Nov/Dec - Pipeliners Local Union 798

PIPELINERS UNION 798
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014
Volume XLIX, Number 6
www.local798.org
Pipeliners
Local Union 798
Celebrates Our
65th Anniversary
November 21, 2014
Pipeliners Union 798
4823 S. 83rd E. Ave.
P.O. Box 470798
Tulsa, OK 74147-0798
PH: 918/622-1900
FAX: 918/627-9327
Please visit the
Local 798 Web Site at
www.local798.org
for updated pre-job
information
BUSINESS MANAGER
Daniel C. Hendrix
FINANCIAL SECRETARYTREASURER
Wade Pilgreen
PRESIDENT
Preston Richard
VICE PRESIDENT
Paul Davis
RECORDING SECRETARY
Guy Williams
INSIDE GUARD
Jerry “Dale” Crabtree, Jr.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Mitch (Groovy Man) Leihr
Randy Mathis
Troy Post
Charles E. Yates, Jr.
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Brian Anderson
W.F. (Buster) Chapman
Billy E. Hawkins
EXAMINING BOARD
Clark Eastwood
Mike Miller
BUSINESS AGENTS
Chad Gilbert
Chris Lancaster
Black Schroeder
Rick Taylor
Darrell Turner
Phillip Wallace
798 ORGANIZERS
Ronnie Hill
Terry Langley
Jerry Ryan
DISPATCHER
Kevin Leeper
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I would like to share with everyone some of the business Local 798, along with the UA and its
Pipeline Department, has been involved in as of late. Through media coverage such as radio spots
and newspaper ads in state-wide and national papers, we are out front with our full support of many
up-and-coming pipeline projects. Your Business Agents and Organizing Department are actively
involved in the public comment meetings being held regionally regarding these projects.
I’d like to mention a few projects we are currently involved in: Enbridge (Sandpiper) 616 miles
of 24”, Energy Transfer (Bakken) 1,100 miles of 30”, Energy Transfer (Rover) 800 miles of 42”,
Dominion (Atlantic Coast) 560 miles of 36”/42”, and Enterprise (Bakken) 1200 miles of 30”.
Several of these projects will be in 2015 and others in 2016, but there is major pushback from environmental groups and some
land owners. Lately it has become almost fashionable to protest a pipeline project, regardless of its contents or
its final destination. That is why it is imperative to partner with the clients as interested parties.
We are putting our money and our resources into action to make sure they are built, and built union. Six years ago a small group
of landowners were able to unite together, build their numbers and support, and so far have held up one of the largest crude oil
pipelines in history, the Keystone XL. I still believe we will build the remainder of the Keystone, but we must continue to push back
the environmental special interest groups until we are victorious. The old timers will remember that the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline,
800 miles of 48” was decided by one vote cast by the Speaker of the House. Today that pipeline, operating since 1977, stands as a
monument as to what can be accomplished, and a testament to the skills of Local 798.
Following the September meeting in Tulsa I, along with Wade Pilgreen, Terry Langley, Phillip Wallace, Chris Lancaster and Rick
Taylor held a regional meeting in Wheeling, West Virginia. The meeting was well attended with over 600 people who came to listen
to the leadership of LU 798. The Ladies of 798 held a hospitality for the spouses and had close to 100 attend. For many, it was
their first time attending a function put on by Local 798. If you were in the general area and failed to attend, you missed a very
informative meeting, along with some great fellowship.
In October I attended the 7th Annual UA Tripartite Conference in Chicago, hosted by UA Local 597. This gathering was to foster
relationships with clients, contractors, and labor. I was honored to be a speaker on a panel with Frank Welch of Rockford, and Lee
Monthei, Vice-President of Major Projects with Enbridge, discussing issues and opportunities in the pipeline industry. This conference went exceptionally well and I believe our partnerships are stronger because of it. Thanks to Tom Gross, U.A. Pipeline Director,
for the opportunity to share my thoughts on the industry.
It’s never too early to start planning on attending Steward School. I expect that you will be there if you intend to be a job
steward, pipeman, or welder foreman. Our contract has many new changes and the only place to receive the true interpretation and implementation of the language is to be in Tulsa April 8-10, 2015. Even if you do not intend to work in any of these
capacities, the knowledge and fellowship you gain by attending will be greatly rewarding. This is the biggest family reunion
for pipeliners in the world. You do not want to miss out on our 65th anniversary celebration!
My challenge to you is to come, and bring one person with you who has never been. Contractor representatives, spreadmen, payroll personnel, and office managers are all encouraged to attend. The contract we will be discussing is for both labor and management. The more fluent both sides become with the agreement, the better our partnership becomes. Please register today and make
your room reservations early. I promise, you will not be disappointed.
I want to let the welders know that I have re-engaged with several clients over the issue of banning the “pancake” hoods on their
projects. As a welder myself, I believe this style of hood is the safest available on the market for the environment that we work in.
It is illogical to ban a pancake hood when it is superior to the cumbersome, heavy, flip-down hood in so many ways.
There is no empirical data being presented to ANSI or OSHA to require them to decertify the pancake hood, or consider it inferior
to the “sugar scoop” hood. Welders do not want a less safe welding hood. They realize that their “goggle styled” hoods are being
taken away, that they are being handed a “face shield” style hood, and being told it is better and safer. They were not consulted,
and are being told they can wear a less comfortable, less safe hood, or be out of a job. No data or studies support this decision.
Collectively, workers want safety, and now the safest way to protect themselves is being banned. This is ludicrous!
The real issue is the secondary eye protection not being worn underneath. Neither hood, pancake, nor flip-down offers any protection when raised up in an inoperative position without safety glasses. Enforcement of secondary eye protection is the answer, not
a mandatory banning of ANSI certified and OSHA approved PPE. If a welder ignores or neglects to wear secondary eye protection,
that can be addressed uniformly, and will be supported wholeheartedly by Pipeliners Local 798. I urge you to let Local 798 fight
this collectively on your behalf, and hopefully common sense will prevail.
In closing, I hope everyone had a bountiful harvest this work season. I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and
a prosperous New Year! As always, I am proud to say “I work for you, the greatest pipeliners in the world.”
Fraternally,
Out Of Work List:
918/663-3200
Dispatch FAX:
918/610-2740
Jobline:
918/610-2745
Daniel C. Hendrix
Business Manager
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 2
Brothers and Sisters,
I can remember, when I was younger, the older generation always telling me how quickly time goes by as you get older. At this point
in my life, I’ve determined that I must be getting old, because lately the time has definitely flown by! Here we are again with the holiday
season quickly approaching. I believe that on this Thanksgiving holiday, as a Local 798 member, it is important that we take the time
to reflect back to just less than a decade or so ago. We need to compare where we were then to where we are today and give thanks to
the good Lord for all that He has blessed us with since those difficult and challenging times. And I am so thankful that He continues to
pour out His blessings on our organization each day. With that in mind, I would like to wish each and every one of you a very happy
Thanksgiving and a blessed Christmas.
In late September, Danny and I had the privilege of attending a regional meeting in Wheeling, WV. Business Agents Rick Taylor, Chris
Lancaster, and Phillip Wallace were also in attendance. This event turned out to be a huge success, and I would personally like to thank our organizer, Terry Langley, for
doing such a tremendous job organizing this event. We currently have a vast amount of work in that region, made evident by the fact that over 600 members and guests
were present, along with many of their wives and children. I would like to recognize each and every one of you who were able to attend this meeting. I realize for many of
you it is your only day off, and there were a multitude of other things you could have chosen to do that day. But instead, you came out to support our Local; for that, I want
to say thank you. These regional meetings are a great reminder of how dedicated and loyal our Local 798 family truly is.
Most of you are aware that during the past few weeks our stock markets have slipped backwards. Many of you may ask the same question, “Will this affect my 401-K?” The
answer to this question remains the same: of course it will. But Warren Buffet once said that when the markets are down, it is like a store having a discount sale, which is
the perfect opportunity to buy into the market. Keep in mind that although your 401-K may have dropped a few percentage points in the past few weeks, you still have an
advantage at this point. Any new investments that were made during this down market were purchased at a “discount” price. As the market goes back up, and it always
does, you will then begin to see remarkable gains on the investments that you were able to purchase at a discount. If you ask any investment advisor when the right time to
start investing would be, their answer is routinely the same: you need to start today, despite the constant fluctuations we consistently see in the stock markets.
I realize that I may sound repetitive on this next point, but I feel like it’s important to reiterate. If you have the required skills to change your classification from a Helper to
either a Welder or a Journeyman, the time to do it is now since the future of our line of work is so promising. The work outlook for 2015 and especially 2016 is absolutely
astonishing. The majority of the projects that are currently in the planning phase are large diameter, heavy wall jobs. Several of them are in rough terrain. So if you have
the skills, and are fortunate enough to work on one of these projects, it could definitely become the turning point in your career for many of you.
