Local 15 News

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Exelon/ComEd vs Local 15
ARCOS Arbitration

Arbitrator Cox notified both parties that due to his heavy workload and the time required for analysis the Award will be finished some time next week or certainly by the following week.

We will get the decision out to you as soon as we get the Award

[Linemo]

C H what is the problem with your arcos system are you guys fighting for it or against it ? We have had it at Dominion for several years now and it is a pain in the butt I was just wondering what was going on with yall

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Discipline Up To And Including Termination For Not Answering The Phone A Certain Percentage Of The Time.
This Is Not In Our Contract And We Never Had A Problem Answering The Phone Before This Place Turned To Crap.
I Am Anticipating A Favorable Ruling From The Arbitrator Hopefully Soon.

[Short-Timer]

It could be a LOOSE-LOOSE decision, if the union wins,,,,, the company will really turn up the heat on employees, if we loose, the company will really turn up the heat on employees.

[Linemo]

C H here is how ours works we are required to keep a minimum 30% callout availiability percentage now we are always on call by a rotating callout list it works like this
1 lineman me i get called onthe first callout if i except
2 lineman is next unless #1 doesnt accept then it's his call
3 lineman is now next for the next call
4 lineman on down the line until all lineman have had a turn and the list continues! ARCOS for us is an automated overtime callout system that involves no humans you have an ID # that you punch in it tells you the trouble you accept or decline with your touchtone phone and if you accept it asks you for an estimated time of arrival

[Linemo]

oops also forgot if you do not keep up with 30% you can face several steps of disipline starting with the following
#1 oral reprimand
#2 written reprimand
#3 decision making day
#4 termination
now this process is dictated by quarters once in the process you have to be below 30% for a quarter for it to start and continue another quarter for the next step so it actually takes about a year to get terminated also if you pull it up once you have kept it up for 4 quarters you are out of the process until you let it happen again

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ARBITRATOR COX RENDERS HIS DECISION ON ARCOS GRIEVANCES
This morning the Arbitration Award issued by Arbitrator James R. Cox was received in the Local 15 office. Evidently, the Company’s copy was delivered to their offices yesterday as management had a three page “Frontline” handout ready for the morning tailgate meetings across the company property. The following are excerpts from Arbitrator Cox’s Award:

THE ISSUE
The issue before the Arbitrator is whether there had been violations of various provisions of the Labor Agreement, other supplementary agreements identified below, past practice, and/or Sections 8(a)(1) and (5) of the National Labor Relations Act when the Company unilaterally instituted ARCOS, a call-back system with a discipline component based upon response expectations, in summer 2003 and subsequently made changes in expectation levels without discussions with the Union. A substantial number of Employees have been disciplined under the new Policy which, as one of the discipline factors, considers the percentage of an Employee’s failures to respond to call out phone calls. Discipline is based upon the expectation that Employees will accept a minimum of 50% of all overtime call-outs and the program makes an Employee vulnerable to being charged with a decline in certain circumstances should he not answer the phone.
There is a threshold issue. The Company contends that the scope of the Grievance before me is limited to the issue of whether the imposition of the 50% call back expectation in July 2004 and subsequent discipline for failures to meet that expectation in circumstances set forth in the Plan violated the Agreement.
The Grievances challenge discipline under the expectancy standard.
The Parties request that, should the Arbitrator find that the new Program had been properly instituted and did not violate the Labor Agreement or the NLRA, he would have to consider whether the application of the Rule was proper and provide standards by which the parties could evaluate the pending grievances. They have also asked that the Arbitrator reserve jurisdiction for up to 180 calendar days following the date of this Decision in order to determine questions which may arise relating to implementation of the Award including any issues concerning the resolution of the many pending grievances which are to resolved based upon the standards set forth herein.

Applicable Contract Language

Article II, the Management Rights Clause states:
The management of the Company and the direction of the working forces covered herein, including the right to hire, suspend, discharge for proper cause, promote, demote, transfer and lay off because of lack of work or for other proper reasons, are vested in the Company, except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement.

Article IV, Section 16 deals with certain stand-by situations:
“An employee ordered to remain at a specified location awaiting a call for emergency work outside
scheduled working hours shall be paid at the applicable rate until released.”
Article IV, Section 17 reads:

“As far as practicable overtime shall be distributed equally among
Employees in each Work Group or Job Classification taking into account the qualifications required and the availability of Employees…The Employee with the least amount of accumulated overtime hours within the Overtime Work Group or Job Classification shall be afforded the first opportunity to work overtime.”

Article V, Section 6 states:

“If the Company in writing requires an Employee to have a higher type of telephone service than the Employee now has, the Company will reimburse the Employee for the additional cost of the higher type phone.” The Union asserts that since the Company is requiring that Employees supply them with up to three phone contact numbers, they should pay for the cost that such means of response entails. Local 15 also says that encouraging an employee to upgrade his phone service in order to facilitate contact under the ARCOS System has the effect of imposing additional phone charges on Employees.

Article IV, Section 18 reads:

An employee called back (with or without notice) for work at any time outside of their regular work schedule shall be paid a minimum of two hours straight time pay and a call back allowance of two hours straight time pay.

Various Side letters were referenced.

A March 7, 1978 letter directed to Edward Crego, then Chairman of System Council U-25 by a Commonwealth Edison Vice President memorialized the fact that, as discussed during Labor/Management meetings in connection with a rest period provision, “The Company and Union each recognize responsibility to see that this provision is administered in a fair and equitable manner. The Company agreed to make improvements in the rest period provision on the basis that they will improve Employee response to overtime call-backs. Each Employee has a responsibility to respond to overtime call-backs. As discussed, it is understood that the System Council and individual Local Unions will encourage their Members to respond.”

A subsequent side letter dated April 14, 1982 from James Lockwood, then Chairman of System Council U-25, to Manager of Edison Industrial Relations Sanders, reads in part, “System Council U-25 recognizes that the Company as a public utility is required to furnish continuous service to its customers. System Council U-25 acknowledges the obligation of each

AWARD
The evidence establishes that ComEd did not violate the Contract, Past Practice or any binding local agreement when they unilaterally introduced the ARCOS call back program. The basic administrative features of that Plan do not violate any term of the Agreement. It is not unreasonable to set and maintain call back expectation goals and to calculate call back expectation based upon the factors set forth in the Plan.
Absent provisions for Company provided pagers or other reasonable method(s) of facilitating call out communication such as but not limited to those used by other Utilities. I find that it was unreasonable to discipline those employees who had responded to at least one call out in a quarter for failure to meet the 50% call out expectation. Their disciplines shall be rescinded and removed from their personal records. They shall be made whole for any loss of earnings. It was not unreasonable to discipline employees who failed to meet the lower expectations in effect from time to time in 2004. It certainly was not unreasonable to discipline those employees who did not respond to a single call out and who had not provided any acceptable explanation for their failures to respond to such phone call outs .
Considering the provisions of the ARCOS call back Plan including those associated with the discipline component, I have found the 25% expectancy to be reasonable even without additional communication aids. The detail in this Award should be of assistance in assessing the reasonableness of any expectancy standard beyond that level. The 2004 call back experience demonstrates that such a response goal is reasonably attainable without communication aids.
According to the Grievance summaries in ComEd Exhibit 43(a) there are many Grievances which have raised issues related to the administration of the Plan. As the parties have requested, I will retain jurisdiction for 180 days in connection with those or other ARCOS related Grievances.
Grievance granted in part.
James R. Cox
Arbitrator
Issued this 2nd day of March 2005



In his Award, Arbitrator Cox has determined that the fifty percent (50 %) Call Out rule established by the Company in its implementation of ARCOS as being unreasonable. He feels that a twenty-five percent (25 %) Call Out Response to be reasonable..

At this time, the 45 page document is being reviewed by the Union and its attorneys to explore any and all of our options. In the meantime, Local 15 President/Business Manager Bob Joyce has secured a meeting with the Company on Friday, March 4, 2005 at 9:00 a.m. in the Union office to discuss Arbitrator Cox’s Award and its impact on the Local 15 members that are in the ARCOS discipline path.

[Short-Timer]

Not a happy day,, less and less people are required to work more and more hours. Time-and-half, double-time is only that amount, if you consider your time at home with family and friends has "0" value. We the workers responded to call-outs, it is managements responsibility to maintain a reasonable number of employees, so the call outs are spread out between them. Those days are gone.

Will the company consider the 25% requirement, or stick to the 50%, ignoring the recommendation.

Local 15 Unit Meeting tonight I will see what new information, if any is available.

[novoltage]

This Is A Sad Day For Local 15

[Short-Timer]

According to our LU 15 President, and BA for our area, the 40 some page decision is in the hands of our union's attorneys. Possible appeals are being considered. The LU President and BA are meeting with the company this morning to discuss the ruling, and to see what the company has planned now. The atmosphere here, like in many utility companies these days is very tense, regard for humanity has been replaced with regard for greed, power, and elimination of the American Union worker.

Follow the procedures and rules,,,,, this is the only way to avoid discipline,,,,if you do,,,,you may stay clear of trouble,,,, the customer will not have power delivered/restored in a timely manner,,,,,, but management will, that is all they are concerned with, power.

Their ignorance of the day-to-day workings of their own employees, from a Crewleader to a Meter Reader is amazing. [ newest "tool" that may be required for meter readers to carry, to avoid dog bites,,,,,,, an umbrella !!!! God help us all ! ] Ignorance can be cured with knowledge, but stupid will always be stupid, and evil will always be evil. The Lord will punish the wicked, it is too bad that he gets all the satisfaction.

[rocky the labradog]

Umbrellas are a common defense that meter readers use against attacking dogs. Many utilities supply the specially-made umbrellas to their employees. Here is a description of one such "dog" umbrella:

All animals and humans have a defense reflex called the startle reflex. If something surprises an animal or human, their immediate reaction is to stop and back up. In dogs this response can range from immediately turning around and running away, to stopping and holding their ground. In most cases they make a hasty retreat.

With the combination of the unique effects that the Bite Terminator® Dog Barrier presents, the dogs either retreat or back away. This buys you precious time to get out of the situation. In the rare case that the dog attacks, the Bite Terminator® Dog Barrier takes the bite for you. If the dog is biting the Terminator, he can not bite you. This again is buying you precious time to escape.

Lets’ look at this from the dog’s perspective. When the Bite Terminator® Dog Barrier is deployed correctly within 4 to 6 feet away the dog experiences the following:

Something jumps out at him. (telescoping feature)
Something blows out in his face(opening of the barrier to full diameter)
His vision of you is now totally blocked (black material blocking his vision)
He hears a weird noise. (sound of opening action)
He may feel a sudden swoosh of air (air generated from high speed opening)
Senses instantly activated- sight, hearing, touch and smell

His immediate reaction- back up!

[Short-Timer]

His immediate reaction- back up!

.00005 seconds later, tears you up !

This is an odd tool for our company, since they have said you can not enter anyone's property if there is a dog. So now with the "magic" dog umbrella, the company will insist that they have provided employees with dog protection, so if any employee is ever attacked or bitten by a dog, it will be the employees fault, and the careless employee will be disciplined, especially if the dog damages the umbrella,,, that will discipline #2,, damage to company property. Of course you could buy some time after deploying the umbrella,,,, when the dog rolls around in hysterical laughter.

Rain vs. umbrella, ok. Dog vs. umbrella,,,,,,, I put my money on the dog.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

All Right Boys Get A List Going Of Names And Addresses Of Local 15 Members Who Want To Be Invited To A Meeting With The Law Firm Who Is Going To Take On Our Law Suit About Arcos And Fax Those Names To Them. The Fax # Is 312-494-0202 Attn Mike Childress. They Would Like The Names By Friday. It Sounds Like This Firm Will Be Picking Up The Tab For Renting Out The Locations For These Meetings.
Sounds Like They Think We Have A Good Case, Rally Your Troops The Time For Negotiating Is Over.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

EXELON 2004 EMPLOYEE SURVEY WORD-FOR-WORD COMMENTS
The following are re-types from a 62-page copy of Employee Comments taken from the 2004 Employee Survey. It is a sad documentary of how a company once respected by its employees only a few years ago has apparently plummeted to the current depths of condemnation by the same employees. It is important to note this 62-page compilation is from the ComEd Energy Delivery Operations segment only.

• The company is a long way away from being world-class. At this rate, I can’t see the company surviving. It is strictly bonus-driven for the people on top. If they think this is a well-run company, I suggest they seek employment somewhere else. At one time, I was proud to work here. That is no longer true. We are treated like dirt, without respect and have no input on our future. Good luck on your performance toward failure.

• There are a number of things that need to be addressed by upper management. But the number one concern of many employees is the lack of respect. We are all trying to make a living and don’t need to be treated like second-class citizens. Upper management should be more concerned about our actual job, and the dangers we face, than about meaningless nit-picking. Overall, people need to be respected to get the most out of them.

• The company is going to fail unless they start to appreciate their employees and stop threatening them with time off and/or firing for bull____ reasons.

• I have never been so frustrated with ComEd as I am now. The only thing I have ever asked for is a clear directive so I could at least try to appreciate the continual changes that the company makes, but to do things one way for a month and then to do them the complete opposite is just plain stupid. I would like to think the Line Department is the bastard child of the company, and that perhaps the rest of the company is run in a logical manner. But I will probably never know

• It seems to me that the company is going backward instead of forward. You’re putting pressure on the employees just to keep the shareholders happy. Giving people days off for just doing the littlest thing wrong. You’re losing all your experience and instead of trying to help your employees, you’re putting too much pressure on them. You are giving people days off and /or firing them for not wearing seat belts, ARCOS call outs, etc. It seems you are doing all you can to make the union fail. We get jobs and nothing is there for us. We have to scrounge up the material. If it were contractors, you would have everything for them because you are paying them. We can do the same type of work, if not better. What happened to the word teamwork? We need to look at the company as a whole. This was a good place to work.

• This place is a joke.

• This company really sucks. It’s becoming a miserable work environment. You don’t fill jobs or replace positions of retired people. You put more stress on everyone else because we’re so short-handed. The company constantly violates our contract and doesn’t care. You try to scare everyone with time off without pay, hoping to accomplish something. And it doesn’t work probably because you don’t scare me or many other people. I can get by without pay. As a result nothing is going to change except just more people off.

• In my entire time with this company never has the relationship between the management and our union been so bad. We use to work together for the benefit of the company and now all management does is circumvent the contract. They are creating a very stressful atmosphere with their disciplinary attitude – giving time off for not having your shirt buttoned or something trivial like that. Their focus is not on the customer or getting work done, but on disciplining the workforce. A lot of this comes from having supervisors without any experience in their jobs. Exelon is running the Business Units in the ground so they can achieve a bonus. I hope this will be useful in letting someone know haw bad this company is and not thrown away because of a bad response.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

MEETING WITH THE LAWYER'S THURSDAY THE 17th AT 5:30 AT THE ARLINGTON HEIGHTS SHERATON HOTEL.
3400 West Euclid Avenue Arlington Heights, Illinois 60005

Phone (847) 394-2000

"EUCLID AND ROUTE 53"

THERE IS ANOTHER MEETING IN THE WORKS SOMEWHERE NEAR JOLIET. DATE, PLACE AND TIME NOT AVAILABLE YET.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

alright boys just got back from the meeting with the lawyers and from what i gather the lawyers say that once a case goes to arbitration it is almost impossible to reverse that descision unless you can show that the arbitrator was beyond the scope of his authority.
the one point they seemed confident in arguing and winning is, being on call without pay with restrictions.
the next step they need is some people to step forward who are willing to work the strings on our side of the fence.
i dont have many answers but feel free to ask.

[novoltage]

Was there a big turnout? Any info on a joliet area meeting.

[Short-Timer]

So,,,, what is the next move ? These "strings",,, is there an organized plan to determine what these strings are ?

Also, are you hearing anything about the talks with the evil empire on what "their" definition is on the Arbitrator's decision ? As far as what % or responses will be required per quarter to avoid discipline ? The Arb. said that 50% was unreasonable,, and 25% seemed reasonable, I am not sure that is a statement he made as part of the decision, just a recommendation perhaps.

So, the evil empire may agree that 50% is too high,,,, but 49% is reasonable,,, that is how they think.

We have heard a guy got a day off for not putting his complete name in the CDL truck log book [ green book] . Instead of John Doe,,, he was putting J. Doe,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Sweet Jesus-Mary-and Joseph,,,,,,, how can this madness continue ????? I have been doing the same thing in my log book since day one,,, I have NEVER been told that it was a violation,,,, is no-one reading/checking the log sheets I turn in ???? Once again employees are sent to the executioner with out a trial. This is the "classic" make a rule on the spot to be sure no one will be able to avoid discipline.

I truly fear that someplace, sometime, someone will "snap". Tensions are running that high.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Well Over 100 People.


