Toledo Edison Workers Approve Strike Authorization
Union workers overwhelmingly say yes, but both sides hopeful negotiations will resume.
Members of IBEW Local 245 voted Thursday night to authorize a strike, with 87 percent saying yes. It was a month ago that the union voted 90 percent against First Energy's most recent contract offer.
The vote affects nearly 600 Toledo Edison workers. First Energy officials say they're willing to sit down and talk with union negotiators on health care or other concerns, but union leaders say that's not enough. "There's a difference between sitting down and talking and sitting down and negotiating in good faith," said Larry Tscherne, IBEW Local 245 representative.
The union and First Energy say they've spoken on the phone -- and are hoping to resume negotiations soon. However, no date has been set.
Last Updated: Dec 17, 2004
Saturday, December 18, 2004
System Council U-3 (New Jersey) members walk picket, worry about customer service
JCP&L making preparations for possible outages during storm
Published in the Asbury Park Press
By DAVID P. WILLIS
GANNETT NEW JERSEY
With possible snow in the forecast for Sunday night and Monday, Jersey Central Power & Light officials are keeping their eyes on the weather.
A storm is approaching the New Jersey area and is set to bring rain during the day on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. Later Sunday night and into Monday, there could be some snow, meteorologist Larry Nierenberg said.
"Like everybody else in New Jersey, we too are watching the weather forecasts," JCP&L spokesman Scott Surgeoner said.
But with 1,350 workers and members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on strike, there are differing opinions on whether the company can handle outages that typically can come along with a winter storm.
"They won't be able to handle it. The highly skilled, trained professionals are carrying picket signs," said Ed Modzelewski, spokesman for System Council U-3, which is made up of five IBEW locals in New Jersey. "The guys that are out on strike know the system the best and are much better able to handle storm restoration."
Surgeoner said the company will be able to handle any outages. The company has plans to move more management and non-union workers from FirstEnergy's utilities in Ohio and Pennsylvania if needed, he said.
"We are not worried about resources from within FirstEnergy," Surgeoner said. "We will be able to assemble what we need if we have to."
During the strike, which began Dec. 8, the company has used management workers to do priority maintenance and emergency repairs to the electric network, including outage restoration, he said. "Our crews have done a remarkable job," Surgeoner said.
Meanwhile, the IBEW plans to hold a rally today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at JCP&L's headquarters in Morristown to show that the union is united, Modzelewski said. The rally also will focus on the issue of health care for future retirees, he added.
The union has said it has agreed to pay more for employee health care, but the company wants employees' contributions toward health care to increase once they retire.
Talks are scheduled to resume on Tuesday between the union and the company and a state mediator.
The company has said another issue has been work rules, especially those related to making sure there is an adequate response by workers during off-hours. The IBEW has said the union has given JCP&L proposals that addressed the issue, but they were rejected.
Published in the Asbury Park Press
By DAVID P. WILLIS
GANNETT NEW JERSEY
With possible snow in the forecast for Sunday night and Monday, Jersey Central Power & Light officials are keeping their eyes on the weather.
A storm is approaching the New Jersey area and is set to bring rain during the day on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. Later Sunday night and into Monday, there could be some snow, meteorologist Larry Nierenberg said.
"Like everybody else in New Jersey, we too are watching the weather forecasts," JCP&L spokesman Scott Surgeoner said.
But with 1,350 workers and members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on strike, there are differing opinions on whether the company can handle outages that typically can come along with a winter storm.
"They won't be able to handle it. The highly skilled, trained professionals are carrying picket signs," said Ed Modzelewski, spokesman for System Council U-3, which is made up of five IBEW locals in New Jersey. "The guys that are out on strike know the system the best and are much better able to handle storm restoration."
Surgeoner said the company will be able to handle any outages. The company has plans to move more management and non-union workers from FirstEnergy's utilities in Ohio and Pennsylvania if needed, he said.
"We are not worried about resources from within FirstEnergy," Surgeoner said. "We will be able to assemble what we need if we have to."
During the strike, which began Dec. 8, the company has used management workers to do priority maintenance and emergency repairs to the electric network, including outage restoration, he said. "Our crews have done a remarkable job," Surgeoner said.