Also, we receive a weekly update from the UA on jobs available through sister Building and Trade Unions. Each week the number of jobs on the list continue to grow.
Therefore, if you are in between jobs and are currently searching for a fill-in job, they are available. But it is important to remember that most of these jobs require welders
to have certain UA certifications. If you are interested in these jobs but do not have the necessary certifications, I would highly recommend you set aside some time to come
to the Training Center so you can begin the training necessary to obtain these certifications. With all the work that is available, there is no reason that a UA member should
experience any financial burdens over the next few years.
We are always looking for ways to decrease the high cost of running the Local. Last year, we implemented the process of emailing the Voluntary Fund, Working Assessment,
and Monthly Dues statements. The use of this new system will not only save the Local thousands of dollars each year but will also decrease the waiting time for the annual
statements by at least a week or two. I know last year, when we sent the statements out, we still had a few members who still requested a hard copy. We will continue to
make those available to you upon request. But if you are unable to print the statements, most tax preparers will allow you to forward those statements to them via email.
Please make note that in order to receive these statements, you need to be sure that we have your current email address on file. Many of you may use your spouse’s email
address to log into the website. If this is the email address you have on file, then that is who will receive your annual statements.
Early next year we will be sending out your 2015-2016 books. In an effort to ensure that they are mailed to the correct address, please make a point to verify that we have
your current mailing address on file. The easiest way to accomplish this is to log in to the Members area of the website and confirm that we have your most recent address
listed. The best part of utilizing the website to make any necessary changes is that it is accessible at any given time; you are able to log-in at your convenience. You can
also either fax or mail a Change of Address form (located on our website under Members page.) And if you are on a jobsite and would like your book to be mailed to your
temporary mailing address, then you can change your address accordingly. Keep in mind that if you do a temporary address change then during that time, all of the mail
from the hall will be sent to that address. So be sure to change your address back to your permanent address once you are laid off and back at home.
As always thank you for your support. And if I can help you with any questions, please be sure to contact me anytime.
John Wormeli
Since the last issue of the Blue Light, we have lost an icon and a great friend of Local 798 and the pipeline industry, John Wormeli (November 16, 1940 – September
23, 2014.) He will be greatly missed by the many people that he taught and guided throughout his career. After spending a vast amount of time on the Trans Alaskan
Pipeline in his earlier years where he was noted as being the “problem solver”, John quickly realized that one of the major problems in the industry was with the people
overseeing the work (the inspectors). He had once said that “most of the time the inspectors knew less than the welders doing the work.”
Upon completion of his five year tour working on the Trans Alaskan project, he was offered several jobs with major gas companies. He
ultimately moved into the direction where he was most passionate: teaching. After traveling the country and teaching welding inspecting classes for several years, he and his wife Beatrice decided to start a business of their own, the National Welding Inspection School.
The business was located in his home town of Burton, TX where he continued to teach until his last days. John traveled to a few of the
jobs that I was on during my career to help with welding issues that would arise. I can attest that there are few in the industry with his
knowledge and expertise. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with so many, my friend. We will miss you.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Wade Pilgreen
Financial Secretary-Treasurer
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 3
Business Agents’ Reports
Pre-Jobs:
Trinity Energy Services:
Big Spring, TX. 3 Stations for Endlink. Superintendent, CJ Polito. Welder
Foremen, Jerry Tomlinson, Joe Gaines Jr., & Sky Spivey. Working 6-10’s. Station
Agreement. Started: 9-23-14. Completion: 11-23-14.
Michels Pipeline:
Rankin, TX. Complete Bolt up from previous job for Northern Natural.
Superintendent, Billy Grimes. Steward, Dean Henson. Started: 10-8-14.
Completion: 10-18-14.
PHILLIP W. WALLACE
AR, IA, KS, MN, MT, MO, NE, ND, OK, SD
918/270-6738 918/663-6520 Press 6
798 Business Agents
24-hour answering service
918-663-6520
Jobline: 918-610-2745
BLACK SCHROEDER
TX
409/753-2264 918/663-6520 Press 2
Every single member, new and old, should pick
up the last UA Journal; the “125th Anniversary
Edition.” Open it up and read the opening cover and
first page, then take the time to read the whole thing.
This is what being a Union Brother or Sister is really
supposed to be about, not just a job.
Sunoco has let all 5 spreads of their 20 & 24 inch
pipeline non-union. This project went from Corsicana
to Garden City, Texas. There is an answer for what’s going on in Texas: it’s an abundance of cheap labor, and the oil and gas companies don’t give a diddly squat about
quality. If you are a member of a labor union and are working non-union, go look in
the mirror; you are a big part of the problem.
With the November elections coming up, I just recently read some interesting
information I would like to share. When the Democrats last controlled the State
Legislature, Texas had no debt. We now owe more than $20 billion.
If you work with your hands and by the hour you are considered the working
middle class. You should think about the following things:
1. Texas leads the Nation in workplace deaths, yet it has no safety program.
2. Although workers in Texas have the greatest exposure to injury or death,
legislators have steadfastly refused to make workers’ compensation mandatory for Texas employers.
3. Caving in to big money lobbyists, the State Legislature has created a
system of workers’ compensation whereby insurance companies and
employers are almost always represented by lawyers, yet it is difficult, if not
impossible, for an injured worker to find legal representation. The system
designed by big money interests in Texas prevents, in most cases, an attorney representing an injured worker from receiving a fee.
4. Texas leads the nation in the lowest paid work force, while CEO’s in Texas
are among the highest paid corporate managers in the United States. Several CEO’s of companies in Texas receive more than $50 million per year as
their salary, while workers in Texas receive an average of $11,000 a year.
5. The tax policy in Texas is among the most regressive in the US. Texas boast
of having no state income tax, but our sales tax is near the top; property tax
on our homes is in the top five; almost every form of license or permit is
taxed; and the ability to file for a divorce in Texas bears one of the heaviest
taxes around. There is even a tax on traffic fines. The great tax policy
fostered by Republican legislators gives oil and gas companies a rebate,
big corporations a break, and taxes country clubs at a lesser rate than your
home is taxed.
If you think this is a policy that helps you as a working man or woman, think
again. Don’t be a sucker.
If I can be of assistance please don’t hesitate to contact me.
I write this Blue Light report after returning from
four Open House Meetings in South Dakota for the
Dakota Access Pipeline. This pipeline that Energy
Transfer has on their books will lay 1100 miles of 30”
Crude Oil Pipeline from the Bakken Oil Field from
Tioga, North Dakota down through South Dakota, Iowa
and into Patoka, Illinois. This pipeline will carry Light
Sweet Crude from the Bakken to other pipelines in
order to distribute to oil refineries across this country.
This is a real job that will happen, possibly in 2016.
The Iowa Open House Meetings will be scheduled some time in December along the
route, and I will be there.
I have talked to the Construction Manager and the Project Manager with ETC and
they seem to be on board to do this project with Union Labor. Danny Hendrix, Wade
Pilgreen, David Barnett, and Tom Gross have all been involved with ETC to secure a
Project Labor Agreement for this work. A PLA would mean a lot for this local, and
the membership, for not only the mainline and pump stations, but the trunk lines
feeding the mainline from the gathering fields. What a great project. I’m not a politician, but I want to remind every Union Member how important the Democratic vote
in the last election was to our existence. If the election would have went Republican,
you would never see another Project Labor Agreement.
Another real job in my area is the 400+ miles of 20” for Plains All American laying from Cushing, Oklahoma to the Valero Refinery in Memphis, Tennessee. This is
called the Diamond Pipeline which, at one time, some people were calling the Elvis
Line. That will go in 2015. It will be hard to keep the non-union off this pipe. Some
of our bigger contractors are dealing with Plains to get the whole project. I’m hoping
this will happen.
The next project that I have talked about for two years now is the Sandpiper
Pipeline where Enbridge will lay 600+ miles of 24” and 30” out of Beaver Lodge,
North Dakota into Superior, Wisconsin. This is also a real job that will happen.
North Dakota has approved it and now Minnesota Public Utility Commission has
it held up looking at alternate routes in a few counties in Minnesota. Our own UA
Special Representative, David Barnett from the Pipeline Department has spent a lot of
time in Minnesota trying to get this off high-center. The UA has spent a lot of money
fighting the craziness of stopping this pipeline. David has radio, TV, and newspapers
ads trying to get this message to the people who vote in Minnesota to get this permitted. The farmers in this area have their grain piled up on the ground because the
granaries are full, and cannot get it shipped to market since the railroads are hauling
crude that should be shipped in the Sandpiper Pipeline. Thanks to David and all the
UA help he has brought to this very important issue. Also, thanks to the Minnesota
Union Members who are working with David and the UA.
