November ’20 Labor-Citizen

Brothers and Sisters:

As you read this in the second week of November, the IUEC Local 17 apprentices are nearing the end of the fall semester.  Since NEIEP has instituted distance learning, it is even more important to keep up on their studies.  The Joint Apprenticeship Committee receives regular reports on the status of apprentices advancement through the program.  If an apprentice falls behind the average of one unit per week, they run the risk of being asked to attend a JAC meeting.  

NEIEP has been receiving requests to hold a forklift class.  Since there is no face-to-face instruction, NEIEP will pay for an online course.  If you are interested in finding a  class, contact Business Manager John Driscoll Jr. at JEDriscoll@iueclocal17.org or call 216-431-8088.

Local 17 has placed Bluestone Apartments, 25450 Euclid Avenue on its list of two-man callbacks.  Bluestone is currently serviced by Thyssen-Krupp.  This list is compiled by the Local and distributed to signatories to represent jobs that may pose a safety risk to our members.

The trustees of the IUEC 401(k) and annuity plan have extended the COVID-19 related distribution eligibility to December 15.  This is the third extension of the program.

In the November issue of the Elevator Constructor, the IUEC monthly journal, the International Safety Committee used its space to discuss the topic of mental health awareness and suicide prevention.  This is an especially timely subject given the stresses placed on society by the pandemic and a time of year known to intensify depression and loneliness.  To counter this trend the IUEC offers the Members Assistance Program through Beacon Health.  It is covered by the Benefits Plan as are most mental health services.  If you know someone who is in crisis or you are yourself, you can call 800-331-4824.  The number is manned 24/7 and can give help on a number of topics.  There is also a link on the IUEC Local 17 website, iueclocal17.org. 

The December 13, 2020 and January 8, 2021 meetings are mandatory meetings for the election and installation of officers.  Fines will be levied for non-attendance.

The Brothers and Sisters of IUEC Local 17 send their condolences to the families of Brother Greg Seaman who lost his son Anthony and retired Brother John Lopiccolo Sr. who passed away.

As of this writing there are two mechanics on the bench.