Fall 2011Volume 2Issue 2

Together local unions donate $20,000 to occupational medicine research

IBEW Local 37 has teamed up with the New Brunswick Nurses Union and the New

Brunswick Union to make a $20,000 donation toward the establishment of a Research Chair in Occupational Medicine at Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick (DMNB).

The Local 37 Executive Board felt that supporting research which generates more knowledge in the management and treatment of workplace illness and injury is yet another way to make a positive impact on the lives of workers in New Brunswick. And at the spring unit meetings, members of

Local 37 agreed by voting to make a $5000 donation to the DMNB campaign.

The Research Chair will be at the centre of a new comprehensive medical program focused on educating the next generation of physicians and researchers on ways to reduce workplace injuries and absences in an effort to keep the workforce healthy and productive. Investments will be made in the promotion of training the development of new technologies, and knowledge transfer in the field of occupational risk prevention and occupational medicine.

INSIDE

The Ross Report 2Bursary Winners 3Hazer’s Corner 4Harley Draw 5Strategic Plan 6ACPM 8L502 Fundraiser 9In Memoriam 9MHCSI Cards 9Training Trust 10Camp Dia-Best 11Rodeo 12Coach of the Year 13Photo Connection 14Retired Members 15Workshop Schedule 16

Held every five years, the 38th IBEW International Convention will take place in Vancouver

between September 19 – 23. In additon to the important business that will be conducted, there will be lots to celebrate at the Convention – 120 years in fact! From its beginning in 1891, where the IBEW was founded by ten delegates representing 286 members, to today where the 2011 Convention will bring together over 3000 delegates, officers, staff, and guests representing over 725,000 members internationally!

Members of Local 37 recently elected six delegates that will accompany the Business Manager and President to this very significant event. The delegates that will be representing Local 37 at the Convention in Vancouver are:

And for the first time in its history, the Convention will be includung young workers in its Proceedings by holding special meetings for a youth delegation to talk about the future of the IBEW. Local 37 Executive Board member, Greg Wright, has been chosen to attend on behalf of the Atlantic Utility Council and all of the Locals it represents, including Local 37.

Local 37 wishes all of our brothers and sisters safe travels and hope they enjoy this very special privilege to gain valuable experience and be a part of keeping the IBEW moving forward.

Elected delegates Vancouver bound Romeo BourqueSue DunhamWanda HierlihyGaetan ChiassonDon Dickson

Stan Jones (unable to attend)

Annette Perry (alternate)

Ross GalbraithSteve Hayes

From Left: Kenn Mainville, Executive Campaign Director; Marilyn Quinn, President NB Nurses Union; Ross Galbraith, Business Manager IBEW Local 37; Susie Proulx-Daigle, President NB Union.

2  Fall 2011

2011 Local 37 Bursary Winners Mathieu Blanchard, son of member Daniel Blanchard from Moncton

Collin Gregan, son of member Roy Gregan from PLGS

Amanda Maltais, daughter of member Brad Lynch from Belledune

Hannah McLeod, daughter of member Mark McLeod from PLGS

Jonathan Fairweather, son of member Gerry Fairweather from PLGS

The Ross Report

I’ve just had the opportunity to spend a few days working with a small number of IBEW Business Managers representing members from every region of North

America. It was a valuable experience, not just because they were all great people to work with, but also for the opportunity to talk with them and understand the issues they are facing in their own neck of the woods, and to learn how they’re dealing with those challenges.

Having the opportunity to interact with other IBEW leaders is important and valuable for Local 37 because our workplaces are not immune to the same global factors that are affecting other IBEW locals in other regions. Increasingly, decisions and events outside of New Brunswick, outside of Canada, and even outside of North America are impacting our workplaces and the communities in which we live.

But even as global economics, corporate and political interests are having an impact everywhere, it remains true that knowledge is power, and there is strength in numbers. As members of the IBEW, we have a huge advantage over others because we’re able to draw upon the resources of a large international union, and we can network to jointly share experiences, information and winning strategies with close to a thousand other IBEW local unions.

However, as important and valuable as it is to network and interact with other IBEW Locals, the most powerful resources we have as Local 37 members are our own collective knowledge, ideas and energy. That’s why a major portion of the Local 37 Strategic Plan is a strong

J’ai récemment eu l’occasion de travailler avec quelques gérants d’affaires de la FIOE venant de toutes les régions en Amérique du Nord. Ce fut une expérience

inestimable, non seulement parce qu’ils étaient tous des gens très agréables pour travailler, mais aussi j’ai eu l’occasion de parler avec eux et comprendre les enjeux auxquels ils sont confrontés dans leur propre région, et d’apprendre comment ils traitent ces défis. Avoir l’opportunité d’interagir avec d’autres dirigeants de la FIOE est important pour locale 37, nos lieux de travail ne sont pas à l’abri des facteurs mondiaux qui affectent la FIOE dans d’autres régions. De plus en plus, les décisions et les événements à l’extérieur du Nouveau-Brunswick,