Sounds Like Joliet's Will Be Wednesday At The Union Meeting Location ?
Strings- The Lawyer's Would Like To Get The Transcripts From The Arbitration,and A Copy Of The Original Grievence For Arcos.
They Are Also Interested In Getting A Select Group Of Us Who Are Willing To Do Any Work That They Cant Do. Like Get Stuff From Our Local And Anything Else Like That.
I Have Not Heard Anything On The Talk's With The Union .
It Was Told Last Night That One Of Our Brothers Called The International And They Told Him That Local 15 Was Doing Everything Correct And That He Should Not Call Again.
If I Find Out Who Said That To Him Or What The Number Is I Am Personally Gonna Make His Name And Number Known To Everyone With A Phone.
There Is Also Talk Of Lawyer Fees.
Bottom Line Is Always Money, At First The Figure Thrown Around Seemed High But If We Do Get Stuck With Arcos It Would Only Be Fair To Get Paid While We Are On Call. So If They Went And Got Us Back Pay And Pay From Here On Out Then Maybe We Could Afford To Give Some Up That Up.i Know We Want Our Life Rather Than More Money Right Now Believe Me I Know.

The Talk Was If We Could Pressure Them From A Few Different Directions While They Are Talking To The Union Maybe It Might Help To Lean More In Our Favor. I Guess More Chips On The Table For Us The Better.
Considering That I Am Not A Good Note Taker I Would Recommend Attending The Joliet Meet This Wednesday.

Anyway Back To The $$$, $100'000.00
If Two Hundred Guy's Put In $500.00 That Would Cover It.
Again There Is Alot Of Questions So Lets See A Big Turn Out In Joliet.

[novoltage]

CH,I heard there was almost a brawl at the libertyville union meeting.The cops where called.Any info?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

I Heard The Same Thing About That Meeting,
Local 15 Better Wake Up, After They Fire Everyone But The Local Leadership Then What Are They Gonna Do For A Pay Check.

[Short-Timer]

I think our meeting was the Thursday after the Tuesday Libertyville fracus. I guess the meeting was cancelled as some members had a few beers before the meeting, and were pretty threatening towards the officers. We just approved a few dollar fee to pay for a new Union Office Building,,, why can't we do the same for lawyers,,,, but wait,,, didn't we just have some lawyers argue our Arcos case ?????? Why so so many different lawyers,,,,, ??? What firm do we have now,,,,, Doowee, Screwum, and Howe ?

Can't Local 15 supply this "new" set of lawyers with all the Arcos documentation ??

[Short-Timer]

ugh,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, first I heard of the bonus story,,,,,,,,,,,and soon perhaps a new building,,, but they have been paying a ton for rent for years,,,,, ugh,,,, too much to think about this early.
Is there any good news anywhere ? Illinois still winning is all.

[hightensiontim]

Through company meetings the superintendant told us with their arrogance that there is going to be a 50 percent call out. Their mind set is to get rid of all of us and break local 15. The international has more or less told us to leave them out of this local 15 is handling it.

Once they bust local 15 does the international really believe that local 9 and the other area locals will be doing work for ComEd. Do you think that an outfit like Trenchit or Hellwigs group Iinfrasource or any other contractor doing work for ComEd care if they use union or non union personnel. With Non union personnel they just reap bigger profits. Say good-bye to your benefits and your future.

The only chance we have is to stick together and with 1,000 of us to hire the lawyers it will only cost $100 apiece. If a brother is not willing to fight for this and willing to let the others pay $500 apiece he is no better than the company

[Short-Timer]

Bob Joyce told us at our Mar. meeting that the Arbitrator stated 25% was reasonable. Then we heard the company was threatening to fire 11 guys who had already had their 1 3 5 days off for poor call out response. The union responded that it was not going to agree on a high % agreement, that affected 1000 employees to save 11. This could have been a bluff from both sides, who knows. If the Arbitrator said that 50% was not reasonable, and 25% is, how can anyone be disciplined if they had 25% ?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Work to Rule

Almost every job is covered by a maze of rules, regulations, standing orders, and so on, many of them completely unworkable and generally ignored. Workers often violate orders, resort to their own techniques of doing things, and disregard lines of authority simply to meet the goals of the company. There is often a tacit understanding, even by the managers whose job it is to enforce the rules, that these shortcuts must be taken in order to meet production quotas on time.

But what would happen if each of these rules and regulations were followed to the letter? Confusion would result -- production and morale would plummet. And best of all, the workers can't get in trouble with this tactic because they are, after all, "just following the rules."

Under nationalization, French railroad strikes were forbidden. Nonetheless, railroad workers found other ways of expressing their grievances. One French law requires the engineer to assure the safety of any bridge over which the train must pass. If after a personal examination he is still doubtful, then he must consult other members of the train crew. Of course, every bridge was so inspected, every crew was so consulted, and none of the trains ran on time.

In order to gain certain demands without losing their jobs, the Austrian postal workers strictly observed the rule that all mail must be weighed to see if the proper postage was affixed. Formerly they had passed without weighing all those letters and parcels which were clearly underweight, thus living up to the spirit of the regulation but not to its exact wording. By taking each separate piece of mail to the scales, carefully weighing it, and then returning it to its proper place, the postal workers had the office congested with unweighed mail on the second day.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Slowdown

The Slowdown has a long and honorable history. In 1899, the organized dock workers of Glasgow, Scotland, demanded a 10% increase in wages, but met with refusal by the bosses and went on strike. Strike-breakers were brought in from among the agricultural workers, and the dockers had to acknowledge defeat and return to work under the old wages. But before they went back to work, they heard this from the secretary of their union:

"You are going back to work at the old wage. The employers have repeated time and again that they were delighted with the work of the agricultural laborers who have taken our place for several weeks during the strike. But we have seen them at work. We have seen that they could not even walk a vessel and that they dropped half the merchandise they carried; in short, that two of them could hardly do the work of one of us. Nevertheless, the employers have declared themselves enchanted with the work of these fellows. Well, then, there is nothing for us to do but the same. Work as the agricultural laborers worked."

This order was obeyed to the letter. After a few days the contractors sent for the union secretary and begged him to tell the dockworkers to work as before, and that they were willing to grant the 10% pay increase.

At the turn of the century, a gang of section men working on a railroad in Indiana were notified of a cut in their wages. The workers immediately took their shovels to the blacksmith shop and cut two inches from the scoops. Returning to work they told the boss "short pay, short shovels."

Or imagine this. BART (Bay Area Transit Authority) train operators are allowed to ask for "10-501s" (bathroom breaks) anywhere along the mainline, and Central Control cannot deny them. In reality, this rarely happens. But what would management do if suddenly every train operator began taking extended 10-501s on each trip they made across the Bay?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Whistle Blowing (The Open Mouth)

Sometimes simply telling people the truth about what goes on at work can put a lot of pressure on the boss. Consumer industries like restaurants and packing plants are the most vulnerable. And again, as in the case of the Good Work Strike, you'll be gaining the support of the public, whose patronage can make or break a business.

Whistle Blowing can be as simple as a face-to-face conversation with a customer, or it can be as dramatic as the P.G.&E. engineer who revealed that the blueprints to the Diablo Canyon nuclear reactor had been reversed. Upton Sinclair's novel The Jungle blew the lid off the scandalous health standards and working conditions of the meatpacking industry when it was published in the early 20th century.

Waiters can tell their restaurant clients about the various shortcuts and substitutions that go into creating the faux-haute cuisine being served to them. Just as Work to Rule puts an end to the usual relaxation of standards, Whistle Blowing reveals it for all to know.

[novoltage]

SSG equipment is leased and most of the high tower line equipment is also leased.MJ is waiting with open arms to take this work over

[novoltage]

I agree with that.But where do you think Com Ed employees go when they quit or are fired?

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Word is, ComEdy wanted 114 contractor crews and only got 50. Talked to a friend in trench-it, Said they'll take anyone available. An inside wireman was sent out to build a downfeed with an ex Edison guy. Was getting paid as a journeyman, didn't know what he was doing, but was getting a check.
As far as MJ, or trench- it taking the work. Not possible, don't have the people, that's why all our people are being sent into Chicago. I've been there and don't want to go back, every other pole is rotten or braced.
Not to mention the contractors get screwed by ComEdy all the time as well. They promise them all kinds of work and o.t., then pull it back half way through. The contractors only come to Edison as a last resort.
Look at all the Co. hiring lineman, pretty good feeling somebody wants you, even if your own Co. doesn't.........

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

I reserve judgement on the local.. I've done all I can, and will continue to do so.... Have they?? Yet to be seen.... Stay tuned....

[novoltage]

MJ has a number of big projects in warm climates.ahah

[novoltage]

According to Dave Helwig (ex-Com Ed VP of something)
CEO of Infrasourse,parent company of MJ Eletric Exelon is there biggest Distrubution Customer and there having a hard time filling Exelon's needs.
I work in Chicago and all I see is MJ trucks

[novoltage]

No,I work for Com Ed.I got the info from Infrasource 4QT Confrence Call

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Rumor has it infrasource hired 150 people with no experience and are teaching them to splice, terminate, etc... They'll be ready by June 1, rumor or fact?
Is this legal, as far as Helwig is concerned? He knew things were undermaned, So he starts his own setup? He creates a problem, then acts like a saviour!!!!!!!!!!

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

That guy from trench-it also told me "His boss told him Trench-it is going to start calling out for ComEdy trouble" They are expected to switch, repair, and switch back. Of course they aren't forced to take a percentage.
Besides, this is against our contract. But since when has the Co. honored that????????? :mad:

[novoltage]

Star man,Exelon use to own infrasource

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

NO! Helwig created Infrasource to fill in for the lack of employees that he knew existed.. Funny how he knew exactly what to do.. He knew full well that ComEdy wasn't going to have enough people, almost like a mind reader, so he makes millions on the millions ComEdy gave him to leave.........

[novoltage]

Starman,read this
http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/irol/17/176161/presentations/1262004FACpresentation.pdf
check out page 32 this will show you how Infrasource was created.Let me know what you think.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

According to this, It looks as if Exelon bought Infrasource???? Don't know w
hat IFS stands for or any of the other abbr. Have to look into this....
Where did you find this?

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Doesn't it make sense that if you spend $10,000 on one greivance, that you would spend at least $100,000 or more on a greivance of 800????? This is a big one! Aren't 2 heads better than one and so on....... Why not get more than one opinion?? Because their stupid or arrogant?? Which is it? Why not get an injunction? Save the members from getting time off. You talk about accepting 1 callout a quarter, no sympathy, right? One of our guys dad had terminal cancer, he had to take care of him. Did the Co. ask? NO, They gave him a day off anyway. That is a bunch of sh##

[novoltage]

IFS is the ticker symbol for Infrasource.Did you see the 25.1 million dollar note to Exelon in that report.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

I printed the last 2 pages, but didn't see that. So it seems Infrasource is a Sub as well as M&J. Who the hell is BP/S? Exelon owns them all, correct?

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Everyone in the office knew his old man was sick... It should have never gotten that far!! That's why this discipline for the ARCOS sh## is unacceptable, regardless of %. I shouldn't have to explain jack unless a storm blows thru. I'm a free man, not a slave to EXELON!!!

[novoltage]

Infrasource is the parent company of MJ Electric,BP/S stands for Blair Park Services-telecommunication.Exelon use to own these companies.Exelon created Infrasource then sold it to GFI Energy Ventures LLC and Oaktree Capital Mangement LLC.They apointed Helwig as CEO and keep the Infrasource name.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Then the rumor about hiring those bodies very well could be true. That would make sense. If they can keep ssg hanging by a thread long enough for infrasource to take over their work. Then ssg is S.O.L. ain't they. Come june I guess we'll see..............

[novoltage]

We voted Citta out,but Joyce created a position and then apointed him to that position.I dont have alot of faith in 15.What ever happened to Bill Star?

[novoltage]

MJ does work all over the country.There a big outfit and there trying to get bigger.Helwig said they are looking for long term agreements.He also stated there is a nation wide lineman shortage.

[novoltage]

Back when Exelon wanted to buy IP and wanted local 15 backing.15 should have told exelon NO F"ING WAY.Instead we get are contract extended.That was a bad move.Just gives Exelon more time to get the contractors in line.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Ain't that the truth... I gotta beleive ComEdy has to keep "x" amount of lineman around..The State wouldn't stand for many fewer than we already have.
You know the CO. is gonna ask for the locals support with pse&g, wonder what they'll say this time???
Exelon will get their tit in the wringer if they don't watch it. They have to keep a local workforce if I'm not mistaken. They can't depend on a seasonal workforce(which the contractors are)....We'll see in the next week or so???? :(

[novoltage]

pse&g employees,including management,need to fight tooth and nail to keep this merger from happening.If it does happen you will lose alot of people.Then the co will say were short handed then theyll start to contract out the work.

[novoltage]

Just because Com Ed owns the lines and stations,doesnt mean Com Ed employees have to repair them.They may have to keep "x" amount of people around but it will be miserable for that select few

[novoltage]

Pam Strobels husband has just been named Nicors new CEO.Talk about a hell of a combined income in that family!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Effective Sunday, April 3, 2005


I am writing this letter to inform you of my intentions to leave Commonwealth Edison. Contrary to what one might expect, my resignation is not a cause for my celebration. It is rather, just the opposite. I am saddened and indignant to say that I am no longer able to remain patriotic to this company which has, for so long, put bread and butter on my table.

My reasons are straight forward and clearly defined. With respect to myself and my coworkers, it seems that ComEd has completely lost its ability to recognize the sum of its parts as being its labor force. We are no longer its most valuable asset. In fact, as of late, the direct opposite seems to be. The upper managements’ philosophical mindset appears to hold that the employee’s of ComEd are its greatest “Achilles Heal”. Whether this is true or false is only a matter of which side you find yourself affiliated with.

For the last thirteen and one half years, I have been actively employed by ComEd. And before I was employed here, my father was employed here. He gave thirty-nine years of his life to this company. I use the word “gave” because the sacrifices and concessions he made and gave to this company were just as real as the ones that I have made and given. The differences between his and mine however, are that the ones made and given by my father were recognized and rewarded by the company he loved so much! Pride, craftsmanship, attention to detail, ownership of work, loyalty, leadership and ultimately happiness, were values and emotions which kept a now all but extinct, proactive work ethic up and running. The sense of teamwork and cooperation that this company once had such an abundance of, is now gone. I simply cannot continue to remain employed and effectively operate in the type of environment which currently dominates ComEd. Any deep rooted aspirations for continued career orientated development within this company have been completely vanquished by the escalating and relentless amount of labor relations bipartisanship presently infesting this business. I liken it to being held prisoner in a vacuum and attempting to light a candle. Not only do you fail to ignite the candle, but you fail even to get the match lit! I remember once asking my father why he worked so hard and cared so much for this utility. He thought for a short time and then replied… “I do it because they return to me what it is that I give to them; loyalty, respect and family”.

In the modern world, where we continue to see the profits of Corporate America maximized by the outsourcing of domestic labor, I am left only to wonder where the average American now fits in, and where We will be in ten to twenty years. The ethics and philosophies of the “old generation” are words and values which no longer seem to echo within the walls of today’s business. The corporate giants answer only to Wall Street and shareholders, no longer to their employees. One can only hope that someday, in the not too distant future, these former ideals will once again come to be heard; necessary for the prosperity and well-being of employment, and the success of Corporate America as a whole. It is unfortunate that, on more than one occasion, we the workforce were actually advised to seek employment elsewhere if we could no longer remain tolerant of the changes now establishing themselves within this company. The logic of these statements completely eludes me and I sincerely fail to comprehend why these remarks were made to such a skilled and talented group of individuals. It was and is, after all, at the expense of ComEd that we have become so good at what it is we do; Linework. Statements like these are incapable of ever bringing benefit to a business. They have only the capacity to alienate and separate a company from its workforce by instilling feelings of resentment and separation within it. We no longer feel that ComEd deems us intelligent or competent to think for ourselves. I hesitate to say, but increasingly believe, that Commonwealth Edison is afflicted with cancer.

So it is with quiet contentment and silent fortitude that I release ComEd of its responsibility to continue paying my wage and providing for my employment. I deeply appreciate the thirteen and one half years it has allowed me to fuel my compulsion to learn, bettering myself and my knowledge of the craft. I thank it for providing me with the best training and experience one could ever hope to acquire and graciously offer my resignation, hoping only for the longevity, health, and happiness of its continuing workforce.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

It Is Randy Who Left.
I Wouldnt Miss The Party For Anything.
I Think We Are Headed For A Hot Summer.
Here Is A Pic Of The Boys Bringing In My New Generator

[CHICAGO HAND.]

THEY DONT WANT TO GIVE THAT PIECE OF PAPER OUT FOR SOME REASON, BUT WE ARE WORKING ON SNAGGING IT.
I KEEP WAITING FOR ALL THE CREWS TO TAKE THERE TRUCKS APART FOR THERE MONTHLY TRUCK INSPECTIONS, CORDS, STICKS, TOOLS, BOOM INSPECTIONS, ETC, BUT IT SEEMS EVERYONE IS TOO INTERESTED ON GETTING OUT OF THE YARD AND MAINTAINING PRODUCTION.
I DONT KNOW I THOUGHT I WORKED WITH SOME OF THE TOUGHEST SOB'S MANAGEMENT HAS EVER SEEN BUT IT LOOKS LIKE I AM MISTAKEN.
EVERY MORNING THEY HAND OUT WAYS TO STOP THE JOB BUT IT'S LIKE THE JEWS BEING LED TO THE GAS CHAMBERS.
NOBODY WANTS TO TAKE A STAND AND FIGHT.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH OUR MEMBERS? IS IT ME?