Meanwhile, the IBEW plans to hold a rally today from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at JCP&L's headquarters in Morristown to show that the union is united, Modzelewski said. The rally also will focus on the issue of health care for future retirees, he added.
The union has said it has agreed to pay more for employee health care, but the company wants employees' contributions toward health care to increase once they retire.
Talks are scheduled to resume on Tuesday between the union and the company and a state mediator.
The company has said another issue has been work rules, especially those related to making sure there is an adequate response by workers during off-hours. The IBEW has said the union has given JCP&L proposals that addressed the issue, but they were rejected.
Friday, December 17, 2004
IBEW Members Build Radical New Night Light
Press Release
At Last! A Solution To Night-Light Glare: New Alkco SoftGlo LED Night Lights
New Product: SoftGlo Series — wall-recessed glare-free LED night-lights.
Design: Alkco/JJI In-House Product Development and Engineering Team.
Manufacturer: Alkco Lighting — a division of the JJI Lighting Group, Inc.
Product Applications: SoftGlo Series wall-recessed LED night-lights provide "soft" functional illumination at floor level, while presenting a crisp, unobtrusive design aesthetic that melds with architectural designed interiors.
SoftGlo is ideal for use in a range of institutional and upscale residential environments, including hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hotel rooms, housing hallways, stairways and bedrooms.
Product Description: SoftGlo LED night-lights provide safe, low-level illumination during nighttime hours without resorting to the usual disruptive, too-bright nightlights or overhead lighting. The SoftGlo Series comprises wall-enhancing rectangular fixtures that recess into walls blending in with the existing interior architecture and spatial designs, without compromising light or safety levels. Low power-consumption, white LED lamps assure a reliable operating life for years before a lamp replacement is needed. Choices of louvered or subtly regressed shields distribute light in a no-glare direct/indirect pattern.
Construction & Finishes: SoftGlo fixtures are constructed from a 20-gauge galvanized steel housing. Depending on model specified, frame and faceplate are stamped or die-cast aluminum, or steel. Standard finishes are white, stainless steel or painted matte aluminum. Custom finishes may be specified. SoftGlo LED wall lights are UL and CUL listed, IBEW labeled and made in America.
Ordering Information: Literature and specifications for the SoftGlo LED wall lights are available from Alkco, 11500 Melrose Avenue, Franklin Park, Illinois 60131-8139. Telephone: (847) 451-0700. Fax: (847) 451-7152. Visit Alkco on-line at: www.alkco.com. Alkco Lighting is a member of the JJI Lighting Group, Inc. family of distinguished manufacturers.
Company Information:
Name: Alkco Mfg. Co.
Address: 11500-T W. Melrose Ave., P.O. Box 1389
City: Franklin Park
State: IL
ZIP: 60131 8389
Country: USA
Phone: 708-451-0700
FAX: 708-451-7512
http://www.alkco.com
At Last! A Solution To Night-Light Glare: New Alkco SoftGlo LED Night Lights
New Product: SoftGlo Series — wall-recessed glare-free LED night-lights.
Design: Alkco/JJI In-House Product Development and Engineering Team.
Manufacturer: Alkco Lighting — a division of the JJI Lighting Group, Inc.
Product Applications: SoftGlo Series wall-recessed LED night-lights provide "soft" functional illumination at floor level, while presenting a crisp, unobtrusive design aesthetic that melds with architectural designed interiors.
SoftGlo is ideal for use in a range of institutional and upscale residential environments, including hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, hotel rooms, housing hallways, stairways and bedrooms.
Product Description: SoftGlo LED night-lights provide safe, low-level illumination during nighttime hours without resorting to the usual disruptive, too-bright nightlights or overhead lighting. The SoftGlo Series comprises wall-enhancing rectangular fixtures that recess into walls blending in with the existing interior architecture and spatial designs, without compromising light or safety levels. Low power-consumption, white LED lamps assure a reliable operating life for years before a lamp replacement is needed. Choices of louvered or subtly regressed shields distribute light in a no-glare direct/indirect pattern.