à l’extérieur du Canada, et même en dehors de l’Amérique du Nord ont un impact sur nos milieux de

travail et les communautés dans lesquelles nous vivons. Tandis que l’économie mondiale, les entreprises et les intérêts politiques ont un impact globalement, il reste vrai que la connaissance est en elle-même la puissance, et l’union fait un impact. En tant que membres de la FIOE, nous avons un énorme avantage sur les autres parce que nous sommes en mesure de tirer parti des ressources d’un grand syndicat international, et nous avons un réseau pour partager nos expériences, notre information et nos stratégies gagnantes avec près d’un millier de syndicats locaux de la FIOE. Toutefois, aussi important et précieux que le réseautage et l’interaction avec les locales de la FIOE soient, les

Voyez le rapport de Ross à la page 3See The Ross Report on page 3

le rapport de Ross

Ross Galbraith, Business Manager / Gérant des affaires

Fall 2011    3

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ressources les plus puissantes dont nous disposons au sein de le locale 37 sont nos propres connaissances collectives, idées et énergie. C’est pourquoi une grande partie du plan stratégique de la section locale 37 se consentre sur l’engagement des membres. Notre avenir dépend de notre capacité à travailler ensemble de se soutenir mutuellement et de s’encourager, quels que soient nos antécédents ou origines. Nous avons déjà commencé à mettre en œuvre certains segments de notre plan stratégique qui y sont reliés, y compris la formation d’un nouveau comité jeunesse de sorte que nous pouvons tirer parti de l’énergie, des idées et l’enthousiasme de nos jeunes membres. Vous pouvez obtenir un sens d’où cela peut apporter le locale 37 en lisant le rapport publié dans cette édition du Connect 37. Le rapport est présenté par Kevin Page, membre du comité jeunesse, il y décrit ses expériences lors de la réunion annuelle nationale de la FIOE. Je crois fermement que notre force réside dans la diversité et la vaste connaissance de tous nos membres, et que la FIOE est un syndicat dans lequel tous les membres peuvent contribuer, et ils sont encouragés à le faire. Notre force vient de nous tous, travaillant pour le but commun de s’aider les uns les autres.

focus on member engagement (read about the 2011-2014 Strategic Plan on page 6). Our future depends on our ability to work together, to support each other and lift each other up, no matter what our background or origin.

We’ve already started to implement segments from our strategic plan that are related to this, including the formation of a new youth committee so that we can draw upon the energy, ideas and enthusiasm of our youngest members. You can get a great sense of where this can take Local 37, by reading the report submitted by youth committee member Kevin Page about his experiences at this year’s annual national IBEW meeting that is published in this edition of Connect 37.

I believe strongly that our strength is in the diversity and broad knowledge of all of our members, and that the IBEW is a union in which all members can contribute, and are encouraged to do so. Our strength comes from all of us, working for the common purpose of helping each other.

le rapport de Ross suite de la page 2The Ross Report continued from page 2

“If we are together nothing is impossible. If we are divided

all will fail.” - Winston Churchill

“Si nous sommes ensemble, rien n’est impossible. Si

nous sommes divisés, nous échouons tous.” -

Winston Churchill

Ross Galbraith, Business Manager / Gérant des affaires

In Solidarity, / En solidarité,

4  Fall 2011

You all know where I stand when it comes to SAFETY. Many have said I am too rigid, or

perhaps too hard on members who don’t follow the rules. Rigid, hard well if it saves one life or prevents one life-altering accident then YES, I am all the above and more.

One of our members was recently charged by Work Safe NB for not using appropriate Personal Protective Equipment while aloft in the air. In this case there was no accident, however, the consequences could have been much worse. Let me paint the picture for you one more time, as I have in previous articles. The IBEW was founded on safety. In 1891, 1 out of every 2 people hired was killed in an electrical related accident. I want to be perfectly clear Local 37 will not change it’s view on safety in 2011.

At a recent Labour Management Meeting, I personally expressed to the leadership at NB Power that with all the monetary restraints being put in place, I was concerned that safety training would be allowed to slide down the scale so to speak. I have been assured by the leadership that this would not happen and that safety remains paramount in the organization and would not be sacrificed in any manner. In fact, they expressed that in light of the recent Work Safe NB charges, willful violations of safety rules would be handled with Positive Discipline in the future.

Just six days after this meeting, I received an e-mail showing a double bucket truck (company owned) in a graduation parade with two students in the buckets! To top it all off there was absolutely no Personal Protective Equipment to be found. In the age of social media these pictures are plastered on the Internet for all to see. I can only imagine what the

company leadership was thinking after viewing these pictures. Thank God, no one was injured. There are times, as union leaders you wonder what is the point of fighting for safety when members willfully disregard the rules?

Well, I will tell you that Local 37 will never give up fighting for safety, nor will it condone any member wilfully disregarding the safety rules. Let me repeat this one more time so there is no doubt in anyone’s mind, “ IBEW LOCAL 37 will not condone any member willfully violating safety rules”.

