IBEW
98 NEWS
Local 98 News November 2005
LOCAL 98 LIGHTS
BOATHOUSE ROW Also inside this issue: East Falls Rally...
5
Boathouse Row Re-lighing...
8
Community College Partnership...
17
“This project was truly a team effort. As with all major construction projects, things develop along the way and flexibility is a must to ensure success. This project was no different, and without the continued teamwork and determination of Local 98 we would not be where we are today.” - Denis O’Brien, PECO Energy
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Local 98 News
Business Manager’s Message Thank you, thank you, thank you! What can I say? You are all amazing! Think of all we have accomplished together these past several months! Hurricane Katrina Relief - We delivered five and a half trailers of food, beverages, clothing, electric and telecommunications items to families in Louisiana and Mississippi. I would also like to thank our friends at the Teamsters - Frank Gillen and the boys - for all of their support with the delivery and storage of the collected goods. Kudos to State Rep. Rosita Youngblood and her friends, as well as state Rep Bill Keller, for helping raise a quick $100,000 for Tom Foley and the American Red Cross. Boathouse Row - Yes, we lit Boathouse Row! Thank you to all who participated, with special thanks to MJK Electric, RM Electric and Rue Electric for seeing that everything was done on time.
John J. Dougherty Business Manager IBEW Local 98
The Labor Rally against the Chelsea Apartments construction site in East Falls - A smashing success and a great message! As I said at the rally, it is no longer union vs. non-union - it is union vs. non-human! No benefits, no trade education, no taxes being paid - that is our competition! The Annual Health Fair - The largest in our history! Thanks to Vaccaro, Ed Coppinger and all the trustees for the best health fair ever. Our Summer Events - The Clementon Park Picnic, the show of unity at the Labor Day Parade, our donated labor for Habitat for Humanity - all grand slams! September’s Consumer Reports rated our Health Benefits #1 in the country! See ConsumerReports.org for the full report.
Finally, you know the importance I place on education. That’s why I am so proud of our cutting edge partnership with Philadelphia Community College in which you and members of your immediate family can earn Associate Degrees. “Remember, the only way to never forget where you came from is to never leave.” Stay active and participate philanthropically, politically and in the education process. You - and Local 98 - will be better for it. Please have a healthy and safe holiday season!
The Philly Power 4: Philadelphia City Controller Alan Butkovitz, U.S. Congressman Bob Brady, Philadelphia District Attourney Lynne Abraham and Business Manager John J. Dougherty
Thanks,
Do c
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Local 98 News
In The News
The Philadelphia Inquirer November 29, 2004
In Planning Philadelphia’s Waterfront, Look Westward ic development opportunity. As a board member Philadelphia’s waterfront represents the city’s most promising future econom River Port Authority, I have a unique perspective on the of the Penn’s Landing Corporation and Commissioner of the Delaware possibilities and challenges in developing our waterfront. an enclosed mall at Penn’s Landing and pulled I was not upset when the Simon Group abandoned its plans to develop city altogether. A mall was never the right option.
out of the
public art, scenic walking and biking paths, and easy The best use of Philadelphia’s waterfront is an open design, with green space, al and commercial properties, but with height restrictions so as access to the river. My waterfront vision includes a mixture of residenti extension of Center City, not an isolated destination. A tram not to block sightlines to the river. I also envision a waterfront that is an connecting us to the Camden waterfront also makes sense. at hampers access to the waterfront from the surrounding There are challenges, not the least of which is Interstate 95, which somewh untable obstacle are mistaken. insurmo an ts neighborhoods. However, those who believe that I-95 represen festivals, concerts, fireworks displays and other fun events. Every year, more than one million visitors enjoy a multitude of ethnic and Buster’s (the most successful site in the franchise), Dave like Penn’s Landing has also spurred successful entertainment venues and Charter House restaurants. The great success of The Spirit of Philadelphia cruise ship, and the recently refurbished Moshulu evidence that the waterfront is bustling. In a city whose the Hyatt Hotel at Penn’s Landing and Dockside Condominiums is further leaders can certainly find ways to work around current settlers realized their dream of freedom against long odds, Philadelphia’s I-95 in developing our waterfront. the cities of Chicago, Indianapolis and Vancouver, British The city’s leaders need only look westward for inspiration. Specifically, and public-private collaboration, these cities have achieved nt, investme Columbia, Canada faced similar challenges. Through vision, for tourism. vibrant waterfronts that have become sources of civic pride and magnets nt. The 24.5 acre, $450 million park includes an 11,000-seat Chicago just opened Millennium Park, the crowning jewel in its waterfro e, two 50-foot high illuminated fountains, a treeperformance pavilion, a stunning 110-ton stainless steel “Cloud Gate” sculptur theater, and the dramatic 945-foot long “BP Bridge” that lined promenade, a large garden, an ice rink, a 1,500-seat music and dance connects the park to the Lake Michigan waterfront. the late 1970s, from industrial and rail uses to a diverse mixture Vancouver, British Columbia began a major waterfront transformation in long waterfront walkway links all of the attractions. of condos and apartments, hotels, restaurants and marinas. A continuous 20-mile of a policy statement to guide development that ensured The city’s waterfront development plan included three strategies: the creation skating paths), the creation of an Official Development public pedestrian walkways on the water’s edge (as well as cycling and accordance with established policies. A key to success in ent Plan (ODP), and the rezoning of the waterfront to enable developm ent, business sector, and city residents. Another key to governm the included that in Vancouver has been a collaborative approach the adjoining downtown space, while preserving open Vancouver’s success has been a focus on integrating new development with green space. It is a lesson we would be wise to heed. hotter. Our waterfront represents enormous untapped Philadelphia’s commercial and residential real estate market has never been status as a world-class city. We can do it by thinking big, potential for development that we must capitalize on to secure our desired and private sectors. Working together, we can make public the in parties investing wisely and opening up the process to all interested Philadelphia’s waterfront as exciting as any in the country. John J. Dougherty Business Manager IBEW Local 98
