Hotline Summer 2010 By Michelle Laurie, President, IBEW Local 258 When we began preparations for this issue of the Hotline, I expected to be writing about goals and expectations, some forward thinking as we move into a new term for your elected Union Officers. Sadly, as you read earlier, on the day that the ballots for that election were being counted, our very dear Brother Rick Dowling passed away – suddenly, and totally unexpected. As I write this, I am still grappling with the reality of that event, and the great loss to our Brotherhood as well as the broader community of labour in British Columbia. I cannot pretend to imagine the devastating loss this must be for his family, even as our hearts go out to them. Rick was a calm and wise counsel for me especially in my time as the IBEW Vice President of the BC Federation of Labour – able to reflect on issues from the perspective of building trades, industry and always with such a strong commitment to working people and social justice. Aside from his wisdom and values, Rick was also blessed with an incredible voice, and any time I hear Celtic music, or an old Scottish ballad, I will raise a glass in my mind to a great leader who could bring tears to your eyes with song. His voice remains strong in my head, and his values will continue to guide me, but I will miss the man greatly, as will so many. There are many facets to this role of President, and sometimes the contrasts are stark. This past month your Executive Board also had the task of looking at future leaders, and awarding the Tom Forkin Scholarships. This year we had more applicants than I have ever seen in my time as President, and all from young men and women with wonderful aspirations, strong community ties and social values. Only three scholarships are awarded, however, and they went to Krista Cline, Serena Franz and Rachel Throop - three very deserving applicants, with our sincere congratulations! It was a truly difficult choice to select just three from this worthy group, and we commend all applicants on their goals and achievements and wish them great success with their education. Of course, we will move forward, and your new Executive will take some time over the next fall and winter to review our priorities as a local, and do some visioning about how we carry out the mandate you have given us. I want to thank all of the members who put their names forward in this election, seeking to act as your representatives. It takes commitment and courage to stand up and ask for your support, to ask to represent your values, and all candidates are owed our gratitude for their willingness to work for the Local Union. Thanks also to each of you that participated by voting, and taking the time to learn about the candidates and their roles within your Union. As this issue goes to press, you will be receiving your run-off ballot for the Recording Secretary position. As you know, for Local Union Officers, successful candidates must receive the majority of all votes cast, so when there are three (or more) candidates, we usually end up with a run-off, which has a very tight turn around time – ballots will be counted on June 29, so I hope you have participated in that ballot, as well. Summer is upon us, and I do hope that each of you has time set aside to enjoy the weather and the beautiful part of the world in which we get to experience it! Stay well and safe. |