God Bless,Steve Hayes (Hazer)President. Local 37

Hazer’s Corner

Steve Hayes, President

IBEW Local 37 Executive Board

Ross GalbraithBusiness Manager

Stephen HayesPresident

Romeo BourqueVice President

Gaëtan ChiassonTreasurer

Peggy GalbraithRecording Secretary

David BrownGenerationGreg WrightGeneration

Glen HubbardGeneration

Phil HepditchTransmissionDon St.Pierre

Customer ServiceWanda Hierlihy

Customer ServiceTed Robertson

Customer ServiceScot Hale

DistributionGerard KennaTransmission

Susan DunhamNuclear

Mike GouldNuclear

Don DicksonNuclear

Office StaffClaude Richard

Asst. Business ManagerMary Williamson

Asst. Business ManagerAnnette Perry

Training Trust Fund/Admin.Leslie MacNeill

Accounting / Payroll

Fall 2011    5

I have recently had the opportunity to attend the “IBEW 2011 All

Canada Progress Meeting” in Quebec City. Although I have been employed with NB Power as a Power Line Technician for 10 years, I have just been directly involved with the union as a Shop Steward for a little under a year. I have also just joined the youth committee which is the reason I attended the meeting as a youth delegate.

My week consisted of meetings and seminars which included valuable information and tools to help the attending members of the union to support, motivate each other and to grow as leaders together. With the numerous guest speakers, I realized that IBEW has an interest in a greener future as companies were invited to speak of renewable and alternative energy. Brothers and Sisters from across the country came together to share issues and accomplishments such as the nationwide campaign to organize the technicians of Sears Canada, a project of this magnitude has never been seen before. The next generation initiative project has got me really excited and motivated, it has the goal to get the younger generation more involved and to participate in union business and functions.

I also had the great honour to meet our International Leaders, Ed Hill (President) and Phil Fleming (Vice-President). In their encouraging and motivational speeches they shared with us how it’s important that we keep working as hard as we have been to keep the Brotherhood strong. I was very impressed in how involved they are whether the issue is big or small

Progress Meeting Report from L37’sYouth Delegate, Kevin Page

Conference inspires young steward to stay motivated

La conférence inspire un jeune intendant à rester motivéRapport d’étape de la réunion du délégué jeunesse (SL37), Kevin Page

J’ai récemment eu l’occasion d’assister à la réunion 2011 « All Canada Progress Meeting

» de la FIOE dans la capitale de Québec. Quoique je suis employé avec Énergie NB comme technicien de ligne électrique depuis 10 ans, ça fait un peu moins d’un an que je suis directement impliqué avec le syndicat en tant que délégué syndical. Je viens également de joindre le comité jeunesse, la raison pour laquelle j’ai assisté à la réunion en tant que délégué du comité jeunesse.

Ma semaine fut composée de réunions et de séminaires remplis

d’informations et d’outils utiles pour aider les membres du syndicat à se soutenir, se motiver les uns les autres et à grandir comme leaders ensemble. Avec les nombreux conférenciers, j’ai réalisé que la FIOE possède un intérêt vers un avenir plus vert parce que plusieurs entreprises ont été

invitées à parler d’énergies renouvelables et alternatives. Les frères et les sœurs de partout au pays se sont réunis pour partager leurs enjeux et leurs réalisations telles que la campagne nationale pour organiser les techniciens de Sears Canada, un projet de cette ampleur n’a jamais été vu auparavant. Le projet sur l’initiative de la prochaine génération m’a vraiment excité et motivé, il a comme but d’impliqués et de faire participer la prochaine génération aux activités et les fonctions syndicales.

J’ai aussi eu le grand honneur de rencontrer nos dirigeants internationaux, Ed Hill (président) et Phil Fleming (vice-président). Durant leurs discours encourageants et motivants, ils ont partagé avec nous comment, il est important que nous continuions à travailler aussi dur que nous le faisons afin de garder la fraternité forte. J’ai été très impressionné par leurs façons de s’impliquer, que le problème soit grand ou petit, ils sont engagés à aider leurs frères et sœurs.

Kevin Page, L37 member and youth delegate to the IBEW All Canada Progress Meeting, enjoyed the opportunity to meet IBEW International President, Ed Hill. / Kevin Page, membre du locale 37 et délégué du comité jeunesse à la réunion « All Canada Progress », a profité de l’occasion pour rencontrer le président international de la FIOE, Ed Hill.

See Young Steward on page 12 Voyez un jeune intendant à la page 12

6  Fall 2011

The Path Forward...2011-2014 Strategic Plan

The Local 37 Mission:

To work as a team to improve the lives of our members and their families.

The Local 37 Vision:

We shall be at the leading edge of the labour movement, serving our members with energy, enthusiasm and innovation.

Guiding Principles:

The following guiding principles will inform our decision-making and provide us with direction:

We are first and foremost representatives of our members We are committed to representing our members and positively impacting the quality of their lives.

We are guided by the history and traditions of the IBEW and its constitution We will honour and respect the principles of the IBEW and our actions will be guided by the terms under which we are a local of the IBEW.

We balance individual needs with the collective interests of our members We will earn the respect of our members by working for the collective good of all members.

We are professional and proactive in our deeds and actions We will demonstrate our respect for members and provide leadership by our professional, proactive approach to issues and interactions.

We are financially responsible and accountable to our members We will be open and transparent with respect to our goals and activities, and will be accountable to our members for how we conduct our business.

Key Result Areas:

To ensure that we fulfill our mission we will focus on the following key result areas:

Supporting our Leaders The Executive Board, Unit Executive, Shop Stewards, the Business Manager and Assistants all serve important leadership roles. To support these leaders in their important roles, they need to clearly understand their roles and responsibilities, and be provided with the information and training they require to work effectively as a team on behalf of our members.