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Local 98 News
From the President’s Desk Introducing New Funds That Really Help Answer the Question - “Where Do I Invest My Money?” The IBEW Local 98 Board of Trustees for the Profit Sharing Plan have decided to add a new series of balanced investment options to the Plan, effective Monday, October 3, 2005. These new investments are called the Retirement Goal Funds. Retirement Goal Funds are a recent innovation for participants in retirement plans, and we are pleased to be able to offer these new funds to you. The Retirement Goal Funds will include six options — five of them are managed to specific target retirement dates (on or about year 2050, 2040, 2030, 2020, and 2010), and the sixth one, Retirement Goal Income, is designed for individuals who are at or near retirement, as an investment consultant could recommend. The Plan will also continue to offer the IBEW Local 98 LifeCycle Funds.
Harry Foy President IBEW Local 98
How do Retirement Goal Funds differ from the LifeCycle Funds? Once you select a Retirement Goal Fund, you may never need to change your investment, no matter how many years you have remaining until retirement. Using your own risk tolerance and target retirement date, each Retirement Goal Fund automatically adjusts the allocation of your assets over time, using more bonds and less stocks. This is a key difference — with Retirement Goal Funds your account will automatically shift over time to invest more conservatively. With LifeCycle Funds, you must remember to transfer your assets if you want to invest more conservatively as you approach retirement age. Do You Have Questions? You should have already received information about the Retirement Goal Funds in the mail and there will be both “live” and teleconference meetings in the future to give you an opportunity to learn more about these new options and to ask individual questions. Sincerely,
Log on to our secure, private website at President www.prudential.com/retire IBEW Local 98 to learn more and make changes to your retirement benefits.
Harry Foy
Local 98 News
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East Falls Rally a Huge Sucess Thanks to the dedication of our members the East Falls rally was packed with Local 98 colors. We proudly did our part to prove that the Philadelphia Building Trades and union movement are still as strong and united as ever!
lphia After several months of good faith negotiating attempts by Philade x comple ent Apartm Chelsea the area union leaders, the work site at lphia Philade of section Falls East the in Ave. located at 4041 Ridge continues to operate using scores of out-of-state non-union workers ! arrested been even have including illegal immigrants - some of whom seen This situation is one of the most blatant acts of anti-unionism ever ed challeng being wages g within our city limits. Not only are our prevailin ed! employ being are nts immigra but non-union workers and illegal our The developer and owners of the project have literally laughed at of attempts at good faith negotiations. We can not let this blatant show union top city’s our of one of heart the disrespect and arrogance stand in neighborhoods. Patrick Gillespie Business Manager, Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council
Media estimates put rally attendance at over 5,000 people. Ridge Avenue was blocked completely, traffic on the Kelly Drive ground to a halt and our voices were heard for miles!
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Local 98 News
Local 98 Helps Katrina Victims On Monday, September 12, 2005 the Eagles opened their regular season against the Falcons. The game, occuring shortly after the Katrina hurricane disaster, proved to be a great opportunity to raise money for disaster victims. In addition to selling tickets for the event, many Local 98 members and contractors donated a considerable amount of money and goods to help the cause. Water, clothing, shoes, blankets, along with other life necessities were donated. Tickets were $100 and went directly to the Red Cross Katrina Hurricane Relief Fund. Ticket holders had a great time with food, drinks and entertainment. Swoop was there rallying the crowd while they watched the game from the club lounge. The Eagles Cheerleaders were there to show their spirit and interact with the crowd as well. Music was provided by Fralinger String Band and the Eagles Pep Band. The Star Spangled Banner was sung by the young Timmy Kelly to give the crowd some inspiration. State Representative Bill Keller was a major help to the cause as always. In addition, Local 98 partnered with Women for Women, a coalition of prominent African-American politicos including State Representative Rosita Youngblood, State Senator Shirley Kitchen, State Representative Louise Williams Bishop, City Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell, 2000 African-American Women President Patricia Russell and National Congress of Black Women President Tahiya McCoy Nyahuma, in making a significant donation of clothing, food, water and other essentials to Gulf Coast victims of Hurricane Katrina. IBEW Local 98 presented a check for $100,000 to the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund in an afternoon press conference on October 7, 2005 as Teamsters trucks rolled out to the Gulf area from the Local 98 union hall. The truckloads of donated materials were destined for the communities of Jackson and Moss Point in Mississippi along with Huntsville and Tuskegee in Alabama. All four locations are central distribution points for humanitarian aid efforts in the affected Gulf Coast states.