New Prejobs:
B&G Pipeline”
– Quitman, AR. Compressor Station for Southwest Energy. Superintendent Matt
Himschoot. Welder Foreman, Ronnie Chism. Steward, Arnell Malnar. Working
7-10’s with Station Rates.
– Kingfisher, OK. Well Hook Ups for Tall Oak. Superintendent, Brian Friel.
Welder Foreman, Jessy Decker. Steward, Namen Warren. Working 6-10’s.
Special Agreement.
Geeding Construction:
Columbus Jct., IA. Demo 8” Trap and Pipe Replacement for Kinder Morgan.
Superintendent, Greg Geeding. Steward, Joy Compton. Working 6-10’s. National
Agreement.
Meade:
Creston, IA. 36” Launcher Relocate and Valve Change Outs for Kinder Morgan.
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 4
Superintendent, John Karlsson. Welder Foreman, Chris Lee. Steward, Dana Scott.
Working 6-10’s. National Agreement.
Michels Pipeline:
Elmo Lake, MN. 30” Launcher and Receiver Relocate for Northern Natural.
Superintendent, Jason Perrier. Welder Foreman, Brandon Shivers. Steward, Brian
Foster. Working 6-10’s. National Agreement.
Price Gregory:
Humboldt, KS. Punch List Station Modifications for Flanagan South Pipeline.
Superintendent, Larry Wright. Pipe Foreman, Roger Burrow. Steward, Alvie
Hodson. Working 6-10’s. National Agreement.
Wayne Holden & Co.:
Batesville, AR. 23,000 ft. of 6” for Center Point Energy. Superintendent, Wayne
Holden. Steward, Rodger Hastings. Working 5-10’s. Special Agreement.
RICK TAYLOR
CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, NH, NY, PA, RI,
VT, VA, WV
918/270-6739 918/663-6520 Press 7
It has been another great year for our members
and Local 798. We have recorded approximately 5.6
million man-hours worked at the end of September. It
is that time of year where the work has slowed down
in the past few weeks. I would like to thank all the
Stewards who have helped out and done a great job.
Your dedication to Local 798 and the members has
been outstanding.
There are some projects coming up that will put a
few members to work. Snelson has been awarded 16 miles of 10” for Blue Racer in
Moundsville, WV. Precision has been awarded 4.2 miles of 6”- 8” and 10” pipe for
Access Midstream in PA. CONSOL Energy and Rice Energy have work out for bid,
but I haven’t heard anything at this time.
The Regional Meeting in Wheeling, West Virginia was a huge success with well
over 600 members in attendance, including retirees. I was glad to see so many of
the retirees who I haven’t seen in years. The fellowship and food were great. Also,
the Ladies of 798 had a tremendous turnout with members’ wives and children
attending. I was pleased to see so many family members able to attend. I would like
to thank everyone for taking time out on your Sunday and showing interest in your
Union by attending. Danny and Wade are planning another Regional Meeting for
next year considering the large attendance at this meeting, and how well everything
came together.
If I can be of any assistance, please feel free to call.
As always: Be Safe! Be Proud! Be Union!
Pre-Jobs:
Appellation Pre-Fab, LLC.:
Watkins Glens, NY. 4,000’ of 4” pipe for Crestwood Energy. Welder Foreman,
John Livermore. Superintendent, Joshua Fridman. Special Agreement with
Higher Wages & Per Diem. 6-10’s.
Evets Electric.:
Moundsville, WV. Installation of 4” Meter Station for North Star Industries.
Welder Foreman, Steve Thomas. Superintendent, Chad Less. Station Rates.
4-10’s.
Frank Lill and Son, Inc.:
Lockport, NY. 2”-30” piping. Dehydration Addition for Kinder Morgan. Welder
Foreman, Mike Donohue. Superintendent, Burk Bouton. Station Agreement with
Higher Wages & Per Diem. 6-10’s.
Henkels & McCoy, Inc.:
Owings Mill, MD. 7, 500’ of 30” & 36” Pipe Replacement for Williams/Transco.
Welder Foreman, Richard Warren. Superintendent, Chad Simmons. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
Michels Pipeline.
– Tunkhannock, PA. 10,550’ of 24” New Lay for Williams Field Services. Welder
Foreman, Mike Green. Superintendent, Jayme Fye. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Wysox, PA. 4.24 miles of 12” New Lay, Launchers & Receivers for Valley
Energy. Welder Foreman, Mark Mathis. Superintendent, Johnny Kroner. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
Mid-Ohio Contracting:
– Cameron, WV. 1,800’ of 20” Pipe Relocation for Columbia Gas. Welder
Foreman, Robert Houston. Superintendent, Tom Waller. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Waynesburg, PA. 20,000’ of 16” & 20” Gathering Lines for EQT. Welder
Foreman, Mike Leasure. Superintendent, Kirk Harrold. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
Minnesota Limited, LLC.:
Sarver, PA. 19,150’ of 12” & 3,550’ of 6” steel. New Lay for EQT. Welder
Foreman, Gavin Michaels. Superintendent, Fred Leasure. Mainline Rates. 5-10’s.
Otis Eastern Services, Inc.:
– Springdale, PA. 850’ of 20” Replacement for Dominion Transmission. Welder
Foreman, Dale Barefoot. Superintendent, Brad Joyce. Integrity Management and
Maintenance work. 6-10’s.
– Wellsville, NY. Anomaly Digs. Various counties in NY & PA for Dominion
Transmission. Welder Foreman, Mark Talbott. Superintendent, Tony Niedermaier.
Integrity Management and Maintenance work. 6-10’s.
– Friendsville, PA. 11,000’ of 12” pipe. New Lay for WPX Energy. Welder
Foreman, Roy Dry. Superintendent, Karl Niedermaier. Special Agreement Rates.
6-10’s.
Precision Pipeline, LLC.:
– Wyalusing, PA. 4.6 miles of 24” & 2.2 miles of 16” New Lay for Access
Midstream. Welder Foreman, Andy Hunt. Superintendent, Chad Ward. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
– Rome, PA. 21.3 miles of 8” thru 20” steel & 8 flex steel for Talisman Energy.
Welder Foreman, Neal Crabtree. Superintendent, Jim Cunningham. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
– New Milford, PA. Phase 1: 3.5 miles of 24” pipe. New Lay for DTE Energy.
Welder Foreman, Blake Cox. Superintendent, Troy Stamper. Mainline Rates.
6-10’s.
Price Gregory, International:
Kingsley, PA. 6.46 miles of 12” pipe. New Lay for UGI Energy Services. Welder
Foreman, Dave Ferguson. Superintendent, Jack Burch. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
DARRELL TURNER
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, SC
918/270-6737 918/663-6520 Press 4
Labor disgraces no man. Unfortunately, there
are people who disgrace labor. On a national level
unionism in America has had decades of decline.
Worker rights are crushed at every opportunity; most
Americans live from paycheck to paycheck, and the
corporate bosses know it. They understand that we
have little or no savings, and they know that many of
us are just one check away from homelessness and
hunger. Real unemployment stands near 23% nationally, while a (do nothing for pay) Congress holidays
on the backs of Middle America.
Union membership has been in steady decline since the 1950s when 35% of
American workers were organized. The numbers had dropped to 24% by 1979, and
current union membership in the USA stands around 11% of the total work force...
Private sector unions (like the UA) make up only 6.5% of that 11% total.
But the United Association is fighting back in states like Alabama. Our message
of fair pay for a day’s work, a higher national minimum wage, affordable health care
for every citizen, the repeal of right-to-work, a stronger Social Security, and expanded
Medicare is resonating with voters. People feel the winds of hope blowing across the
most notorious non-union, anti-worker, section of America, and they are excited. We
have given hope to a down-trodden populous and caused politicians “to change their
tune”. Fourteen months ago, it was reported that union representation in Alabama
was virtually non-existent. Thanks to the United Association, Pipeliners Union 798,
and other progressive UA Locals, today that is not the case.
Vote on November 4th
I reported in the last Blue Light that Pipeliners Union 798 members will have a
great winter job in south Louisiana and east Texas. Just days after the Blue Light
report went to press Shell Oil announced the cancellation of the Westward Ho
Pipeline, 3 large spreads of 36” Pipeline. It seems that some of Shell’s financiers
backed out of the project, and the oil giant had to put this project on indefinite hold.
The Florida Power Light project is progressing at a snail’s pace, Florida Gas Pipeline
is held up in Florida government snafu’s, and our bread and butter, Atlanta Gas Light
Corporation, has completed the work it began nearly four (4) years ago. At this
writing I don’t have a single new pre-job on my desk to report, but T J Construction,
Foltz Construction, and Double D Pipeline are progressing nicely with their projects.
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 5
I will definitely have 5 miles of 16” before the work season ends, but I do not have
any particulars to report at this writing.
Remember, Pipeliners, we are blessed to be 798ers. Never take for granted what
we have. Blood, sweat, quality, and tears made us who we are.
