JulyAug13 BL - Pipeliners Local Union 798

PIPELINERS UNION 798
Volume XLVIII, Number 4
J U LY / A U G U S T 2 0 1 3
www.local798.org
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
Bobby Taylor
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Larry Edwards
Charlie Garrett
Mitch Leihr
Randy Mathis
FINANCE COMMITTEE
Thomas Brian Anderson
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
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
What a great time to be in the pipeline industry!! The work is abundant and is in full
swing. If you have been looking at the job listings on the jobline, you already know we are
having challenges manning some of our jobs with all classifications. We have had to start
calling members off the top of the list to fulfill the time restraints of the dispatch according to the contract. If you are close to the top, you may want to pick you out a job or the
dispatch will pick it for you and if you choose not to go, you will be placed at the bottom of
the wheel. I am urging the unemployed members to engage and fulfill our obligation to not only the contractor,
but to the Local Union.
All segments of our industry are flourishing, and by all indications it will be ripe for the picking for many years. The
natural gas, crude oil, liquids and maintenance work are all expanding with opportunities that are of epic proportions.
The thirst for more and more energy that is homegrown is creating an economic stimulus for the rest of the industries.
Manufacturing is actually making a comeback in this country because of the abundance of cheap domestic feedstock.
Some analysts believe that America could be completely independent from OPEC crude oil by 2025, and we could
possibly be a net exporter of crude. Natural gas prices are down because of the abundance, but the leaders of the
gas industry plan to create a much larger market demand for their product by increasing their share of transportation
energy (LNG vehicles) and exporting liquefied natural gas (LNG). Just a few short years ago we were permitting LNG
ports for importing, and now the industry wants to permit up to 24 locations for exports. The transmission lines that
are currently our energy grid consist of over 2 million miles of pipeline. Of those, 50% were built in the 50’s and 60’s
and many before that time and are in desperate need for an overhaul or even decommissioning. It took the industry
60 to 70 years to build the infrastructure, and it will take just as many years or more to upgrade and update these
systems. Please take full advantage of this prosperity to solid up your pension credits and maximize your hour bank
for health care.
I know Wade touched on the 401-K in his report, but I also feel compelled to expand on this issue. As your leader I,
along with many others, have been passionately working to make sure that we secured a 401-K contributed through
the benefit stream funded by the 3% raise that was already negotiated but not allocated. The Union felt that this was a
win-win for both management and labor, and would actually be less cost to the contractor while at the same time allow
the members to maximize their amounts paid in to their 401-K. The Contractors Association stated correctly that this
would be a negotiated item that would entail opening the National Pipeline Agreement for bargaining, and they refused
to do so before the terms and conditions expire on June 1st 2014. Going forward, I would urge all that are currently
employed that do not participate currently with a self-contribution, to voluntarily sign the 401-K deduction authorization
card and get started on making your retirement years more secure. Please help me to show the contractors that
this benefit is important to you and your family by participating.
May the good Lord continue to bless Local 798 and this nation. As always I am proud to say, “I work
for you, the greatest pipeliners in the world!”
Fraternally,
DISPATCHER
Kevin Leeper
Out Of Work List:
918/663-3200
Dispatch FAX:
918/610-2740
Daniel C. Hendrix
Business Manager
Jobline:
918/610-2745
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 2
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Danny and I have just returned to Tulsa from the northeast after attending two very successful meetings
held in Ohio and West Virginia. I would like to express my gratitude to the members that took their
personal time and money to be in attendance. Also, special thanks to Rick Taylor, Chris Lancaster and
Terry Langley for setting up these events. I believe these types of meetings help bring the membership
together and gain unity for what we believe. Hopefully in the future, we can hold similar meetings in
areas where we have work activity going on.
I know several members at these meetings and across the country have been inquiring about the 401-K benefit that we were hoping
to have in place by June 1st. When the Contractor’s Labor Committee met in May, they decided that they did not want to open the
contract to change the wording, thus, not allowing us to create this benefit. So, a large portion of the 3% increase (effective June
1st) went on the paycheck and the remaining 60 cents went toward benefits. Even though the 401-K benefit was not added at this
time, you can still self-contribute hourly from your paycheck. This is something each of us can do to decrease the top heavy testing
returns annually. I would encourage each of you to do some research on investing in a 401-K as it is a great avenue of saving for
your retirement years.
We just received the hours worked for the month of May. Again, it was a great report, with man-hours coming in at 612,742 and a
year to date total of 2,714,398 hours. Historically, we have accumulated 75% of our man-hours from June to December. If history
repeats itself, we could very well surpass 10 million man-hours for 2013. This would be a great boost for our membership and the
Pension Fund going into the future. I know this has been said several times in the past, but in order to keep up with the demand of
the work being provided to our members we must continue to fill these jobs that we are contractually obligated to man.
On another note, our office is receiving letters daily for verification of employment for members telling either banks, mortgage
companies, or place of employment that Local 798 was their recent employer. Local 798 is not considered your employer. Your
employer is the pipeline contractor you currently or recently worked for. If the loan company or new employer requests information
about your employment, please provide the required information with the contractor’s name and address. We appreciate your help
with this in the future.
At the Steward School, we had a class on completing the Steward reports on the computer. So far, this has been a great success
with several of the Stewards converting to the new process. With the tremendous amount of work going on, this will help in the processing of the paperwork that is coming into the office on a daily basis. If you are interested in doing your reports on the computer,
we have a video on the web site under the Media Tab. You can download this to your computer and watch it at your convenience.
Please, if you have any questions do not hesitate to call at any time. Also in regards to Steward reports, it is important to make sure
that the week ending date matches the week ending date on the contractors report. Please make sure that all week ending dates are
correct on each report you submit. This will help in the processing of the paperwork as they are received.
A copy of the “Right of Way Etiquette” video that Black does at each Steward School is now available to view on the web site under
the Media Tab. If you have never attended a Steward School, I would highly recommend that you view this. Black does an excellent
job on this topic, and I believe each of us can learn from this video.
If at any time I can assist you, give me a call. In closing, I hope each of you have a safe and prosperous work season.
Sincerely and Fraternally,
Wade Pilgreen
Financial Secretary-Treasurer
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 3
Business Agents’ Reports
798 Business Agents
24-hour answering service
918-663-6520
Jobline: 918-610-2745
CHRIS LANCASTER
IN, KY, MI, NC, OH, TN
918/270-6735 918/663-6520 Press 1
I am writing this report while finishing up the meetings in Columbus, OH and Wheeling, WV. There was
a great turn out for both meetings; it’s good to see the
interest our members have in our Local Union. Danny
and Wade had a lot of information about the great things
happening in our local. I have been doing several Prejobs in the past few weeks; the work in Ohio is going
good. We are still having problems manning some of
the jobs, so if you are looking for work I encourage you
to apply for these jobs on the job line.
The Enbridge work in Michigan looks as if it is going to get started again so there will
be a lot of work in this state as well. We are going to need everyone’s help in manning
this work. I want to thank all of the members who are already out there, working hard to
complete jobs that this union has worked hard to obtain.
I am busy this time of the year and I am getting behind on returning calls. If I don’t
call you back, call again and I will return your call as soon as possible. I appreciate your
patience.
I have held the following pre-jobs:
Pipeline Energy Group:
– Cambridge, OH. 2.5 miles of 20”. Welder Foreman: Scott Sampson.
Superintendent: Bub Smith. Working 4-12’s and 1-10. Approx. completion 6-15-13.
– Cadiz, OH. 3.1 miles of 12”. Welder Foreman: Scott Sampson. Superintendent:
Bub Smith. Working 4-12’s and 1-10. Approx. completion 6-10-13.
Ace Pipeline:
– Belmont, OH. 8000’ of 12-20”. Dual lay. Welder Foreman: Dave Glavanio.
Superintendent: Terry Gandee. Working 5-11’s and 1-8. Approx. completion 6-15-13.
– Carrollton, OH. 2800’ of 6-8”. Welder Foreman: David Mitchell. Superintendent:
Chuck Cantaberry. Working 5-10’s and 1-8. Approx. completion 6-21-13.
Apex:
Sardis, OH. 2 miles of 20”. Welder Foreman: Charlie Thomas. Superintendent: Cecil
Hill. Working 5-11’s. Approx. completion 7-1-13.
Pete Gould:
Hannibal, OH. 17,000’ of 12”. Welder Foreman: Todd Caseman. Superintendent:
Glen Tribett. Working 5-10’s. Approx. completion 7-31-13.
B&G Pipeline:
– Hermitage, PA. 18,841’ of 8”. Welder Foreman: Phillip Boothe. Superintendent:
Sammy Wilson. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 6-15-13.