"Contemplate the mangled bodies of your countrymen, and then say, 'What should be the reward of such sacrifices?' Bid us and our posterity bow the knee, supplicate the friendship, and plough, and sow, and reap, to glut the avarice of the men who have let loose on us the dogs of war to riot in our blood and hunt us from the face of the earth? If ye love wealth better than liberty, the tranquility of servitude than the animating contest of freedom, go from us in peace. We ask not your counsels or arms. Crouch down and lick the hands which feed you. May your chains sit lightly upon you, and may posterity forget that ye were our countrymen!" -- Samuel Adams, Founder

[Apples]

Great quote CH But I would change it from May your chains sit lightly to
May your chains fit tightly...

[OLE' SORE KNEES]

Sound 's like you boy's have the same problem, IBEW SCU4 has sold us out, Out of touch with a good hand

[CHICAGO HAND.]

THANKS, BUT NO THANKS;
WE ARE A TEAM, NOT INDIVIDUALS
Transmission Group Considers Themselves A Team
On the morning of April 7, 2005 management held an “All Hands” meeting at the company’s Business Resource Center for the Overhead Transmission Groups and the Underground Transmission Group.
The meeting was to outline the work that has been scheduled to be performed in the upcoming months.
During the meeting, several of the bargaining unit members of the groups were recognized for their individual efforts and accomplishments last year by their field supervisor.
Although each of the Transmission Group members receiving the awards presented to them appreciated the recognition, they thought it best it be a group award.
After accepting his award, Overhead Transmission Group member Brother Jim Srygler thanked management, gave the award back to them saying there was no need to single him out as an individual because the entire group works together as a team. Brother Srygler further stated that if management wants to thank anyone, they should acknowledge the whole group.
As did award recipient Brother Gary Hauser, followed by Underground Transmission Group member Craig Gray and later by Overhead Transmission Group member Brad Noble who was unable to attend the meeting to receive his award.
They all agree that “we, as Union members stick together as a team and work together as a team”.
The entire meeting was televised to the PECO workers via video satellite hook-up.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

I just saw the latest Unity on the Local 15 website(cant believe they updated it).
It states;

"Local 15 has been notified that the company is mandating that Local 15 members who hold a CDL license sign a new application form.


Local 15 has been in contact with our attorney who suggests that these forms are not to be signed until further discussion with the company."

What will these goofballs in the ivory tower come up with next??
I sent an email to Mr Joyce, a lot of good that will do, I have sent him numerous emails in the past, he must not know how to type or something because I have never recieved a reply. You would think they would use some sort of technology to communicate with the members. Very pathetic.

You would also expect some sort of explanation other than dont sign it.
Its almost like asking your dad for an answer and he said because I said so.
I get more information from this place and the truck than anywhere else.
Ill see what I can scrounge up while Im at work tonite.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

I got a reply today from Mr Joyce, I almost fell off my chair (maybe there is hope)
Here it is;



The reason it was sent out quickley in a Unity was because Local 15 wasn't aware the company sent out a new form. We contacted our attorney Toomey and he expressed concerns with allowing them to access your personal driving history and also issues with if you made a mistake in your informaiton, you could be subject to discipline / termination.

A conference call will be held this afternoon to discuss these issues.

Please pass this information on. As more details come along, it will be passed on.

Bob Joyce


As vague as it is it is a start. I will continue to try to find out more info.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

IBEW LOCAL UNIONS, EUCC FILE AS INTERVENORS IN PSE&G SALE

As environmental, consumer and business groups line up to intervene in the proposed merger of Exelon Corporation and New Jersey’s PSE&G utility, the IBEW local unions on the Exelon property has joined the ranks as well. So has the Exelon Unions Coordinating Council (EUCC).

The EUCC is comprised of IBEW local unions 15, 51, 94, 614, 777, 1289 and 1306 representing the 12,000 Exelon union workers in Illinois, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Local 15 Sr. Assistant Business Manager Nick Citta is the Chairman of the EUCC. The EUCC filed as an intervenor with the respective public utility commissions in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The filings were accepted with the commissions.

In addition, local unions 94, 614, 777 and 1289 filed separately with the public utility commissions in their respective states. Those filings were also accepted with the commissions.

No intervention status filings occurred in Illinois as the Illinois Commerce Commission does not believe they have jurisdiction in the proposed sale.

[Apples]

Next thing you know Trubble mngmt will be snooping through the brothers
trash looking for half rolls of tape and such

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

Word on the street in recent months has been the company that mgmnt hired to watch us from a distance, take pics and report back!!!! So big brother is watching.

"They have to find me if they want to get me"

[CHICAGO HAND.]

COMPANY ASKING FOR HELP TO ELIMINATE YOUR JOB
According to reports reaching the Local 15 office, the New Business Department (NRCG & CIPA) managers are approaching our members asking for them to volunteer to work on a “Mobile Data Task Force”. The assignment would last for approximately one (1) month.
What is “Mobile Data” in the New Business world?
The company wants the field workers (Overhead, Underground and SSG) to complete Service Wire Orders (and who knows what else) in the vehicles rather than our clerical members.
This search for information by management is similar to the company’s 3-C’s meetings.
It is not designed to find out what is wrong or what can be improved. Both forums are a deliberate attempt to identify what will eliminate more UNION jobs.
Why Would Anyone Volunteer Information To Management That Will Eliminate Their Job or The Job Of Another Local 15 Brother Or Sister?



ONE OF MANY QUESTIONS I HAVE IS WHY WOULD LOCAL 15 ALLOW SSG TO PUSH PIPE UNDER ROADS WHEN THIS IS CLEARLY THE WORK OF THE UNDERGROUND DEPT?
IF THE SSG STARTED TO STRING WIRE THEN I'LL BET SOMETHING WOULD OF BEEN DONE TO STOP IT.

[CenterPointEX]

If'n ya ain't already got mobile data yer on da late show... It works good... work orders N trouble orders are downloaded to yer computer... N after ya complete em ya upload em... Accountants use computers ta do accountin... It would be retarded to say they should not use computers, but rather they should use paper N pencil so's they don't take away da jobs of da paper makers...

[BPUman]

Uh, Oh....

---------------
If'n ya don't get it, sumtimes its best 'ta not reply

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

When our company switched over to the computer age it trippled (sp) the amount of paper we used. We fill out forms each day that get thrown away at the end of the day. A bunch of busywork.

So go with the technology, they will always need someone to print it out, file it and then throw it away.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Announcing The
EXELON UTILITY COORDINATING COUNCIL

WHAT IS THE E.U.C.C.?

The Exelon Utility Coordinating Council, a.k.a. EUCC, is a coalition of the IBEW local unions on the Exelon property and was formed in the third quarter of 2004. The EUCC was a result of the merger of ComEd with PECO (forming the Exelon Corporation), the successful organizing effort of the employees from the Exelon Fossil Generating Stations, PECO Transmission and Distribution group, as well as the Call Center operations by the IBEW Third District.

It soon became apparent the members of the IBEW local unions on the Exelon property would be best served if the unions coordinated efforts and support in their respective struggles with the Exelon anti-union, anti-worker agenda.

The EUCC IBEW member local unions include: Local 15, Local 51, Local 614, Local 777, Local 1289 and Local 1306.

If the Company believes it is necessary to share their best procedures, policies, work practices, Standards of Conduct, Rules To Live By and disciplinary actions to the east (to PECO, Exelon Nuclear, Exelon Fossil) or from the east (to ComEd, Exelon Nuclear, Business Service Company), so did the IBEW local unions. Just as the Company felt it was in their best interest to share their ideas, the IBEW local unions believes it was in their members best interest to share their experiences of Exelon and coordinate subsequent actions.

The first demonstration of Solidarity of the IBEW Local Union 15, 51, 614, 777, 1289 and 1306 members to the Exelon Corporation begins today. Most of you, if not all, were provided with a EUCC sticker to proudly display on your hardhat, work cubicle, clothing, etc as a sign of UNION SOLIDARITY. Those members that have yet to receive a EUCC sticker should receive theirs within the next few days.
WEAR IT PROUD.

UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

I have seen some of these EUCC stickers around, anybody know where to get them?

Oh yeah, and just a little note.

GUYS THAT ARE UPGRADED TO MANAGEMENT CAN KISS MY HAIRY BALL$. y'ALL DESERVE TO BE BEATEN WITH A 4' GRIPALL AND THEN HAVE YOUR CARDS PULLED YOU SUCKA$$E$!!!!!!

Oh, I feel much better.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

COM ED ENERGY DELIVERY STARTS HANDING OUT GPS DEVICES
This week ComEd Energy Delivery managers began distributing GPS devices to Overhead Department employees in the company’s Northwest Region.
Again, management expected the employees to sign for the GPS device they were given, agreeing that if the instrument was lost, stolen or damaged the employee would pay for its replacement. It was reported that some employees did actually sign the agreement, while most did not.
The position of the Union is that our members are not to sign for the GPS device being distributed just as our members are not expected to sign for the $100,000-plus line truck, trencher or cable/wire-puller. Or for that matter any other equipment provided by the company in order for our members to perform the work of the company.
So, why would a $600 GPS device be any different?
Which leads to a good question? Did the company only give the GPS device to the employees that agreed to pay for them if they are lost, stolen or damaged? Probably not.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

I have one and never signed for it. Its a great tool. They also gave me a 12 load pickup jumper that casts 1050.00 and an ampact gun that cost 719.00. I wont use those, if they want to save a few bucks buy only the tools we are going to use.

[KEVHEAD]

Hey there's a rumour going around that Jack Skolds is going to lighten up on the boys now that they're concerned about the merger not going through smoothly.
Oh, and that must've been right after they told us all shift crews would be working all holidays from now on.
Save your sick days. You'll need 'em...

[CenterPointEX]

Ok fellas... here is how they are gonna do it... They are gonna start documenting every time somebody spits... they are gonna start ringin you up on stuff you have no control over... if'n yer a hot head or a Union voice that too will be documented... how you say yes sir N no Sir to your superiors... they will watch you in the morning when you prep... and in the evening when disembark... then they will announce lay offs... they will evaluate all employees based on the last year of service... not on your career but on the last year... N they will have documentation... they will say that was the case, but the truth is they will hand pick folks that they feel are leaders of the opposition... folks that won't bow down... then they will tell you you are eligable for to participate in their involuntary severance program... you will get the package and a years pay if you sign away your right to ever work for the company again or grieve your being layed off/fired... they will have you by the balls... you won't have any options... those that are left, will be left pissin in der pants... afraid... waitin on the axe to fall on them next... back stabbin N hob knobin will be the order of the day... N the tramps will be headed yer way cause dey are hungry N they heard dey was work in yer parts... N like or not you'll be standin in line with em...

[KEVHEAD]

This time his bullshit will stick! Exelon is running the show not PSE$G! Not to wish any of these assholes on anyone, but we need a breather! All their bullshit started when this asshole and his henchmen joined the "Exclusive Exelon Team!"

This Kiraly must really be gifted when it comes to lyingto senior execs. "big head" Rowe and his team of Idiots bought kiraly's bullshit, hook, line, an sinker! Told them "How he'd staighten everything out." Totally f#cked things up worse than before! And it was fairly bad before, but nothing like this!

Good luck, got any good stories I can pass along about kiraly?

Early in his tenure at ComEd (1/21/01) a quivering and quite emotional kiraly(we refer to him as "The Pirate"-for the puffy shirts) had this to say about a minor injury sustained to a SSC Crew leader while working.

"Please make sure this discussion happens with everyone Monday morning. This man is lucky to be alive. This department had previously gone over 300 days w/o an injury. What that tells me is that numerous unsafe acts and unsafe practices have been occuring in this department for quite some time leading up to this accident. To have broken so many cardinal rules of working safely this time, it means that this probaly wasn't the only time, i.e. they've been lucky. This is why we conduct audits and ensure the performance of safe work practices as a part of a daily routine. this why we do the two-minute meeting, conduct audits, issue corrective action, etc.
So the next time you take heat from the union leadership or any union member at all about why we are a pain in the ass in being dilligent on safety, THROW THIS INJURY AND THE LAST FATALITY IN THEIR FACE. I take this with the utmost seriousness and expect all of you to also."

The fatality he is referring to was about IBEW brother and friend George Majares, who died in an accident while working on 34kv lines for ComEd less than a month earlier. No audit or 2-minute huddle could prevent this, only common sense and foresight from the foreman to simply switch out the line prior to working on it.

Yeah, that kiraly's a real class act...

[novoltage]

Didnt they try to hang the crewleader on Majares death?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ATTENTION: ALL LOCAL 15 MEMBERS HOLDING A COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE
Changes Found In Federal Regulations
After a thorough investigation by Local 15 regarding the new “10 Hour Off-Duty” regulations pertaining to holders of a Commercial Driver’s License, it was discovered that ComEd/Exelon was not in compliance with the new laws.
After verifying our findings with representatives from the Department of Transportation, the Union contacted Company representatives to discuss their non-compliance and asked what management’s plans were in order to become compliant.
Late yesterday afternoon the Company responded that effective July 5, 2005 they will comply with the “10 Hour Off-Duty” rule.
The 10 Hour Off-Duty rule is:
“Any CDL driver that works 16 hours or more must have 10 continuous hours off duty prior to driving a vehicle that weighs more than 26,000 pounds”

[LIGHTSOUT]

This is an issue we have been trying to negotiate also in Florida with FPL. I wonder how this would apply to us at FPL . The one hitch I see is that our trucks are under that 26000 lbs you speak of . any more info would be helpful. thanks power to the people stay united

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Does that vehicle require a CDL to drive it? Check with the state, but I believe if under 26,000 lbs. it is still considered a commercial vehicle, and the same rules apply! Can't drive it after 16, I think?

[Apples]

I believe managements next move will be to see that everyone is off the clock after 15 1/2 hrs

[Short-Timer]

This whole driving thing is such a "cluster-fruck",,,,,, CDL,,, less than 16,000,,more than 26,000,,,, what is the difference,,,,,,,,,,, frucking stupid,,,, do you get tired faster driving a 26 truck than driving a 16 truck,,,, who knows,who cares,,,,,, I drive a less than 16 truck,,, I have to fill out all the frucking paper work like the 26 guys,,,, but I will "never" get a day to "reset" my CDL clock, if I go above 80 hours,,, Nazi-lon has it's own set of rules,,,, 10, 12, 16, 24,,, how many hours can we legally work ???

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Well Boys What Do You Think About The 10 Hour's Of Rest?
We Screwed Em Up Pretty Good This Morning With It.
They Came Out And Said Everyone Off The Property At 14 Hours.
Gotta Love This Place.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Hey Chicago,

When you get ta 14 hrs. go to the restaurant. If I'm not mistakin' this will be at 9:00 p.m. !!! Entitled to eat = 16 hrs. Let them squirm around that one!
Assuming you didn't eat your first meal, which always happens here! Enjoy that meal and your 10 hrs. off!!!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

"ltm"
Let Them Manage.
I Cant Wait To Tell A Customer We Have To Go Our 14 Is Up.

[Short-Timer]

We were told by our foreman that the company's position on 16K trucks or less,,,is that you do not get 10 hour rest, and since day one, we still do not get to reset our CDL clock if we work more than 80 hours in a week. So,, I assume we can continue to work past 16 hours, with no restrictions. The "off the property at 16 hours" is no more,,,, already happened. Open your wallet boys!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/truck/driver/hos/revised-hos.asp

GOOD LUCK WEEDING THRU THIS.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

this link is the new applications for a utility worker. Its still tough to read, but they dumbed it down a little.
http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/espa%C3%B1ol/english/pdfs/tm_hos_ppt.htm

[Phaseless]

This is from the link on the last post:

New Rules

Property-Carrying CMV drivers may not drive:

More than 11 hours, following 10 houirs off-duty
Beyond the 14th hour after coming on-duty, following 10 hours off-duty
After 60/70 hours on-duty in 7/8 consecutive days
Notes:
HOS final rule allows property-carrying CMV drivers shorter on-duty time, generally, but longer driving time.

Clarification of 14-hour vs. 15-hour rules
Under the 14-hour rule, the FMCSA will allow property carrying drivers to take off duty mid shift meal, nap, and other rest break periods, but those breaks will not extend the workday. These periods are included in the calculation of the 14-hour rule and a driver must not drive after the 14th hour after beginning duty.

The 15-hour rule for passenger-carrying vehicles may extend a driver’s workday. These drivers may take off-duty periods which are not counted towards their 15 hours on duty

does this mean no time off for taking a nap at lunch? Thats how I read it!

[shocker]

for excelon im i to understand that the new driving regs mean we use the 60/70 rule or do we have some exception and continue to use the 80 hr rule? :confused:

[CHICAGO HAND.]