Construction & Finishes: SoftGlo fixtures are constructed from a 20-gauge galvanized steel housing. Depending on model specified, frame and faceplate are stamped or die-cast aluminum, or steel. Standard finishes are white, stainless steel or painted matte aluminum. Custom finishes may be specified. SoftGlo LED wall lights are UL and CUL listed, IBEW labeled and made in America.
Ordering Information: Literature and specifications for the SoftGlo LED wall lights are available from Alkco, 11500 Melrose Avenue, Franklin Park, Illinois 60131-8139. Telephone: (847) 451-0700. Fax: (847) 451-7152. Visit Alkco on-line at: www.alkco.com. Alkco Lighting is a member of the JJI Lighting Group, Inc. family of distinguished manufacturers.
Company Information:
Name: Alkco Mfg. Co.
Address: 11500-T W. Melrose Ave., P.O. Box 1389
City: Franklin Park
State: IL
ZIP: 60131 8389
Country: USA
Phone: 708-451-0700
FAX: 708-451-7512
http://www.alkco.com
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
IBEW Local 481 (Indianapolis) Members Team Up with TV 6 for Toy Drive
RTV6 Holding Toy Collection Downtown Wednesday
Wed Dec 15, 7:30 AM ET
RTV6 is winding down its annual toy drive for needy children Wednesday with a 12-hour collection on Monument Circle downtown.
• Storm Clouds Forming? Check Live Radar
• Have A Problem You Can't Solve? Call 6 For Help
• Need Help With Gardening? Ask Dr. Dirt.
• Get A Great Deal On Your Next Car
Wed Dec 15, 7:30 AM ET
People are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys in front of the Emmis Communications building from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday's event is part of the RTV6 Toy Drive, which has provided toys for thousands of Hoosier children over the past three holiday seasons.
Teaming up with RTV6 for Wednesday's collection are The Contractors of Quality Connection, IBEW Local 481, Indianapolis Downtown Inc. and radio station Real 97.1.
People who can't drop off toys on the circle Wednesday can still do so Thursday at RTV6, 1330 N. Meridian St.
Wed Dec 15, 7:30 AM ET
RTV6 is winding down its annual toy drive for needy children Wednesday with a 12-hour collection on Monument Circle downtown.
• Storm Clouds Forming? Check Live Radar
• Have A Problem You Can't Solve? Call 6 For Help
• Need Help With Gardening? Ask Dr. Dirt.
• Get A Great Deal On Your Next Car
Wed Dec 15, 7:30 AM ET
People are invited to drop off new, unwrapped toys in front of the Emmis Communications building from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday's event is part of the RTV6 Toy Drive, which has provided toys for thousands of Hoosier children over the past three holiday seasons.
Teaming up with RTV6 for Wednesday's collection are The Contractors of Quality Connection, IBEW Local 481, Indianapolis Downtown Inc. and radio station Real 97.1.
People who can't drop off toys on the circle Wednesday can still do so Thursday at RTV6, 1330 N. Meridian St.
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Electrical Workers Minority Caucus Meets January 15
Thanks to Brother Ware for this announcement.
2005 EWMC National Meeting Call
The 15th Annual National meeting starts on Thursday, January 13, 2005. Pre-Conference Workshops begin at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, and include a workshop for EWMC Chapter Presidents and EWMC Advisory Committee members.
A special session for new members begins at 8:00 a.m. Friday morning. The opening Plenary Session begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. Friday morning. Plenary sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and formal EWMC business will be conducted Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The Awards Banquet and Scholarship presentation will be Saturday evening, and the Conference will end no later than 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.
The registration fee is $190.00, and includes meeting materials, the banquet dinner on Saturday, plus 2005 EWMC membership dues ($40.00).
Article IV, Section 4 requires payment of the current year’s membership dues before admission to the meeting.
Hotel
The Conference hotel is the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois. Please make your hotel reservations now! Contact the Hyatt to make your sleeping room reservations: www.hyatt.com or 312/565-1234, or 800/233-1234.
iltonThe special EWMC room rate is $100.00 for a single or double room and is available January 12th – 17th. The rates are subject to tax and assessment, currently at 14.9%. The rate is available on a first come first serve basis. Please mention the Electrical Workers Meeting (EWMC) when making your room reservations. January 4, 2005, is the hotel’s reservation cutoff date. Please contact the hotel now to make certain that you qualify for the special EWMFC room rate.