– Wilmington, N.C. 5,000’ of 20”. Welder Foreman: Jerry Haynes. Superintendent:
Steve Greer. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 6-6-13.
Bill Hawk:
Leesville, OH. 12,000’ of 10”. Welder Foreman: Doug Gouchneaur. Superintendent:
Charlie Snure. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 6-7-13.
1127 Const.:
Cortland, OH. 185,000’ of 4”. Welder Foreman: Mike Albrecht. Superintendent: Jeff
Smith. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 4-12-14.
Welded Const.:
Cadiz, OH. 12.2 miles of 16”. Welder Foreman: Chris Ferguson. Superintendent:
Rob Seebeck. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 7-5-13.
Appalachian Pipeline:
Nashville, TN. 12” Anomaly digs. Welder Foreman: Russell Obrien. Superintendent:
Anthony Campbell. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 8-1-13.
Minnesota Limited:
Bristolville, OH. 2-10” Stations. Welder Foreman: Aaron Shrontz. Superintendent:
Gary Hawk. Working 5-10’s. Approx. completion 9-1-13.
Price Gregory:
– Mt. Sterling, KY. 78,662’ of 24”. Take-up and relay. Welder Foreman: Jeff Doyle.
Superintendent: Rex Green. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 10-1-13.
– Goldsboro, NC. 20.36 miles of 12”. Welder Foreman: Billy Burns. Superintendent:
Terry McDaniels. Working 6-10’s. Special Agreement. Approx. completion 8-1-13.
Infrasource Const.:
Alliance, OH. 18,800’ of 8”. Welder Foreman: Larry Mushrush. Superintendent: Cory
Snyder. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 7-20-13.
Henkels & McCoy:
– Dorr Township, MI. 24” Creek relocation. Welder Foreman: Dan Pawloski.
Superintendent: Mark Turnbull. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 7-2-13.
– Mt. Pleasant , MI. Valve replacements. Welder Foreman: Gary Buckin.
Superintendent: Jeff Fate. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 6-15-13.
Sheehan Pipeline:
Coshocton, OH. 60 miles of 20”. Welder Foreman: Donald Hawkins. Superintendent:
Mike Fall. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 9-17-13.
Precision Pipeline:
Harrision, OH. 118.86 miles of 20”. Welder Foreman: Tim Gintz. Superintendent:
Kevin Olerud. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 11-30-13.
Otis Eastern:
Shelby Township, MI. 9 miles of 8”. Welder Foreman: Tom Shaw. Superintendent:
Danny Cox. Working 6-10’s. Approx. completion 8-15-13.
BLACK SCHROEDER
TX
409/753-2264 918/663-6520 Press 2
The bidding process on the first two sections of the
Seaway Pipeline and the ATEX has just been completed.
It looks like Troy ended up with the loop from Jones
Creek to Mount Belvieu; 60 miles of 36” & 30”. They
will warehouse in Rosharon, TX. MG Dyess ended up
with 65.6 miles of 20” for ATEX & 70.7 miles of 30” for
Seaway. They will warehouse around Winnie, TX. There
is still 450 miles of 30” left to bid of the Seaway.
As I write this report I am contemplating why the Oil
& Gas Companies still can’t figure it out. Every single project that has been completed
in this state in the past few years have had competition on opposing projects with the
non-union. Our fair contractors have had anywhere from 2 to 5 times better repair rate,
finished in record time (2 to 5 times more production) no major accidents, and yet we still
fail to get our market share of the work in Texas.
I have been told all my life that if you build a quality product you will always prevail
because everyone likes quality. This does not seem true in the pipeline industry because,
I suppose, the Gas & Oil Companies are only worried about the all mighty dollar.
I recently attended a meeting in Houston, TX where I heard some guest speakers
talking about the biggest boom the Gulf Coast has ever seen from Lake Charles, LA to
Corpus Christi, TX. The Oil & Gas Companies are estimating to spend 152 Billion dollars in the next 6 years on the Gulf Coast alone. They are also planning on building 10
LNG plants to export natural gas in these same areas.
Looking at the work outlook for the next few years, if you are a good hand and can get
to work every day, the future is very bright for you. We have excellent health care, good
wages, and a pension that is fantastic. Why wouldn’t you want to participate now so you
will not have to Pipeline till you die?
I would like to thank everyone for all the help and support; if I can do anything for
anyone please contact me.
Pre-Jobs:
US Pipeline:
Run 30”& 36” welding procedures at the 798 Training Center Tulsa, OK and CRC
Houston, TX for the Enbridge (Flanagan) project and also the Enterprise (Seaway).
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 4
Superintendent, Dana Bratcher. Welder Foreman, Dennis Jackson. Working 6-10’s.
Started 4-22-13. This project is complete.
Sheehan Pipeline Construction:
Hydrostatic test 63.5 miles of 36” for Kinder Morgan in Panola, Harrison, Marion,
& Cass Counties, TX. Warehouse: Marshall, TX. Superintendent, Bryant “Tubby”
Long. Welder Foreman, Brett Mason. Working 6-10’s. Started 6-17-13. Completion
8-28-13.
CHAD GILBERT
AZ, CO, NV, NM, UT, WY
918/270-6736 918/663-6520 Press 3
I am writing my report after returning home from business agent training in Indianapolis, Indiana. The two-day
seminar was very helpful. We all need updates with the
fast paced advancements in education and skills. One
item discussed was a push for a guest worker program
to be attached to the immigration bill before Congress.
The opinions expressed were that labor would take a
tremendous blow if workers are allowed to be exploited
for cheap wages. We all must make every effort to stop
such legislation. The H2B Visa is also a fight we must
continue. Our leaders have been very successful stopping these visas in the pipeline
construction field, and they are continuing the fight for organized labor.
Work remains slow in my jurisdiction. U.S. Pipeline has just completed its testing job
in Mancos, Colorado. Local Union 798, U.S. Pipeline, and Williams Northwest worked
together to ensure this job was completed on time without accidents and with the best
craftsmanship in America. When the contractor, gas company, and the members work
together to achieve a goal, it almost always occurs. W.A. Rasic is continuing its work for
Kinder Morgan in Nevada and company officials tell me they are aggressively bidding
more maintenance work for Kinder Morgan. Snelson Corporation and Price Gregory are
said to be the successful bidders on the Western Expansion 111, with over 200 miles of
16-inch pipe in Colorado and New Mexico. Their proposed starting date is August 1,
2013. The contractors have said they are also bidding projects very aggressively in the
Front Range of Colorado; so we hope they are successful.
Thank all for the hard work you do. It is a pleasure to represent such great, skilled
craftsmen in the pipeline construction field. Please be careful and work hard every day to
further the goals of Union Labor. I promise I will. Call any time I can be of assistance.
PHILLIP W. WALLACE
AR, IA, KS, MN, MT, MO, NE, ND, OK, SD
918/270-6738 918/663-6520 Press 6
The work in my area is in full swing at the beginning
of June and will gain more momentum as the summer months come upon us. The Frost Laws and Road
Restrictions are still holding up some of the work in
the Bakkun Oil Field in North Dakota and the sleeving
work in Minnesota. It’s down to just a few days before
the restrictions will be lifted and the work will be at full
throttle. There is 80 miles of 12” being bid at this time
but has not been awarded yet, but will be in a few days.
This project has a deadline of late October so it will be
on the fast track to get kicked off real soon. It runs from Tioga, North Dakota’s Gas Plant
North West to the Canadian Border. I feel like this will have to be a camp job being in that
area. Also in the next two years there will be 1000 miles of mainline pipeline run out of
the Bakkun. WBI Energy will lay 400 miles of gas pipeline run from Tioga Gas Plant laid
East to Morehead, Minnesota to tie in to Viking Gas’s Pipeline system to ship natural gas
North to Canada and South to US Markets. The pipe size is undetermined at this time,
but I feel like it will be 24” or larger to carry a lot of gas out of Western North Dakota. The
next Enbridge Project is the Sandpiper Pipeline that is 600 miles of 24” crude oil pipeline running East out of Beaver Lodge, North Dakota to Superior, Wisconsin to ship the
Bakkun Sweet Crude to the Enbridge Pipeline System to supply American Crude to the
Chicago area and to the heartland of our nation.
You may not realize it yet, but you will soon see that this country is starting to
become more independent with our own energy. We have plenty of natural gas
and crude oil to last many life times; it will take time to tap in to it. America is on
the right track and being a Pipeliner is the right place to be for several generations
to come.
The Flannigan pipeline has been awarded and it is official that 590 miles of 36” crude
oil pipeline will be laid in 4 spreads this year. Kick off late August early September.