I'm Pretty Sure We Still Use The 80 Hour Because Of The Exemption For Utilities.
Also They Can Have Us Drive No More Than 16 Hours. The Way I Read It Is That Anything After 14 We Get 10 Hours Rest ?.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

Guys wont follow the new rule and do what they can to beat it, some see it as it will cost them money being off the property for 2 more hours, will the company pay the code 59 from 7-9 if you stayed on after work to fill the 3-11 shift??
Can they deny you to fill a shift because it will incur a penalty and give it to someone with more OT than you??

Has our illustrious union addressed any of these issues?? Or do they just give the status quo answer of " They can do that "?

[Short-Timer]

New Rules

Property-Carrying CMV drivers may not drive:


What is a Proerty-Carrying CMV driver ????


Any driver,,, or only drivers more than 16K ???????????????



More than 11 hours, following 10 houirs off-duty
Beyond the 14th hour after coming on-duty, following 10 hours off-duty
After 60/70 hours on-duty in 7/8 consecutive days
Notes:
HOS final rule allows property-carrying CMV drivers shorter on-duty time, generally, but longer driving time.

[shocker]

i didnt read anything in the new laws about utilitys having 80 hrs in an 8 day.
maybe it is something to do with us having to log our hours on that f*ed up form that gives them the right to run us 80 hrs in an 8 day cycle i dont know?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

SOME INTERESTING LINKS TO ARTICLES YOU MIGHT FIND USEFUL.

MAKE COPIES AND PASS THEM ON.


http://www.vantageconsulting.com/comedreport.pdf




http://icc.state.il.us/ec/docs/010600edison.pdf


http://icc.state.il.us/ec/docs/000717ComEd2PR.pdf

[mikehunt]

when you get to 80 hours, dont drive any truck. tell them your tired, which you have to be after working 80 in a week. its your liscense. you think they will back you if you get in a wreck. if they make you drive, fill out the fatigued drivers report and give it to the local. the state gets a few of these and they will start resetting clocks like they should be. they are trying everything they can to get around the rules. the resetting is to help get you rested because of long hours. if they didnt have to pay to reset they would do it all the time, no questions. call this # if you have questions about cdl at exelon. 1 630 576 6950 jp is his name

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Where do you get a fatigued drivers form? Has anyone tried it yet?

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

Mike, Is this JP guy the so called CDL expert?? If so Id like to make up some flyers with his info and post it so we can all convey our concerns and questions. Let me know

[shocker]

hey, rumor has it the 40 some new troublemen are now excess.is there are truth to this?

[mikehunt]

Mike, Is this JP guy the so called CDL expert?? If so Id like to make up some flyers with his info and post it so we can all convey our concerns and questions. Let me know
jp came to our barn and explained alot of cdl stuff. he is the cdl expert but he is contracted out by edison and payed by them. he will tell you edison is going by the laws the way they are written not by their intent. get the fliers going, it cant hurt.

[mikehunt]

Where do you get a fatigued drivers form? Has anyone tried it yet?
the regulation is 392.3 ill or fatigued driver. it STATES NO DRIVER SHALL BE FORCED TO DRIVE ILL OR FATIGUED!. I ________ have notified my supervisor _________that on _________ I was suffering from fatigue and requested to be released fro duty. My supervisor advised me that i could not be released from duty and ordered me to continue to work and drive fatigued. I was forced to continue to work and drive cdl vehicle or non cdl vehicle #______ even after informing my supervisor of being unfit for duty because of fatigue. at the time i requested to be raleased i had already worked-- hrs. and have not rested for a period of -- hrs. my 8 day extended idot log hours are -- hrs in the last 8 days worked. the reason i continued to work past my log hrs. and phisical fatigue is for fear of being suspended for insubordination if i refused this forced assignment, sincerely_________

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ARCOS UPDATE


The Company met with the Union on July 14, 2005 at the request of the Union. This meeting was meant to have discussions on the Company’s unilateral action on raising the ARCOS mandatory callout acceptance rate.

The Company imposed this increase in percentage without prior discussion with the Union leadership as promised at the last ARCOS discussion meeting between the parties.

The breaking of this promise is not what concerns the Union, due to the fact it is almost always expected, but the real concern that must be communicated to the membership is the reasoning for this drastic increase.

The Company gave two main reasons for this increase:

Number 1: they looked at the average percentage attained across the Company for the last quarter and it was about 35 to 37 %. And therefore it was attainable to reach.

Number 2: was... their self-imposed goal for CAIDI was missed by 8 minutes. And this CAIDI goal was not at the same level when ARCOS was forced upon the membership, but was increased making it harder to attain.

So, because the members can do 35% and the Company did not meet their CAIDI it was increased!!!!
The issue of using a CAIDI goal to set callout response is ludicrous.

The employees have no control of this number.

We wait for locates.
We wait for poles.
We wait for material.
We wait for tickets.
We wait for decisions.
We wait for switching.
Etc.
Etc.
Etc.
Sometimes for hours!!!!


When asked what is the actual response time of the employees that effected CAIDI, they did not know.

The only thing that has improved in the CAIDI system is callout “call time” and that is because it is done by a machine and not management. The employee still has to drive to work secure trucks, tools, equipment and materials then drive to the problem before power can be restored. And in some cases due to Company reorganizations, drive time is sometimes 1 to 2 hours.

In case you missed the message from the Company it is:

“THANKS FOR THE HARD WORK GUYS FOR INCREASING YOUR %,

NOW __________ _________ AGAIN!!”



With this reasoning the % increases will never stop!!!!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS
Frank P. Kuders, President/Business Manager, Local Union #614
5 Ruby Road, Chadds Ford, PA 19317

July 8, 2005
Ken Menconi
Senior Specialist, Safety
Exelon Corporation
Three Lincoln Centre
Oakbrook Terrace, Ill. 60181-4260
Re: MOOPS Program


Ken,
In regards to our previous meeting pertaining to the MOOPS program, as I promised, I contacted the
Assistant Business Managers in EED.
It is the general consensus, that even though those involved in the MOOPS program did not name
individuals who were doing things in a manner not prescribed by the company, the company used
this program as an example to their supervision showing infractions should and could be found. This
has created a negative attitude toward the program at this time.
Safety, as always, is a top priority with Local Union #614. Hopefully in the near future our members
will be participants in a safety group that focuses exclusively on creating a safe work environment.
Fears of reprisals or discipline should not be the norm .A safety program should center on awareness
and avoidance of potential problems and hazards.
Therefore, at this time, I cannot endorse the MOOPS program, nor can I recommend that members of
Local Union #614 participate.


Respectfully,
Frank P. Kuders
President/Business Manager
IBEW Local Union #614

[CHICAGO HAND.]

19 Out Of 22 Feeders Were Completly Destroyed In The Basement Of The Sub Station In Darien.
It Will Probably Be A Month In My Opinion Before It Is Back To Normal Again.
The Customers Are Hanging On A Shoe String Right Now.

What A Mess.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

If it blows again , who knows? Maybe the company will be looked at closer!

Headline on channel 2 reads "Outage Outrage". Mayor of Darien pissed. What about the rest of the towns. People had to be out 3 days before it was considered "newsworthy". Great when the company can't restrain the media any longer!

[zapped74]

While the powerminds were taking care of all the overloaded feeders in Bolingbrook the ones that were left to care for there home areas were all alone and without help I personally had 3 URD faults wiping my last target after 16+ hours and my OD had reqested help twice for me without avail the midnight guy had coded his shift and my relief had to come from the next area west of us and if I looked over my shoulder I could see my ass at the end of the night cus it was dragging the ground three feet behind me.

[WI Hand]

[

But this shit is O.K. with local 15! Local 15 leadership is in the companies pocket, selling us down the river, letting the company kill as many of us as they can!!!!!!!!!! The local never addresses any of these issues do they? The more of us they kill, the fewer they'll have to represent or pay!!!

Great place ta work, getting shafted from both sides!!!!![/QUOTE]

You're full of shit. Local 15 has what, like 1500 outstanding grievances? You think they file those because it's fun? If you don't like what's going on, vote out whoever it is you think is fuking you, and/or run for office. Show 'em what you got.

[WI Hand]

I have a feeling I know a lot more about what's going on down there than you do.

Do you attend Union meetings or participate in any way?

You appear to know little to nothing about the grievance process up to and including med/arb. You appear to know nothing about what your reps are up against dealing with your shitty employer. You appear to be one of the members who complains about everything but isn't willing to do a damn thing to assist union leadership.

Yeah, Yeah the Union's fuking you. I'm sure you'd be better off with no representation. I would recommend circulating a decertification petition. Once you're out of the IBEW, you can call the shots Cowboy.

[WI Hand]

Some of what you've got to say barely justifies a response, but here goes anyway.

As for 2500 grievances, getting fired and waiting a year or more for arbitration, etc., virtually all of that you can blame directly on the Bush Administration for one, and right wingers as a whole. I hope you're not one of those "good" union hands that votes for "smaller government", "individual freedoms" etc. that the right wing claims they're for.

The grievances are a direct response to recent pro-company anti-union legislation. The companies think they can do whatever the hell they want, and guess what? They're right. If you get fired, and arbitrate, the waiting period is because the government doesn't care how long it takes - you are a mere worker, not a corporation. If you make it to arbitration, good freaking luck. The National Labor Relations Board is stacked with 3 Republican appointees and 2 Democratic appointees. Guess who wins? Not you, you poor MF'er.

In fact, by a recent 3-2 vote (you guess who voted how) the NLRB says it's legal for your employer to monitor your activities not only at work, but off work. If you are engaging in something after work that they are not too fond of, Bye-Bye. Little to no recourse.

6 months without a contract? The union leadership won't "let them" have a raise? You've got to be kidding me! Didn't happen to leave out any details, did you?

As far as having no representation because you have 2500 grievances, I'd say you have pretty active representation. Should they just let everything slide that the company's pushing? Are they sellouts or not? You're kind of playing both sides here. What should they do, Answerman? What are your solutions to the bullshit that ComEd is pulling? File Unfair Labor Practice complaints? See above re:NLRB.

You voted someone out of office who was then appointed to another position in the local. Were they appointed to an appointed position, or an elected position? Was it legal? Was it within the laws and bylaws of the Constitution? If so, it may be distasteful, but you'll get your chance to right things at the next election.

Things are going downhill in some of the same ways in Wisconsin as you're experiencing, just not as rapidly or intensely. We may get there soon, though. God forbid the day when instead of only a few workers (barely)standing together in solidarity, everyone is out for number 1. We'll be cooked.

[Trubbleman for ComEdy]

No Cheese for me, I'm riding this sinking ship all the way to the bottom!!!!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

COM ED ENERGY DELIVERY OUTLINES RESULTS FROM ARCOS
Letter Outlines Company Actions To Be Taken From Review Period Results and Going Forward

In a letter addressed to Local 15 President/Business Manager Bob Joyce on August 24, 2005 Com Ed Energy Delivery officials outlined what action the Company plans to take with respect to the ARCOS call-out program for both the review period that recently concluded and on a going forward basis for the remainder of the year.

The December 31, 2004 review period was originally delayed by Sr. Vice-President John Costello-EED Operations until March 31, 2005 due to the pending arbitration decision on the issue of ARCOS call-out penalties. The August 24, 2005 letter went on to state: Following receipt of Arbitrator Cox’s decision on March 2, 2005 the review period was again extended to June 30, 2005 to afford employees:

• The opportunity to acknowledge Cox’s reaffirmation of the Company’s right to monitor call-out performance;
• The chance to improve their call-out response to meet the Company’s 25% expectation;
• The opportunity to avoid receiving further disciplinary action based on their call-out response performance.

Since June 30, 2005 the Company has been analyzing employees performance data from two perspectives:

• The first was to identify those employees who responded to 25% or more of their calls during the entire 9-month period;
• The second was to identify those who failed to respond to 25% or more during the 9-month period, but did respond to 25% or more of their calls during the 2nd quarter of 2005 immediately following the Cox Award.

The Company explained they initially considered immediate discipline of employees who failed to meet both perspectives, but later changed to focus on those employees who they felt continued to “shirk their responsibility”. Therefore the Company plans to immediately implement disciplinary action with employees who failed to respond to any calls during the 9-month period. For the employees who accepted some calls but did not meet the 25% expectation, the Company said they would, on a non-precedent basis, defer implementing discipline actions until their performance is assessed at the end of the year 2005.

Going forward the Company remains steadfast on the imposed 35% minimum response expectation for the 3rd and 4th quarter for all ARCOS-affected employees, including those who received the deferred discipline outlined above. The deferred discipline employees must meet the 35% minimum level for both quarters to avoid discipline.

The Company refused to entertain any interest in the Union’s proposal to place the 35% expectation level on the reporting center and not the individual employee, unless the call-out response for the location fails to meet the target. The Company feels their current plan best fits their objective although the Union’s proposal will provide for response to the Company’s emergency needs without the turmoil and undue stress and hardship on the employees and their families.
IS THIS A GREAT COMPANY OR WHAT?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

LOCAL 15 SENDS “CEASE AND DESIST” NOTICE TO MEMBERS TAKING MANAGEMENT UPGRADE
The following letter was hand-delivered to Union members who continue to accept “upgrade to management” despite repeated requests by Local 15 and its directive to refuse the offer. In sending the letter, President/Business Manager Bob Joyce is providing these members a “last chance” opportunity prior to taking the next steps to curb this activity.
“It has been brought to my attention that you are upgraded to a management position. Periodically the Union has put out Unity’s explaining to our members why the Union Members should not be accepting Upgrading To Management positions. Due to what I believe are continuous efforts on behalf of Exelon Nuclear/ComEd management to purposely circumvent our Collective Bargaining Agreement, seniority system and past practices which have been negotiated over many years.
Consider this letter your official written notification requesting you to cease and desist upgrading to management immediately. I would appreciate your cooperation in this matter. If you should not cease & desist the Local has no other option but to take appropriate action in order to protect our interests.
There is no excuse for any Union member not to follow the direction of their Union in these efforts.”
The members receiving the letter are:
Daniel Barrie – Mt. Propspect; Kita Dorsey – Chicago North; Francis Fallico – Chicago North; Gary Gehrig – Libertyville; Nancy Gonzalez - Oak Brook; Michael Koski - Libertyville; Ronald Martin - Chicago North; Suzanne Mathy - Oak Brook; Mike McPartlin - Oak Brook; Sonya Pettis-Salonis - Oak Brook and Robert Sobucki – Lena.

[outtathere]

I'm glad I'm not there anymore. You guys are in a tough situation.
I can understand your position. The catch 22 is, do you want to
work for someone who knows the job or somebody who worked
at a Jiffy Lube last week? It's a tough one. I'd say if the union
can stop this influx of know nothings coming in off the street
to run jobs, then the action is correct. I know some of the guys
that are upgraded and do believe that some of them would do their
best to be fair and try to make this f**ked up system work better
for you. I also know that some of the guys still there think the
same. For the time being it may benefit you. In the long run
you know the company is just going to foul everything up more.
This is just a thought. I'd like to hear your opinions. Remember,
you can take the lineman off the pole but you can't keep his
dick out of the sidebox. Flash! This just in. I hear you guys
have pee bags now. They've taken the fun out of everything.
That does it! I can't wait to hear what they have in store for
you if you have to take a dump. No, you can't go to Mc Donalds.

[Lineman12kv]

I think the title of this message sums it up. They could not organize their way out of a paper bag!

The truth about Exelon / ComEd - http://comedreporter.com

[outtathere]

You're pretty hard on the prez. You make it sound like he invented
this shit. While you're at it fill us in on what Clinton ever did for us.
Sorry this is so late. This is the first time I've entered this thread.

[O'Donnell for President]

:rolleyes: Well, Clinton reduced unemployment, turned the national debt into a surplus, and was able to form complete sentences. I don't understand why the working man would support Bush. He has no regard for you, only his cronies. Billions for Homeland Security, Iraq, and now Katrina cleanup. Is any of it getting into your pocket? Not unless you work for Halliburton or your name is Cheney.

[outtathere]

The way I remember it was that in 1988 under Regan the interest rates started going down and construction was booming.This trend followed George H and Clinton into office. How does Clinton get credit for that? While Weasel Willy was in the Whore House, now again referred to as the White House, delegates from China were frequent over night guests
there. Clinton made too many concessions to China. He's not solely to
blame as no one else has stemmed the trade defecit.
To be quite honest I remember him making a lot of promises to labor but
can't honestly remember him keeping any of them. Jog my memory.

[O'Donnell for President]

:p I don't care how many interns Willie Clinton screwed as long as he didn't screw me! Historically, every time a Republican President has been in office, Labor has suffered. I wish I could be a Republican, but I can't get over the fact that they like to shit on the working man. I am not particularly fond of the Democrats either, since a lot of them are bleeding heart liberals who favor welfare. So, where is the third party for the working man? Wake up America! Besides outsourcing jobs overseas, we have allowed Mexicans to come in here and work without repercussions. I am not biased or racist, but let's be realistic. For the first time ever, illegal immigrants outnumber legal immigrants working in this country. I don't fault them. They are trying to better their lives. I fault our leaders. They are not looking out for OUR best interests. They are looking out for Big Business's best interests.