Above: Local 98’s press conference with State Representatives William Keller, Rosita Youngblood and Louise Bishop, State Senator Shirley Kitchen and Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell presenting a check for $100,000 to American Red Cross. Below: Timmy Kelly singing the Star Spangled Banner for the Eagles Fundraiser. Bottom: Local 98 apprentices and volunteers loading donated goods for disaster victims at the Linc
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Local 98 News
98 + LIVE 8 = A GREAT SHOW A metal skeleton started to grow from the street like a Tripod Monster in War of the Worlds! It turned out to be a monster alright; a monster of a stage built in front of the Art Museum on Benjamin Franklin Parkway for a concert seen and heard by a million people in Philly and billions around the world.
Above: Robert Henon, Larry Delspechio, Business Manager John J. Dougherty and Bobby Thompson. Below Clockwise: Fish-eye view of Michael Barnes of the Stagehands at the Art Museum stage, up close and personal with Sir Elton John and a group shot of all the workers that made this event happen.
IBEW 98 Electricians and Telecommunication Techs along with our Brothers and Sisters from the broadcast unit at NBC10 and FOX were teamed up for coverage of the July 2nd mega world-wide event. All who worked on this flawless project made Philly shine around the world!
Sir Elton John with 98!
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Local 98 News
LOOK WHAT WE WERE DOING ON A Big Day for Philadelphia and A Bright Night for Local 98 On Thursday June 30th, the lights came back on at Boathouse Row and what a spectacular show it was. At exactly 9:15 p.m., when John J. Dougherty, Local 98 Business Manager, PECO CEO Denis O’Brien, and Karen Borski, Executive Director of the Fairmount Park Commission, pulled the ceremonial switch, the 10 houses along Boathouse Row came to life with a dazzling light display. For nine minutes, the hundreds of people gathered on both sides of the river along with a huge television audience, watched in awe as the new LED light system changed from white to red, white and blue to pink to Eagles green to Flyers orange to Phillies red and to various holiday colors in addition to displays of sparkling lights and color movement from end to end of Boathouse Row. As the display came to an end there was a tremendous ovation from the crowd as the lights changed back to white. “Boathouse Row has become as recognizable a Philadelphia icon as the Liberty Bell,” Dougherty said. “From the moment we were approached about this project, our members enthusiastically supported our in-kind labor contribution.” None of this would have been possible without the unbelievable efforts from members of Local 98. A dedicated, hard-working group of journeyman, apprentice training instructors, apprentices and retirees put in almost 10,000 hours of work to complete this complex job on schedule. Each of the 10 houses presented its own set of installation problems which were analyzed and solved. Approximately 50,000 feet of Cat 5e cable was used on this project as well as 5,000 feet of fiber optic cable, 200 fiber connectors and 12 fusion splices. The computer-driven system can be programmed to turn the 16,000 LED nodes into countless variations of colors and patterns. This new system replaces the old 8,000 incandescent light bulb display. It is a safer system and will save the Fairmount Park Commission about $57,000 per year in operating costs. During the pre-lighting reception and dinner, representatives from the various groups involved in the project were singing the praise of Local 98. O’Brien stated that Local 98 was an outstanding partner and “without Local 98 this project would not have been possible.” We would like to thank Chris McElway of Fastrack Construction, Peter Torino of D’Lauro & Rogers, George Peltz of MJK Electrical Contracting, John Rue of Rue Electric and Rick Miller of RM Electric for their outstanding work on this project.
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Local 98 News
OUR LUNCH HOUR THIS SUMMER...
Business Manager John J. Dougherty, Karen Borski of Fairmount Park Commission and PECO CEO Denis O’Brien flipping the switch at Boathouse Row, June 30th 2005
Above: Local 98 members at work instaling new lights, cables and controls for 10 houses along the river. Below: The amazing results of a summers worth of hard work. Great job!