Michels Pipeline has Spread 1 & 2. US Pipeline has Spread 3 & 4.
I have talked about this project for over a year and it is a real job that will be going soon.
This is a great project.
I called the Dispatch Office in late May to see how many were on the out-of-work list.
At that time there were 750 Welders, 850 Helpers, and 110 Journeymen out of work. And
around that time, the end of May and first of June, there were unfilled spots on the Job
Line every night. I have not organized a nonunion Welder yet, but have had a lot of calls
from Welders wanting to go to work for us. I take their name and phone numbers and will
in the near future be forced to give them a shot at the title. Helpers are already being put
to work and buying books on these unfilled jobs. I have a list of around 50 Welders and
around 150 Helpers wanting jobs. Go to work and help your local fill these spots.
By now everyone should have the news on the June 1st raise on the wages and fringes
as well as the raise on our Pension Accrual Rates. I want to thank Danny Hendrix and
David Barnett for negotiating the three year contract that we are on the third year now.
Also thanks to Danny, Wade Pilgreen, and Grant Sample for negotiating the raise on our
Pension Credits. What a great pension to look forward to. Thanks for everything ya’ll do
for this membership. Never forget, “United We Stand Divided We Fall.”
New Prejobs:
Southern Pipeline:
– Prescott, AR. 12 miles of 12” for Center Point Energy. Spreadman, Joe W. Spradlin
Sr. Welder Foreman, Don Foster. Pipeman, Jeremy Duncan. Job Steward, Cassidy
Crowley. Low Scale.
– Orlando, OK. 83 miles of 16” for OneOk. Spreadman, Dave McWilliams. Welder
Foreman, Curtis Mason. Pipeman, Sam Jacks. Job Steward, Darrell Fuzz Glaze.
Mid Scale.
Michels Pipeline:
Tioga, ND. Gathering System for Hess. Spreadman, Johnny Smith. Welder Foreman,
Mark Sena. Job Steward, Robert Doane. High Scale.
Minnesota Limited:
Ray, ND. Sleeving for Enbridge. Spreadman, Chuck Wymore. Job Steward, Dennis
Sharp. High Scale.
Charps Welding:
Thief River Falls, MN. Sleeving for Enbridge. Job Steward, Nick Kiebert. High Scale.
Michels Pipeline:
Mooreland, IA. 13 miles of 10” for Mid America. Spreadman, Carl Bubolz. Welder
Foreman, Russ Sherpit. Job Steward, Tommy Pace. Low Scale.
Midwestern Pipeline Services:
Little Rock, AR. 80 miles of 30” Double Jointing Rack for Seaway Pipeline.
Spreadman, Mike Wilhite. Welder Foreman, Seth Cox. Job Steward, Lynn Landreth.
High Scale
Michels Pipeline:
– Harrisonville, MO. 20” bore for BP. Spreadman, Marty Mack. Welder Foreman,
Troy Weaver. Job Steward, Elvis Stilwell. High Scale.
– Osawatomie, KS. 20” Bore for BP. Spreadman, Tony Neeld. Welder Foreman, John
Whitten. Job Steward, Lyndell Brumley. High Scale.
RICK TAYLOR
CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, NH, NY, PA, RI,
VT, VA, WV
918/270-6739 918/663-6520 Press 7
Summertime is coming in wet this year, but it seems
not to matter on the pipeline. I have approximately 85
jobs going and it seems like every week I have several
more job notifications coming in. The work in the northeast is still holding strong and with the man hours being
worked up here it should be another great year. I have
signed four new contractors since the first of the year
and they are doing great. Terry Langley and I are talking
to three more contractors; hopefully we can get them to
become Union. It has been a battle, but we are hanging with them and we are not going
away. Terry has found a couple of our members working non-union and filed charges
on them. If you are in my area working non-union, eventually you will get caught. Keep
your eyes open and look behind you because we are coming.
I enjoyed getting to socialize with so many of you who took the time to attend the
meetings which were held in Columbus, OH and Wheeling, WV. Danny and Wade had
a lot of information on how well the Local Union is doing. As of June 1 there have been
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 5
approximately three million man hours worked and the Pension Fund has approximately
$650 million in it. You show respect for our Business Manager, Financial Secretary and
your Union when you take the time to attend. There were 310 members who came to the
Wheeling meeting and I want to say thank you for taking time to attend.
I would like to remind everyone, if you know anyone wanting to get in the Union as a
helper, have them call the office in Tulsa at 918-622-1900 and put their name and phone
number on the C-11 list for helpers. That would help free up our phone and voice mails
tremendously.
If I can be of any assistance, please feel free to call.
As Always: Be Safe! Be Proud! Be Union!
Jobs which have been awarded with notifications but have not been prejobbed at this time:
Michels Pipeline:
Pennsboro, WV. 57,628’ of 20” steel; 2,631’ of 16” steel; 35,723’ of 24” HDPE for
Antero Resources.
Price Gregory:
Tunkhannock, PA. 27.2 miles of 20” pipe for UGI Services.
Performance Pipeline:
Ellenboro, WV. 5.5 miles of 16” steel and 5.5 miles of 16” HDPE.
Rockford Corporation:
has been awarded 50 miles of 12” pipe for Mark West Energy in PA and WV.
Pre-Jobs
Apex Pipeline:
Hastings, WV. 16 miles of 20” pipe; new lay for EQT. Welder Foreman, Matt Harris.
Superintendent, Robert Keaton. Mainline Rates. 5-10’s.
Bond Brothers Inc.:
West Roxbury, MA. 3.8 Miles of 8” pipe Oil Cooling Line for NSTAR. Welder
Foreman, Ed Stockwell Jr. Superintendent, Gerry McMorrow. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s
CBC Pipeline, LLC.:
Majorsville, WV. 4,000’of 12” 500 wall; Pipe and Fabrication for Mark West Energy.
Welder Foreman, Justin Yates. Superintendent, Delton Caskey. Mainline Rates.
6-10’s.
Contractors Rental Corporation:
– Front Royal, VA. Station Work; 2”thru 24” piping for NiSource/Columbia Gas.
Welder Foreman, Mark Hayes. Superintendent, Tyler Gandee. Mainline Rates. 5-10’s.
– Sissionville, WV. 8,000’ of 12” pipe; take-up and relay for Columbia Gas
Transmission. Welder Foreman, Don Warnes. Superintendent, Jeff Johnson.
Mainline Rates. 5-10’s.
Michels Pipeline:
– Wysox, PA. 22 miles of 30” pipe; 4 loops for Kinder Morgan/Tennessee Gas.
Welder Foreman, Darrell King. Superintendent, Nick Walters. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Coudersport, PA. 7.9 miles of 30” pipe; new lay for Kinder Morgan. Welder
Foreman, Floyd East. Superintendent, Kirk Barker. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Tunkhannock, PA. 52,000’ of 16” and 8,000’ of 8”; new lay for PVR. Welder
Foreman, Chris Jost. Superintendent, Steve Whitson. Special Agreement Rates.
6-10’s.
– Pennsboro, WV. 36,111’ of 24” HDPE for Antero Resources. Welder Foreman,
Donald Stackpole. Superintendent, Brian Smith. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
Otis Eastern:
– Gaines, PA. 18 miles of 24” pipe and fabrication installation for Dominion Gas.
Welder Foreman, Paul Pailette. Superintendent, Rod Tyson. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Industry, PA. 19,000’ of 10” and 12” pipe; replacement for Sunoco Logistics.
Welder Foreman, Craig Gainer. Superintendent, Hubert Ross. Special Agreement
Rates. 6-10’s
Over and Under Piping:
Auburn, PA. Compressor Station for PVR. Welder Foreman, Ray Brumley.
Superintendent, Wayne Himes. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
Performance Pipeline:
Ellensboro, WV. 5.4 miles of 16” pipe Steel and 5.4 miles of 26” for Antero
Resources. Welder Foreman, Gary Chambers. Superintendent, Bill Lemley. Mainline
Rates. 5-10’s.
Rockford Corporation:
Lumberport, WV. 7.6 miles of 20” steel; 7.6 miles of 24” poly for Crestwood/Antero
Resources. Welder Foreman, Don East. Superintendent, Kevin Newcomb. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
Sheehan Pipeline Const.:
Monaca, PA. 3.8 Miles of 10” pipe new lay for Sunoco Pipeline LP. Welder Foreman,
Johnny Walker. Superintendent, Gerald Hill. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s
Schmid Pipeline Construction:
– Fairfield, Maine. 16 miles of 6”; 7.5 miles of 8”; 10 miles of 10” for Summit Natural
Gas. Welder Foreman, Chad Springer. Superintendent, Lonnie Skadsem. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
– Oakland, ME. 33 miles of 10” pipe new lay for Summit Natural Gas. Welder
Foreman, Terry Sanders. Superintendent, Jerry Liles. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s
Welded Construction:
– Hughesville, PA. Muncy Loop 2.2 miles of 42”; new lay for Williams/Transco Gas
Pipeline. Welder Foreman, Jeff Sullivan. Superintendent, Art Gavlock. Mainline
Rates. 6-10’s.