Pipeliners Union 798 has been my life, and nobody is prouder to carry that book
than I am. We are a special family, and I thank you all for letting me be a part. Call
on me if I can assist you in any way. In my old age I do occasionally text, but I am
quicker on the draw with E-mail. My best bet is the answering service, so leave your
card # and a good phone number.
CHAD GILBERT
AZ, CO, NV, NM, UT, WY
918/270-6736 918/663-6520 Press 3
I am writing my report in route to the Ute Tribe
Energy Conference in Denver, Colorado. This conference will include many gas companies who intend
to drill and build gathering systems on the Ute Land.
As a Business Agent for Local 798, I am attending in
an attempt to relay that we feel quality built gathering
systems are a must for the safety and environmental
concerns of the Ute Nation. With support and cooperation between the tribe, unions, and the gas companies, I feel this work can be done with little adverse
affects to the environment, and can bring good paying, safe jobs to the Ute Nation.
I would also like to report on our organizing efforts in Wyoming. I met with Kevin
Miller, Special Representative for the Operating Engineers, and Scott Norris, Business
Manager of Operators Local Union 800. We discussed issues affecting Labor’s battle
to obtain market share in Wyoming and steps we must take to be successful. I feel
with hard work we can break into this market, but it will take all the members of
both locals to obtain our goal. In Pinedale, Wyoming, I had a chance to visit Zephyr
Pipeline Construction. Although they were not ready to sign an agreement, we did
open communication and hopefully we will be able to come to an agreement in the
near future.
I also made an attempt to talk to Strike Construction who has moved into a yard
in Farmington, NM. I was accompanied by Vice President of the Navajo Nah Nishii
Labor Federation, Clayton Benally. Strike did not return numerous emails and phone
calls, and they were unavailable to talk at their headquarters in Farmington. This
disappointed me, our Navajo Members, and especially Brother Benally. We will keep
an open door for Strike Construction to communicate and hope they will show more
of a concern for local New Mexico stakeholders in the future.
I would like to congratulate Christopher Deschene for being endorsed by the Nah
Nishii Labor Federation for Navajo Nation President. Chris, being a Marine, an attorney, and pro oil and gas development candidate, has a lot in common with our goals
as a Union. We wish Chris luck in this endeavor.
To end my report, the work is winding down with both Snelson and Price Gregory
finishing major projects; both with good repair rates and quality construction. The
members on these jobs did their part in making sure our contractors are a step above
the competition. We all see such great results from our Union’s training efforts. No
matter if you came into the local from the non-union sector looking for more respect
and benefits, or if you joined as a helper and went though the welding school, I am
sure all recognized our training sets us apart from others. We, together as a Union,
have the best pipeline instructors and best training facility anywhere. Our Business
Manager has relayed that any gas company is welcome to come to Tulsa and see for
themselves the quality of our workforce.
If I can be of any help, please call at anytime. Work Safe and Work Union!
New Pre Jobs
WA Rasic:
Salt Lake City, UT. 9-12 inch Anomaly digs for Tesora. Welder Forman, Bobby
Nobles. Superintendent, Mony Lay. Special Agreement. Working 6-10’s.
Michels:
Cody, WY. 400ft of 12 inch Replacement HDD. WBI Energy Gas Company.
Steward, Mike Runion. Special Agreement. Working 6-10’s.
CHRIS LANCASTER
IN, KY, MI, NC, OH, TN
918/270-6735 918/663-6520 Press 1
I am writing this report after returning home from
Indiana. The work has slowed down somewhat in
my area over the last few weeks; I haven’t pre-jobbed
very many jobs in the Ohio area lately. There is still
some good work to go in Ohio this year, but these
jobs are still out for bid. The 36” job for Regency still
hasn’t been awarded, but will be a good winter job.
There will be some work starting up in Indiana and
Regional Meeting – Wheeling, West Virginia
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 6
Michigan; although they are smaller jobs, they are usually long lasting.
I had the privilege to attend the regional meeting in Wheeling, WV a few week
ago and it was a great meeting. I was fortunate to meet with many of the members
working in the area. It was a great feeling to see the large turnout we had and to see
everyone come out on their day off to show their interest and support for our Union.
I want to thank all for attending, and for bring their spouses as well. I think everyone
had a good time.
The work outlook is still looking positive in my area, even though it’s slowed down
for now. There are several large projects projected for next year, as well as continuing laying the smaller gathering systems we have been doing over the past few years.
However, we are having problems with attendance and coming in late on some of the
work. As I have stated in the past, if you don’t want to work a 6 day week, take one
of the jobs that are only working 5-10’s. I have several jobs in the Ohio area working
that schedule. We have our hands full competing with the non-union; we don’t need
the loss of production on the work we are doing because we are shorthanded due to
members not showing up.
The December Union meeting is not far off. I hope everyone is able to attend; I’m
looking to seeing you there. I know it will, as always, be a great time. I wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving and hope to see you soon.
As always, if I can be of help don’t hesitate to call.
Pre-Jobs:
Ace Pipeline:
Hannibal, OH. 10,000’ of 20”. Welder Foreman, David Mitchell. Superintendent,
Jason Hundley. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-31-14.
Appalachian Pipeline:
Charlotte, NC. 4-12” Road Relocations. Welder Foreman, Josh McGee.
Superintendent, Anthony Campbell. Working 6-10’s. Special Agreement. Approx.
completion 11-01-14.
Henkels & McCoy:
– Shelbyville, IN. Install New Compressor Station Piping. Welder Foreman, Tom
Shaw. Superintendent, Jeff Fate. Working 6-10’s. Station Agreement. Approx.
completion 1-15-15.
– Celestine, IN. Install Compressor Station Piping. Welder Foreman, Robert
Humphrey. Superintendent, Robert Hurley. Working 6-10’s. Station Agreement.
Approx. completion 12-20-14.
Infrasource:
– Malta OH. 218-26” Girth Weld Inspections. Welder Foreman, Tracy Lester.
Superintendent, Terry Strickland. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-31-14.
– Logansport, IN. 200’ of 10” Creek Crossing. Welder Foreman, Troy Allen.
Superintendent, Trent Moore. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-30-14.
– Ft. Wayne, IN. 6” Regulator Station. Welder Foreman, Doug Harris.
Superintendent, Clark DeGoot. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 11-15-14.
Latex Construction:
Graham, NC. 16 miles 16”. Welder Foreman, Mitchell Elliott. Superintendent,
Mike Hamilton. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 11-15-14.
LMC Industrial:
– Nashport, OH. Station Modifications. Welder Foreman, Mike Adams.
Superintendent, Mathew Rizzieri. Working 6-10’s. Station Agreement. Approx.
completion 11-1-14.
– Carrollton, OH. Station Modification. Welder Foreman, Ray Valdez.
Superintendent, Grant Gustin. Working 6-10’s. Station Agreement. Approx.
completion 11-1-14.
Michels Pipeline:
– Iron Mountain, MI. 16” Integrity digs. Welder Foreman, Randy Wolverton.
Superintendent, Brooks Olson. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-30-14.
– Belmont, OH. 7.2 miles 16” and 7.2 miles 18” Plastic. Welder Foreman, Floyd
East. Superintendent, Kirk Baker. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 11-1-14.
Minnesota Limited:
– Evansville, IN. 375’ of 12” Crossing. Welder Foreman, Richard Criswell.
Superintendent, Kennith Criswell. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-30-14.
– Greenfield, IN. 1.6 miles 10” Testing. Welder Foreman, James Puckett.
Superintendent, Matt Austin. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-30-14.
– Dover, OH. 4-8-12” Regular Setting. Welder Foreman, Bart Moser.
Superintendent, Aaron Shrontz. Working 5-10’s. Approx. completion 10-25-14.
Pipeline Energy Group:
Clarington, OH. 29,000’ of 24” and 4000’ of 20”. Welder Foreman, Chuck Trent.
Superintendent, Ronnie Foster. Working 7-11’s. Approx. completion 10-31-14.
RL Coolsaet:
Howell, MI. 4-6-12-20” Field Modifications. Welder Foreman, Roger Mullins.
Superintendent, Joe Elliott. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 11-30-14.
United Piping, Inc.:
Menden, MI. 40 miles 8-30” Oil Recovery. Welder Foreman, Ryan Delashmutt.
Superintendent, Jim Bailer. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 12-1-14.
