Dave Haines, Region 4 Director

Currently, work in Local 66 and Local 281 is excellent, in Local 289 it’s very good and in Local 85 it’s good. 

Just recently, in the Local 281 area, there was the worst flooding in 70 years.  I’d like to thank the many members who helped their communities and fellow members in their hour of need.  If any of our members need assistance due to flood damage, please call the hall at 729-0224 or 739-4685.

Contracts throughout Region 4 have been finalized.  The increases range from $1.10/hr to $1.50/hr.   We also negotiated helpful language in many of the contracts.  I’d like to thank EST John Fuchs and President Patrick Morin who attended and guided many of the negotiation sessions.

In Local 281’s June election, Scott Colton won the election as President.  All other Executive Board positions up for election were unopposed.  The new Conductor is Aaron Brotzman.  Marty Freyer has replaced Dennis Cluck who was 281’s Recording Secretary for 35 years.  Marty has some pretty big shoes to fill.  Dennis you will be missed!

In the Local 66 election, Bill Bothwell is now Trustee and Helen Runge is the new conductor.  All other positions stayed the same. 

Local 289 election results were as follows:  Vice President Jim Kilger, Recording Secretary Dennis Stephens, Financial Secretary Timothy McCormick, Trustee Lou Daurizio and Joe Luna.  All other positions remain the same.

In Local 289 Service Representative Dave Fay has retired.  I wish you the best – enjoy your retirement! 

The Council has endorsed Eliot Spitzer for Governor and we believe he will help us in many areas, especially with our 1099 problems and enforcing prevailing rates.

The Local 281 Clambake will be on September 8 from 4-9 p.m. at Mountain Top.  Tickets will be available after August 1, 2006. 

Enjoy the rest of the summer.