Engaging Existing and Potential Members To ensure the effectiveness of the organization, members need to be involved and engaged. Communication with members needs to be timely and effective and union staff need to be visible and accessible. Strategies for inviting new members to join and meeting the needs of prospective members must continue to be developed.

Negotiating and Maintaining Fair Collective Agreements and Benefits Fair Collective Agreements meet the collective interests of our members while recognizing the importance of long-term, sustainable employment opportunities for all.

Increasing Organizational Effectiveness To continue to meet the needs of our members and their families, we need to ensure that we operate effectively. This includes continuing to strengthen our planning and communication processes, providing support to shop stewards, and being accountable to our members for operating in a professional, business-like way.

Relationship Building and Political EngagementIn order to obtain results for our members through organizational influence, we must build and maintain relationships with government, employers, media, and other key groups and stakeholders.

IBEW Local 37’s leadership team, which includes the office staff and the Executive Board, is committed to a policy of service to members characterized by transparency in operations and open communications. We also know that in order to be successful, it’s more important than ever that organizations have a plan. Below is an overview of the Mission, Vision, Guiding Principles and Key

Result Areas that will guide the Union’s activities until 2014. Please visit www.ibew37.com to view the Strategic Goals associated with each Key Result Area.

Fall 2011    7

Mission de la section locale 37:

Travailler en équipe pour améliorer la vie de nos membres et leurs familles.

Vision de la section locale 37:

Nous serons à la fine pointe du mouvement ouvrier, desservant nos membres avec énergie, enthousiasme et innovation.

Principles directeurs:

Les principes directeurs suivants guideront nos décisions et ils nous fourniront une direction: D’abord et avant tout, nous sommes les représentants de nos membres : Nous sommes engagés à représenter nos membres et à avoir un impact positif sur la qualité de leur vie. Nous sommes guidés par l’histoire et les traditions de la FIOE et de sa constitution Nous honorons et respectons les principes de la FIOE et nos actions seront guidées par les conditions sous lesquelles la section locale de la FIOE existe.

Nous contrebalançons les besoins individuels avec les intérêts collectifs de nos membres Nous acquerrons le respect de nos membres en travaillant pour le bien collectif de tous les membres. Nous sommes professionnels et proactifs dans nos actes et nos gestes Nous démontrons notre respect pour les membres et assurons la direction par nos approches professionnelles et proactives envers les enjeux et les interactions. Nous sommes financièrement responsables et justiciables à nos membres Nous serons ouverts et transparents à l’égard de nos objectifs et nos activités, et nous serons justiciables envers nos membres pour la gestion de nos affaires.

Générateur de résultats clés:

Afin de nous assurer que nous remplissons notre mission, nous nous concentrerons sur les générateurs de résultats suivants:

Soutenir nos dirigeants Le bureau de direction, le directeur d’unité, les délégués syndicaux, le gérant d’affaires et les assistants desservent tous un rôle de direction important. Afin de soutenir ces dirigeants dans leurs rôles importants, ils doivent comprendre clairement leurs rôles et leurs responsabilités, et obtenir l’information et la formation dont ils ont besoin pour travailler efficacement en équipe, au nom de nos membres.

Susciter la participation des membres actuels et potentielsPour assurer l’efficacité de l’organisation, les membres doivent être impliqués et collaborés. La communication avec les membres doit être rapide et efficace et le personnel du syndicat doit être visible et accessible. Des stratégies pour inciter de nouveaux membres à joindreet répondre aux besoins des membres potentiels doivent continuer à être précisées. Négocier et maintenir des conventions collectives justes ainsi que les indemnitésDes conventions collectives justes satisferont les intérêts collectifs de nos membres tout en reconnaissant l’importance des possibilités d’emplois durables à long terme pour tous.

Accroître l’efficacité organisationnelle Pour continuer à répondre aux besoins de nos membres et de leurs familles, nous devons nous assurer que nous fonctionnons efficacement. Cela comprend le renforcement de nos processus de planification et de communication, le soutien aux délégués syndicaux, et la gestion responsable et professionnelle des affaires.

Bâtir des relations et engagements politiques Afin d’obtenir des résultats pour nos membres grâce à l’influence de l’organisation, nous devons construire et maintenir des relations avec le gouvernement, les employeurs, les médias, et autres groupes d’intervenants clés.

La voie à suivre...plan stratégique 2011-2014

L’équipe de direction de la section locale 37, incluant le personnel du bureau et le conseil de direction, est engagée à suivre une politique de service aux membres caractérisé par la transparence dans les opérations et par des communications ouvertes. Nous savons aussi que pour réussir, il est plus important que jamais que les organisations aient un plan. Voici un aperçu de la mission, la vision, les principes directeurs et les générateurs de résultats clés qui guideront les activités du syndicat jusqu’en 2014. S’il vous plaît, visitez www.ibew37.com pour vous renseigner sur les objectifs stratégiques associés à chaque générateur de résultats clés.

8  Fall 2011

At the All Canada Progress Meeting Banquet in Quebec City, the winning tickets were drawn for the $5000 2nd Early Bird Draw and the 2011 Harley Davidson Road King Classic.

IBEW International Secretary-Treasurer, Sam Chilia, drew the winning ticket for the cash prize - sending Doug Springstein (Local 424, Alberta) home with the $5000 cash prize. President Ed Hill drew Jason St.