[powerscott]

I am on call 24/7! 1 time per month and I hate it. It does not go to anyone else it is me! Be happy work safe. :D

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Utilities give $1million to politicians

Report suggests link to controversial rate-setting plan

Advertisement



Thursday, October 27, 2005

By Adriana Colindres

of Copley News Service

SPRINGFIELD - Illinois political candidates have received more than $1 million in campaign contributions since 2003 from electric utility companies that now are pursuing a controversial rate-setting plan, a new report says.
The top donor was Exelon and its subsidiaries, including Chicago-based Commonwealth Edison, which gave $535,400, according to an Illinois Campaign for Political Reform report being released today. Ameren and its subsidiaries, which serve much of central Illinois, took second place by contributing $504,200, the report said.

The top recipients of the money were Senate President Emil Jones, D-Chicago, who collected $219,400, and Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson of Greenville, who took in $163,250, according to the report.

The companies' "giving strategy" suggests they mainly want to block any potential changes to the state's 1997 electric restructuring law, David Morrison wrote in the "Power Markets" report.

"If those two (Jones and Watson) refuse to take action on electric utility reform, the 1997 law stays unchanged," wrote Morrison, project coordinator for the nonpartisan Campaign for Political Reform.

In recent weeks, there have been rumblings that the General Assembly might try to derail plans by ComEd and Ameren Corp. to use a "reverse auction" process to set electricity rates for business and residential customers starting in 2007.

A temporary rate freeze, which was part of the state's 1997 electric restructuring law, is to expire at the end of 2006. ComEd and Ameren view the power auction as a way to prepare for the next phase of what commonly is called the deregulation law.

Electric rates are expected to rise substantially once the freeze is lifted. Ameren, for instance, has said rates for its Illinois subsidiaries, including AmerenCIPS, AmerenIP and AmerenCILCO, could go up as much as 35 percent in 2007.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich and Attorney General Lisa Madigan oppose the auction plan and believe it would hurt consumers. Madigan has sued the Illinois Commerce Commission to prevent it from approving the auction proposals. Blagojevich in September replaced ICC Chairman Edward Hurley with Martin Cohen, who had been executive director of the watchdog group Citizens Utility Board.

Cohen's nomination still requires state Senate confirmation. A Senate committee could consider the nomination next week.

Critics of Cohen have questioned whether he could be an impartial member of the ICC when, as CUB's executive director, he strongly opposed the auction proposals. In late September, Ameren sent Cohen a letter asking him to disqualify himself from considering Ameren's auction proposal.

Cohen, who already has begun work at the ICC, has defended himself. He says he will fulfill the duties of his new job honestly and impartially.

CUB, meanwhile, this week asked the ICC to investigate and temporarily halt a television advertising campaign by a new ComEd-backed group called Consumers Organized for Reliable Electricity, or CORE.

CORE has been running TV commercials that suggest political meddling could result in "a California-style energy crisis" in Illinois, with electric rates failing to cover actual costs. That would jeopardize the reliability of the power supply, CORE says.

CUB executive director David Kolata accused ComEd of "fear mongering." The ads claim that Illinois consumers "are at risk of losing reliable electricity" because Illinois politicians are "advocating actions that could put our system at risk," CUB said.

But Barnaby Dinges, CORE's executive director, said the organization stands behind its ads.

"We think it's hypocritical and paternalistic of CUB to challenge our commercials," Dinges said Wednesday. "Part of the reason we exist is we think CUB doesn't talk enough about reliability (of electricity)."

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Exelon draws fire as it posts record profit

By Robert Manor, Tribune staff reporter. Tribune news services contributed to this report
Published October 27, 2005


Exelon Corp. announced a record quarterly profit Wednesday, then came under attack for allegedly threatening Illinois consumers with blackouts if they don't accept higher electricity rates.

The Citizens Utility Board asked the Illinois Commerce Commission for an emergency investigation into what it alleges are false claims by a group funded by Commonwealth Edison and its parent, Exelon. The group, Consumers Organized for Reliable Electricity, is trying to overcome opposition to ComEd's plans to buy power at auction, which is expected to raise residential electric rates.

"CORE is a ComEd front group that is trying to mislead people into supporting a massive rate hike at a time when the company has record earnings," said David Kolata, executive director of CUB. "They are not being honest."

The call for an investigation came on what should have been a happy day for Exelon.

Profit for the third quarter ending Sept. 30 rose to $725 million, or $1.07 per share, compared with $568 million, or 85 cents per share, for the period a year ago.

Exelon said its net earnings rose nearly 28 percent because of better profit margins at its electric generation operations and increased demand for power by its customers, which includes people served by ComEd.

Exelon's financial performance comes against a background of escalating debate about the future of ComEd, which serves several million customers in northern Illinois.

In September, Exelon Chief Executive John Rowe warned that ComEd faced bankruptcy if the utility is not allowed to earn a profit after 2006, when the electric utility industry is scheduled to largely deregulate.

ComEd wants to buy electricity from generation companies through an auction; observers predict that will cause a major increase in the price of power.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich is threatening to fire any ICC commissioner who votes for the auction, and Atty. Gen. Lisa Madigan has sued to stop it.

As he has in the past, Rowe offered a concession to politicians opposed to the plan.

"ComEd is prepared to enter into an agreement that will keep the [electric] rates at or below the 1997 level," Rowe said at a press conference Wednesday to discuss Exelon's earnings.

ComEd is funding CORE to try to win over public opinion. CORE has been running television commercials warning of impending blackouts like those seen at the beginning of the decade in California. ComEd said it has given $4 million to the group.

Recently, CORE began a mass direct-mail campaign.

The mailed literature includes a sham Chicago Tribune front page bearing the huge headline, "The governor has no business telling commissioners how to do their job."

Elsewhere, the mailing attacks Illinois politicians who oppose deregulation of the utility industry, saying that would lead to lost jobs, bankrupt businesses, higher electricity rates and blackouts.

"Keep our lights on!" the CORE mailing implores in bold face.

Avis LaVelle, a spokeswoman for CORE, acknowledged her group is funded by ComEd.

"This is not money from the ratepayers," LaVelle said. "This is money from the shareholders."

And she said it was hypocritical for CUB, a consumer advocacy organization, to ask regulators to investigate opposing special-interest groups.

"They want to stifle free speech for anyone who does not agree with what they have to say," LaVelle said.

Although the rhetorical conflict between ComEd, CUB and the state's top politicians is heating up, Exelon continues to increase sales and profit.

Exelon had revenue of $4.47 billion for the quarter, compared with $3.75 billion for the period a year earlier.

Demand for cooling jumped 91 percent for ComEd and 34 percent for the Philadelphia utility Peco, also part of Exelon.

Exelon's stock has risen 68 percent in the last two years, compared with 23 percent for the benchmark Standard & Poor's 500 index. Shares of Exelon fell $1.25 Wednesday, closing at $51.60 on the New York Stock Exchange.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

CUB Asks ICC To Investigate Reliability Threats In ComED/Core Ads
Says company is resorting to fear mongering to win big rate hike approvalCHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2005 — The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Tuesday asked state regulators to launch a special investigation into claims by ComEd that Illinois consumers “are at risk of losing reliable electricity,” as a massive advertising and direct mail campaign being funded by the utility claims.
Contact:
For more information call Pat Clark at 312-263-4282.


Click here for Adobe Acrobat version of the news release and the Petition For Investigation and Inquiry into ComEd's Provision of Reliable Electric Service filed at the Illinois Commerce Commission.



In a formal petition filed with the ICC, CUB asked the agency to conduct the investigation on an emergency basis and to order ComEd to halt the publicity campaign until the ICC’s probe has been concluded. CUB’s petition also asks that the ICC to impose appropriate sanctions if it finds the ad campaign violates any laws.

The ads, as well as direct mail flyers being sent to consumers’ homes, list the group Consumers Organized for Reliable Electricity (CORE) as their sponsor. But CORE is funded almost entirely by ComEd.

“ComEd has resorted to fear mongering in its campaign to push through a big rate hike it doesn’t need or deserve,” CUB Executive Director David Kolata said. “Threatening consumers with blackouts if the company doesn’t get what it wants from the ICC is totally irresponsible and unacceptable and it’s up to the commission to hold ComEd accountable for its actions.”

The main thrust of the ads, being run extensively on network television, is that Illinois consumers “are at risk of losing reliable electricity” because Illinois politicians are “advocating actions that could put our system at risk.” The ads warn of a “California-style energy crisis” here in Illinois.

A direct mail flyer sent out to consumers goes even farther, stating, “Keep our lights on!” and “Keep Illinois Politics OUT of the Electric Industry.”

The advertising and marketing campaign is designed to counter the overwhelming opposition ComEd’s controversial auction plan has generated. Every independent agency that has reviewed the proposal—including CUB, the Illinois Attorney General, the Cook County States Attorney, numerous labor unions and Gov. Rod Blagojevich—is opposed to it.

CUB’s petition asks the ICC to determine whether ComEd customers truly face any threat to reliability or if the company’s claims are merely panic peddling.

“With almost $1 billion in higher rates at stake, it’s no wonder that ComEd is ratcheting up the rhetoric,” Kolata added. “But these ads cross the line. If ComEd really believes reliability is threatened, it should be addressing the issue in a serious manner, not running t.v. ads.”

CUB is a nonprofit statewide utility watchdog organization created by the state legislature to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. For more information about CUB and its efforts to protect consumers, call CUB’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit www.citizensutilityboard.org.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

LOCAL 15 REPRESENTATIVES MEET CITY AND VILLAGE OFFICIALS
In the continued attempt to “get our message out”, representatives from Local 15 continue to meet with mayors from various cities as well as village presidents.
On October 12th, Union staff members met with City of Rockford mayor Larry Morrissey, and one week later met with Machesney Park Village President Linda Vaughn. Both communities experienced unusually long delays in power restoration after a normal thunderstorm on September 30, 2005. Some residents were without electricity for nearly three days.
The Local 15 representatives shared reasons why they believe the service reliability and restoration efforts of the Company has slipped over the past six years by comparing staffing levels from 1998 to the present. Changes in work process and practices were also discussed as how they add to the persistent problem that seems to not get any better, including the centralization of New Business functions and other reorganizations.
Not surprising, the Union’s delegation was met with interesting questions, concerns and comments by the local government leaders with the information that was being shared. Many agreed they had noticed a downturn in service from ComEd.
The Company’s recent “reverse auction” process for buying electrical power was also outlined to the groups and the Union’s opposition was explained to them.
Local 15 officials have also met with city leaders from Yorkville, Darien and a host of others, most of which would be regarded as an “off-the-record” type of discussion.
The Union will continue the effort to “get our message out”.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

NOTICE TO ALL LOCAL 15 MEMBERS: SIGN FOR NOTHING
“Do We Sign Any Form?” Union Advice: NO!
This week, the Union office received numerous calls from members about the latest policy distribution by Exelon. This one concerns the “Non-Discrimination & Harassment-Free Work Environment Policy”.
According to company communications, the distribution of the policy is a result of a recent (unidentified) legal settlement
Recent calls to the Local 15 office surround management’s requests for the bargaining unit employees to sign a new “acceptance form”. The answer is “No!”.
According to the Company: No bargaining unit employee is forced to put a signature to any form unless required by local, state and/or federal law (i.e.: NRC, NGET, CDL, etc.)
In its latest policy distribution, front-line management was properly to introduce “force” for any employees to sign the ‘acceptance form’. In fact, the instructions clearly state that if an employee refuses to sign, the supervisor is to simply mark on the ‘acceptance form’ the policy was distributed. Yet, first-line management still attempted to force employee signatures on the documents.
What is the issue from the Union’s perspective? It is simple. In most cases, there is no problem. Yet, in front of an arbitrator or other legal venues, the company will produce the signed ‘acceptance form’ by the employee and will testify the employee knowingly; and with proper and full disclosure of the interpretation of the policy by management, signed the ‘acceptance form’ indicating they were fully advised of the meaning and intent of the Company policy.
In essence, the arbitrator/judge may well interpret the signature to indicate the employee had the policy fully explained to them and any or all questions/concerns were addressed to the employee’s satisfaction, thus the need for a subsequent signature. On the Exelon property, the bargaining unit employees know that never happens.
Going forward, Local 15 IBEW advice is for members to refuse any request by management to sign forms not required by local, state or federal laws. The Company has never forced bargaining unit employees to sign any form or document the employee was not legally required to by the NRC, DOT, OSHA, etc.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

November 22, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

As I am sure you all have heard, Local 15 won a great victory for its members and labor across the country! On October 31, 2005, in a unanimous three judge decision, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals (the second highest court in the land) found that Midwest Generation’s 7 week partial lockout of our members was an unfair labor practice and, thus, unlawful. The remedy for this violation is a make whole order. This means that Local 15 members who were locked out are entitled to all wages and benefits lost as a result of the lockout plus simple interest at the rate of 5% per year, minus any wages earned during the 7-week lockout. Further, if you can prove you had any other monetary losses as a result of the lockout, such as lodging and travel expenses because you had to work out of town, these losses may also be compensable. We estimate that the lost wages and benefits alone, without deducting interim earnings or including other losses, may be in excess of 8 million dollars.

There was also a second important part to the Court’s Order. The Court sent the case back to the Board to decide whether Midwest Generations’ unlawful, partial lockout “coerced the Union and its members into ratifying Midwest’s contract offer in 2001.” The Seventh Circuit has held that if the Board finds that it did, then the current collective bargaining agreement is void, and, we believe, all our members who were injured in the last 4 years by the onerous language which Midwest Generation forced upon the union and its members in 2001 should be made whole. Further, instead of bargaining from the current bad contract language, the parties will be bargaining for a new contract from the language that existed in the contract that expired in 2001.

Although Midwest Generation could ask all 12 judges of the Seventh Circuit or ask the United States Supreme Court to hear the case, our attorneys do not believe the company will be successful.

The Union and our attorneys are currently working with the NLRB to gather the information concerning lost wages and benefits and interim earnings. In the months to come, you will be receiving a questionnaire and possible phone calls from the NLRA compliance officer at Region 13 concerning your losses. Please be sure to cooperate fully with that person and provide all requested information and documentation. If you have changed or, in the future, change addresses, please let the Union know.

Calculating lost wages and benefits will take some time. Also, it will take time for the Board to decide the second issue regarding the validity of the current collective bargaining agreement, so be patient. We have waited 4 years for this great result, so we can wait another year or so if necessary to resolve the remaining issues. The biggest battle is over and we won!

Fraternally yours,



_______________________________________
Robert A. Joyce
President/Business Manager/Financial Secretary
Local Union 15, I.B.E.W.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

PSE&G unions drop Exelon-PSEG merger opposition
Tue Nov 22, 2005 04:39 PM ET

HACKENSACK, New Jersey, Nov 22 (Reuters) - The four unions for workers at Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), New Jersey's largest utility, have agreed to drop their opposition to Exelon Corp's (EXC.N: Quote, Profile, Research) proposed $16 billion takeover of the utility's parent, PSEG spokesman Paul Rosengren said Tuesday.
PSE&G's agreements with its union employees were disclosed by company officials testifying at five hearings on the merger scheduled by New Jersey regulators.

At a Monday evening hearing in Hackensack, Vice President of Electric Delivery Ralph LaRossa said the agreement with all four of its unions covers some 6,479 employees, and is acceptable to both management and the labor leaders.

"The purpose of the agreements is to protect every covered union employee from a forced layoff for any business reason as a result of the merger," Exelon's Executive Vice President for Government and Environmental Affairs, Elizabeth Anne Moler, told another hearing.

"These agreements will give PSE&G a stable work force," Moler continued, adding that the unions have committed their support for the merger.

Roger Schwarz, a spokesman for three of the bargaining groups, had a different view of the agreements, stating the unions "are not opposing the merger."

Rosengren said the agreements are for the life of the utility's six-year contracts with the union membership who make up more than half of the 11,000 employed by PSEG.

When the merger was announced nearly a year ago, Exelon and Public Service Enterprise Group Inc. (PEG.N: Quote, Profile, Research) said they planned to reduce their combined staffs in Illinois, Pennsylvania and New Jersey by about 1,400 positions after the merger, including 510 in New Jersey.

"More than 800 vacancies have been created" by the hiring freeze instituted by the two companies after their merger announcement, LaRossa said.

The merger, which is expected to create the largest U.S. utility in terms of customers served, power sold and power generated, has been approved by both companies' shareholders and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Still pending are decisions from the U.S. Justice Department, the Securities and Exchange Commission and state regulators in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has published a schedule calling for its decision by May 15, but the process could be shortened if the companies reach a settlement with those now opposing the merger, Rosengren noted.

Such a settlement was reached in Pennsylvania and is now pending before the state's Public Utility Commission, the companies said in September.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Higher Court Calls Bush NLRB Out on a Bad Decision


A federal appeals court recently joined the growing chorus of critics of the National Labor Relations Board’s Republican majority. The Seventh Circuit Court issued a harsh assessment of the Board last month when they ruled to overturn its finding that an employer’s partial lockout of pro-union workers was legal. The decision wasn’t handed down by “liberal activist judges,” as you might have expected. Rather, a trio of Republican-appointed judges denounced the Bush Board.