– Linde, PA. 1,713’ of 24” replacement and facility modification for Williams/Transco
Gas Pipeline. Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
– Owings Mills, MD. Pipe Replacement (1) 30” & 36” (2) 24” & 30” for Williams/
Transco Pipeline. Welder Foreman, Dave Lambert. Superintendent, Bill Silveus.
Mainline Rates. 6-10’s.
DARRELL TURNER
AL, FL, GA, LA, MS, SC
918/270-6737 918/663-6520 Press 4
Not a single job was awarded union in my jurisdiction since my last article. There have been jobs that
our contractors missed, and there have been jobs that
our contractors have been unable to bid. I have been
on the road checking on work and talking to welders
about organizing. It is the same story everywhere I show
up. The fast rigs provide quick get-a-ways. The older
rigs provide writing space for the charges against those
members that did not get-a-way.
Brothers and sisters, it is no accident that we enjoy the wages and benefits afforded
us at Pipeliners Union 798. Many years of hard work, brotherhood, and the practice of a
very skilled trade, has made us who we are today. It is no accident that we are attacked
daily by the non-union entities that would prefer we fade into the sunset. Non-union
contractors and oil and gas pipeline companies wake every morning with new plans to
weaken, split, and destroy our union. They never miss an opportunity to portray us as
overpaid, bad boys. They go the extra mile to sell their untrained and unskilled work
forces at our expense. But get this. When a job has to be built on time or has the logistics suitable for mountain lion or water moccasin, we get the call. Meanwhile, projects
like the 16” new lay for Kinder Morgan between New Orleans, Louisiana and Collins,
Mississippi remain unfinished (multiple extensions) and poorly constructed. The contractor representative, a Lou-Tex partner, was quoted “We could have had better quality,
better trained employees, and more footage if the Tulsa union had not kept real pipeliners
away by picketing our job”... At least the guy recognized our ability, but I’m surprised by
his honesty, especially at the Gas Company meeting. To his credit, he never discussed
several safety shutdowns (5, but who’s counting) that have been called on the project by
Kinder Morgan safety gurus.
By the time our membership receives this publication I will have a 3rd picket up near
Mobile, Alabama against ESS (Energy Services South). ESS is constructing a 24” pipeline for Plains Pipeline of Houston. It should be noted that PLCA contractors were not
allowed to bid this very high profile project.
I want to share some outstanding numbers with our membership. Our members have
completed for Latex Construction Company, 3,459 production welds on their current
project. There have been a total of 32 repairs. The overall repair rate as of June 12,
2013 is 0.925%. Atlanta Gas Light reports that this is an extremely good rate which is
well below average for a project of this size. David W. Davis, CWI, sends his thanks to
Pipeliners Union 798 and Latex of Georgia for the hard work and attention that is being
paid to weld quality and craftsmanship.
In closing my report I want to report that the Kennesaw Pipeline Project (42”) has
been put on indefinite hold. This pipeline would have extended from the Greenville,
Mississippi area to an inter-connect near Rome, Georgia. While an absolute cancellation
was not announced, it is reasoned that the project has been shelved due to rising market
prices of natural gas and competition within the pipeline corridor. The project has been
in the planning stages for over 3 years. Estimated costs to date exceed $47 million
dollars.
Call me anytime I can be of assistance to you. Remember, I do not have answering
machines, and there is no one else to pick up for me if I am not home. I do not text, but
I will certainly answer an e-mail.
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 6
Members
Honored With
U.A.Certificates
60 +
55 +
55 +
YEARS
INI T I AT E D
DECEMBER 27, 1956
Doyle R. Battles
Antlers, OK
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INI T I AT E D
NOVEMBER 21, 1955
Bobby C. Gipson
Bigelow, AR
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INI T I AT E D
AUGUST 16, 1956
YEARS
INI T I AT E D
OCTOBER 19, 1962
Charles A. Balch
Grove, OK
Welder
YEARS
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
NOVEMBER 3, 1955
Roger E. Bowshier
S. Coffeeville, OK
Welder
55 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
FEBRUARY 21, 1956
Harold Hollabaugh
Langley, OK
Welder
55 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
JUNE 30, 1956
55 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
OCTOBER 19, 1962
John H. Balch
Jenks, OK
Welder
YEARS
INITIATED
FEBRUARY 11, 1957
YEARS
INITIATED
OCTOBER 25, 1958
Hobert Hundley, Sr.
South Point, OH
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
OCTOBER 23, 1957
James Schnebly
Searcy, AR
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 16, 1961
Kenneth D. Bloomfield
Cleveland, OK
Welder
60 +
YEARS
Carl Horn
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
NOVEMBER 18, 1957
Tulsa, OK
Welder
55 +
YEARS
YEARS
INITIATED
JUNE 1, 1954
Kenneth W. Kilcrease, Sr.
Kerens, TX
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 14, 1958
Clifton Throneberry
Broken Arrow, OK
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
OCTOBER 17, 1963
Ivan Degeyter
Florien, LA
Welder
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 7
INITIATED
AUGUST 14, 1956
Ralph Denney
Haskell, OK
Welder
Fouke, AR
Welder
55 +
INITIATED
JUNE 4, 1953
Earl P. Kesner
Julius Crabtree
Pryor, OK
Welder
55 +
INITIATED
JUNE 8, 1953
Logan, OH
Welder
Theodore Brown, Jr.
Tulsa, OK
Welder
YEARS
60 +
Eufaula, OK
Welder
Grant Sample
50 +
INITIATED
AUGUST 7, 1952
Bernard O. Gaston
Antlers, OK
Welder
Montgomery, TX
Welder
YEARS
60 +
Kenneth W. Battles
Benjamin Gail Sample
50 +
I N I T I AT E D
SEPTEMBER 18, 1953
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
NOVEMBER 23, 1956
Donald E. “Cheyenne” Pate
Hallettsville, TX
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
AUGUST 29, 1960
Gary Anderson
Lake Charles, LA
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
DECEMBER 10, 1963
William “Clark” Eastwood
Farmerville, LA
Welder
60 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 12, 1953
Homer Skaggs, Jr.
Siloam Springs, AR
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
DECEMBER 20, 1955
Raymond Keith Edwards
Monroe, LA
Welder
55 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JULY 22, 1958
William G. “Bucky” Price
Renova, PA
Journeyman Spacer
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
NOVEMBER 15, 1961
Albert E. Ashby
Tularosa, NM
Journeyman Spacer
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
OCTOBER 31, 1961
Joe Henderson
Claremore, OK
Welder
Members Honored With U.A. Certificates
50 +
YEARS
IN I T I AT E D
APRIL 14, 1960
50 +
YEARS
Leroy M. “Swede” Hoglund
Tim Holt
Homosassa, FL
Welder
45 +
YEARS
IN I T I AT E D
SEPTEMBER 3, 1964
Marshall, TX
Welder
45 +
YEARS
Donald Armstrong
YEARS
IN I T I AT E D
JULY 10, 1973
Charlie Garrett
Honey Grove, PA
Welder
30 +
YEARS
IN I T I AT E D
JANUARY 26, 1982
Richard W. Coleman
Silver Creek, GA
Journeyman Spacer
30 +
YEARS
IN I T I AT E D
OCTOBER 1, 1979
Terry Mullins
Mobeetie, TX
Welder
I N I T I AT E D
NOVEMBER 29, 1968
Harry Connaway
Atlanta, TX
Welder
40 +
I N I T I AT E D
AUGUST 28, 1963
Texico, IL
Welder
40 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
OCTOBER 18, 1973
Littley W. Matthews II
Daphne, AL
Journeyman Spacer
30 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
FEBRUARY 11, 1982
Steve Gatehouse
Zephyrhills, FL
Welder
30 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
JULY 23, 1980
Johnny R. Vaught
Corpus Christi, TX
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
FEBRUARY 13, 1963
Joseph M. Johnson
Mandeville, LA
Welder
45 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JUNE 27, 1968
50 +
YEARS
David Kelley
Bloomsburg, PA
Journeyman Spacer
45 +
YEARS
Joe Craft
YEARS
INITIATED
FEBRUARY 6, 1978
35 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JANUARY 20, 1981
Richard Joeris
Buffalo Gap, TX
Welder
25 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JUNE 17, 1986
Jerry A. “Toni” Bond
Olive Hill, KY
Welder
INITIATED
DECEMBER 9, 1974
Robbie Antle
Longville, LA
Welder
YEARS
YEARS
Skiatook, OK
Welder
30 +
YEARS
INITIATED
FEBRUARY 8, 1983
Matthew E. Johnson
Fairbanks, AK
Welder
25 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JUNE 4, 1986
Kenneth B. Brewer
Bostwick, FL
Welder
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 8
INITIATED
JUNE 24, 1963
Charles “Buddy” Kervin
Village Mills, TX
Welder
45 +
YEARS
INITIATED
SEPTEMBER 29, 1966
Larry Edwards
Spiro, OK
Welder
Thomas “Brian” Anderson
30 +
INITIATED
APRIL 25, 1966
50 +
Bill Davis
Hattiesburg, MS
Journeyman Spacer
35 +
INITIATED
AUGUST 9, 1963
Seguin, TX
Welder
35 +
YEARS
INITIATED
NOVEMBER 4, 1974
Thomas “Wayne” Causey
Lake Cormorant, MS
Welder
30 +
YEARS
INITIATED
NOVEMBER 24, 1980
50 +
YEARS
Wayne E. Morgan, Sr.