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Local 98 News
Industry News - Upcoming Work The Comcast Tower * The $465 million Comcast Center, to be finished in late 2007, will rise 975 feet and stand as the city’s tallest building. The building is designed with a European-style tower of non-reflective glass which will be spectacularly lit at night. * The building will make a bold statement that Philadelphia is the headquarters of Comcast and draw jobs to the city. * Building Comcast Center will require about 4,500 construction workers and will have a $1.4 billion economic impact. 34th and Chestnut * Currently used as a public surface parking lot by the University of Pennsylvania, this parcel will become a first-class apartment community. It will have 295 market-rate, multi-family rental apartment units with approximately 325,000 square-feet. * The project will include a 7 story and 8 story concrete structure with a 6 story parking structure containing approximately 320 parking spaces, a 9,000 square-foot clubhouse and leasing facility, and 17,000 square-feet of retail space located on the first floor along Chestnut and 34th Streets. * Total development cost is $100 million. 9th and Arch * This parcel, currently used as a public surface parking lot, will be developed into 80 new moderately priced homeownership units and 12 new retail stores, together with associated parking. * The scale and character of the development will be in keeping with the surrounding Chinatown community. The residential units will occupy the 2nd through 6th floors accessed by elevators.
Above: An artists conception of the new Comcast tower at 17th & JFK Blvd. Below: The parking garage scheduled to be demolished in University City.
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Local 98 News
Convention Center Expansion * The expanded Convention Center will be capable of hosting two conventions at once or one enormous convention or tradeshow that would not normally come to the Center because of the lack of space. * The economic impact of expansion is enormous! The hotel occupancy rate will jump 8% annually, creating an additional $25 million in attendee spending due to 280,000 additional room nights, translating into $100 million in spending annually. * Expansion will create 1,600 new construction jobs and 2,900 permanent jobs, equaling $97 million in wages during the first full year of operation.
Notice to Members and Contractors Local 98 would like to remind the Contractors of NECA and the 98 members that you MUST REPORT THE JOB YOU ARE ON TO THE HALL In the past few months we’ve come across a few jobs that Local 98 Business Representatives had no knowledge of only to find that our members were already doing the electrical work. Our by-laws state that the foreman for these jobs is required to report them to the executive board - but this is not happening in all cases. In the interest of better serving the needs and members of Local 98 we would greatly appreciate your full cooperation with this situation. We would like to ask for your assistance by simply reporting the job you are on so if this situation occurs again the Agents responsible for that territory can go about dealing with jobs that are non-union and other business that better serves Local 98 and NECA. A quick phone call to the hall at 215-563-5592 or an email to webm aster@ibew98.org is all we ask as a reasonable solution to this problem. Please provid e the location of the job, when the job started and how many members are expected there. The Business Representatives of Local 98 are only here to serve the members of Local 98 and the NECA Contractors. By working together this will allow our Business Representatives to serve you better.
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Local 98 News
Sound & Communications Local 98 Wins at Lincoln University Lincoln University, located in Chester County, is one of the new higher education facilities that falls under the jurisdiction of Local Union 98. The University is presently constructing a new residence dormitory for its students. Although the voice, data and video work is being done by Local Union 98 members the job had its problems early on. Business agent Ed Coppinger discovered that the electrical contractor, Lombardo and Lipe, had sub-contracted a non-union company ET&T. Coppinger filed a grievance against Lombardo & Lipe for violating the collective bargaining agreement. The decision from the grievance was found in favor of Local 98.
Local 98 Brothers Rob Giannini and Sean McBride working at Lincoln University
Working for Suburban Tri-Tech The crew at the State Farm Insurance offices, located at Spring Valley Corporate Park, Chester County, are from left to right: Brothers Tom Holmwood, Mark Koenig, Bill Walker Sr. and Sam Tinchner (foreman). The project consisted of cabling and terminating approximately 34,000 sq. ft. of office space which provided approximately 2000 hours of work for Local 98 Technicians. Plug and Play? No Way! They call it “Plug and Play.” I.B.E.W. Local 98 calls it a violation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. On a recent large downtown voice and data project, a Local 98 signatory contractor attempted to install a cable assembly that was pre-fabricated offsite. The sharp-eyed steward Joe Penrose notified the hall right away and the work-robbing assembly was immediately removed from the site. The assemblies they call “Plug and Play” are cables that are shipped to the job site with the terminations already made. If you see this type of assembly on your job, please notify the S&C business office right away. The job you save might be your own.
Steward Joe Penrose and Cesar Ramirez together on site
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Local 98 News
Broadcast Division FOX NEWS ALERT FOX Techs gave an overwhelming mandate to ratify a new four-year contract. The negotiation team took its lead from Larry DelSpechio and steward Bob Fleischer who has worked on almost every contract this station has been a part of through multiple owners.
FOX 29 N E W S
Bob worked closely with Broadcast Business Agent DelSpechio and his fellow Steward Tom McGeehan to develop a package of proposals that would include their unit in the future of the station. Meetings were held to receive input from the entire group of thirty-five Techs. The response from the membership was very helpful in crafting the proposals. The four-year deal includes better pay, increases and upgrades for T.D.’s Master Control Operators and a number of other improvements. The union gave no concessions to the company.