In 2001, Midwest Generation, a power company operating throughout Illinois, failed to reach an agreement for a new contract with its employees. So as a last resort, all but eight of the 1,150 employees and members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) went on strike on June 28, 2001. During the course of the summer, 47 employees made offers to return to work, which the company accepted. Then on August 31, the entire workforce offered to end the strike and return to work, but Midwest Generation refused. The company wouldn’t let them back until they ratified their contract proposal, and instituted a lockout on all employees with the exception of the eight “non-strikers” and 47 “crossovers.” On October 16, 2001, the employees ratified Midwest Generation’s proposal and the company ended the lockout.

Before the workers ratified the agreement, the IBEW filed an unfair labor practice charge against Midwest Generation. The union argued that through the partial lockout, the company illegally discriminated against those who honored the strike until it ended, thus coercing employees to vote to accept its contract proposal. The NLRB General Counsel found merit in the charge and issued a complaint against the company on March 7, 2002. The case was subsequently sent to the Board for review.


Workers Seek Alternative to NLRB Elections

Less than 20% of workers are forming unions through the NLRB election process.2

On September 30, 2004, the Board majority found the company’s partial lockout was legal.1 The majority argued that the company was not acting discriminatorily, but was merely placing economic pressure on employees to get them to agree to its proposal. Yet when a company institutes a partial lockout, it must offer a legitimate operational justification for locking out some employees and not others. Midwest Generation offered no such explanation, and even admitted that it did not need the non-strikers and crossovers to maintain operations during the lockout.

The IBEW appealed this decision to the Seventh Circuit Court. On October 31, 2005, the appeals court reversed the Board’s ruling, arguing that the majority used reasoning “in derogation of nearly four decades of employee protection.”3 The court asserted that by accepting the company’s defense without a substantial business justification, the Board’s approach “would allow employers acting under the guise of maintaining business operations to engage in exactly the type of action Midwest undertook: punishing those who stood with the union and rewarding those who crossed picket lines.”

The court ordered the Board to rule that Midwest Generation violated the law by instituting a partial lockout. They also ordered the Board to consider whether this violation warrants voiding the contract, as the coercive lockout may have led employees to more willingly accept the employer’s proposal.

Public scrutiny over the policies of the Bush administration is at an all-time high, but the extreme decisions and willingness of the Board to undermine workers’ basic legal protections are still under the radar. Now that Republican-appointed federal judges have sharply rebuked the views of the Bush Board, will more eyes be on the NLRB?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Well They Are Threatening Bankrupcy Here If They Cant Get A Rate Increase.
Anyone Ever Work For A Utility That Went Bankrupt ? And If So How Did It Effect You ?

[CHICAGO HAND.]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Pat Clark
Jan. 9, 2006 312-263-4282
CUB URGES ICC TO REJECT COM ED AND AMEREN AUCTION PLANS,
SAYS THE PROPOSALS ARE ILLEGAL AND UNFAIR TO CONSUMERS
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Monday called on state regulators to reject ComEd and
Ameren’s controversial auction plans because they would force consumers to pay unlimited rate
hikes without requiring the utilities to show that the prices are just and reasonable, as required by
Illinois law.
CUB outlined its objections to the plans during oral argument before the four members of
the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) who are set to rule on the case Jan. 24. Monday’s hearing
was the first time opponents had a chance to make their case directly to the commissioners.
At the hearing, CUB argued the ICC cannot approve the auction, as proposed by the utilities,
because it violates fundamental consumer protections in state utility law. Those protections require
utilities like ComEd and Ameren to provide service at least cost and they require the ICC to ensure
that rates are just and reasonable and costs prudently incurred.
Under cross-examination in September, ComEd’s star witness in the case acknowledged that
the auction plan was not designed to get the lowest prices for consumers. In fact, the company has
admitted the auction is likely to produce a big rate increase in 2007, after a state-mandated rate
freeze ends.
CUB’s studies show that the auction, combined with two other rate hikes ComEd is pushing,
would boost electric rates by nearly 40 percent, or close to $1 billion. Ameren officials have
acknowledged their customers could see rate hikes of between 20 and 35 percent beginning in 2007.
“ComEd and Ameren’s auction plan is a radical departure from current law, which requires
utilities to do everything they can to get the lowest-priced electricity for customers,” CUB
--more--
Executive David Kolata said. “But ComEd’s own officials have admitted the auction wasn’t even
designed to do that. Instead, it puts all the risks of the so-called market on consumers who have no
other choice for their electric service.”
Residential electric rates have been frozen since 1997, when the state restructured the
electric industry and mandated a 20 percent rate cut for consumers. But that rate freeze expires at
the end of this year.
Both ComEd and Ameren have prospered under the rate freeze. ComEd parent-company
Exelon posted record profits of $1.9 billion in 2004 and its stock price is at record levels. Ameren
posted $530 million in profits in 2004.
The 1997 law also allowed the electric utilities to either sell their power plants or transfer
them to unregulated affiliates, which both ComEd and Ameren did. As a result of that move, the
companies now must purchase power on the market to sell to customers.
The companies want to use a wholesale auction, similar to one used in New Jersey, to
purchase power for customers beginning in 2007. And they want the ICC to rubberstamp the
electricity prices the auction produces, without any after-the-fact review of whether the rates are just
and reasonable, as required by Illinois law.
Electric rates in New Jersey jumped by 15 percent immediately following the auction and
more price increases are on the horizon.
CUB is urging the ICC to reject the auction as proposed by ComEd and Ameren. The
companies would still be able to use an auction, but the prices would have to be reviewed by the
ICC and could be lowered if the commission found there were other, less expensive ways for the
companies to purchase power.
“ComEd and Ameren have a wide range of options they can use to buy power for
customers,” Kolata added. “But the prices have to be reviewed by the ICC to make sure customers
aren’t being gouged.”
CUB is a nonprofit statewide utility watchdog organization created by the state legislature to
represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. For more information
about CUB and its efforts to protect consumers over the last 20 years, call CUB’s Consumer Hotline
at 1-800-669-5556 or visit www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org.
###

[crazyjim]

ddddwe will go to 50% call out, in 1990 we had 11 lineman, 2006,same office, more populated, n.w. florida,gulf power,2 linetechs,,...(to be politically correct),,yeah,i can uphold that.why does mgt,keep seeing the errors of there ways,,,and instesd of fixing the problem,,they say its our fault,and punish us.oh and meter techs,(test,cts,3 phase mtrs,no..NO primary work,and are now making as much as a linetech.oh and the contreactors they hired to "help us" ah......yeah, we go back on trouble tickets to the same addreses they were just at the day before..

[crazyjim]

oh, this went into effect,ah,,,...1 1 06, ...we will get our copy of the details,...ah,,,next week, 1 17 06. they did not want to bring this up during negotiations,,might have been a conflict..they say it is not a part of arcos,....,then why does my call out say,"this is an automated call out from the roster monster,arcos. maybe they know about the law suit......................................ENJOY YOUR TIME WITH YOUR FREINDS AND FAMILY,IT IS YOUR TIME.........UNLESS YOU ARE GETTING PAID TO STAND-BY. GOD BLESS

[TEAMJOEFISHING]

Gulf Power has now implemented the same ARCOS guidelines as you'll started with 2 years ago they way I have been reading
50% callout or else!!
The Heavy Hand of management is upon us now
Do this or else!!
They expect us to live by the phone
even though our Journeyman numbers are way wayyyy down
No hiring!!
Plenty of new Management jobs available everyday though

Downsize to the Bare Minimum of the craft jobs
Contractors showing up now that were never used in the past

Our Union is starting to get shakey
Thats what management wants
Same situation here


I love the Lawsuit
I hope it goes good for all of you putting your ass on the Line every day

It will be a great thing for all of us countrywide just starting to feel the Roster Monsters Bite

I just wish the Lawsuit could Be USA wide for all Unions in this situation
All the Unions getting onboard
Voice through numbers!!!

Get back the freedom to spend time with your families without the intimidation of losing your job

Good Luck
We are with Ya
We are all in this together!!!

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Thanks crazyjim & TEAMJOE,

Nice to see we're not the only ones, also very sad! Keep an eye open in the near future, news coming! ;) They will probably wait and see how this lawsuit concludes before they enforce it totally. Good luck to all of us.
Stanman

[liledgy]

the best way to beat arcos is for all the lineman turn every call down from the very beginning. that way they can't divide the troops and fire some of the guys that didn't make the quota, nobody made it. Unless they fire or give every lineman timeoff.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Please read an article named "Stretched too thin" in the 1/23 edition of www.chicagobusiness.com/mag Let me know what everyone thinks?

BTW, we don't get paid to be on-call!

[woody]

Stan...love to read it...but don't want to registar...could you reprint here? woody

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Stretched too thin
ComEd line workers are suing the company, saying job cuts are wrecking home life

Work calls cut into line worker Tim Ganatos' family time, interrupting his daughter's wedding and a visit with his soldier son, home from Iraq. Photo: Brett Kramer
Michael Hisel says he lost his job as a ComEd lineman because he refused to leave his two young children home alone in the middle of the night to answer short-notice service calls. Tim Ganatos, a 25-year veteran line worker, says missing a service call because he was attending his daughter's wedding counted against him.
These workers and more than 300 others are suing the utility, saying Commonwealth Edison Co. is asking too much from its front-line employees after reducing their numbers. While Chicago's electric company spent $3 billion to upgrade its power system in recent years, it got rid of too many people who service those lines, union officials say.

The utility says it's actually doing a better job restoring power after outages, but others say deep cuts can compromise future service.

"Unhappy workers typically don't improve performance," says Thomas Lys, a professor at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management who studies the utility industry. "Labor unrest makes one question whether (timely service) is sustainable."

PAYROLL CHOPPED

ComEd has cut its total payroll 22% from 2001 through 2004, government filings show. A comparison of electric companies in Boston, Detroit, New York and Pittsburgh shows a stark contrast, with ComEd dramatically cutting workers at a time when other utilities are spending more or holding the line on staffing.


Around 335 ComEd employees last year paid $500 each to file a class-action lawsuit against the company, challenging a 2-year-old policy requiring workers to respond to 35% of calls to fix outages. Another 134 are petitioning to have their names attached to the lawsuit.
Workers say their relationship with the company is worse than it's been in years. A voluntary system in which foremen handled calls to their crews for after-hours work was replaced in mid-2003 with an automated call system. Those who responded to less than 35% of the calls in any quarter would be subject to penalties, starting with an unpaid day off and ending with termination.

WEEKEND WORK

The cost-cutting is placing severe strains on the private lives of workers, the suit says. The linemen are seeking millions in pay they say is owed them for being available to work on weekends, says Chicago attorney Christopher Mammel, who represents the employees.

ComEd's front-line workers — those climbing utility poles, scrambling down manholes and staffing substations — numbered 1,460 at the end of 2004, down 23% from 1,893 at the end of 1998, according to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 15, which represents ComEd employees.

The company won't confirm or dispute the numbers but says cutbacks were necessary during the transition to more competitive electricity markets in which power rates were frozen from 1998 until the end of 2006.

ComEd Chief Operating Officer John Costello won't comment on the lawsuit — ComEd has filed a motion to dismiss it, which is now pending before a federal judge — but says the shift to mandatory calls was necessary. Before the policy was put in place, the company was averaging about a 10% response to its emergency calls. Now, it's at 35%. That's reduced the amount of time people have to wait until their power is restored, Mr. Costello says. "My responsibility to customers is that when the lights go out, you're expecting those lights will go back on," he says.

ComEd plans to hire 190 line workers this year to begin making up for what the union projects will be 320 retirements among front-line employees over the next three years, Mr. Costello says.

That's of little comfort to Mr. Ganatos, who says he was also penalized for missing a call while at dinner with his son who had just returned from active duty in Iraq. The 49-year-old Mr. Ganatos says he "can't turn 55 soon enough," referring to a minimum retirement age.

Mr. Hisel, a single father of two sons, ages 3 and 7, was let go last year after serving eight years with the company. He now works for a ComEd contractor and receives reduced benefits.

[woody]

Thanks Chicagohand....you guys will hopefully win the lawsuit. Doesn't look good as far as working there though. Keep up the good fight. woody

[Orgnizdlbr]

We won a mandatory callout policy in Arbitration, 16.5 million in damages,now the co is taking it to court to attempt to overturn the arbitrator

[TEAMJOEFISHING]

We won a mandatory callout policy in Arbitration, 16.5 million in damages,now the co is taking it to court to attempt to overturn the arbitrator


What were the details??
What company?
What date?
Very Interesting!!!

[KEVHEAD]

Organized Labor,

16.5 million?
How many members do you have?
What type of response % was the Company looking for?
Good Luck with any appeals.

[Orgnizdlbr]

Organized Labor,

16.5 million?
How many members do you have?
What type of response % was the Company looking for?
Good Luck with any appeals.




1250 members. There was no % response, when the co called, you answered and came. If you didnt answer you were subject to discipline. One guy was given a week off for attending a memorial service for his father in law. Another was given 2 weeks off, when the company called he was holding his son over the toilet after his sons first chemo treatment.

The company was Jersey Central power and light, the parent co is First Energy, or worst energy as we call them. Award came in sept 2004. Poplicy was imposed dec 2002. We had language in our contract that said no mandatory callouts. Language said if co wasnt happy with response then they had a right to negotiate. well they didnt negotiate and imposed 100% with the only discretion up to the supervisor. Arbitrator ruled that co had to compensate for being on call. Only guidance CBA gave was $25 a day and $35 for weekends for CSR's so that is what he ruled.....

[CenterPointEX]

Stretched too thin...While Chicago's electric company spent $3 billion to upgrade its power system in recent years, it got rid of too many people who service those lines, union officials say.
The utility says it's actually doing a better job restoring power after outages, but others say deep have compromised future service.
"Unhappy workers typically don't improve performance," says Thomas Lys, a professor at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management who studies the utility industry. "Labor unrest makes one question whether (timely service) is sustainable."
Meanwhile the cash is still being drained from the nations Utilities... Maintenance has ceased and the slowly but surely the grid is entering into decay. One would have thought the California and multi state blackouts would have opened the nations eyes...

[Orgnizdlbr]

Meanwhile the cash is still being drained from the nations Utilities... Maintenance has ceased and the slowly but surely the grid is entering into decay. One would have thought the California and multi state blackouts would have opened the nations eyes...

CP, the public really doesnt become concerned until their lights are out. Its a shame what has happened to the infrastructure of some of these IOUs. No maintenence, no capital expenditure unless it deals with new customers, operate until failure....really a shame. It will be interesting to see what happens now with the age old PUHCA coming to a slow death, more mergers, more downsizing, less experience in the field and throughout supervision. The old utility industry may go the way of the banking industry, the airlines and the Telcos. More money for the CEO's, more expensive for the customer, no regulation at all....should be interesting, I'm buying a generator!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Study Shows ComEd/Exelon Doesn't Need Big Rate Hike, CUB Announces Push To Extend Freeze on Electric RatesCHICAGO, Feb. 20, 2006 — Armed with data showing that ComEd parent company Exelon is now the most profitable electric utility in the nation—and would continue to post unreasonably high returns without any rate increase—the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) Monday said it would push for state legislation to extend the current freeze on electric rates for another three years. Contact:
For more information call Pat Clark at (312) 263-4282.


Speaking at a news conference Monday, CUB Executive Director David Kolata said an independent financial study of Exelon shows the company is reaping windfall profits already and will continue to do so under almost any rate scenario after 2006, when a state-mandated rate freeze is set to expire. The results of the study argue for an extension of the freeze to protect consumers from exorbitant and unnecessary electric rate hikes.

“ComEd/Exelon is earning profits unheard of in the history of the utility industry and will continue to post huge profits without another nickel from consumers,” Kolata said. “Extending the rate freeze will protect consumers from skyrocketing electric bills and still allow the utilities to make more than generous returns. It makes sense and it’s the right thing to do.”

Under a 1997 state law, electric rates are frozen through the end of the year and are expected to skyrocket in 2007 unless the legislature or the courts act to block the rate hikes. CUB is supporting legislation, expected to be introduced this week, to extend the rate freeze through 2009. The legislation will be introduced as Amendment #1 to HB 1944 and will be sponsored by Rep. Lisa Dugan, of Kankakee.

Kolata noted that the rate freeze originally was set to expire at the end of 2004 but the legislature extended it for another two years because, at that time, no competition had developed for residential consumers. Ameren Facts
Ameren recently announced record earnings for 2005 of $628 million, up 18 percent from the prior year. [Ameren press release, Feb. 14, 2006]

Since passage of the 1997 restructuring law, Ameren’s profits have more than doubled. [Ameren investor reports]

Since passage of the 1997 restructuring law, Ameren investors have seen the value of their stock increase 346 percent more than the increase in the value of the S&P 500. [Independent financial analysis by Ed Bodmer, Feb., 2006]

Ameren has achieved outstanding financial performance despite paying premiums to acquire its three Illinois utilities, CIPS, CILCO and Illinois Power. [Bodmer study]

Ameren customers can expect to see rate increases of 35 percent come 2007 if the auction approved by the ICC is not reversed. [Ameren statements to the press]

The average Ameren customer will pay $287 more a year under the auction plan. [CUB analysis]

Ameren will continue to be extremely profitable without any additional rate increases from consumers. [Bodmer study]

Based on Ameren’s impressive financial performance under the rate freeze, CUB is urging state lawmakers to extend it for another three years to protect consumers from skyrocketing electric rates beginning in 2007.