Crawfordville, FL
Welder
45 +
YEARS
Devine, TX
Welder
35 +
YEARS
INITIATED
APRIL 21, 1986
Marty D. Elliott
Saline, LA
Welder
INITIATED
AUGUST 15, 1975
Billy W. Elumbaugh
Batesville, AR
Journeyman Spacer
30 +
YEARS
Delbert D. Jones
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 25, 1964
Ronald Ray Edwards
INITIATED
AUGUST 25, 1981
David G. Layton
Clendenin, WV
Welder
25 +
INITIATED
OCTOBER 12, 1962
Jane Lew, WV
Welder
25 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 28, 1986
Darrell N. “Fuzz” Glaze, Jr.
Bald Knob, AR
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITI AT E D
DECEMBER 4, 1963
Dennis Perkins
Livingston, TX
Welder
45 +
YEARS
INITI AT E D
AUGUST 29, 1966
50 +
YEARS
INITI AT E D
APRIL 5, 1978
YEARS
Larry Sportsman
45 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
JULY 17, 1965
Curtis F. Wall
45 +
YEARS
YEARS
Michael Kent Jewell
I N I T I AT E D
JUNE 2, 1978
Wilmot, AR
Welder
35 +
YEARS
David C. Skaggs
Livonia, LA
Welder
I N ITIATED
AUGUST 11, 1966
Danny Simms
Bulverde, TX
Welder
35 +
I N ITIATED
JANUARY 13, 1960
Saltillo, TX
Welder
Gary Sanders
Bastrop, LA
Welder
YEARS
50 +
Colorado Springs, CO
Welder
Edward L. Putman
35 +
I N I T I AT E D
SEPTEMBER 12, 1963
I N ITIATED
FEBRUARY 26, 1974
Mike Strickland
Seward, PA
Helper
Wilmar, AR
Welder
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
SEPTEMBER 26, 1963
William “Clint” Warren
Parma, ID
Welder
45 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JULY 12, 1968
Robert J. “Skip” Todd, Jr.
Stanley, NC
Welder
35 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MAY 11, 1978
Kenny Sweetin
Blanco, OK
Journeyman Spacer
50 +
YEARS
INITIATED
MARCH 1, 1963
50 +
YEARS
John Dewayne Williams
J D Williams
Cleveland, OK
Welder
45 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JUNE 13, 1968
Guy Williams
Winnsboro, LA
Welder
35 +
YEARS
INITIATED
SEPTEMBER 17, 1975
Joseph C. “JC” Thornburg
Bastrop, LA
Welder
INITIATED
SEPTEMBER 5, 1959
Eufaula, OK
Welder
40 +
YEARS
INITIATED
JULY 25, 1973
Rusty Bailey
Haynesville, LA
Welder
30 +
YEARS
INITIATED
APRIL 17, 1979
Pete Ashby
Cadillac, MI
Welder
Meeting Notice
September 13, 2013
30 +
YEARS
INITI AT E D
SEPTEMBER 9, 1981
30 +
YEARS
Curtis Mason
I N I T I AT E D
JULY 26, 1982
Randy Mathis
Searcy, AR
Welder
Graham, TX
Welder
30 +
YEARS
I N ITIATED
DECEMBER 2, 1981
30 +
YEARS
Nathan “Bucky” McDaniel
INITIATED
JULY 8, 1982
Roger Mullin
Pollok, TX
Welder
Kalkaska, MI
Welder
The September Membership Meeting of
Pipeliners Local Union 798 will be held on
Friday, September 13, 2013, beginning at
7:00 p.m. at the Pipeliners Local 798 Union
Hall, 4823 S. 83rd E Ave., Tulsa, OK 74145.
SPECIAL BUSINESS: Nominations for Election
of Officers. See the Nominations notice
included in this issue for further details.
798 Ladies Hospitality
&
Motel Accommodations
25 +
YEARS
INITI AT E D
APRIL 12, 1986
Anthony Q. Haynes
Lawndale, NC
Welder
25 +
YEARS
I N I T I AT E D
APRIL 21, 1987
Kevin P. Machusak
Charleston, WV
Journeyman Spacer
25 +
YEARS
I N ITIATED
APRIL 21, 1986
Brian May
Bald Knob, AR
Welder
25 +
YEARS
INITIATED
SEPTEMBER 19, 1986
Robert W. McMillan
Booneville, MS
Welder
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 9
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, September 13, 2013.
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.
MAIL BALLOT ELECTION FOR
LOCAL 798 GENERAL OFFICERS
This Notice provides important information regarding the nomination process for the upcoming
Local 798 mail ballot election of general officers. If you have any questions about this Notice, please contact
an Election Committee Member listed below.
NOMINATIONS
1.
A meeting to nominate candidates for officers will be held on Friday, September 13, 2013
starting at 7:00 p.m. (CST), at the Local 798 Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
2.
Nominations will be accepted for the following offices:
President
Vice-President
Recording Secretary
Business Manager
Financial Secretary-Treasurer
Inside Guard
Executive Board (4 positions)
Finance Committee (3 positions)
Examining Board (2 positions)
3.
No member shall run for more than one office. The term of office shall be in accordance with
the United Association Constitution.
4.
No Local 798 member shall be eligible to be nominated for office in Local 798 unless he has
been a member of the United Association and Local 798 in good standing for at least a period of two (2)
years immediately prior to the election. Any member who owes or has paid a reinstatement fee within a
period of two (2) years immediately prior to the date of the election shall not be eligible to be nominated
for office in Local 798. The “date of the election” for purposes of determining eligibility to run for office is
October 29, 2013. Thus, if a member is not eligible as described above as of October 29, 2013, he will not
be eligible to run for office.
5.
Nominations for officers will be accepted from the floor at the nominations meeting. A
candidate may nominate himself and need not have a second. If a member is not present at the meeting,
he may be nominated or nominate himself by sending to the Election Committee a written notice of his
acceptance of nomination to the specified office. Such written notice may be delivered by hand, mail, or
facsimile to the Union Office, or by email to nominations@local798.org. Written notice must be received
in the Local Union in Tulsa, Oklahoma no later than 4:30 p.m. (CST) on the day of nominations, Friday,
September 13, 2013. (Please note that the email address for nominations will be activated on July 1, 2013
and deactivated at 4:30 p.m. (CST) on Friday, September 13, 2013.) The names of all candidates received
by this deadline will be announced at the nominations meeting.
6.
Under Section 504 of the Labor Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (“LMRDA”),
a member who has been convicted of certain crimes may not hold union office for a maximum of
13 years following the date of conviction or the end of imprisonment, whichever is later. Please call the
U.S. Department of Labor or the Chairman of the Election Committee if you have a question about this
provision of the LMRDA.
7.
The Election Committee will conduct a candidate’s meeting on Saturday, September 14,
2013. All candidates and their observers are encouraged to attend. The meeting will be conducted at the
Local 798 Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and will start at 10:00 a.m. (CST).
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 10
MAIL BALLOT ELECTION
1.
The General President has directed that the election for officers be conducted by mail ballot.
There will be no manual balloting.
2.
Election Services Solutions (ESS) shall administer the election. ESS is headquartered at 1229
Theodora St., Elmont, NY 11003. The ESS representative conducting the Local 798 election is Sandee Tovin.
ESS has advised that it will utilize the services of Atlas Direct Mailhouse to conduct the mailing. Atlas Direct
Mailhouse is located at 41-12 38th St., Long Island City, NY 11101.