BREAKING NEWS AT NBC10
NBC
July marked the first anniversary of a four-year deal settled last summer with NBC10 - and that meant an increase in all of our members’ paychecks this summer. Make sure your check is accurate and includes your raise.
Also, this September celebrates the 10th anniversary of the switch from CBS ownership to NBC. Looking back, the honeymoon was over very quickly when negotiations began for our first contract with the new GE-owned network. Over the last decade, the total number of jobs has been constant, but the fight to get full staff benefits for the long-term temporary workers continues. Staff jobs have been the centerpiece of our battle with NBC10. Our Union has been successful in bringing benefits to the so-called “perma-temps” and in gaining more staff positions than were won under the CBS regime, but the battle continues. The WB Philadelphia’s WB17, also known as WPHL-TV, is gearing up for negotiations which will open later this fall. Negotiations with this Chicago Tribune-owned company are always tough. In past talks with this company, your Union resorted to hand billing and informational picketing to move negotiations to a reasonable conclusion. However, Local 98 is looking forward to a solid group heading into upcoming negations.
NEWS
In the last three years of our agreement, WB17 progressed without any grievances. We never know what to expect when we meet to discuss the future. Thanks to our team of Larry Del Spcehio, Laura Flandreau, Steve Kooistra and Chris Schafer for all of your help in the past and hopefully the future. Let’s stay solid!
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2005 Picnic at Clementon Park
Rides, giveaways, food and fun led to a terrific picnic this year for Local 98 members. Over 5,000 tickets were sold for an incredible turnout and many families were able to spend this wonderful day gathered together. The magnificent weather and sunny skies brought smiles to the faces of many. This year we welcomed the newly organized taxicab drivers and our new Tastykake members. Thrilling water rides such as Sky River Rapids and Vertical Limit were enjoyed by many while others took the more relaxing route of the Lazy River. Amusements such as Chaos, Inverter, and the Log Flume were enjoyed and a favorite seemed to be the new rollercoaster J2. The children were entertained by attractions like the Kiddie-Kastle while the adults enjoyed relaxing massages. All together this was a wonderful day for our members to bond in brotherhood and sisterhood at Local 98!
Local 98 News
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Local 98 News
Over 2000 Show Up for Labor Day As Local 98 members walked together on Columbus Blvd. on Monday September 5, 2005 they were honored for their hard work as laborers. Proudly led by Business Manager John J. Dougherty, the members shared in 98 pride and showed their spirit by wearing shirts made for the occasion. The day began at the Sheet Metal Workers Local 19 hall where 98 members gathered with almost 50 other AFL-CIO trades to begin their day in solidarity. Also in attendance were the newly accepted Local 98 apprentices. Everyone was treated to coffee and light snacks to start off the day. The parade was attended by over 2000 members of the Philadelphia Labor Movement with everyone proudly showing their union colors. The weather was perfect for a mid-morning walk. It was finished off at Columbus and Market Street at Penn’s Landing Festival Pier with fabulous food and entertainment for all those gathered. This was certainly another great day of unity and pride for our Local 98 members. Above: Live entertainment was provided before Business Manager Dougherty rallied the crowd. Below: Local 98 members and apprentices collecting for the Hurricane Katrina Relief Effort
Madison Owens will tell you that you’re never too young to be pro-union!
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Local 98 News
Habitat for Humanity Partnership Build How do you build a house for a family in need in 79 days? With the support of Local Union 98, other members of the Building and Construction Trades and members of the Building Industry Association. We all joined forces with Habitat for Humanity to completely rebuild a home in West Philadelphia. The property had been subject to such neglect over the years that it required an almost-complete rebuilding from basement to roof. Volunteers tackled a complete gutting and re-framing of the house. New electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems were installed. Workers hung drywall, replaced windows and doors, laid new flooring, and installed cabinets and appliances. Steve Wolfe Business Agent IBEW Local 98
“We were delighted to be part of this team effort,” said Steve Wolfe, Business Representative of Local 98. “It was gratifying for everyone involved, and shows how much can be accomplished by working together.”
Please call Steve Wolfe at 215-563-5592 to volunteer for our on-going Habitat for Humanity projects. Steve coordinated with Rue Electric to recruit union volunteers to work on the site installing all new electrical service, wiring and fixtures. Other donors to the Partnership Build included five trades, 49 product and service donors, and 17 financial contributors. Mayor John Street served as Master of Ceremonies at the groundbreaking and was joined by Pat Gillespie, Business Manager, Building and Construction Trades; and City Council representative Jannie L. Blackwell. The event received TV, radio and print coverage. “We can’t thank the Electricians enough for their contribution,” said Sara Moran, Executive Director of Delaware Valley’s Habitat for Humanity. “The commitment, the hard work and the skill of everyone that worked on the job site ensured that construction was completed quickly and capably. I hope that we have the opportunity to work together again soon.” Habitat homes are sold to low-income families based on need, ability to meet a monthly mortgage payment, and willingness to contribute 400 hours of sweat equity. Because all of the labor was donated for this house, the new homeowner, a mother with two sons, did her sweat equity elsewhere. Her appreciation for the efforts put forth by all of the donors was evident when she received the keys to her new home. “I am so happy and appreciative of what everyone involved has done,” she said.