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 7
Regional Meeting – Wheeling, West Virginia
This year has gone pretty much as was predicted with few big jobs and
difference in the states that paid more money. This issue was whether you
mostly little ones. What few big jobs went, the non-union sector cut the
wanted to work Special Agreement or not; there was never a question about
price so cheap that our signatory contractors stayed away from them. I
National Agreement. Whatever the scale was, it was better than sawmills
guess the adage of “It’s better to go broke fishing than go broke working” is
and truck stops back home.
one that they took to heart. Some of the big jobs in the northeast, that were
One similarity between now and then, is that most of us back then, and
small when the job notification came in, turned into fairly large jobs because most of you today, have never made the kind of money you are making on
the gas company added work to the initial pre-job. Picking a short job that
the pipeline. Do not become so spoiled that you will work for nothing less
was added to was pretty much a luck of the draw. Those who pursued any
than $30 per hour. You always need to realize that, when you consider the
and all jobs were the ones who were fortunate enough to land one of those.
cost of living in areas that pay the high scale, some of the lower scales
A complaint that has been voiced about the Jobline is that some of our
actually allow you to bring more money home. There are a lot of areas that
membership sit and wait on the “good jobs”. Because the front of the list
have a high scale where a room will run you $100 per day. Consider all of
is not being called and offered the work available, and the
this when bidding a job. Don’t let the wage be your only
Jobline is the primary source of dispatch, they are able
deciding factor in applying for a job. The Jobline is open
to do that. I agree that this is imperfect, and gives those
from 5 P.M. until 7 A.M. This gives you ample time to do
who are willing to be part-time union members an unfair
your homework and establish if you will be able to afford
advantage. Playing the wheel did not just start. The only
living accommodations when you get to a job. Sometimes,
difference between the current Jobline and the old way of
it’s better to let someone that lives close to a job take it,
calling the front of the list is that now we don’t have 200 on
especially if the cost of living is high.
By Kevin Leeper
the sick list and 200 on the freeze list. It doesn’t make any
I do hope this has been a prosperous year for you and
difference what method is used to dispatch – people are going to play the
yours. Working on the pipeline can be a financially rewarding occupation,
system. The good part is that those who are aggressively pursuing work
but do not forget what is most important, and why you sacrifice. As we
have a better chance of getting a job. Neither system is perfect, but the
go into the holiday season, spend as much quality time with your family
Jobline is the fairer of the two.
and friends as possible. Don’t let pipelining make you a stranger to your
There have been many requests by helpers to have the wage of jobs on the
spouse and children. Those children will be grown before you know it, so
Jobline. This is a fairly simple request, and I will be doing this in the near
make your time at home during the holidays memorable. The 2015 pipeline
future. I have had reservations about this in the past for many reasons. The season will be upon us before you know it.
main one is because it is a cultural change for my generation. In the past,
As always, the Dispatch office is here to serve you. We can be reached at
the Dispatcher called and offered you work, and if you wanted work you
(918) 610-2761 Monday thru Friday between 8 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. (CST),
went. You packed up and went to jobs because we were obligated to man
and most Saturday mornings. Have a Merry Christmas and a happy, prosall our work regardless of the scale. It wasn’t as big an issue about the scale perous New Year!
Dispatch
Report
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 8
If drug and alcohol use did not interfere with the
company you work for, testing programs would not
be necessary. The fact is, substance abuse affects your
employer, even if the drugs or alcohol are consumed
on personal time. A couple of beers during a non-paid
lunch hour may not seem like anything notable, but
things change when the whistle blows and it’s time to
resume work. At that point, an employer begins paying
for that lunchtime behavior. Behaviors become “abuse”
when they affect work performance.
Statistics gathered over a ten year period show that
substance abusers are four times more likely to be involved in work incidents, 2-3 times more likely to be
absent from work on any particular day, and three times
more likely to file for sick benefits. They are found to
function at about 67% of their work potential, and have
a higher turnover rate than co-workers. This certainly
affects employers, and can cause additional
difficulty for them in today’s tough economy.
The individual will also lose out financially.
Since substance abusers have a high turnover rate, they have more trouble holding a
job for any length of time. They miss out on
advancement and raises because they operate
at a fraction of their actual potential. Even an average
worker stands out in comparison. Because of drug or
alcohol use, retained earnings will be less than what the
non-abuser earns.
Substance-testing programs affect incidents and workers’ compensation claims. Several of our policyholders
are employers with such testing programs. Incident Rate
measures the number of injuries in relation to hours
worked. Data from our records shows a significantly
improved Incident Rate and frequency of accidents
for these employers. Of course, not everyone who is
injured on the job is a substance abuser, but drug testing
programs, if carried out skillfully, can be highly effective.
They help assure higher productivity, and help protect
the work place from a higher risk of injury. Chances are
greater, if your company doesn’t have such a testing program, that there will be more substance abusers working
alongside you than exist at other companies.
What happens with a failed test?
Once a test is failed, the person is removed from the
jobsite. This starts a series of steps that will cost the person, and their family money, time, and probably embarrassment. If the test is failed within the first few days on
the job, besides losing the job, the person’s pay rate will
be reduced to $90.00 per day for the days worked, and
will not receive travel pay to and from the jobsite. Now
the REAL MONEY STARTS. Before returning to DOT
safety sensitive work (Pipeline Work), the person is required to hire a DOT approved Substance Abuse Counselor, typically costing around $1500.00. The counselor
will set the person up on a program, again paid out of
pocket, that normally takes around a month to complete. And if you think that ends the process, you’re
wrong. When deciding it’s time to return to work, the
person is required to disclose a previously failed test to
the new employer. There will be a series of
possibly viewed, embarrassing, follow up
tests, which could take several jobs to complete. One failed test can haunt someone for
a long time.
Let’s say a person fails a second test. The
NPLA states that with the second offense the
person will not be able to work for 90 days, and for each
failed test thereafter they must be off work for 6 months.
I think each of us need to stop and think: is doing drugs
or drinking on the job really worth going through all of
this? I sure don’t think so! If you think you could fail
a Substance Abuse Test, JUST DON’T GO until you have
these issues under control.
We are the finest in the business. When we have
members continuing to go to jobs with these issues, it
brings us all down. Remember, we need to always strive
to be the best of the best to gain more market share of
the work! Drug and alcohol abusers put everyone at
risk. Don’t be hurt by the actions of others. Our NPLA
includes the Alcohol and Substance abuse attachment,
and most of our work falls under the DOT drug testing
guidelines. For these reasons, we support contractors
that follow the rules of this policy.
Safety
First
Members Honored With
U.A. Certificates
Charles R. Brashears
Kearney, NE
Welder
55 +
YEARS
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Gas And Supply is proud to offer to all 798 members a rent to own program for Miller
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and Lincoln welding machines. Payments would be $600.00 per month with $300.00
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coming off the purchase price each month.
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Coming soon E-Commerce!
This will be like Amazon.com for welding
supplies.
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Again this will be for 798 members only. We hope to have the 798 site up and
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I N I T I AT E D
NOVEMBER 3, 1959
running by December 1. You can check it out at www.gasandsupply.com.
John S. Miller
Searcy, AR
Welder
55 +
YEARS
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I would like to thank you for this opportunity to serve you. Please contact us with
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any questions.
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Mike Brace cell 918-698-4449 or e-mail at mike.brace@gasandsupply.com
AJ Bailey, office 918-224-6455, cell 303-928-9572 or e-mail at
aj.bailey@gasandsupply.com.
I N I T I AT E D
JUNE 13, 1959
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 9
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE
In January 2015, following the conclusion of
the Fall 2014 semester, the Pipeliners Voluntary
Scholarship Fund will award ten general scholarships of $3,000 each. A screening committee will
select the winners from the qualifying applicants.
Any Local 798 member or his/her immediate family relative (spouse, child, or grandchild) who has
graduated high school and is currently attending at
least the first semester of an accredited college may
apply. Both undergraduate and graduate students
are eligible.
The Voluntary Fund has sponsored the Scholarship
Program since 1969. The Scholarship Fund owes its
success to the generous contributions of the Local
798 membership. Thanks to all of you for your continued support.
The Harry Faucett, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, in the
amount of $7,500 will also be awarded. It has been
funded by Voluntary Fund donations, memorial donations in dedication to Harry Faucett, and through
the generous contributions and sponsorships made
at the annual golf tournament. This scholarship is
awarded to the highest-ranking applicant meeting
the qualifications for the Voluntary Fund Scholarship
Program. Only applicants who have maintained a
minimum 3.2 GPA in their college level coursework
will be considered for this award.
Application forms for the 2014/2015 Scholarship
Program are now available for students enrolled
in the fall semester. Written requests should be
addressed to Pipeliners Voluntary Fund Scholarship Program. Applications may also be downloaded online from the Local Union website at
www.local798.org. It is available under the Voluntary Fund/Scholarship Program section.
An instruction sheet accompanies the application
and appraisal forms. Particular attention to the rules,
and compliance with the requirements is necessary in order to be eligible for consideration in the
final screening process. Completed forms should be
returned along with copies of all previous college
transcripts. It is the applicant’s responsibility to have
the college or university registrar’s office immediately
mail in a transcript of their grades upon completion
of the fall semester. Sufficient time is allowed for receipt of fall transcripts, but a cut-off date is necessary
to process all files through the screening committee.