3.
Ballots will be mailed to all eligible Local 798 members on Tuesday, October 29, 2013 at their
most recent permanent address on file with the Local Union (“primary address”) as of Friday, October 11,
2013.
4.
Members who do not receive a ballot, or who need a “duplicate” ballot must contact ESS
directly at 1-800-864-1263. Thus, for example, if a member does not receive a ballot at the address
provided to Local 798, or is no longer receiving mail at that address, he may request a duplicate ballot from
ESS. Members must call personally to obtain a duplicate ballot; they may not have another individual
call for them. The member will be asked to provide identifying membership information (such as book
number or social security number) to obtain a duplicate ballot. ESS will provide the member with a
confirmation number.
5.
No Local 798 member shall be eligible to vote in the election unless he has been a member
of the United Association and Local 798 in good standing for at least a period of one (1) year immediately
prior to the date of the election. Any member who owes or has paid a reinstatement fee within a period
of one (1) year immediately prior to the date of the election shall not be eligible to vote. The “date of the
election” for purposes determining eligibility to vote is October 29, 2013. Thus, if a member is not eligible
as described above as of October 29, 2013, he will not be eligible to vote.
6.
To be counted, ballots must be returned to the Tulsa, OK U.S. post office box printed
on the outer return envelope by 8:00 a.m. (CST) on Thursday, December 12, 2013. Any ballot that is
returned to the post office later than this date and time will not be counted. Ballots will be counted on
Thursday, December 12, 2013 at the Local Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma
starting at 9:00 a.m. (CST).
7.
The results of the election will be announced at the Regular Membership Meeting on
Friday, December 13, 2013 starting at 7:00 p.m. (CST) at the Local Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East
Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma.
8.
In the event there is a tie vote in an officer election and a run-off election is necessary,
a mail ballot election will be conducted for only those offices for which there is a tie vote. Ballots will
be mailed on Friday, December 20, 2013 and will be counted on Thursday, January 23, 2014 at the Local
Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, starting at 9:00 a.m. (CST). The results
of any run-off election will be announced at a Special Union Membership meeting to be held on Friday,
January 24, 2014 at the Local Union Hall, 4823 South 83rd East Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, starting at
7:00 p.m. (CST).
Farron Hollabaugh
Chairman
918-244-0648
Kent Jewell
Secretary
225 335-4355
Louie Langley
Member
623 826-3700
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 11
Darlene Wolfe wants to thank all her Brothers
and Sisters for the Voluntary Fund check.
Special thanks to Scotty Sampson and
everyone on the Salem, WV job. You guys
are the best. This will help her out a whole
lot. God Bless.
Pete LaFitte would like to thank the Voluntary
Fund for the donation he received. Special
thanks to Leon Loggins.
Aubrey Zander would like to thank everyone
for the check from the Voluntary Fund. It
came at a time of great need. Thanks to all
the hands on the Latex Construction job in
Chamblee, GA and many others for their help,
prayers and calls of concern. He extends a
special thank you to Brothers Darrell Turner
and Bobby Taylor, Jr. He is proud to be a
member of this organization.
Glen and Mary Green & Family want to
thank all who contribute to the Voluntary
Fund. The help they received was greatly
appreciated.
Anthony Ashby thanks all the Brothers and
Sisters of 798 for their help in his time of
need. Special thanks to Henry Jewel, Mike
Green, Rick Taylor and all of the Michels crew
in Tioga, PA. Thanks, also to the laborers,
teamsters, and operators for their support.
What a huge family of pipeliners we are!
Robert and Teresa Moore would like to thank
the Voluntary Fund and all who have given
to it. The kindness and help is very much
appreciated and it will help to off-set their
expenses. It’s nice to know there’s help during times of need and sorrow. The Voluntary
Fund is such a blessing. Special thanks to Tim
Hartness, Danny Hendrix and Wade Pilgreen.
Ralph (Barky) Zoller would like to thank
Brother Eric Jones and all his Brothers and
Sisters of 798 who have contributed to the
Voluntary Fund for their support after his
accident. Thank you and God bless.
Andy and Kellie Burton would like to personally thank everyone who faithfully contributes to the Voluntary Fund for the help they
received during his illness. Thanks for all of
your concerns and prayers. A special thanks
to Jeff Martin, Waymon Cater and all of 798.
Freddie Langston, JR. would like to thank
the members of 798 who contribute to the
Voluntary Fund. The gift was greatly appreciated during his time of need. It is a blessing
to be a member of Local 798.
Terry Basye would like to thank everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund for the
help he recently received. He extends special
thanks to Bob Butterworth and Frank Bowker
for all their help and also thanks everyone for
their prayers. He feels blessed to be a member
of 798 and very thankful to be back to work
at this time.
Kevin and Stevi Gregory & Family would
like to extend a thank you to the Voluntary
Fund for the gift they received when their
son Sebren was in the hospital very sick for a
week. Extra special thank you and hugs go to
Bryan and Susan Jones for taking the time to
think of their family. They also thank everyone who donated to the toy fundraiser for the
pediatric wing of the A.O. Fox Hospital where
Sebren stayed.
Colt and Natalie Grubbs would like to thank
798 for the Voluntary Fund and for all
the members who contribute to it. They are
grateful for the help they received during the
loss of their baby. It means a lot to them
knowing they don’t have just coworkers,
but are surrounded by people they can truly
call family.
Dwight Grayson and Family write to say
thank you for the help from the Voluntary
Fund. Local 798 makes everything so much
better for their family. Thank you to all the
guys and girls who give to the Voluntary Fund
with special thanks to Danny and Wade. God
bless you all.
Mark Brillhart would like to thank all the
Local 798 members for their contributions
to the Voluntary Fund. The assistance he
received will help after having had major surgery to remove a fistula from his bladder and
small intestine. Special thanks go to Black
Schroeder.
Rusty and Donna Bailey would like to thank
the Voluntary Fund for the check they
received. Most of all, thank you for thinking of them during the loss of Donna’s father.
Words cannot thank you all enough. Also a
special thanks to Jimmy Dick, Jim Warner,
Rocky Stillwell, and Darrell Turner. Please
keep them in your prayers.
Terry Dyas and Family would like to thank
all the members of 798 for their calls and
concern about his fight with cancer. A special
thanks to Joe Thornhill and Doyle Perry and
also to the Voluntary Fund.
Sim LeMoine and Family would like to thank
all the people who give to the Voluntary Fund
and all the people at Trinity Contractors.
Special thanks go to Welder Foreman, Terry
Sanders and Steward, Mr. Ronald “Slick”.
Richard and Barbara Meier would like to
thank everyone who donates to the Voluntary
Fund. It was totally unexpected and appreciated. Thanks again to all UA members.
Mark Heath would like to take the opportunity to say thank you for the generous gift
that was sent after the death of his mother.
Although her death wasn’t unexpected,
the timing was much quicker than they
thought so they were not completely prepared. He and his wife are truly grateful and
words cannot express how much they appreciate the thoughtfulness of the gift, but most
of all the friendship during this difficult time.
In times like these they realize the blessing
of being a part of this great union and brotherhood. They are proud to be a part of this
organization.
Reid and Tina Hebert would like to express
thanks to everyone who contributes to the
Voluntary Fund. The assistance they received
with the loss of their loved one has helped
them to pay for the emergency flight home.
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 12
The kindness of everyone is very much appreciated and they are happy to be a part of the
Voluntary Fund.
Tim and Daphne Beckham want to give a
great big thank you to everyone who contributes to the Voluntary Fund. The check they
received was very much appreciated. God
bless each of you!
Lee Roy Webb wants to thank everyone for
the Voluntary Fund contribution for his wife
Peggy. September 14th she had a major back
surgery and the 19th she had a stroke on the
right side. She spent four months in rehab
and skilled nursing. She is now recovering
at home, learning to walk again. A special
thanks to Black Schroeder.
Frank Parker would like to thank the
Voluntary Fund for the help he received when
he had hospital bills and had not yet accumulated enough hours for insurance. Special
thanks to: Quinn Haynes, Raymond Johnson,
Clayton Carter, Wayne Walker, and everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund.
Fred Wadley and Family would like to thank
all the Brothers and Sisters of Local 798, and
all the contributors to the Voluntary Fund.
The check his family received was so much
appreciated after his wife’s hospital stay with
a stroke. He also wants to give a special thank
you to Ernest Fontenot.
Ashley Higgins (daughter of Richard
Lavender) & Vince Alcorn want to thank
Local 798. Ashley is proud to say her dad is
a part of such an awesome union. The donation has helped their family very much.