Travel
You may contact Adrienne Miller (spouse of EWMC member Gus Miller) at Walker Travel and Cruises (800-503-9272), if you desire assistance in making your travel arrangements.
Bylaws Amendments
In accordance with the provisions of Article IX, Section 2, proposed Bylaws Amendments and proposed Resolutions must be received at PO Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530, no later than January 3, 2005.
Committees
Members interested in serving on any of the committees described in Article VI (Registration; Rules and Order of Business; Resolutions/Bylaw Amendments; and Sergeant-At-Arms) should submit a written request to President Robbie Sparks no later than December 11, 2004, c/o Secretary/Treasurer at P. O. Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530.
2004 Scholarship
The EWMC will award its third annual scholarship to the child of a member in good standing of the National EWMC at the 15th Annual National Meeting in Chicago. The meeting will be held January 13 – 16, 2005.
A scholarship candidate must be the child of a National EWMC member and a high school student who has graduated or will graduate in 2004. A copy of the diploma or a letter from the high school confirming graduation in 2004 must be attached to the scholarship request.
Scholarships are approved for enrollment in a State certified trade school or a college certified by the Department of Education and accredited by the local accrediting association.
Only those scholarship request letters mailed to the EWMC at PO Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530 by certified, return receipt mail and postmarked no later than December 31, 2004, will be eligible for consideration for the 2004 scholarship.
2005 EWMC National Meeting Call
The 15th Annual National meeting starts on Thursday, January 13, 2005. Pre-Conference Workshops begin at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, and include a workshop for EWMC Chapter Presidents and EWMC Advisory Committee members.
A special session for new members begins at 8:00 a.m. Friday morning. The opening Plenary Session begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. Friday morning. Plenary sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and formal EWMC business will be conducted Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The Awards Banquet and Scholarship presentation will be Saturday evening, and the Conference will end no later than 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.
The registration fee is $190.00, and includes meeting materials, the banquet dinner on Saturday, plus 2005 EWMC membership dues ($40.00).
Article IV, Section 4 requires payment of the current year’s membership dues before admission to the meeting.
Hotel
The Conference hotel is the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois. Please make your hotel reservations now! Contact the Hyatt to make your sleeping room reservations: www.hyatt.com or 312/565-1234, or 800/233-1234.
iltonThe special EWMC room rate is $100.00 for a single or double room and is available January 12th – 17th. The rates are subject to tax and assessment, currently at 14.9%. The rate is available on a first come first serve basis. Please mention the Electrical Workers Meeting (EWMC) when making your room reservations. January 4, 2005, is the hotel’s reservation cutoff date. Please contact the hotel now to make certain that you qualify for the special EWMFC room rate.
Travel
You may contact Adrienne Miller (spouse of EWMC member Gus Miller) at Walker Travel and Cruises (800-503-9272), if you desire assistance in making your travel arrangements.
Bylaws Amendments
In accordance with the provisions of Article IX, Section 2, proposed Bylaws Amendments and proposed Resolutions must be received at PO Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530, no later than January 3, 2005.
Committees
Members interested in serving on any of the committees described in Article VI (Registration; Rules and Order of Business; Resolutions/Bylaw Amendments; and Sergeant-At-Arms) should submit a written request to President Robbie Sparks no later than December 11, 2004, c/o Secretary/Treasurer at P. O. Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530.
2004 Scholarship
The EWMC will award its third annual scholarship to the child of a member in good standing of the National EWMC at the 15th Annual National Meeting in Chicago. The meeting will be held January 13 – 16, 2005.
A scholarship candidate must be the child of a National EWMC member and a high school student who has graduated or will graduate in 2004. A copy of the diploma or a letter from the high school confirming graduation in 2004 must be attached to the scholarship request.
Scholarships are approved for enrollment in a State certified trade school or a college certified by the Department of Education and accredited by the local accrediting association.
Only those scholarship request letters mailed to the EWMC at PO Box 642, El Cerrito, CA 94530 by certified, return receipt mail and postmarked no later than December 31, 2004, will be eligible for consideration for the 2004 scholarship.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)