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Local 545 is getting a late start, as are most of the Northeast locals after a relatively busy winter. Many projects are starting late due to a lack of state funding or the weather. Unfortunately, a few are being held indefinitely like the $600 million new smelter scheduled to be built at ALCOA’s east plant; apparently due to the economy.

All of us are concerned about the economy and the effects that the Madoff losses are having on our pensions and Healthcare. Rest assured that the trustees (Business Managers and Contractors alike) are doing everything possible to recover lost assets and to get the plans back on solid ground in order to protect active members, our retirees and union contractors.

Politically, many discussions have taken place already to encourage out newly elected officials to support PLA’s. They are informed that PLA’s put local people to work and encourage training through apprenticeships; all of which maximizes the economic impact on our communities. Project Labor Agreements are currently being proposed on the Alexandria Bay border crossing, the Fort Drum extension from Interstate 81, the ALCOA Smelter and the remaining work at the Honeywell Site. As a constituent, please contact your representative in support of PLA projects that effect you and your community.

Local 545’s 2008 audit was conducted in January and an overview of the audit will be posted in the foyer at the main office for your review. Please feel free to ask any questions.

Work this season started out good with one of the most successful outages of all times according to the Plant Supervisors. Since the outage wrapped up, the work has been slowing down. In the past few weeks with the nice weather work has picked up, but at a snails pace. There are some projects finishing up in District 1 and new ones soon to start. Among them are R.H. Law’s school work, W.D. Malone’s pipeline, DYK’s tank work, Economy Paving’s road work and as always Pogo with his ever presence at Cornell.

Thanks to all who came to support the ratification vote at Friday’s (5/8/09) Special Call Meeting. We are looking for these changes to make a better future for all members young and old.

The Bernie De Joseph Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for June 13, 2009. Please try to support this event in anyway possible.

A special thanks to everyone who volunteered their time at the Career Days in Ithaca. Our expertise in our field of work has a big impact on the career choices of many young adults.

In closing I hope everyone has a safe and prosperous work season. Please feel free to call me at anytime with questions or concerns.

IUOE Local 545 * 127 East Glen Ave. * Syracuse, NY 13205 * 315.492.1752