Brothers and sisters:
The mechanics review class started July 27th with Brother Rick Myers preparing the fourth year apprentices for the mechanics exam being given on September 12th. Remember brothers, this is the only unbiased evaluation of your knowledge of the trade you will ever have. Use this opportunity to its fullest. Any apprentice that does not pass the exam will have to attend class this fall. Best of luck to all.
In the July issue of the National Elevator Industry Educational Program’s (NEIEP) magazine Conduit, Area Coordinator Ron McKay mentioned the passing of Brother Mike Schaffer. Here is what he wrote:
“I recently learned of the passing of Local 17 (Cleveland, Ohio) JATC Committee member Mike Schaffer. As the owner of Edmonds Elevator, Mike served on the Local 17 committee for many years as a company representative. Mike was typically the first committeeperson to arrive and the last to leave. He had high expectations for the students of Local 17 and rewarded those who put forth a good effort with an uncanny loyalty. I will always value Mike’s meaningful input, his thoughtful questions and the integrity he displayed as a NEIEP representative.”
Local 17 sends its condolences to the families of retired Brother John Sutter, 79, who passed away July 27th and retired Brother Joe Udovic who passed away July 19th. The local also send condolences to the families of retired Brother Bernie Friem whose wife passed away and Brother Matt Johnson who lost his father.
The building trades are asking members to sign a petition calling for Governor John Kasich and Attorney General Mike DeWine to fully implement the Affordable Care Act in Ohio as soon as possible. The Act, also known as “ObamaCare” recently had many of its most hotly contested provisions upheld by the United States Supreme Court.
It was rumored on Thursday August 2nd and confirmed on Friday, August 3rd that IUEC General President Dana Brigham resigned his position and will retire effective September 1. By rule, Assistant General President Jim Higgins assumes the duties of the general president until the General Executive Board can meet to name a replacement. This must occur no later than ten days after the vacancy. For updates on the changing situation at the International, go to iueclocal17.org. Updates will be posted as soon as information is available.
International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 17 