Jacques’s ticket (Local 1687, Sudbury, ON) making him the proud owner of a new Harley! Jason also received a custom made vest, courtesy of Union Pro Manufacturing Sportswear Inc.

The First District thanks everyone who purchased and helped sell tickets to make the 2011 draw a huge success!

IBEW First District Harley Draw Winners!

Special meeting for young IBEW members at national conference

In Quebec City at the 2011 IBEW All Canada Progress Meeting, a special NextGen (youth) caucus

was held for close to 30 young delegates. The session was facilitated by representatives from the 1st District office including Jim Watson, Education Specialist; Rod McVicar,

Lead Organizer Atlantic Canada; Kate Walsh, Strategic Coordinator NextGen Initiative; Matt Wayland, Political Action/Media Strategist; and Adwoa Buahene, consultant for the NextGen Initiative.

The objective of the caucus was to gain young members’ perspective on the future of the IBEW through discussion, shared experiences and brainstorming. International President, Ed Hill, International Secretary-Treasurer Sam Chilia, and International Executive Council Representative John Briegal joined the latter part of the session to listen and answer questions – providing an exceptional opportunity for everyone in attendance.

The NexGen initiative was launched a little over a year ago by the First District Office to find ways to address the changing needs and values of members so as to ensure the sustainability and

success of the IBEW. Kate Walsh has been recently appointed as the Strategic Coordinator to lead the initiative and develop a strategy around the findings of the research conducted for implementation at the national and local levels.

Local 37 shares in this commitment to better organize, enagage, and retain younger members. We appreciate the generational diversity of our membership and recognize that our younger members have a critical role to play in the growth and survival of our organization. We have established the “NextGen 37” Committee that is keyed up for this project and is working on a strategy to improve communications, engagement, and leadership development. Committee members are: Mary Williamson (Chair); Jennifer Roy; Heidi Northrup; Melissa LaRose; Greg Wright, Kevin Page, and Ron Zinke.

IBEW International President Ed Hill speaking with delegates of the All Canada Progress Meeting Youth Caucus in Quebec City.

And the 1st District winner is...Greg McFarlane, Organizer for Local 2085 in Manitoba!

Greg will be representing Canada in the finals at the International Convention in Vancouver - to compete

against the winners from the other IBEW district winners at the International Convention. Best of Luck Greg!

Scan this QR code with your smartphone to check out Greg’s video entry!

Fall 2011    9

IBEW members join together to support a good CauseSubmitted by IBEW Local 502, Saint John

IBEW Local 37 is a member of Atlantic Canada Health Care Coalition Society (ACHCCS). As a member of a participating group; you are

eligible for the MHCSI Preferred Supplementary Pharmacy Benefits Program, where you will enjoy preferred coverage on prescription

medications, plus other benefits on pharmacy services.

With your MHCSI drug program, you and your eligible dependents are entitled to coverage of up to $5.00 per prescription processed through the participating network of MHCSI pharmacies – Lawtons Drugs and Sobeys Pharmacy. Just register your MHCSI card with the pharmacy on your next visit. You are also covered for medication reviews and other clinical services- ask in store for details. Cardholders will also receive great discounts on front store purchases at Lawtons Drugs with the Lawtons Client Group Discount Card.

If you have any questions or have not yet signed up for the Supplementary Pharmacy Benefits Program please contact Annette at the Union office : 455-0037 / info@ibew37.com. For more information about the Atlantic Canada Health Care Coalition Society, please visit www.achccs.ca

Used your cards yet?

In MemoriamFebruary 14, 2011 - Jeff Blakney, Coleson Cove

April 6, 2011 - Joseph “Paul” Richard, PLTMay 3, 2011 - James Scott, PLT

July 14, 2011 - Carl D. Boulter, Retired NB Power

On June 4th, 2011 IBEW local 502 held their second annual motorcycle ride in support of fallen members. Members of IBEW Local 37

were encouraged to participate in their annual ride with fundraising in support of the Joshua Group.

 Approximately 65 motorcycles completed the run which started at Kacey’s at Haymarket Square. Stops included Bowties, East Saint John; the Caves in St. Martins; the Thirsty Mule in Sussex and the final stop at KV Billiards. Each stop cards were sold for the poker hand and items auctioned off in support of the event.

In addition to participating in the event, IBEW Local 37 also donated to this worthwhile cause.

Pictured below is Tim Stewart presenting the donation to Carl Randell and Al Landry standing behind Serge Marcoux’s 2009 Harley Davidson Fat Bob.

10  Fall 2011

Charging things up!

This past spring, Local 37’s Training Trust Fund held a conference entitled “Charged

up for Change” at Fredericton’s new Convention Centre. With close to 100 members and invited guests in attendance, the conference was the first event of its kind for the Training Trust, and it turned out to be a fantastic event!

Friday night’s banquet dinner was followed by entertainment with comedian Marshall Button as “Lucien”. His poignant humour had the whole room in stitches

from start to finish. Internationally renowned speaker Jim Clemmer gave Saturday morning’s keynote address “Growing @ the Speed of Change.” His insightful and entertaining presentation was well received and his friendly approach encouraged participation.