“Although we’ve had competition on paper for years, there’s not a single competitor offering electric service to Illinois consumers,” Kolata added. “Nothing has changed since 2004, except that ComEd/Exelon is over $1 billion richer.”

CUB will appeal a recent ruling by state regulators that allows ComEd to use a controversial auction process to purchase and price power for customers beginning in 2007. That plan, along with a pending hike in delivery charges, is expected to boost rates by at least 20 percent, or $266 a year for the average residential customer. However, if auction results in other states are any indication, prices could climb even higher.

CUB’s latest financial analysis of Exelon was conducted by Edward Bodmer, a former ICC staff accountant and vice president of First National Bank of Chicago. Bodmer is now an independent consultant and has worked on behalf of several utility companies.

Bodmer’s study finds that Exelon is the most profitable utility company in the nation, with stockholders earning a 21 percent return on equity. Since 1997, when the state restructured its electric industry and imposed a 20 percent rate cut and freeze on ComEd, Exelon stockholders have seen the value of their stock increase by $18 billion, an increase 1,500 percent greater than the increase in value of the S&P 500. During that same time period, the rate cut saved residential consumers $3 billion.

The study also shows that Exelon’s profit rate would remain far above any reasonable estimate of the profit rate allowed to regulated utility companies even if rates remain frozen or were to be reduced by 5 percent. Under a rate freeze, Bodmer projects Exelon’s profit rate would hover between 18 and 19 percent through 2012. With a 5 percent rate cut, the profit rate would remain around 17 percent through 2012.

The average return on equity allowed by regulatory commissions for electric utilities is about 10.5 percent.

CUB will be filing a petition for rehearing with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) on Tuesday and, if the agency rejects that request, will appeal the auction ruling to the Illinois Appellate Court.

CUB is a nonprofit statewide utility watchdog organization created by the state legislature to represent the interests of residential and small-business utility customers. For more information about CUB and its efforts to protect consumers, call CUB’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

REMEMBER . . .



Assignments for Working Outside

Of

Com-Ed Service Territory



(PECO, Detroit Edison, Florida Power & Light, Illinois Power, etc)



In order to try to keep our members informed as much as possible and to make an effort to attempt to eliminate any last minute confusion that has usually occurred in Out of Service Territory Storm Assignments, Local 15 is requesting that

no Union members volunteer

for any such assignment until an agreement is reached with Local 15 and the Company. This request is necessary because we want the membership to be able to make an informed decision before volunteering as to what will be required of them; what safety measures will be in place; and, what their compensation and benefits will be when they report for these types of assignments.

Local 15 will continue to communicate any progress should any meeting take place.



UNITED WE STAND DIVIDED WE FALL!


WITH ALL THE OTHER ISSUES OUTSTANDING I APPRECIATE HEARING ABOUT THIS ONE FOR THE TENTH TIME.
MONEY AND RESOURCES WELL SPENT LOCAL 15.
I'LL JUST CONTINUE TO WORK IN THE RAIN AND ANSWER THE PHONE WITHOUT BEING PAID TO BE ON CALL WHILE YOU GUYS HASH OUT THE IMPORTANT ISSUES.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Overhead Electrician, Special

The Only Form of Energy We’re Missing is Yours.


At ComEd, an Exelon Company, we know that of all the energy resources available to us in the 21st century, there’s one that’s more powerful than any other – human passion. By finding some of the most talented and passionate individuals, we’ve managed to create something remarkable: A power company that never forgets its 48,000 megawatts of electricity are only as powerful as the people who are responsible for the transmission and distribution of it


CHECK OUT THIS IN THE EMPLOYMENT SECTION.


THIS PLACE HAS COMPLETLY DESTROYED THE MORAL AT THIS PLACE AND NOW IS LOOKING FOR MORE BODIES TO DESTROY.FEEL FREE TO COME AND JOIN THE REST OF THE CASUALTIES

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ARBITRATOR BROWN ISSUES FAVORABLE RULING ON THE LIKE-FOR-LIKE VALTIN HOUR CASE
On February 24, 2006, Arbitrator Barry C. Brown issued his decision on the question: “Is the Company violating the Valtin Award by not offering like-for-like Valtin Overtime Hours when the contractor exceeds forty hours/week?”
The issue arose when the contractors performing cable-locating work for ComEd Energy Delivery exceeded their forty-hour schedule. The Company claimed no matching overtime to the Local 15 members were owed as the contractor worked in several different areas throughout the week. Additionally, the Company never reported contractors working on Sundays even though our members would observe them doing cable-locating work on Sundays in many areas.
Throughout the grievance process the Company did not furnish the information needed by the Union. Only after Arbitrator Brown ordered the Company to furnish the information during the first day of the hearing was the data provided. However, the contractor hours were vague and incomplete. Finally, the Union subpoenaed the timesheets from the contractor. At that point, the Union was able to assemble the pieces of the puzzle. Among the information found after sifting through the timesheets was that contractors were, indeed, working on Sundays.
In his Award, Arbitrator Brown wrote: “The company’s failure to track and report Sunday overtime hours for the contractor did violate the Valtin Award and, if the contractor exceeds forty-hours/week, the matching Sunday hours would be at double-time rate”.
Arbitrator Brown also determined that when the contractor exceeds the forty-hour/week, like-for-like matching overtime hours are owed to the affected work group. The affected work group, as identified by the arbitrator, would be those employees in the area where the contractor was working at the time the forty-hour/week is exceeded.
Additionally, the Company is directed to devise a reporting system that will comply with the Arbitrator’s decision. The parties are also to meet and determine what the remedy for the violation will be.
Arbitrator Brown retained jurisdiction in the case for six months. During that period, either party may declare an impasse at which time the arbitrator shall return to settle the differences that remain.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Exelon contains leak at Ill. Braidwood nuke
Fri Apr 7, 2006 11:47 AM ET



NEW YORK, April 7 (Reuters) - Exelon Corp. <EXC.N> reported a radioactive steam release from the 2,362-megawatt Braidwood nuclear power station in Illinois on Thursday afternoon.

The Chicago-based company said in a statement issued Thursday night the leak, which contained an expected amount of tritium, did not pose any health or safety threat to workers or others.

The leak occurred when a relief valve for a drain tank malfunctioned. Steam condensed on plant property and about 500 gallons of condensed water flowed into a ditch that leads off site, the company said.

Workers contained the flow, pumped out the water and returned it to the station. The leak was stopped by 6 p.m.

The company tested the condensed water and found an expected concentration of about 46,000 picocuries of tritium per liter of water.

Tritium is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen found naturally in small concentrations in most surface water. A nuclear reactor, however, produces higher concentrations of tritium in water.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency established a safe drinking water limit of 20,000 picocuries of tritium per liter of water. A curie is a unit of radioactivity. A picocurie is a trillionth of a curie.

The company also said it would test the water in various locations on the plant property and, based on those results, determine whether further on-site or off-site testing was necessary.

The 2,362 MW Braidwood station is in Braceville, in Will County, about 60 miles southwest of Chicago. There are two units at the station: 1,185 MW Unit 1 and 1,177 MW Unit 2.

Units 1 and 2 at the plant were operating near full power early Friday -- unit 1 at 99 percent and unit 2 at 97 percent -- down from full power early Thursday. The system that released the steam was not part of the reactor water system.

One MW powers about 800 homes.

Exelon's unregulated Exelon Generation Co LLC subsidiary operates the station.

Exelon owns and operates more than 38,000 MW of generating capacity, markets energy commodities, and transmits and distributes electricity to about 5.2 million customers in Illinois and Pennsylvania and natural gas to more than 470,000 customers in southeastern Pennsylvania.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

IF THEY TREATED PEOPLE BETTER THEY MIGHT NOT NEED TO LOOK ANY FURTHER THAN THERE OWN HOUSE FOR HELP.




Job Title: Overhead Electrician, Special
Company Name: ComEd
Company Website: http://www.exeloncorp.com
Company Email:
Posting Start Date: 2006-04-10
Posting End Date: 2006-06-10
City: Chicago
State/Province: IL
Country: United States
Department: Electricity / Power
Salary: Not specified
Position Type Full Time
Job Description: Duties


To perform the work of an Overhead Electrician; to restore service, perform maintenance and construction work, and perform switching operations on the transmission and distribution systems; to instruct and train an Overhead Electrician when assigned to assist; to assign and coordinate work so as to properly safeguard employees, the public, and the property of customers and the Company; and to perform related work as assigned. Typical examples of the duties are:



1. To restore service or eliminate trouble on the transmission and distribution systems, including customers’ equipment, involving determining the equipment at fault and making permanent or temporary repairs by performing such work as cutting conductors in the clear, replacing or repairing poles and attachments, conductors, transformers, and other devices and equipment, transferring loads to other circuits, and connecting emergency transformers and generators.



To perform routine maintenance work on the transmission and distribution system, involving such duties as replacing or repairing poles and attachments, transformers, and other devices and equipment, including temporary grounding, pulling slack, trimming trees, washing insulators, maintaining equipment in designated vaults and electric service stations, and assisting in identifying, testing, and phasing underground lines.


To perform overhead or underground residential type distribution work and such light construction work as installing or removing services and single-phase meters, installing and removing conductors, poles and attachments, transformers, street lighting fixtures, and other devices and equipment.


To perform switching operations, under the direction of a dispatcher, on the transmission and distribution system, including street light circuits, and at distribution centers, electric service stations, designated network centers and unattended substations, involving operating such equipment as switches, love line clamps, voltage regulators, circuit breakers, fuses, and other electrical devices.


As assigned, to make inspections of lines and equipment, distribution centers, electric service stations, and designated network centers, recording instrument readings, and reporting maintenance and repair work needed.


As assigned, to instruct and train an Overhead Electrician assigned to assist; and to prepare various reports such as hours worked, material and equipment required, work performed, and field repairs needed.


Qualifications


Several years experience as an Overhead Electrician, resulting in a thorough knowledge of operating and construction standards

[NO ONE'S SLAVE]

Let me fill the poor fellas in.

1. Move to the beeeutiful city cause you have no senority. Cost of living? LOTS!!!

2. Start with no vacation the first year. 2 weeks after the first year. You sure won't get the holidays off, someone with more time already took those days. Don't plan on being anywhere else for the holidays. Work needs you. HA

3. Forced(Mandatory) 12 hr. days in the summer and sat. also. Kids play sports or does your wife like to see you. Forget it! Did I mention mandatory call-outs for no pay. No excuses!!!

4. Like getting talked to like a 3 yr. old? "AGahhh Goo Yahhh". Yep, that was baby gibberish for, "you get 3 days off for not tying you boot lace quick enough". Or "Icky BAaah Baa Boom" , you got it, slang for "I don't know your job, but you get 5 days off for something dumber than spit."

5. For GODS sake, how did I forget the great shift schedule that these IDIOTS put together, inquire within!

6. And the best part of this job? Getting treated like shit, fed shit sandwiches during storms, threatened everyday with petty B.S. and having a multitude of bosses that don't know shit tell you "if you don't like it go someplace else." Oh yeah, what a great place to work! Come aboard, just bring a floatation device. The ship is sinking fast and management has taken the only life boat loaded with money!!!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

1
Local Unions #15 and #614, IBEW
Contacts: Bob Joyce, (Local Union #15, IBEW), 708-243-0916 (cell)
Nick Citta, (Local Union #15, IBEW), 630-918-2725 (cell)
Erik Needles (Local Union #614, IBEW), 609-457-2778 (cell)
Mike Garrity, (Local Union #614, IBEW), 610-517-2414 (cell)
Paul Simon, International Representative, IBEW, 302-367-6534 (cell)

April 10th, 2006

For Immediate Release

Exelon Labor Unions Voice Concerns Over Reliability, Staffing and Restoration Issues
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Chicago, Illinois – Local Union #15, IBEW, the labor union
representing more than 5,000 employees in Exelon/Com-Ed in Illinois has been without a
contract for their SSG members since September of 2004. Local Union #614, IBEW, the labor
union representing more than 1,400 Exelon /PECO employees in Pennsylvania is in negotiations
for a first contract for approximately 1,200 members. Both Locals join together in raising
concerns over reliability, staffing and restoration for the Exelon customers.
Both Local Unions are holding informational picketing for the public over these issues at the
Exelon/PECO Philadelphia headquarters and in and around Exelon headquarters in Illinois.
Local Union #614, IBEW President Frank P. Kuders expressed his concerns over the lack of
sufficient qualified Company bargaining unit employees to keep the heat and lights on for the
Exelon/PECO customers. President Kuders stated, “It seems that since the decisions have been
taken out of our local area and are being made in the corporate headquarters in Chicago, Illinois
our staffing and maintenance has decreased which has a direct effect on our service reliability for
our customers. For example, our Troublemen who work alone, used to be able to get help in
storms. Today, that has become more difficult and restoration times have suffered as a result. It
seems that the profits made from PECO customers have funneled out to Chicago at the expense
of our electric and gas system. Our members are very frustrated at the lack of manpower and
resources to get the job done.”
Local Union #15 President, Bob Joyce stated that “Our members are the ones that are out there
seven days a week, twenty four hours a day, to insure that the customers have safe, reliable
electric power available to them. The purpose of the informational picket lines is to notify the
public that Exelon is not bargaining in good faith. They are holding the SSG workgroups CBA
hostage by insisting that we open and negotiate another collective bargaining agreement that
does not expire until September 30, 2008. Our members in the SSG workforce have not had a
wage increase since October 1st, 2003. It is interesting to note that even though the Company is
looking to take away from us, in 2004 they saw fit to increase executives salaries (which include
numerous stock grants and perks) and in one case, by as much as 30% of total compensation.”
Paul Simon, an International Representative for the IBEW representing utilities in portions of
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, said that this is not unusual. “Deregulation has not
turned out to be the bargain it was projected to be for the customer. It seems that the larger a
2
Utility gets, the more local service suffers. While Exelon profits are up and senior management
has financially been making out very well, the Company is cutting budgets, decreasing
preventative maintenance and expecting employees to do more with less. Our members are very
frustrated that it seems their “reward” from the Company for working long hours in the worst of
conditions to keep the customers lights and heat on is to have their wages, benefits and working
conditions reduced. At Exelon/PECO, approximately 40% of our members are age 50 and
above. With our reduced numbers, there is an ever increasing pressure to work more and more
overtime. We have already lost a number of qualified employees to other Utilities and are very
concerned with how we are going to be able to keep and attract qualified employees, such as
Linemen, where supply is low and competition among Utilities is very high?”

[CHICAGO HAND.]

WELL BOYS I HEARD THAT OUR LAWYERS WERE GOING AFTER COMPENSATION FOR OUR LUNCH TIME AND AFTER READING THE NEWEST DOCUMENT IT LOOKS TO BE TRUE.


Further, Plaintiffs routinely perform work for the benefit of Defendants for which
they are not compensated in violation of the federal and state statutes referenced herein. This
work includes but is not limited to being required to attend to and safeguard Defendants’
equipment during and through their meal periods for which they are not compensated resulting in
a loss of compensation and/or overtime pay. Thus, Defendants require Plaintiffs to perform work
for their benefit for which Plaintiffs are not compensated. Plaintiffs are entitled to recover
straight time or overtime for such time worked but not paid for.



CHECK OUT THIS CASE.


$14.5 Million FLSA Verdict: Could It Happen To You?
A case involving basic Fair Labor Standards Act ("FLSA") violations, such as not paying for meal breaks worked and inadequate recordkeeping, typically doesn’t generate too much attention. However, when the case involves a $14.5 million dollar verdict and requires back pay to some 1500 employees, employers need to pay attention. The decision by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in Reich v. Southern New England Telecommunications Corporation, Nos. 95-6207(L), 95-6239(CON), 7/31/97, clearly demonstrates the severe consequences that can result from an employer’s misapplication of the basic principles of the FLSA. The following discussion of the case presents the problems employers can have in applying the FLSA and gives practical suggestions for protecting your organization from a similar verdict.

The Facts

Southern New England Telecommunications Corporation ("SNET") had a policy of not paying for meal periods taken by its approximately 1500 "outside craft workers" who were required to remain at open work sites during their lunch breaks. These employees work primarily on-site, out-of-doors performing such duties as installing and replacing telephone poles and cables and cable splicing and repair. SNET required these employees to spend their lunch break at their work sites to secure the area and its equipment and to prevent possible harm to the public. These unpaid lunch periods generally lasted 30 minutes. Employees who left the work site during the shift without specific permission could be disciplined. The Department of Labor ("DOL") filed a suit against SNET on behalf of the 1500 employees, alleging FLSA violations of overtime and recordkeeping requirements.