Lynn Landreth and Family would like to
thank all those who have contributed to the
Voluntary Fund. The money she received
after her recent back problems really came
in handy. To all those who cared enough to
send in her name for the Voluntary Fund, she
wishes to send out a heartfelt thank you and
may God bless you all.
Joe Otte writes to say that only by God’s grace
is he getting better each day. He would like to
sincerely thank all his Brothers and Sisters for
the help he received.
William and Holly Johnston say thank you to
Local 798 for the generous help during their
family’s hardship. It helped them pay some
expenses they were having a hard time paying. He is proud to be a member of this local
and appreciates all the help. Special thanks to
Wade Pilgreen.
Steve DeArmond and Family would like to
thank all the Brothers and Sisters that contribute to the Voluntary Fund. The check
was greatly appreciated after Steve’s medical
issues. It’s a blessing to be a part of such a
giving group of 798 Pipeliners! Thanks to
Danny and Wade and a very special thanks to
John Brashear.
Eleanor Dee Truman and the Family of Paul
D. Harold, SR would like to thank everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund. The
money received was a gracious and much
appreciated gift at the time of the passing
of their loved one. Special thanks to David
Layton, Bill Clendenin and Harry Houser.
Ronald Miller and Family express sincere appreciation to the Local 798 Brothers and Sisters for
the Voluntary Fund gift. It was greatly needed
during their difficult time. Special thanks to
Danny Hendrix, Black Schroeder and Phillip
McCann.
Richard Elson was very thankful to receive
money from the Voluntary Fund during his
wife’s illness. The money helped considerably
with medical bills. It’s an honor to belong to a
great union where members lend each other a
helping hand. Special thanks to Jason Storey
and Rocky Stilwell.
Gerald Duggan would like to thank everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund for the
generous help received after having a heart
attack. Special thanks to Danny Hendrix, Wade
Pilgreen, Erwin Cole and Rex Duggan.
Martin and Carolyn Finley would like to
thank all the members who contribute to the
Voluntary Fund. Thank you for the generous
check during Carolyn’s hospital stay. A special
thanks to Darrell Turner, Bobby Taylor and
Martin Finley, JR.
Adolph “Ed” Noga wishes to thank all who
contribute to the Voluntary Fund. He appreciates the help received. May God bless you all
and may God bless 798, one of the finest unions
on planet Earth.
A.J. Malnar would like to express sincere
thanks to the contributors of the Voluntary
Fund. His wife, Wanda, had extensive cancer
surgery. She is home recovering after a week
in the hospital and will have to undergo chemotherapy in the near future. Thank you again for
this most needed help.
Tommy Boulware would like to thank everyone
who contributes to the Voluntary Fund for the
help he received after being in a rear-end accident. A special thanks to the Voluntary staff,
Danny Hendrix, Wade Pilgreen and Russell
Boulware. It was deeply appreciated.
Emmet Clack and Family would like to thank
each and every person who helped them in
their time of need. It helps to ease the mind
and soul to know there are people out there
with a helping hand when needed. Special
thanks go to Phillip McCann, Daniel Hendrix,
and Wade Pilgreen.
Lori Hart and Family would like to thank
everyone for the Voluntary Fund gift.
away November 25, 2012.
William J. Bertelmann, Helper, Tumbling
Shoals, AR
Harvey J. Besneatte, Helper, Laramie, WY
Tommy W. Carter, Welder, White Oak, TX
George A. Deangelo, Welder, Abbeville, LA
Edward R. Graham, Welder, Odessa, MO
Freddie D. Langston, Sr., Journeyman Spacer,
Searcy, AR
Carlton E. Lofton, Journeyman Spacer, Red
Bay, AL
Jeffrey L. McHam, Journeyman Spacer,
Strandquist, MN
Timothy A. Moore, Helper, Woodward, OK
Billy J. Murray, Helper, Ada, OK
Douglas E. Root, Journeyman Spacer, Bald
Knob, AR
Gary L. Sanders, Welder, Bulverde, TX
Thomas L. Shingledecker, Helper, Blanchard,
OK
John B. Temple, Welder, Tumbling Shoals, AR
John P. Vanderwater, Welder, Newnan, GA
Andrew E. Napier, 20 year-old Helper Applicant
of Booneville, Arkansas passed away December
7, 2012.
Kesley H. Bryant, 27 year-old Helper of Fort
Worth, TX passed away April 10, 2013.
William J. Grieves, JR, 74 year-old Retired
Welder of Sand Springs, OK passed away May
19, 2013.
Donald W. Evans, 77 year-old Retired Welder of
Wellston, OK passed away May 26, 2013.
Dean Smith, 63 year-old Retired Welder of
Diboll, TX passed away May 28, 2013.
John C. Raef, 96 year-old Retired Welder of
Elloree, SC passed away May 2, 2013.
Curtis E. Barton, 92 year-old Retired Helper of
Gadsden, AL passed away June 6, 2013.Retired
Journeyman Space of Advance, MO passed
For Sale: 1954 Lincoln Welder (same as red
face). Very good condition and ready for
work. Asking price is $4,250. Contact Bobby
Strickland (870) 723-5079, 408 Ras Pace Rd.
Wilmar, AR 71675.
2009 GMC 3500 Welding Rig. Duramax Diesel
with 38,000 miles on it. It has remote start,
power windows and seats, and an all metal bed.
200D welding machine has 2,800 hours. All
tools, ready for work. $40,000.00. Call (209)
327-9132.
Welding Hats. Daughter of the King Welding
Hats is ready to take your orders today! Call
(870) 613-7182.
2004 Travel Supreme 40RLTSO Fifth Wheel.
Comes with: 3 axels, 3 slide-outs, rear living
room, desk area, 2 piece Whirlpool washer
and dryer, 2 Flexsteel glider chairs, porcelain
stool with sprayer, King Dome auto satellite,
2 ducted 15,000 BTU A/Cs, tinted double paned
windows, Corian countertops in kitchen and
bath, convection/microwave oven, conventional gas oven, roof rack, large metal wrapped
patio awning, TV with DVD and VHS player,
AM/FM/CD stereo system with surround sound,
electric fireplace, receiver hitch, queen size bed
with two night stands, very comfortable oversized couch with queen size hide-a-bed, electric
leveling jacks, free standing dining table with
2 chairs, two LP gas tanks, lots of storage inside
and out, lighted pass through storage compartment with 110V outlet, enclosed underbelly, day/night shades, Load Range G 14 ply
Goodyear tires, 50 AMP, fantastic fan, mirrored
wardrobe closet, lots of manuals included. Nonsmokers, no pets/children. All cabinets are solid
wood. Call (478) 279-0790.
For Sale: The Hood Fan. It cools and defogs.
$33 pp. Call (801) 634-9063.
2006 Dodge Dually 4wd Truck for sale. In excellent condition with 54,500 miles, manufactured
bumper (grill) with custom truck bed. Call (337)
208-4706 or email donrlewis39@gmail.com.
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.
The National Society of Collegiate Scholars LSU Chapter recently
welcomed Alyssa Taylor Williams of Crowville as a new member.
Membership with the NSCS gives students access to a number of benefits including career
and networking resources, scholarships, travel and service projects both on campus and in
the community.
NSCS is the nation’s only interdisciplinary honors organization for first and second-year
college students. Membership is by invitation only, based on grade point average and class
standing.
Alyssa is beginning her sophomore year this fall at Louisiana State University. She is
majoring in microbiology where she plans to continue on to medical school to become a
reconstructive surgeon for breast cancer.
Alyssa is the daughter of 798 Journeyman, Chad S. Williams and Joni Wygal of Crowville.
She is also the granddaughter of 798 Welder, Guy S. Williams and his wife Maria
Williams.
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 13
I can only guess that the subject of my report will be echoed throughout the becoming a heavy order day has created issues that I’m sure most of you don’t
pages of this Blue Light by all that contribute. WE MUST MAN OUR WORK!
consider. The first matter is that it requires the clerical staff of the Dispatch
As of this writing there are approximately 650 Welders, 100 Journeymen Office to incur overtime; documentation and communication does not allow
and 700 Helpers on the out-of-work list and I am having difficulty man- for just a Dispatcher to come in and execute all that is required. The second
ning work. Almost every day I am forced to turn work over to the Business problem is that there is a decrease in the number of the membership that call in
Agents. When this happens there is a high percentage of probability that: on Fridays to apply for positions – which brings me to the third concern.
in the Welders’ case, a traveler or a non-book will fill it; with Journeymen a Our membership works long hours and are away from home, in most instances,
Helper will be upgraded; and with Helpers a book will be sold. How can our when working on the pipeline. The time they spend at home interacting with
membership that is on the out-of-work list allow this to happen? If we had their spouse and children is precious. Many times the spouse has a Monday
exhausted the list it would be one thing, but with one-fifth
thru Friday job and the kids are in school all week. The last
unemployment – it is outrageous!
thing someone that works away from home wants to do is
sit around all day Saturday waiting on a call from Dispatch.
