI, alleging that U it violated federal labor law by filing and maintaining the lawsuit against Local 98. A hearing in the matter was held before an administrative law judge in February 2000, and the ALJ issued a decision in September 2000. In the decision, the ALJ found that Local 98’s complaints to City officials were protected under the National Labor Relations Act, and that RAI had committed an unfair labor practice by attempting to restrain the exercise of this protected activity through its federal lawsuit. lthough RAI appealed the ALJ’s decision to the NLRB, the Board rejected the appeal, and A upheld the ALJ’s decision, in its July 5, 2001 Decision and Order. As a result, RAI will be required to reimburse Local 98 the $63,521,24 in attorneys’ fees incurred in defending against the federal claim, with interest. RAI will also be required to post a notice to its employees, indicating that the NLRB found that it committed an unfair labor practice, and pledging not to interfere in the future with the exercise of activity protected under the National Labor Relations Act.
IN MEMORIAM Harry E. Warfield Harry McCaffery
Alton T. Walker Allen Beltzner James P. Lachman Benjamin Busler Roger J. Laber Charles V. McHugh James F. Lalley Rolf G. Schwank Walter E. Burt Mark G. Walsh Timothy J. Foy, Jr. William J. Anderson Ralph C. McCloskey Ryan Bailie Adam Kutelmack James G. Mitchell Frank J. Fichter Thomas G. Messina Stephen Moss Walter Wysocki John Tapken Charles Collier Arnold Ridgway Harry McErlain Robert T. Brown Richard E. Segear
1999
2000
12/28/99 12/31/99
1/8/00 1/18/00 1/22/00 1/23/00 1/25/00 1/28/00 3/1/00 3/15/00 3/20/00 5/14/00 6/1/00 6/26/00 7/9/00 7/16/00 7/23/00 7/25/00 8/14/00 8/17/00 9/8/00 9/29/00 10/3/00 10/6/00 10/7/00 10/8/00 10/14/00 10/20/00
John W. Getts Robert Radnetter Henry Wolf George Connell Leo P. Clark Thomas P. Lynch
11/8/00 11/17/00 11/19/00 11/20/00 12/12/00 12/31/00
2001
Charles W. Christy, Jr. Charles Flemming James J. Meagher Louis P. Beck Charles Carr James P. Henry Michael F. Deacy John J. McDevitt William T. Donahue Ralph S. Roberts Thomas D. Rowan William J. Wusinich Milton J. Ruoff Albert J. Dugan James Rowland, Jr. James J. Thornton Paul J. Christy Vincent J. Brecht Edward Bretzius Kahil Hasan McCrae Maurice E. Goldman Pasquale Fonnotto Joseph Fenstermacher
1/2/01 1/8/01 2/5/01 2/6/01 2/21/01 2/26/01 3/1/01 3/17/01 4/5/01 4/15/01 4/19/01 5/5/01 5/15/01 5/28/01 6/5/01 6/17/01 7/4/01 7/15/01 7/23/01 7/23/01 7/28/01 8/13/01 8/13/01
98 NEWS CODE QUESTIONS 1. Listed or labeled equipment shall be installed, used, or both, in accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling. True or False. 2. Listed or labeled equipment is not required to be inspected at the job site for compliance with the code. True or False. 3. An electrical installation in a floating building is not covered by the NEC. True or False. 4 . An overload on an electrical conductor is caused by a ground fault or a short circuit. True or False. 5 . The branch circuit voltage feeding a lighting fixture installed in a motel room shall not exceed 120-volts between conductors. True or False. 6. A combination fan & lighting fixture weighing 40-pounds is required to be supported independently of the box. True or False. 7. No. 2/0 THW copper conductors are permitted for a 200 amp 120/240-volt single phase service for a dwelling. True or False. 8. Unless marked suitable for direct contact with thermal insulation recessed lighting fixtures must be spaced from thermal insulation a minimum of -inches. 9. A bathroom is an area including a with one or more of the following: a toilet, a tub, or a shower. 10. Emergency systems shall be tested on a schedule acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction to ensure the systems are maintained in proper operating condition. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
True Section 110-3(b) True Section 90-7 False Section 90-2(a)(1) False Article 100 Definition of “overload” True Section 210-6(a) True Section 422-18(b) True Section 310-15(b)(6) “three” Section 410-66(b) “basin” Article 100 Definition of “bathroom” “periodically” Section 700-4(b)
ANSWERS
LOCAL 98 CODE CORNER Did you bond the Grounding Electrode Conductor to the metal raceway it is installed in? A service or a separately derived system (transformer) requires a grounding electrode conductor. How many electric closets and gear-rooms have you been in and seen this scenario? The conductor is run in a metal raceway, the conductor leaves the metal raceway and is terminated on a copper buss, metal water pipe or building steel and is not bonded to the metal raceway. A grounding electrode conductor installed in this manner will not be effective. Fault current will induce a voltage equal and opposite to itself in the metal raceway. This choke coil effect will not permit enough current flow to trip a breaker or blow a fuse. Section 250-92(b) states that a metal enclosure (raceway) that is not physically continuous from equipment to the electrode must be made electrically continuous (bonded) ! ! !
Local Union No. 98, I.B.E.W. 1701 Spring Garden Street Philadelphia PA 19130 Address Service Requested
Standard U.S. Postage Paid Philadelphia, PA Permit No. 2434