Breakout sessions on a variety of change-related topics got very positive reviews. Professional speaker, Carol Lesbirel tied things up with a funny and engaging closing keynote address entitled “Choices Today Impact

Tomorrow.” Her energetic persona kept the room laughing while she doled out many thought-provoking insights.

The kids who attended with their parents spent the day making art projects and visiting a fun and interactive science centre. The kids absolutely loved the entertaining and educational displays and activities!

This was an excellent event and its success has Local 37 looking forward to doing a similar event this fall!

The Training Trust’s Charged up for Change Conference was chocked full of stellar workshops and presenters as well as entertainment for both kids and adults. Children were treated to a day of fun and learning like their trip to Science East (above left) and conference delegates were treated to a hysterical performance by “Lucien” at the opening dinner (at right - Marshall Button as Lucien). Make sure you sign up for the Fall Conference being held in Saint John - it shouldn’t be missed!

New training and learning opportunities for members

This spring, in addition the conference - Charged up for Change - held in Fredericton,

the IBEW 37 Training Trust fund offered a workshop entitled Strategic Communication: Influencing Skills and Personal Power. This one-day workshop, facilitated by instructor Nicole Richard, was offered in Saint John, Moncton, and Bathurst. The reviews of both the material and the instructor were excellent.

In addition to this, the new Training Trust Fund website is up and running. It can be found by visiting www.ibew37.com and clicking on the Training Trust Logo.

This new website is where you can find up to date information about the services we are offering you, including: workshops, conferences, on-line training, and the book club. You can also register for everything on-line, making it quick and easy for

you and for us.

Keep an eye on the website in the coming weeks, as a complete listing of fall events will be coming on-line, including great new workshops, new additions to the book club, new webinars and on-line material, and more great opportunities!

Fall 2011    11

Partnership means members can help kids with diabetes

Local 37 and The Personal Insurance Company will roll out 2011 in charitable style. For

every quote members request in 2011, The Personal will donate $5 per home and auto quote to Local 37’s chosen charity, Camp Dia-Best.

In operation for 42 years, Camp Dia-Best is a summer camp offered by the New Brunswick Division of the Canadian Diabetes Association, is located on beautiful Grand Lake for children 7-14 years of age living with Type I diabetes.

The Personal has been offering preferred rates for home and auto insurance to Local 37 members since 2003. Last year, to mark the 10th anniversary, Local 37 in partnership with The Personal contributed $3000 – six $500 bursaries - to the Bursary Program for students.

“This year, we hope to make a significant contribution to the charity chosen by the Executive Board for Local 37,” remarked Theresa Zafiris, of The Personal Insurance.

“All members have to do is call the 1-800 number, or go online for a quote to ensure we can write a considerable cheque.”

715 members currently have an insurance policy with The Personal. If a $5 contribution isn’t enough to peek your interest, then their National Contest might. When you call for an insurance quote; you will be automatically entered for a chance to win $30,000 toward their renovating or decorating your home. And if you’re one of the 715

members who have a policy with The Personal, don’t’ worry – you will be automatically entered to win.

Call for a quote: 1-888-476-8737

or visit: www.thepersonal.com

12  Fall 2011

Young steward continued from page 5

they are committed to helping our Brothers and Sisters.

This entire experience had shown me how strong a Brotherhood we really have and has boosted my commitment to the Next Gen Initiative. I am happy to say that I walked away from this experience stronger, more competent and motivated as a leader, a Steward and a Brother to help and do my part in our union to make a difference.

Kevin PagePLT, Shop Steward

IBEW Local 37

un jeune intendant suite de la page 5

Cette expérience m’a démontré la force de notre fraternité et a stimulé mon engagement envers l’initiative Next Gen. Je suis heureux de dire que je ressors de cette expérience étant plus fort, plus compétent et motivé comme un leader, un intendant et un frère afin d’aider et contribuer à notre syndicat pour faire une différence.

Kevin Page

PLT, délégué syndical FIOE section locale 37

Compared to the harsh elements Lineman are sometimes used to enduring, the gusty conditions

and chilly temperature on the day of the 2011 IBEW – NB Power Lineman’s Rodeo didn’t stand in the way of making the event a grand success!

In early June, 16 individual Apprentices and eight teams of three Journeyman Linemen gathered in Marysville to compete in events that showcased their technical skills and abilities as they safely performed a number of timed and scored events.

Bag Piper and Local 37 member, Gord Perry, opened the event by leading participants to the competition site where they assembled together to stand at attention for the beautiful performance of Oh Canada by Becky Banks MacLean. After the opening

remarks, the competition officially started.

Jorneymen teams competed in four different events: Transformer Change Out, Hurt Man Rescue, Insulator Change Out, and Pole Climb. Apprentice events included a written test, Hurt Man Rescue, Egg Pole Climb, CPR and a Mystery Event. The Top two Apprentices and top Journeyman Team will be heading to Kansas City this Fall to compete in the 2011 International Lineman’s Rodeo.

And the Rodeo wasn’t just a day for the competitors. Throughout the afternoon, over 200 spectators watched the linemen compete, enjoyed the free barbecue fare, and took in lots of family fun that included face-painting and a scavenger hunt

The day wrapped up with an evening banquet at the Ramada where the Rodeo winners were announced and graduates from the Apprenticeship program were recognized.

The winners will be accompanied to Kansas City by volunteer judge, Ian Steeves, who was selected by random draw.