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Local 98 News
Local 98 Partners with Community College IBEW Local 98, in a continuing effort to provide our members and their families with educational opportunities, recently signed an unprecedented agreement with Community College of Philadelphia (CCP) to provide credit courses for students enrolled in the IBEW Applied Studies Program. Classes will be held at the union hall - 1719 Spring Garden Street - literally across the street from CCP. “Local 98 is proud to be the first union within the Philadelphia Building Trades to offer its members this unique opportunity to expand their base of knowledge and improve their future marketability,” Business Manager John J. Dougherty said. “We are proud to join the ranks of such other progressive local institutions as United Parcel Service, Einstein Hospital, the School District of Philadelphia, and the Philadelphia Police Department in forging this mutually beneficial partnership with Community College of Philadelphia.” Local 98 members who have graduated from our nationally-recognized Apprenticeship Training Program are eligible to earn an Associates degree in Applied Science from CCP. The Applied Studies Curriculum is designed for students who seek a degree that recognizes the value of on-the-job experience and hard work as part of the college learning environment. This opportunity to earn a degree from Community College of Philadelphia is also being extended to spouses and immediate family members of Local 98.
For more information, please visit www.ibew98.org and click on the Education section or call Apprentice Training at (215) 567-6405.
Courses Offered MATH 017 Elementary Algebra 3-0-3 Introductory course to algebra. Credit will not apply toward graduation. Prerequisite: pass grade in MATH 016 or satisfactory score on Math Placement test. MATH 118 Intermediate Algebra 3-0-3 Course for students with some proficiency in algebraic techniques who need further preparation for higher level of courses such as precalculus. Prerequisite: MATH 017 or equivalent. Math classes will be held on Wednesday nights. ECON 181 Principles of Economics 3-0-3 Introduction to the discipline of Economics. Classes held on Thursdays.
ENGLISH 098 Fundamentals of Writing Introduction and intensive practice in the development of academic reading and writing skills. Credit will not be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite: pass grade in English 093 or 097 or placement. ENGLISH 101 English Composition I Requires writing of academic essays to develop significant ideas. Prerequisite: pass grade in 098 or satisfactory score on the composition placement test. English classes will be held on Tuesday nights.
Call Apprentice Training at (215) 567-6405 to enroll!
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Local 98 News
Charter School Commencement Business Manager John J. Dougherty addressed the 300 people in attendance at Philadelphia Electrical and Technology Charter High School’s first Commencement ceremony at the Kimmel Center on June 16, 2005. Philadelphia E & T opened its doors in 2002 as a charter school dedicated to preparing students for careers in the high-tech industry sponsored by Local Union 98.
Business Manager Dougherty along with the faculty and staff of The Philadelphia Electrical and Technology Charter High School at Graduation this June
The Philadelphia Electrical & Technology Charter High School is a comprehensive high school offering elective courses in Technology, Telecommunications, Electrical Theory and Computer Science along with a Co-op Education Program.
The Commencement Ceremony was a tremendous celebration and tribute to the hard work and endurance of its first students. Many of the graduating seniors were accepted to post-secondary institutions and many awards were given. We wish all of the graduates success in their future endeavors!
St. Padre Pio Festival From September 23rd to the 25th, Annunciation BVM in South Philadelphia held their annual St. Padre Pio Festival. This year Local 98 donated temporary power and 200 Amp service for carnival lighting at the event. It made for a beautiful scene in the streets of Philadelphia. The material was donated by Representative Bill Keller and all of the labor was donated by Local 98. Apprentice training helped to organize the event and those who donated their time to helping set up the lighting, tents, etc.
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Local 98 News
Local 98 and the MC-LEF The efforts of Local 98 and Business Manager John J. Dougherty helped make the 6th Annual Pennsylvania Event possible for the Marine Corps – Law Enforcement Foundation this past November. The Marine Corps – Law Enforcement Foundation is a national organization that works to assist the children of Marines and Law Enforcement personnel that have fallen in the line of duty. The MC-LEF issues bonds to these children for scholarships, equipment and tutoring to encourage their spiritual, moral, intellectual and physical development through education. Even better, the MC-LEF is a 100% cost-free charity, All donations go toward the assistance of children because no administrative costs of any type are charged to the foundation. For more information please visit the MC-LEF on-line at http://www.mc-lef.org.