Applicants will be disqualified if all materials, including the application, appraisal forms, and transcripts,
are not received by the January 23, 2015 deadline.
ERNIE MILLER SCHOLARSHIP
The family of deceased member Brother Ernie Miller has established a scholarship program in his honor. This
scholarship will provide 1 - $500 award to the top applicant attending a trade or vocational school.
Application forms for the 2014/2015 Ernie Miller Scholarship Program are now available for students enrolled
in the fall semester. Written requests should be addressed to Ernie Miller Scholarship Program. Applications may
also be downloaded online from the Local Union website at www.local798.org. It is available under the Voluntary
Fund/Scholarship Program section.
An instruction sheet accompanies the application and appraisal forms. Particular attention to the rules and
compliance with the requirements is necessary in order to be eligible for consideration in the final screening process. Completed forms should be returned along with copies of all previous school transcripts. It is the applicant’s
responsibility to have the school’s registrar’s office immediately mail in a transcript of their grades upon completion of the fall semester. Sufficient time is allowed for receipt of fall transcripts, but a cut-off date is necessary to
process all files through the screening committee. Applicants will be disqualified if all materials, including the
application, appraisal forms, and transcripts, are not received by the January 23, 2015 deadline.
Meeting Notice
December 12, 2014
The Regular December Membership Meeting will be held at the
Pipeliners Local Union 798 Union Hall, 4823 S. 83rd E. Ave.,
Tulsa, OK on Friday, December 12, 2014 beginning at 7:00 p.m.
798 Ladies Hospitality
& Motel Accommodations
The 798 Hospitality will be held at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel
– 6808 S. 107th E. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74133 – beginning at 6:00
p.m. on Friday, December 12, 2014. The Renaissance Tulsa
Hotel has graciously offered a discounted room rate of $91.00.
To make reservations, call (918) 307-2600. Make sure you
indicate you are with Pipeliners Local Union 798.
Meeting Notice
January 9, 2015
The Regular January Membership Meeting will be held at the
Pipeliners Local Union 798 Union Hall, 4823 S. 83rd E. Ave.,
Tulsa, OK on Friday, January 9, 2015 beginning at 7:00 p.m.
798 Ladies Hospitality
& Motel Accommodations
The 798 Hospitality will be held at the Renaissance Tulsa Hotel
– 6808 S. 107th E. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74133 – beginning at 6:00
p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2015. The Renaissance Tulsa Hotel
has graciously offered a discounted room rate of $91.00. To
make reservations, call (918) 307-2600. Make sure you indicate
you are with Pipeliners Local Union 798.
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 10
U.S. PIPELINE, INC.
U
.S
. P
.
IPELINE, INC
The Local 798 Training Center extends a special Thank You to U.S. Pipeline for their donation of 2 tons of welding rods to the Training
Center from the Independence, KS job. We certainly appreciate the generous help and support we receive from our vendors.
Just as many of you, a few weeks ago my family
and I enjoyed a long Labor Day weekend. The first
Monday in September is set aside to honor the American
Labor Movement. It is dedicated to the achievements
of workers, and the contributions they have made to
our country.
What many don’t realize is the sacrifices of working people, and the effects of the Pullman Strike that
brought about this holiday. The Pullman
Palace Car Company, which manufactured
rail cars, housed workers in a company town
named Pullman on the south side of Chicago.
When the company decided to lower wages,
but did not lower rent, some 4000 employees
began a wildcat strike. Eugene Debs and
the ARU called for a massive boycott against
all trains that carried Pullman cars which,
at its peak involved 250,000 workers across
27 states.
President Grover Cleveland called in U.S.
Marshals and Federal troops to end the strike, resulting
in 30 strikers killed and 57 wounded. Debs was sent to
prison for his involvement. In an effort to reconcile with
labor, the U. S. Congress approved rush legislation to
make Labor Day a National Holiday. President Cleveland
signed it into law only six days after the strike ended.
Why is all this important over 120 years later? First,
we owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who
sacrificed their homes, families, freedom, and even their
lives for what we enjoy today. Second, we must never
forget the events that transpired, and always think of the
quote of George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”
Today, we are facing one of the largest anti-union
movements since the days of the Great Robber Barons.
Unions, for the first time, have lost ground in the north
with Indiana and Michigan becoming right-to-work
states. Governor Walker prevailed in Wisconsin with
his attack on Organized Labor. The media has vilified
us when all we have ever asked for is a fair
days pay for a fair days work. Texas is a
perfect example of corporate America’s vision for the rest of the country: low wages,
deplorable working conditions, predominately non-union with no representation for
workers, and no help from public officials.
They want nothing more than to divide us,
because while we fight amongst ourselves
in the background, they are busy working
toward a two-class system; the middle class
being forced into extinction.
So, 120 years later we can’t forget what actually happened to working people in this country at the hands of
corporate America, and above all, never allow ourselves
to believe that it can’t happen again. Support your Local
Union daily; it’s the only thing between us and poverty,
then and now. Talk to the un-organized and help them
understand what’s at stake. We need solidarity between
all workers today more than ever.
Fraternally, Ronnie M. Hill
(918) 284-6862
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 11
Hoyt and Samantha McNeil express the
depth of their gratitude for the generous
contribution from the Voluntary Fund. Their
newborn son, Weston Lee McNeil, was airlifted to the Childrens Hospital in Little Rock,
AR. Almost a month later, they were able to
take him home, healthy and whole. Special
thanks to Danny Hendrix, Wade Pilgreen and
Fred Brumley.
Chrissy Brumley Hawkins sends heartfelt
thanks for the gift you sent when she had
to miss a week of work to be with her son
and daughter-in-law while their newborn
was in the hospital. Special thanks to Danny
Hendrix, Wade Pilgreen, Don Hawkins, Sr.,
Bobby Taylor, Summer Hawkins, Karlee
Parker and the entire pipe gang bus on the
Sheehan job in Lucedale, MS.
Daryl Hipp would like to thank the Voluntary
Fund for the gift he received after his daughter, Jessica, passed away. Special thanks to
Dennis Jackson, Paul Davis, all the hands
on U.S. Pipeline’s spread in Independence,
KS, and the hands on the Sheehan spread
in MS, where his daughter was traveling to
go to work.
The Schewe Family greatly appreciates
everyone’s support after Jerry passed away.
Special thanks to Reid Hebert and the
Voluntary Fund.
Jim and Della Moyer cannot begin to express
their gratitude for your generous gift as a
result of Jim’s recent stays in the hospital.
It is a blessing to know that the men and
women of Local 798 continue to carry on
the tradition of supporting members in need.
May each of you have a great and prosperous year.
Warren Lyda would like to thank the
Voluntary Fund for the gift he received.
Special thanks to Danny Hendrix, Phillip
Wallace, and everyone for the calls of concern.
Jamie Hankins sends a huge thank you to
Local 798 for the gift he received from the
Voluntary Fund. He is so thankful to be a
member of a great union that takes care of
one another. Special thank you to Rodney
Talbot and the rest of the Rockford group in
Maryland.
Jeremy Padgett and Family thank the
Voluntary Fund for the generosity shown to
them following his recent surgery. Thanks to
each and every member of the pipeline family who faithfully donates to the fund each
week. Special thanks to Jeff Doyle for this
thoughtfulness and concern.
Ernest Alton Bates and Family appreciate
your generous gift. Special thanks to Danny
Hendrix, Wade Pilgreen, Mitch Leihr, and all
the Brothers and Sisters of Local 798.
John Boles and Family cannot thank you
enough for the gift from the Voluntary
Fund that was sent after his 4 surgeries and
2 hospital stays. A special thanks to Allen
Johnson, Bruce Eaves, and Marcus Milstead.
Your kindness will never be forgotten.
Raymond and Jane Scarborough would like
to thank the Voluntary Fund for help they
received when Jane had knee replacement
surgery in July. They are so blessed to have
a Local that reaches out in the time of need.
God bless all of you!
John and Karen Smith wish to thank all their
pipeline family for the check received while
Karen recovered from her injury. Special
thanks to Steve Hinton, Jeff Sullivan, Danny
Hendrix, and Wade Pilgreen. They are so
happy to be a part of this organization.
Jerry and Carol Fazzio express their sincere
gratitude for your generosity in providing
financial help to them from the Voluntary
Fund. To each member who contributes
to the Fund, they send their heartfelt
thanks. They extend special thanks to Billy
Hawkins, Charlie Yates, Jr., Chad Todd, John
Agostinoni, Everett “Bubba” Johnson, and
Rick Taylor for your help, kindness, and
sincere concern.
The Membership of Local Lodge 2003 in
Daleville, AL write to thank you for your
support and donation during their labor
dispute with Army Fleet Support. They are
confident securing this contract, and getting
their members back to work would have
been insurmountable without friends and
supporters like you.