Winning Apprentices:Andrew Hamilton (Rothesay)Mike Thomas (Fredericton)

Winning Journeyman Team (Fredericton):Mark MunnTerry BerginPat Daigle

Many thanks are due to the members of the Competition and Steering Committees as well as all of the volunteers, judges, and the NB Power 25 year club for their time and continued support in helping make this Rodeo one to remember!

Kansas City - here they come!

The outstanding, one-of-a-kind trophies were meticulously handcrafted by Local 37 member Danny Keith. Danny is a Power Line Designer in Sussex.

Fall 2011    13

Special Olympics bowling coach strikes coach of yearAs published in The Northern Light by Katherine Hunt

Good deeds are done without the thought of any more than a personal reward, but they

will always be noticed by those you have helped.

That’s what happened recently to Bathurst-Chaleur Special Olympics coach Wanda Hierlihy who received the Female Coach of the Year award at the annual New Brunswick Special Olympics Awards Banquet in Moncton on June 18.

The Special Olympics candlepin bowling coach, who is in her sixth year as coach, was recognized not only for her contribution in Bathurst but for another coaching stint she was not obligated to do.

Hierlihy said she was surprised when she found out she was the winner. For a while, she could not put her finger on who nominated her or why she won.

“It feels great to be chosen. Every year I always submit other coaches’ names but I never, ever thought I would be the one chosen this year,” said the Bathurst native. “I finally realized it was Sylvia who put my name forward.”

Hierlihy was nominated for the award by Neguac Special Olympics coach Sylvia Harding. Hierlihy took over a key role that helped Harding last year – a role which may not have been filled otherwise.

She filled in as the 10-pin bowling coach for two of her Chaleur athletes who were chosen to compete at the 2010 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in London, Ont.

Harding was chosen as the official coach to accompany the athletes on their journey to the national

competition, but training was going to be very difficult with two of the four New Brunswick team athletes living in the Chaleur region, and the other two in Neguac.

Hierlihy trained Matthew Brown and Remi Aube in Bathurst, making sure the boys exercised, practiced bowling, and ate well. Every two weeks she drove them to Neguac to practice with their fellow teammates and be coached by Harding, while Harding brought her two athletes to Bathurst every other week.

Hierlihy said she didn’t regret adopting the role of coach for a second.

“I did this because I didn’t want to disappoint the athletes. They were so excited to be chosen to go to the nationals that I couldn’t let them down,” she said.

Her athletes very much appreciated what she did for them as well.

“She deserves it,” said Brown about Hierlihy’s award. “She’ll push you all the way. If you bring yourself down, she will put you back up right away.”

Brown noted how Hierlihy has been his candlepin bowling coach since she started and ever since she has been around he has come back a medal winner from the provincial bowling competitions.

“She brought me up as a really strong bowler. Every year I go to provincials I would have an average over my last one every time I go. It’s always over 92 or 93. It would be really hard to come back with a medal but she would give me all the tricks that I wouldn’t know, so she helped me a lot,” he said.

When Hierlihy was approached by a parent six years ago about becoming a Special Olympics candlepin bowling coach, she had never worked with people with intellectual disabilities before. What she did have, was 12 years of bowling experience in bowling leagues and on a provincial level.

Feeling like she may have something to offer the athletes, Hierlihy said yes to the coaching position, unsure of how it would go.

She said it was on her first day of bowling with the athletes that she knew she wasn’t going to stop any time soon.

“The athletes inspire me to continue coaching, as they work hard and appreciate everything. I train my athletes to be good bowlers, good sportsmen, and to get along with all the other athletes,” she said.

Hierlihy, who has worked at NB Power for over 20 years, said she does not intend to stop coaching the Special Olympics any time soon.

“They’re infectious because once you start you can’t stop,” she concluded.

Special Olympics Coach of the Year and L37 E-Board member, Wanda Hierlihy, accepting her award from Provincial Program Council Chair for Special Olympics NB, Roger Roger Ryan.

14  Fall 2011

37 photo connectionRetirement - Gary Munn (IBEW Assistant Business Manager)

Excerpt from NB Power News - In 1990, Gary began his active involvement with I.B.E.W. by taking on the roles of Shop Steward, Executive Board Member and Unit Chair. In 1992, Gary was elected President of I.B.E.W. Local 2309 and served in this capacity until 1998. In 2006, Gary began working as an Assistant Business Manager for I.B.E.W. Local 37. After more than 30 years with NB Power and I.B.E.W., Gary has decided to write a new chapter in life. He expects this new chapter to include taking the time to walk more often through the woodlots that he owns, gardening, collecting stamps, traveling and, his favourite hobby - golfing. His main priority, though, includes spending more time with his immediate family, which includes his wife, Gwen, and his 2 daughters, Susan and Sondra.

Local 37 Business Manager, Ross Galbraith (left), and President, Steve Hayes (right) presenting Gary Munn with a retirement gift.

NB Power Retiree and Local 37 member, Art Levesque (left), being congratulated by Executive Board Member, Phil Hepditch. Art was a Senior Low Voltage Electrical Mechanic with NB Power in Grand Falls.

L37 President, Steve Hayes (left), swearing in new members to the IBEW from Emera Utility Services in Saint John last June.