Business Manager John J. Dougherty with Asst. Commidant of the Marine Corps General William L. Nyland and Patrick Boyle
2005 Golf Outing On September 25th, Local 98 along with NECA sponsored their first annual scholarship fund golf outing at the Ramblewood Country Club in Mount Laurel, NJ. It was a beautiful day for Local 98 members to gather. The event was a huge success and raised money to sponsor the Local 98/NECA Scholarship Fund. Local 98 was also honored by having a great response to requests for hole sponsors. Many 98 members came out to spend this day relaxing after a hard week at work with a round of golf. Support for the event was astounding. Next year we are hoping for an even bigger turnout for another fantastic day at the 2nd annual golf outing!
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Local 98 News
The Bulletin Board
THE UNION HALL IS BEING RENOVATED All Union Meetings for October 2005 through January 2006 will be held at the Ironworkers Union Hall located at the Waterfall Room at 2015 Water Street, Philadelphia. Free parking is provided under I-95. Our annual Local 98 Union Christmas Party will be held on December 15, 2005 at the Blue Cross River Rink on Columbus Boulevard. The Local 98 Apparel Store will continue to remain open during renovation on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2:30-5:30pm.
Local 98 Toys and Turkeys PARTY Friday Dec. 2nd @ Finnigan’s Wake Please bring a toy!
Call 215-563-5592 Tickets $30/person
I should have built union...
Journeyman Training OSHA 10 & 30-hour Classes will soon be a REQUIREMENT for employment!!! The City of Philadelphia has plans for approximately one and one half billion dollars of construction work in the Philadelphia School system. ALL employees on these jobs must have an OSHA 10-hour card and ALL supervisors (pushers and foreman) must have an OSHA 30-hour card as a prerequisite for employment. If you put off getting an OSHA 10 or 30-hour card now, it will most likely impede your ability to get a job in the future.
JEANIE NIELL’S “TO-DIE-FOR” POUND CAKE 1 LB. BUTTER 3-1/2 CUPS SUGAR 4 CUPS FLOUR 10 EGGS 1 TSP. VANILLA WHIP BUTTER TILL SOFTENED ADD SUGAR AND KEEP MIXING
ADD EGGS (ONE AT A TIME) KEEP MIXING ADD VANILLA, ADD FLOUR AND KEEP MIXING BAKE IN A TUBE PAN AT 300 DEGREES FOR 2 HOURS
NOTICE! The Board of Trustee’s for the Health and Welfare Fund endures the fiduciary responsibility to the union membership to preserve the Funds Assets by the enforcement of all provisions under the Supplemental Assistance Plan. As you know, one of these provisions mandated under the plan is that in order to be eligible for supplemental health benefits while on lay-off, you must be ready, willing and available for work. Please be advised that if you refuse or resist available work, your supplemental benefits will be terminated immediately.
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Local 98 News
In Memorium Robert J. Johnston 5/29/04
William H. Groome 9/23/04
Carl F. Wengert 1/12/05
Carmen S. Diorio 6/1/05
Thomas M. Doban 6/20/04
Henry D. Antrim 9/28/04
Calvin E. Seaton 1/19/05
Michael R. McCool 6/11/05
Francis W. Uhlein 6/17/04
Oliver P. Norris 10/7/04
William J. Sheridan 2/9/05
Daniel DiGregorio 6/13/05
Carl D. VanTrieste 7/2/04
Joseph Kaszan 10/20/04
Walter J. Gabriel 2/11/05
Robert J. Jacobs 7/1/05
Philip H. Rowan 7/8/04
Charles Greskoff 10/21/04
William McFarlane 3/11/05
William T. Clooney 7/2/05
Daniel W. Devlin 7/10/04
Frank J. Davenport 10/27/04
Elwood A. Culp 3/16/05
Gerald R. Murphy 7/19/05
John H. Keevil 7/22/04
Dennis M. O’Malley 11/1/04
James J. Murphy 3/28/05
Ronald C. Carr 8/25/05
Steven J. Given 8/6/04
Leo Jansen 11/12/04
Joseph D. Johnston 4/4/05
Joseph W. Howlett 8/29/05
William R. Oswald 8/11/04
Ronald C. Delviscio 11/28/04
Elmer J. Taylor 4/6/05
Francis Madonna 9/9/05
Douglan J. Bode 9/2/04
John G. Corney 12/6/04
George J. Sander 4/8/05
Harry G. Merkel 9/10/05
Albert J. Schulz 9/15/04
Gilbert T. Chase 12/7/04
Mark Beidell 5/17/05
John J. Farrow 9/16/05
Charles E. Fean 9/22/04
Daniel C. DiSalvo 1/2/05
Thomas P. Henry 5/19/05
William L. Gillen 10/8/05
To our beloved union brothers and sisters who have departed, your memory will forever have a place in the hearts of Local Union 98. You will be missed and not forgotten.