Walter and Colleen Ramsey say the gift they
received was such a wonderful, gracious,
and generous gift. It was so unexpected,
but your kindness means a lot; it is hard to
express their thanks. Colleen has had one
brain tumor removed and will be having the
second one removed soon. They are looking
forward to getting back to normal as much as
possible. Thank you again!
Jerry Gump expresses his gratitude for the
check he received from the Voluntary Fund
due to his illness. It was greatly appreciated.
Special thanks to Doug Jones.
The Tuten Family would like to express gratitude for the phone calls and help received
following Kendall’s hospitalization in Tucson.
It’s difficult being in the hospital while on the
road, and it really helped out a lot. Special
thanks to Chad Gilbert for his concern and
follow-up.
Lou Anne Moody sends out a huge thank
you to all who contribute to the Voluntary
Fund. Your thoughts, prayers, and help during her mother’s passing truly touched her
heart. The contribution was so unexpected,
and such a blessing! What a special group of
people you are; it is a privilege to be a part
of Local 798.
Allen and Glynda Monic thank everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund for
the help they received after Glynda’s surgery.
Special thanks to Jim Warner, Mike Miller,
and Jerry Forster.
Gary and Cathy Pohlman say thank you
for the Voluntary Fund gift. It was truly
appreciated.
The Family of Roy Zander, II, thank everyone for your prayers, phone calls, cards,
flowers, and support during this most difficult time. Roy was proud to be a member
of 798. Special thanks to Bill Burt, Holly
Andrews, Bobby Taylor, Jr., and all the hands
on the Latex job in Chamblee, GA. God bless
all of you.
Micheal and Esther Runion would like to
thank all those who generously donate to
the Voluntary Fund from the goodness of
their heart to help those in need. The donation helped a lot.
Ernie and Kim Coleman acknowledge and
thank the Local 798 membership for the
generous check they received to help out
during Ernie’s recent illness. Ernie had a
brain tumor removed in August, but is doing
well. Also, thanks for the many phone calls
and prayers.
Terry Byus wishes to thank all who contribute and administers the Voluntary Fund for
the help he received after his companion of
23 years lost her life to cancer. It was really
needed and appreciated at this time. Special
thanks to David Casteel, Danny Hendrix, and
Wade Pilgreen.
Fred and Joyce Curran appreciate the
Voluntary Fund and all the members of
798 who contribute to it for the help they
received when Joyce had a stroke, and was
hospitalized for eight weeks. A special thank
you to Ron Kenworthy and Bucky Price.
Bobby and JoAnn Browning can’t say thank
you enough for the help they received. Your
kindness and generosity is appreciated.
Special thanks to Chris Lancaster.
Carl Willie Brown says thank you to the
Voluntary Fund. Special thanks to Tim
Eubanks, Billy Brown, Danny Hendrix, and
Wade Pilgreen.
Daniel Wilson wanted to take the time to say
thank you for the much needed help after he
got hurt on the job. He says a special thank
you to Buddy Craft, Wade Pilgreen, and
everyone who gives to the Voluntary Fund.
Thomas and Virginia Shepherd thank all the
members who donate to the Voluntary Fund
for the gift they received after Virginia’s heart
attack. Special thanks to Wayne Miller.
Carl Hill thanks all the people who give to
the Voluntary Fund for the gift he received.
Kevin, Lisa, Jackie & Becky Berryman say
the gift from the Voluntary Fund meant more
to them than you could know. Thank you.
Charles Balch writes to say there are not
enough words to express how grateful he
is for the thoughtful consideration of the
Voluntary Fund for the help he received.
Special thanks to Danny Hendrix, Wade
Pilgreen, and all who support the Voluntary
Fund.
Larry Spann wanted to thank everyone who
gives to the Voluntary Fund each week. The
gift he received was a great help financially
after having eye surgery.
Clifford and Rita Rae would like to thank the
Voluntary Fund for the help they received
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 12
following his recent by-pass surgery. Special
thanks to Escue Mauk.
John and Joan Bradford send a special thank
you to all the Brothers and Sisters who contribute to the Voluntary Fund. It’s the 798 family
that makes this Local Union such a very special
organization. Thanks to Darrell Turner, Terry
Langley, and Louie Langley.
Betty Jones expresses her thanks for all the
help and support she has received since her
husband, Robert H. (Bobby) Jones passed away.
The Bible was so thoughtful and very beautiful;
she will treasure it forever. Local 798 is the
best, and again her thanks go out to everyone.
Gilbert Martin appreciates the help he and his
family received from the Voluntary Fund. He
can’t thank you all enough for the financial
assistance. Special thanks to Danny Hendrix
and Wade Pilgreen.
Terry Adams and Family would like to thank
all the Brother and Sister members for their
donations to the Voluntary Fund. They are
thankful on behalf of his grandson, Adam, following his emergency brain surgery. Special
thanks to Johnny and Barbara Gaudet, and
everyone who made this possible.
Priscilla Thompson thanks all who contribute
to the Voluntary Fund for the help she received
after her husband passed away. Doug had a
brain tumor removed just fine, but then complications set in. Special thanks to Richard
Behne.
Morris and Mary Jane Fontenot express their
gratitude to all who give to the Voluntary Fund.
The kindness shown by each one in their time
of need has truly blessed their lives. Special
thanks to Black Schroeder and John Knight.
Terry Feeler says it’s an honor being part of such
a great organization. He gives special thanks to
Mark Witt, Jeff Doyle, and all the people who
contribute to the Voluntary Fund.
Roy Williams and Family want to thank the
Voluntary Fund for the help they received
during his recent illness and hospital stay. It
was greatly appreciated. Special thanks to
Danny Hendrix, Wade Pilgreen, Terry and Pam
Thibodeaux, George Murphy, and Dave Loyd.
Larry Ferguson thanks the Voluntary Fund for
the help he received during his recent hospital
stay. Special thanks to Wayne Causey and
Glenn Bird.
The Family of John and Patricia Post appreciate everyone’s sympathy at the death of their
son, J. Alan Gordon. They also thank the
Voluntary Fund for the donation when John
had two operations. It is a great pleasure to
work for an organization like Local 798.
Robert Mills cannot thank you enough for the
gift he received from the Voluntary Fund.
Kevin and Kimberly Buckley thank you for
the overwhelming support you have provided
during their time of need. Your thoughts and
prayers have been heartwarming, while the gift
they received was very much appreciated.
Mike and Debbie Brace would like to thank all
the members for the help from the Voluntary
Fund. It is a blessing to know that people
care.
Danny Poole wants to thank Tim Gintz, Bill
Ritenour, and Wade Pilgreen for their help.
The money from the Voluntary Fund was a
relief from some financial burden from while
he was in the hospital. He also thanks everyone in the local for donating to the Voluntary
Fund.
Karen Wilcox and Family express their appreciation for your prayers, cards, and the Bible
that were sent to them at the passing of Jack
Wilcox. God bless you all for your help during
this difficult time.
The Meche Family thanks you for the gift from
the Voluntary Fund. Times are tough for everyone so they greatly appreciate the help.
Tyler Jacks thanks all who contribute to the
Voluntary Fund. He is grateful for the help he
received after his auto accident. Special thanks
to Curtis Mason and Tracy Lester.
Walter H. Ancell, Welder, Dolores, CO
Susan K. Bevins, Helper, Oak Grove, LA
Homer A. Brashear, Helper, Simsboro, LA
Charles D. Burkheart, Journeyman Spacer,
Corning, AR
Gary R. Connor, Welder, Winnfield, LA
Benjamin L. Cummings, Helper, Spencer, WV
Mark J. Durocher, Helper, Thibodaux, LA
Gerard Fazzio, Welder, Slidell, LA
Eugene R. Fisher, Helper, Lyons, KS
Brooks D. Gandee, Welder, Spencer, WV
William J. Graves, Helper, Channelview, TX
Bobby L. Harvey, Welder, Anacoco, LA
Karen S. Hewitt, Helper, Gilmer, TX
Walton H. Hines, Jr, Journeyman Spacer,
Morgantown, KY
Willis H. Hundley, Journeyman Spacer,
Dunlow, WV
Edward H. Kanzig, Helper, Solway, MN
Doy R. Knight, Welder, Bald Knob, AR
Jeffery P. Mathis, Welder, Graham, TX
Keith A. Mitchell, Helper, Bixby, OK
Ronnie R. Nalls, Welder, Van, TX
Danny W. Poole, Journeyman Spacer,
Texarkana, TX
Stephen M. Preece, Welder, Liberty Hill, TX
Rickey M. Prestidge, Welder, Marshall, TX
Jerry M. Simms, Helper, Wilmot, AR
Nellie R. Strong, Helper, Riverdale, IL
Aczael Valdez, Jr, Welder, Pasco, WA
Neil M. Watson, Welder, Wind Ridge, PA
James R. Webb, Welder, Cloverdale, IN
David L. Mulligan, 64 year-old Retired Welder
of Noxen, PA passed away August 10, 2014.