In discussing this dilemma with Danny the other day he
Organizing your needs better so that large orders are filled on
surmised that this year is potentially a ten million man-hour
Friday and emergencies or unforeseeable orders are placed
year, but we will be lucky to hit eight million because of
on Fridays to be filled on Saturdays will make you far more
the apathy of our membership. He was also very concerned
successful in getting the workforce you need. Additionally;
By
Kevin
Leeper
about who would work those two million man-hours that our
this will reduce the cost of operating the Dispatch Office and
membership is snubbing. It is pretty apparent that the work
give
consideration
for your brothers and sisters that are trying to have a little
will get done one way or another and the other is by the non-union side.
down
time
with
their
families between jobs.
Indifference does nothing but grow the numbers and strength of the non-union.
It is ironic that prosperity will be the catalyst that weakens our local. This is a The mission of the Dispatch Office is to assist you in getting a good,
greater fight than picketing jobs and trying to gain market share. The work is high-paying union job with benefits that is the envy of anyone who works for
there and our membership refuses to seize the moment!
a living. If you are currently unemployed or underemployed, on a job that is
Another issue within the Dispatch Office that I would like to discuss is more not paying benefits to your union, call the Jobline at (918) 610-2745 between
directed toward the Welder Foreman. At one time orders were placed and 5 P.M. and 7 A.M. If you do not understand how to use the jobline give us
filled Monday thru Friday with the exception of lingering orders being filled a call at (918) 610-2761 M-F 8:00 – 4:30. Pipeliners Local 798’s strength
on Saturdays. The dynamics of all this changed with the Jobline. Mondays comes from being able to man our work with good competent skilled labor.
and Fridays have become the most active days for orders. This requires the Please consider the oath you took and help us all become stronger by
Dispatch Office to fill the most orders on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Friday manning our work.
Dispatch
Report
OSHA considers heat stress to be a primary concern in the
workplace and has been progressively citing employers who
fail to provide sufficient measures to reduce heat stress or
have an adequate program in place. Slowed reaction times,
reduced energy and difficulties with attention are a few of
the dangerous conditions that those suffering from heat stress
experience. Often times, reduced safety, decreased efficiency,
and an overall loss of productivity are the result.
Our bodies function most successfully within a limited temperature range. When our core temperature rises too high,
then our bodies metabolic rate increases and its efficiency
to cool down decreases. Providing workers with training so
they understand what heat stress is, how it affects
their health and safety, and most importantly how
it can be prevented, are vital details every employee should have.
There are several types of heat related illnesses,
all of which are preventable; dehydration, heat
rash, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Often times, the most difficult point to get across is
that the affected employee won’t always recognize their own
symptoms/signs.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is directly caused by dehydration (the
amount of water leaving the body is greater than the amount
being taken in).
Symptoms & Signs:
Chills, profuse sweating, light-headedness, pale or flushed
complexion, dizziness, moist/clammy skin, headache, weakness and fatigue, nausea, disorientation.
Treatment:
Remove the victim from the heat. Apply cool, wet cloths.
Fan the victim, but stop if goose bumps or shivers develop.
Give fluids if the victim is conscious. If possible, have the
victim drink a mixture of one-pint water with one-teaspoon
salt every 30 minutes until recovered.
Seek medical attention if there’s no improvement.
DON’T:
Give any stimulant, including alcohol or cigarettes.
Apply ice directly to the skin.
Allow the victim to become so cold that he or she shivers.
Leave the victim alone.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a sudden failure of the body’s regulatory
system and may be fatal. It initially appears similar to heat
exhaustion, but can rapidly progress to more serious neurological conditions.
Symptoms & Signs:
Disorientation, lack of sweating, loss of consciousness, hot/dry skin, seizures, red or spotted skin,
convulsions, extremely high body temperature
Treatment:
Remove the victim from the heat.
Seek medical attention immediately.
While waiting for medical help, cool the victim by soaking
the clothing with cool water or by applying cool compresses
to the body.
Give water, if the person is conscious.
DON’T:
Give aspirin or any other medication to lower the fever.
Give any stimulant, including alcohol or cigarettes.
Apply ice directly to the skin.
Allow the victim to become so cold that he or she shivers.
Leave the victim alone.
Very simply put... you shouldn’t even try to beat the heat.
When employees work in hot environments, heat stress is
an obvious risk, but one which OSHA has deemed 100%
preventable. And everyone, not just those in the workplace,
has to remember the importance of NOT attempting to beat
the heat.
Safety
First
Blue Light Reports • July / August 2013 • Page 14
115-R Rumble of Unity Black
Short-Sleeved T-Shirt. (L, XL,
2XL, 4XL). $10.00
116-C Sportsmaster Masterfleece© Three-Season Jacket.
With embroidered 798 logo. Heavy-duty, tear-resistant fabric.
Rain & stain resistant. Lined. (S, M, L). $75.00
119-C Navy Sweatshirt. (2XL, 3XL, 4XL).
$25.00
115-G Don’t Gamble With Your Future
Gray Short-Sleeved Pocketed T-Shirt.
Screen print logo. (Back shown) (L, XL). $10.00
116 Navy Logo
Hoodie. (S, L, XL,
2XL, 3XL, 4XL)
$22.00
101-A Navy Summer
Cap. $13.00
101-F Bone Brushed
Cotton Twill “Union Yes”
Sandwich Bill hat. $12.00
101-B Navy / Tan
Summer Cap. $11.00
101-G Navy Patriotic Cap.
9.00
101-L Fitted Patriotic Cap.
(S/M or L/XL).
$17.00
101-H Navy Blue Cap
w/Red Bill. $9.00
101-C2 Winter
Camouflage
Cap. $21.00
115-H Heart of America Black
Short-Sleeved T-Shirt. (L, XL, 2XL,
4XL). $10.00
115-L
Work Hard Live
Union Gray ShortSleeved T-Shirt.
Screen print logo.
(Back shown)
(XL). $9.00
137 798 Lapel
Pin. $4.50
206 Safety Short Sleeved Pocketed
T-Shirt. Fluorescent Green with Reflective
Ink. Logo on front pocket. (Back shown).
(S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL). $14.00
101-J White Cap. $16.00
129 798
Money Clip.
$11.00
136 Local
Union 798
Glasses.
Set of 4.
$5.00
101-K Navy / Tan Winter
Cap. $16.00
104 Portfolio.
Navy. $15.00
101-M 60th Anniversary
sized hat. Back says 60th
Anniversary 1949-2009.
(Large only) $23.00
130 798 Key
Chain. “United We
Bargain / Divided
We Beg”. $8.00
134 Pipeliners Union
798 Pen. Black pen
with black ink
in gold trim.
$4.00
132 798
Computer
Bag. $40.00
135 798
Logo
Blanket
$31.00
125 60th Anniversary
Case Pocket Knife.
Pipeliners Local 798
on blade. Numbered.
$71.00
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
We appreciate those of you who have previously submitted pictures for use in the Blue
Light and other projects. To generate additional photos, we will be holding a photo
contest. Photos submitted should be appropriate for publication, and may
include pipeline or work scenes.
Pictures to be included in the Local
798 calendar must be horizontal
shots and the resolution must be
300 dpi or larger. Please note that
photos taken with a smart phone
must be downloaded to a computer before they can be emailed.
Sending the photo directly from
the phone via text or email lowers the
resolution to a point that the picture is not
usable for the calendar. Photos to be included in the Blue Light may be a lower resolution and can be either horizontal or vertical, but to be considered for a cover photo
it must be a vertical shot. While we accept
photos all throughout the year, to be considered for the photo contest, you must submit your pictures prior to October 1, 2013.
Digital photos should be submitted via email
to information@local798.org, with the subject: Photo Contest. You must include your
name, address, and book # if you are a member. We plan to have a photographer review
and choose the winning picture.
First prize will be a Local 798 Jacket
and the inclusion of your photo in
the Local 798 Calendar.
Also, Local 798 now has the ability
to include your personal photo on
our database. You can have your
picture taken during Steward School
(advising the photographer it is for
the Local 798 Database), or submit a
photo via mail or email. This photo does not
haveto be a high resolution photo. You can
also submit a print photo if you wish. You
must include your name and book number
with your photo to ensure it gets placed on
the appropriate record.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to
call us.
Photo
Contest