Page 22
Local 98 News
CODE CORNER Electrical Safe Work Practices A New Emphasis on an Old Requirement Electrical accidents are serious and in some cases fatal. Electrical workers suffer horrible burns, loss of limbs, loss of their career and their families suffer along side them. The staggering costs of electrically related injuries and fatalities has driven the insurance industry, building owners, builders, general contractors and customers to require electrical contractors to develop and implement Electrical Safe Work Practice Plans. Requiring all electrical workers to implement safe work practices is not a new requirement. However when the consensus based standard, “NFPA-70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace” is discussed many employers and wireman alike question these “new requirements.” Providing an environment free from the hazards of exposure to energized conductors or circuit parts is in no way, shape or form, a “new requirement.” Federal laws in the form of OSHA standards clearly address exposure to energized conductors and/or circuit parts, requiring safe working conditions for electrical workers. The requirements which mandate safe working conditions for electrical workers in the construction industry, as well as all trades exist in the following two OSHA references: 1926.416 General requirements 1926.416(a) Protection of Employees - This requirement literally prohibits contact with any energized conductor or circuit part. This performance based requirement literally prohibits any energized work including voltage testing. Note that OSHA recognizes the need for limited tasks involving energized work, meeting the infeasibility or greater hazard criteria as set forth in NFPA-70E. 1926.95 Criteria for Personal Protective Equipment 1926.95(a) Application - This requirement mandates personal protective equipment to provide complete protection of employees wherever it is necessary due to jobsite hazards. Electrical shock, Arc-Flash and Arc-Blast are recognized hazards and employers exposing employees to such hazards must determine the level of risk through a hazard evaluation process and provide adequate protection. In essence OSHA requirements in the 1926 Construction Standard literally prohibit energized work and would require the complete protection of any employee exposed to any electrical hazard through proper use of personal protective equipment.
Page 23
Local 98 News
CODE CORNER Q. Where did it come from? A. In 1976 NFPA formed a new electrical standards developing committee to assist OSHA in preparing electrical safety standards which were in step with the development of the National Electrical Code. This new committee was also charged with developing prescriptive requirements for employee safety. There are essentially two types of language used in the development of codes and standards being “performance based text” and “prescriptive based text.” Performance base text requires only that a goal be achieved such as “protect workers from electrical hazards.” Prescriptive based text does not always explain the goal but provides a comprehensive list of steps to get a job done, it tells us how to reach the goal, such as “protecting workers from electrical hazards.” The present text detailing requirements to protect electrical workers in the 1926 Construction standard as listed above are an excellent example of “performance based” requirements. OSHA tells employers that they SHALL protect employees but OSHA does not provide prescriptive requirements to show HOW to protect employees. This is the reason NFPA-70E was created. Q. What is it? A. NFPA-70E is titled the “Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.” It is developed in accordance with NFPA rules and regulations which provide all persons input into the further development of this standard. NFPA-70E is an ANSI standard. Q. Is it mandatory? A. This question is floated when an employer first becomes aware of this consensus based standard. NFPA70E is not a federal law as are all OSHA standards. OSHA tells employers that they SHALL protect employees and NFPA-70E shows the employer HOW to protect employees. The requirement is in the performance based text of the OSHA standards. The solution is in the prescriptive requirements of NFPA-70E. It is not mandatory for employers to use NFPA-70E. It is however mandatory that employers develop and implement steps to protect employees that equal the provisions of NFPA-70E. In essence if an employer chooses to reinvent the wheel and develop their own steps to protect employees, they have that right. The liability incurred in such an undertaking is tremendous and employers all over the United States are implementing Electrical Safe Work Practice Plans in accordance with the 2004 edition of NFPA-70E. The Penn-Del-Jersey Chapter of NECA, all affected IBEW Local Unions and OSHA have formed a partnership to foster the development and implementation of Electrical Safe Work Practice Plans in accordance with the 2004 edition of NFPA-70E. Our electrical industry has always been driven by constant change. Our work habits are next on the change “to-do” list. The vast majority of energized work in construction is done for one of two reasons, (1) poor planning or (2) convenience. Electrical workers literally get in line to get killed and/or injured because of the poor planning of others or because someone decides it is a hassle to arrange a shutdown with the owner. This will change as safe electrical work practices are implemented by employers. The single largest task of implementing an effective Electrical Safe Work Practices Program is changing the present mindset of electrical workers, which to some degree accept exposure during energized work as a hazard which is part of our job description. It is not.
Work Safe!
Always Deenergize, Lock-Out and Tag-Out. It’s easier than having your family attend your funeral.
MJK Electric
RM Electric
IBEW LOCAL
98
Rue Electric
2005
RELIGHTING BOATHOUSE ROW
John J. Dougherty Business Manager Article Contributions Pat Bianculli Ed Coppinger Ray Della Vella Larry DelSpechio Jim Dollard
IBEW Local Union 98 1701 Spring Garden Street Philadelphia, PA 19130
Harry Foy Robert Henon Mike Hnatkowsky Frank Keel Tricia Lafferty Ed McBride
Kristen Smith Fran Walsh Stephen Wolfe Art, Photos & Layout Jeff Marshall Matt Scobell
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