Gale D. Streety, 85 year-old Retired Welder of
Hurst, TX passed away August 13, 2014.
Kenneth L. Harrell, 78 year-old Retired Welder
of Tulsa, OK passed away August 18, 2014.
Joseph K. Thomas, 87 year-old Retired Welder
of Smiths Grove, KY passed away August 24,
2014.
Darrell D. Thompson, 79 year-old Retired
Welder of Stephenville, TX passed away August
27, 2014.
Henry L. Redifer, 65 year-old Retired Welder
of Thomasville, GA passed away September
8, 2014.
Ricky J. Beresford, 61 year-old Helper of
Moundsville, WV passed away September 9,
2014.
Alton R. Barron, 78 year-old Retired Welder of
Pineville, LA passed away September 11, 2014.
Garnet B. Mongold, 95 year-old Retired Helper
of Broadway, VA passed away September 17,
2014.
Jack Wilcox, Jr., 68 year-old Retired Helper of
Nixa, MO passed away September 27, 2014.
Billy W. Moody, 81 year-old Retired Helper
of Scotts Hill, TN passed away September 30,
2014.
Joe E. Wyatt, 93 year-old Retired Welder of
Haynesville, LA passed away September 30,
2014.
Leon G. Holman, 63 year-old Retired Helper of
Plattsmouth, NE passed away October 2, 2014.
Michael L. Ullum, 70 year-old Retired Helper of
Potwin, KS passed away October 3, 2014.
Allen F. Isaacs, 71 year-old Welder of Butler, TN
passed away October 7, 2014.
2001 NuWa Hitchhiker 31 RDBG 5th Wheel.
Fiberglass, 2 slides, 32 feet long. Tires are new.
Transferable warranty on all the mechanical
valid until Feb 2017. 30 Amp 4 season rig.
Comfortable and roomy. Great condition.
$12,500. Call Mike at (612) 599-7791 or email
pilgrim@myomnitel.com.
1982 200 amp Lincoln. Gas, rebuilt engine,
wired for remote. Call Don at (618) 569-4123
or (618) 553-4123. $4500 Firm.
WELDER HATS – Tall/Short Crown, Reversible
and Non-Reversible. NFL, Disney, Hot Wheels,
Coke, Farmall, John Deer, and NASCAR
licensed fabrics available. $12.00 - $14.00 each
plus shipping. FR Camouflage, Non-reversible
- $15.00 plus shipping. Embroidery available.
Call or text Carol at (970) 420-0199 or e-mail:
CJW19290@aol.com.
1968 SA 200. For sale with cables on a utility
trailer with 17” rubber. $3000. Contact Mike
at (814) 642-7054.
‘05 Dodge Cummins Welding Rig. New transmission 168,000 miles, lots of extras, runs
great. $20,000 OBO. Also, ‘68 Red Face 200.
Great condition and rebuilt motor with 0 hrs.
$4,500. Call Brian (812) 583-6607 for details.
Brothers and Sisters, due to limited spacing, SHORT & PERSONAL items are
published as space permits. We try to print some in each category, and will
get to yours as soon as possible. All items must be submitted in writing.
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 13
Per the August 2011 United Association Convention by Vote of Delegates.
Dues Scales Changes – Effective 1/01/2015
2014 Rate
2015 Rate
(Active or Retired)
Age 65 as of 12/31/2001
$15.00
$15.00
(no change)
Members who reached age 65
Between 1/01/2002-12/31/2006
$19.00
$19.00
(no change)
Members who reached age 65
Between 1/01/2007-12/31/2011
$20.00
$20.00
(no change)
All members who reached age 65
Between 1/01/2012-12/31/2012
$22.00
$22.00
(no change)
All members who reached age 65
Between 1/01/2013-12/31/2013
$23.00
$23.00
(no change)
$24.00
$24.00
(no change)
All members who reached age 65
Between 1/01/2014-12/31/2014
All members who will reach age 65
Between 1/01/2015-12/31/2015
$24.00 (Retired)
$25.00 *
Or $28.00 (Active)
Retired members less than age 65
$24.00
$25.00
Active members less than age 65
$28.00
$29.00
Lifetime members (50 years of
Service)
$0.00
$0.00
(no change)
*
Effective January 1, 2015, all members turning 65 will have their dues changed to the $25.00 rate the month after
they reach age 65 and members less than age 65 who retire will have their dues scale reduced to $25.00.
PIBF NEWS
Robert “Bob” Kime, Director
Health Coverage for Young Adults
Ages 19 to 26
ment form will have to be completed after their 25th birthday
to keep them covered until they turn 26.
The Affordable Care Act requires health plans like PIBF to make
health coverage available to young adults between the ages
of 19 to 26 regardless of college status or whether the young
adult has coverage available elsewhere through employment.
In order to include the young adult that is between 19 and
26 years old on your PIBF coverage, you have to complete
an open enrollment form supplied by the Fund office before
January 15, 2015 (not including extensions).
Short Term Disability Benefits
If you do not provide the information about your young adult
timely, you will be eligible to enroll your young adult during
the next open enrollment date in November 2015 to add the
young adult in 2016. If a dependent between the ages of
19 to 25 is a full-time student and PIBF did not get an open
enrollment form before the final deadline, the child can still be
covered on the Plan under college guidelines. An open enroll-
The short term disability benefit is payable as described in
the Summary Plan Description Booklet if you become Totally
Disabled as a result of an accident or illness which occurs
while covered by the Plan. To receive benefits, written notice
of total disability must be submitted to PIBF within 90 days of
the first day of disability.
You are “Totally Disabled” when you are unable to perform
any type of work because of injury or illness. However, the
plan has exclusions listed in the Summary Plan Description
booklet. If you qualify, you may receive a weekly $250 disability benefit for a maximum period of 26 weeks per disability.
918-280-4800 – www.pibf.org
Blue Light Reports • November / December 2014 • Page 14
207 Pullover Windshirt with
Pockets in Bone color. (S, M, L,
XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL). $60.00
115-R Rumble of Unity 115-S Gray Short-Sleeved T-Shirt
with Logo and pocket. (S, M, L,
Black Short-Sleeved
3XL, 4XL). $13.00
T-Shirt. (XL, 2XL, 4XL).
$10.00
141 I’m a Union
Member! Navy, ShortSleeved Pocketed T-Shirt.
(2XL, 4XL). $12.00
206 Safety Short-Sleeved Pocketed
T-Shirt. Fluorescent Green with
Reflective Ink. Logo on front pocket.
(Back shown). (S, M, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL).
$14.00
101-B Navy / Tan
Summer Cap. $11.00
101-C2 Winter Camo Cap. $15.00
101-C Summer Camo Cap. $15.00
101-A Navy Summer Cap.
$13.00
101-F Bone Brushed
Cotton Twill “Union Yes”
Sandwich Bill hat. $12.00
101-G Navy Patriotic Cap. $9.00
101-L Fitted Patriotic Cap. (S/M,
L/XL). $17.00
116 Navy Logo
Hoodie. (S, M, L,
XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL)
$24.00
140 Carhartt Navy Blue
Jacket with Hood. Quilted Flannel lining in body, quilted
- nylon lining in sleeves.
(S, M, L, XL,
2XL, 3XL,
4XL).
$76.00
101-J White Cap. $16.00
201 Blue Flame
hat. $13.00
101-N “The Legacy Continues”
Cap. Bone/camo $15.00
116-C Sportsmaster Masterfleece© Three-Season
Jacket. With embroidered 798 logo. Heavy-duty,
tear-resistant fabric. Rain & stain resistant. Lined.
(M, L). $75.00
101-M ”I’m All In”sized hat.
Back says 60th Anniversary
1949-2009. (Large only) $23.00
130 798 Key Chain.
“United We Bargain
/ Divided We Beg”.
$8.00
104 Portfolio. Navy. $15.00
133 JFK Half Dollar
Coin. $3.00
129 798 Money
Clip. $11.00
136 Local
Union 798
Glasses.
Set of 4.
12 oz.
$5.00
139 Single Lock
Blade Knife.
$10.00
137 798
Lapel Pin.
$4.50
132 98 Computer
Bag. $40.00
135 798 Logo Blanket
$32.00
Visit the Merchandise Cart at www.local798.org to view and order available products.
Or call the Union Hall at (918) 622-1900 to place an order.
PRESORTED
FIRST CLASS MAIL
U.S. POSTAGE
PA I D
WICHITA, KS
PERMIT NO. 23
4823 S. 83rd E. Ave.
P.O. Box 470798
Tulsa, OK 74147-0798
McCizer Pipeline
Little Rock, AR
Minnesota Limited Ruff Creek, PA