From left: Assistant Business Manager, Gary Munn; Algonquin Power HR Manager, Michel Boudreault; L37 member , Shop Steward, and Algonquin Power employee, Matthew Broad; and Business Manager, Ross Galbraith taking a tour of Tinker Hydro Station in Perth Andover.

Energy Minister, Craig Leonard (left) speaking with Business Manager, Ross Galbraith at the Training Trust Fund “Charged Up for Change Conference”.

Fall 2011    15

37 photo connection

Retired Members of IBEW L37

March - August 2011Ron Rogers Mike Levesque

Dave L. Thomas Linda MunnDonald B. Wilson Terry RingDanny Dempsey Felix Babineau

Larry Bursey William SavoieHilray Lapointe Andrew Lee Delong

Bruce White Gary GallantCurtis Nason Philip HerseyChris Philip Arthur LevesqueHugh Hynes Charles Newman

James Seeley Gail AndersonLarry Page Dave Ferguson

Heather Hello John L. HennesseyRaymond J Moar Malcoln Hickey

Ian Steeves Gerald J. WinchesterLouis Diotte Joe Byrne

Richard Heppell Gary Munn

IBEW Presidents Past and Present - from left: Colin Nichols, past Local 2309; Gary Munn, past Local 2309; Dan McCaskill, past Local 2309 & Local 37 Steve Hayes, current Local 37; and Clinton Sharpe, past 1733.

Members of IBEW enjoying the Lineman’s Rodeo from left: E-Board Vice President, Romeo Bourque; E-Board Members Gerard Kenna and Don Dickson; and International Representative Brian Matheson.

Retirement - Billy Savoie (NB Power CSR, Unit 5 Secretary)

Submitted by Unit 5 Chair, Wanda Hierlihy - Billy was a dedicated union employee who gave 15 years of his time as Secretary for Unit 37-5, Northern Region. He was a hard worker, loyal employee, and a great friend to many. Billy was a very dedicated Unit Secretary and I could always depend on him. The only time he would miss a unit meeting was when he was working on call, had to work during storms, or was away on Training. Billy travelled from Shippegan to the meetings in Tracadie, Miramichi and Bathurst. Unit 37-5 will truly miss Billy and his dedication. We wish him a wonderful retirement.

Jimmy Savoie, Billy’s twin brother, (left) and Wanda Hierlihy congratulating Billy Savoie at his retirement celebration held in June.

The new Day of Mourning sculpture unveiled at the 2011 Ceremony at the Hatheway Labour Exhibit Centre in Saint John.

16  Fall 2011

Your union - Your meetings

Unit Location Chair Meeting Schedule & Location

37.1 Fredericton Delbert Cogswell Monthly: 4th Wednesday, 5:15 - Local 37 Union Hall372 Saint John Jim Melvin Bimonthly: 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 - Fort Howe Howard Johnson37.3 PLGS Ryan MacKenney Monthly: 4th Tuesday, 7:30/4:15 – Fort Howe Howard Johnson/ Fundy Seniors Hall37.4 Dalhousie John Lidstone Bimonthly: 3rd Monday, 7:30 - IP Club37.5 Bathurst/Miramichi/Tracadie Wanda Hierlihy Monthly: 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 – Bathurst/Miramichi/Tracadie

37.6 St. Stephen VACANT Bimonthly: 1st Wednesday, 7:00 – Carmen’s Diner37.7 Moncton David Hanson Monthly: 1st Tuesday, 7:30 – Lion’s Senior Centre

37.8 Belledune Kirk Ross Bimonthly: 3rd Monday 4:15 – Construction Bldg 237.9 Grand Lake Inactive Contact Local 37 Office37.10 Grand Falls Danny Woods Bimonthly: 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 – Pres du Lac Hotel

Place Mailing Label Here

Local 37 has nine Regional Units that regularly meet either monthly or bimonthly. All members are encouraged and welcome to attend any meeting! They are for members and provide an opportunity to meet with union officials, find out what’s happening within the local, and to try and resolve any issues in an effort to make things better. Below is a listing of the Unit Chairs and a schedule of upcoming meetings. For specific dates, please call the office or check online at www.ibew37.com. Think about attending - your voice matters!

If you’d prefer to receive Connect 37 electronically, please call or email us!

1-877-437-0037 / info@ibew37.com

Go Green!

Agreement No 41973016

Local 37 is always looking for ways to improve its service to members. This

is the very reason why we are very excited to announce that VISA, MasterCard, AMEX and Debit are now accepted for payments and purchases!

This means that Members who have been paying dues by cash or cheque now have more choices for payment! Drop in to the office and use your card or call to pay directly over the phone.

Feel like doing some shopping? Anyone interested in purchasing IBEW merchandise

(shirts, hats, jackets, etc.) can also use the convenience of debit or credit! Simply check out the website to see what’s available and phone in your order, or drop by the office and purchase items directly!

L37 does debit! Fall Workshop Schedule

Team Dynamics and Divergent Thinking with Carol Lesbirel:September 26th - FrederictonSeptember 27th - Saint JohnSeptember 28th – Moncton

WOW! - Personal and Professional Development with Janice ButlerOctober 24th - Bathurst (French)October 25th - MonctonOctober 26th - Saint JohnOctober 27th - Fredericton

Visit ibew37.com for more information or scan this code with your smartphone!