Remaining On-Site Does Not Trigger Pay; Work Does

The key question in the case against SNET was whether the meal periods should have been paid time because the employees were required to remain on-site and had to perform certain duties during these breaks. To evaluate the claims, the Second Circuit relied on the DOL’s regulations interpreting what time must be paid as working time under the FLSA. In particular, 29 C.F.R. §785.19 does not require employers to pay for "bona fide meal periods," defined as meal periods when the employee is completely relieved from all work duties while eating. The meal period still may be unpaid if the employee is required to remain on the work site, as long as the employee does not have to work during the period. Accordingly, the fact that the SNET employees were required to remain on-site during their lunch breaks by itself did not impose an obligation on SNET to pay for the breaks. Rather, the determining factor for the court was whether the employees were required to "work" as defined under the FLSA.

The court applied the "predominant benefit standard" in its determination that the SNET employees were required to work during their meal breaks. According to this standard, if the employee performs activities that are predominantly for the benefit of the employer during a meal break, the break must be paid. The court rejected SNET’s argument that the employees’ safety and security roles were "wholly passive" so that the breaks were predominantly for the benefit of the employees. The court noted that SNET would have to pay others to perform the same services and, therefore, was "effectively receiving free labor." As a result, the time spent during these meal breaks should have been paid.

Recordkeeping Violations Muddy Payout Calculations

The determination of back pay and overtime for the 1500 workers was complicated by the fact that SNET could not present evidence of either the precise amount of work performed by the employees or evidence to refute the DOL’s calculations of what was owed to the employees. The Second Circuit pointed out that under the FLSA, "when an employer fails to keep adequate records of its employees’ compensable work periods ... employees seeking recovery for overdue wages will not be penalized due to their employer’s recordkeeping default." The burden is on the employer to present evidence of the time worked. Since SNET could not meet its burden, the court affirmed the lower court’s reliance on the DOL’s calculations, which included $88,893.33 in overdue wages, $4,823,884.60 in back pay, and $9,647,769.20 in liquidated damages.

Good Faith Defense Not Established

SNET challenged the almost $10 million awarded in liquidated damages claiming that it had acted in "good faith" and, therefore, should have the damages reduced. The "good faith" defense may apply when an employer acts, or fails to act, in good faith and if it had reasonable grounds for believing that the act or omission was not a violation of the FLSA. The Second Circuit pointed out that to establish good faith, the employer must produce "plain and substantial evidence of at least an honest intention to ascertain what the Act requires and to comply with it." The court emphasized that good faith "requires more than ignorance of the prevailing law or uncertainty about its development." Based on this definition, the court determined that it was not sufficient for SNET to claim good faith because it did not purposefully violate the FLSA, employees did not complain about the practice, or SNET complied with industry-wide practice.

Lessons for the Rest of Us

This case provides several basic lessons about FLSA compliance that all employers can follow to limit exposure to wage and hour claims:

If you require employees to work during lunch, you must pay for the break. However, you can require employees to remain on-site during lunch periods without having to pay them.

To determine whether a meal break should be paid, consider who receives the "predominant benefit" of the break period. If employees can use the time for their benefit and do not perform work, then employees generally do not have to be paid. It may be prudent to pay for any meal break that requires even the appearance of performing work for the employer.

Sloppiness in recordkeeping will only hurt the employer. This case makes it very clear that courts will err in favor of employees and rely on the workers’ recollections or the DOL’s calculations regarding what should be paid time if the employer does not keep adequate records. It also underscores the importance of appropriately categorizing what time should be considered paid working time to prevent these types of violations.

Misunderstanding the FLSA or doing what "everyone else does" is not a defense against violations. Employers have an affirmative duty to attempt to understand the FLSA’s requirements and to comply with them, even if no employee has ever complained. As SNET found out, the complaint can be initiated from outside the organization.

For further information on the FLSA and pay, meal break, and recordkeeping requirements, see Chapter 207, Hours of Work.


ALSO I NOTICED THIS MENTIONED ABOUT OUR BROTHERS WHO WERE FIRED AND THEN BLACKBALLED BY KIRALY.

d. Terminating the employment of Plaintiffs and putative class members without
justification; and
e. Prohibiting terminated employees from working for any contractor or subcontractor of Defendants and tortiously interfering with terminated employees’
employment expectancy.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Putting up with power loss

Publication Kane County Chronicle
Date July 20, 2006
Section(s) Main
Page



By MICHAEL GIBBS

mgibbs@nwnewsgroup.com

and TOM SCHLUETER

tschlueter@kcchronicle.com

LAFOX - Rod and Diane Anderson's farmhouse was built in 1860 and still has a working outdoor hand pump.

Diane Anderson said she did not drink the water that came out of the well, but it was useful to fill the toilet when the power went off.

"Life can get real simple real quick," she said Wednesday after more than 36 hours without electricity.

An isolated power outage from Monday night's storm affected the Andersons and their next-door neighbor, Jack Dowling, both of whom live on La Fox Road.

With ComEd struggling to return electricity to thousands of customers without power in Illinois and Wisconsin, the utility had not been able to get the LaFox residents' power back on.

Dowling said Tuesday's heat was not too bad. When he did feel warm, he went outside, where he had a working air conditioner.

"I sit in my car and run the $3.19-a-gallon gas," he said.

At 2 p.m. Wednesday, a pair of ComEd supervisors stopped at Dowling's house. Unfortunately, they could not provide a time when a repair crew would return.

"They've been very, very kind; it's not their fault," Anderson said. "I am fine, I'm not suffering."

Dowling said a huge gust of wind blew down limbs and trees across the power lines leading to his and the Anderson's home.

"You can see where a huge burst of wind came, 60 feet wide," he said.

Both lost food.

The Anderson's spent an hour Monday night by candlelight moving meat out of their freezer to a relative's home.

"I pulled the Breyers Ice Cream out that I like so much, and it was just slop," Dowling said. "We're eating peanut butter. I'll make it; it's just frustrating."

Despite calling in overhead linemen from as far away as Indianapolis to make up for a staffing shortfall, ComEd on Wednesday still was trying to get the power turned on its customers.

ComEd spokesman Don Westfall said the utility's employees and contractors had been working as hard as they could to restore the power to customers affected by the storm that struck late Monday. More than 110,000 ComEd customers around the Chicago area were without power at the peak of Monday's storm, Westfall said.

"Our crews only can work 16 hours straight," Westfall said. "Then they take eight hours' rest. They were on standby throughout the weekend and Monday, due to the heat. We had transformer outages that kept them busy."

Utility spokesman Jeff Burdick said the western suburbs, which includes Kane County, had 5,500 customers without power.

By 10:30 p.m., only 1,150 customers remained without power in the western region, which includes the Elgin area, spokeswoman Arlana Johnson said.

Although power outages dragged on more than 40 hours for some customers, ComEd officials insisted that they had enough people to deal with the situation.

"Do we have enough resources to handle an outage of this nature? Yes," said John Dewey, a Chicago-based ComEd spokesman. "The damage was very extensive, with winds in excess of 60 miles an hour. We had to rebuild our system in some areas. This was not a typical storm."

Once ComEd officials assessed the situation, they realized that they did not have enough overhead linemen and called in additional contractors.

Westfall said the time the storm hit and the fact it affected a wide area also slowed the process of restoring power.

"Until daybreak, it is hard to assess how severe the damage is," Westfall said. "Our first priority is to clean up down wires so that police and fire officials patrolling those areas can get back to their regular jobs. We spent the majority of Monday night and Tuesday morning doing that.

"We had a lot of damage, and a wide area of damage and customers without power. We always send our crews first to the lines that serve the most people."

Westfall said ComEd had restored power to 34,000 customers by Tuesday night. He warned that future storms could knock out power for even longer.

"In 2003, Rockford had a power outage that affected 100,000 customers for four days," he said. "I understand people's frustration. Normally we get the power restored rather quickly."

ComEd is seeking Illinois Commerce Commission approval to increase residential electricity distribution rates no more than 8 percent in 2007, 7 percent in 2008 and 6 percent in 2009, and commercial distribution rates between 15 percent and 25 percent in 2007, Westfall said.

The rate increase will be used for ComEd's operations, including investing in infrastructure, Westfall said. ComEd so far this year already has invested $146 million to help make its infrastructure more reliable, spokesman John Dewey said.

"Our infrastructure is in fairly decent shape," Westfall said. "It did not contribute to this power outage. We have an overhead system with a lot of exposure to storms, There were a lot of high winds, lightning and tree damage."

Filing a claim

* ComEd customers looking to file a claim to recover damages related to Monday's power outage, such as food spoilage, can do so by visiting www.exeloncorp.com.

* ComEd uses guidelines set by the Illinois Commerce Commission when determining whether it is negligent and should pay claims.

* Power outages caused by storms rarely result in successful claims because they are considered acts of God, a ComEd spokesman said.

THEY FORGOT TO MENTION THAT MYSELF AND OTHERS WERE DOING REGULAR NON EMERGENCY WORK ON JULY 20th.
OH YA AND GOOD JOB SENDING MANAGEMENT TO THE SCENE, THEY WERE PROBABLY LOOKING FOR SAFETY INFRACTIONS OF A CREW. SAFETY INFRACTIONS LIKENOT WEARING TWO LAYERS OF UPPER CLOTHING AND THEN ADD THE LIME GREEN TRAFFIC VEST IN THE 100 DEGREE HEAT WHILE YOU FILL OUT THE HOUR OF PAPERWORK BEFORE YOU GET OUT OF THE TRUCK TO REHANG A SERVICE.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ComEd seeks $346 million rate hike, gets $8 million


By Steve Daniels
July 28, 2006

(Crain's) - The Illinois Commerce Commission has all but eviscerated Commonwealth Edison Co.’s requested $346 million increase in the rates it charges for delivering electricity.
Two days after the state utility regulators voted on the rate proceeding, the commission’s staff finally has worked out what the numbers mean. It turns out the commission granted Chicago-based ComEd just an $8.3 million rate hike. The utility had asked for a $345.5 million, or 20.6%, increase.

Related story: ICC trims ComEd's rate hike request


The commission said it rejected cost increases ComEd asked to be compensated for including incentive compensation payments, uncollectible debt, charitable donations and advertising. Big-ticket cost increases that also were rejected included a substantial pension-plan contribution by ComEd parent Exelon Corp. and a 50%-plus increase in overhead expenses.

“The ICC made the right decision today when it rejected ComEd’s request to significantly increase delivery rates for electricity,” Gov. Rod Blagojevich said in a statement.

The ICC decision will save ComEd’s 3.7 million customers about $91 a year on average, according to the Citzens Utility Board, a consumer watchdog group.

ComEd president Barry Mitchell said earlier this week that the company will appeal the commission’s decision to the Illinois Appellate Court. He also said the company would have to reconsider a plan it has proposed to phase in an expected 25%-plus increase in customers’ electric bills, beginning next year.

ComEd’s delivery rates account for 20-30% of typical household electric bills. The remainder comes from the cost of electricity, which will be set in a state-run auction of power generators scheduled for September. ComEd and others have warned of a big increase in the cost of power.

Rates in Illinois have been frozen for nine years under state law, but the freeze is set to expire at the end of 2006.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

THIS IS IN THE NEW UNITY,JUST WANTED TO THANK THE MORONS AT LOCAL 15 FOR ENCOURAGING ME TO ANSWER MY PHONE WHILE NOT BEING PAID TO BE ON CALL.
WHY THE F--- AM I STILL PAYING THESE PEOPLE.
I GUESS THAT IS WHY WE ARE NOW PAYING OUR OWN LAWYERS http://www.exelonlinemen.com/


SUMMER RESPONSE WAS ACCEPTABLE; NOW IT’S FALL AND THEN WINTER
School is back in session in many areas. That means Summer is almost over and Fall is fast approaching. Which means that Winter and its sometimes brutal weather is not far away.
Just as in the Summer, the Winter season brings with it the need for Company call-outs of our members to restore power.
The Company’s call-out program currently includes the “first call free” feature that attempts to fill the call-out need with volunteers without members being charged with declines for not accepting the call-out on the first call.
Whether a call is placed to our members on the first call, or the second, Local 15 IBEW continues to encourage each member to respond whenever possible, as we have in the past. (Refer to March 7, 1978 and April 14, 1982 letters included in the Collective Bargaining Agreement).

[CHICAGO HAND.]

EXELON ON THE PROWL FOR OFFENDERS OF FMLA
Upswing Of Corporate Security Tapings Noticed.
In the last several weeks, the Local Union 15 office has observed a noticeable increase in the number of fact-finding meetings occurring regarding employees exercising their right to participate in the federal mandated leave known as the Family Medical Leave Act, commonly referred to as FMLA.
Evidently, the Company has chosen to send investigators out to video tape employees that have opted to take FMLA leave due to their own personal illness, or that of an immediate family member. All of the Leaves have met the criteria outlined in the Act, are recommended by the employee’s physician and ultimately certified by the Company’s Occupational Heath Service (OHS) department.
Yet, in the fact-finding meetings the Company produces video tapes of employees who the Company claims are in violation of their FMLA leave requirements. Several employees have been disciplined and even terminated.
The Union has been in constant contact with the Department Of Labor on these matters and believes the upswing in the surveillances may be in retaliation for the Union’s filing of charges and the DOL’s acceptance of those charges that Exelon is in violation of the Family Medical Leave Act’s provisions.
The Union advises all its members that are participating in the FMLA benefits to be aware of the Company’s campaign.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Seven top U.S. companies sued over excessive 401(k) fees: L.A.Times

Last Update: 4:47 AM ET Sep 26, 2006


NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- Seven of the largest companies in the U.S. violated pension laws by allowing their employees to be overcharged by the outside firms running their 401(k) retirement plans, according to a series of civil lawsuits, The Los Angeles Times reported in its Tuesday editions.
The employees were charged millions of dollars in excessive management fees, which often were hidden in obscure agreements and not disclosed to the workers, the suits allege.
"At best, these fee structures are complicated and confusing when disclosed to plan participants," claim all the suits, which were filed this month by attorney Jerome Schlichter in federal district courts in Illinois, California, Connecticut and Missouri. "At worst, they are excessive, undisclosed and illegal."
The companies named - Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT), General Dynamics Corp. (GD), United Technologies Corp. (UTX), Bechtel Group (BCT.XX), Caterpillar Inc. (CAT), Exelon Corp. (EXC) and International Paper Co. (IP) - together have more than 400,000 employees in 401(k) plans, according to the suits.
Spokesmen for Bechtel, Lockheed Martin and United Technologies defended their plans.
"United Technologies Corp. provides a highly cost-effective and successful 401(k) plan," company spokesman John Moran said. "We believe the lawsuit is meritless."
General Dynamics and Exelon declined to comment. Representatives of International Paper and Caterpillar didn't return calls.
The suits seek class-action status.
The Times reported that the lawsuits focus on so-called revenue sharing deals, in which the mutual funds chosen for corporate 401(k) plans return a percentage of the management and investment fees they earn to the outside administrators who run the plans and determine which funds will be offered. These revenue sharing arrangements were not disclosed to participants, the suits allege, and the costs charged for them have far exceeded what is reasonable to manage the accounts.
Newspaper Web Site: http://latimes.com
-Contact: 201-938-5400

[CHICAGO HAND.]

COM ED ENERGY DELIVERY IMPLEMENTS UNDERGROUND REORG
Ignoring Their Own “Lessons Learned” Process, Company Plows Forward With Underground Changes
After several meetings with ComEd Energy Delivery representatives from their Labor Relations and the Underground Departments, management has once again ignored Local 15 suggestions on reorganizing the department with the least amount of impact on our members, yet still being in compliance with the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Our main initiative proposed to the Company was to offer “Rights Back” opportunities to the Underground employees first. Then, fill the remaining open positions after the current Underground Schools are completed and after the system-wide Lateral Process has been exhausted.
The Company rejected the ideas presented to them to reach their goal of a better utilized Underground workforce and have chosen to implement THEIR plan.
Beginning on Monday, October 2nd the Company will have its Underground First Line Supervisors (FLS) canvass their employees who wish to exercise their “Rights Back” at the Elgin, Frankfurt, Glenbard and Skokie headquarters for the opportunity to return to their original locations at Aurora, Bolingbrook, Crestwood, Crystal Lake, Joliet, Libertyville, Mount Prospect, Rockford and University Park headquarters.
After the “Rights Back” canvass has been completed, the Company will identify the open positions remaining that must be filled. At that time, the FLS in the Elgin, Frankfurt, Glenbard and Skokie headquarters will canvass the excess Underground employees at those locations, by system-wide seniority, to fill the open positions.
While the Company may be following the Collective Bargaining Agreement in their Underground Reorganization plan, Local 15 remains adamant that had the Company adopted the Union’s suggestions and placed them in action the adverse effect would have been minimal, if not non-existent


THE BARN IN FRANKFORT DOES NOT EXIST AND HAS NEVER EXISTED.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

EXELON CONTEMPLATES SENDING BUSLOADS
OF SUPPORTERS TO STATE CAPITOL
Move Sparked By Speaker Madigan’s Rate Freeze Initiative He Plans To Introduce.

Earlier this week, Michael Madigan, Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives in Springfield announced his request to Governor Rod Blagojevich to convene a Special Session of the General Assembly to address a possible three-year rate freeze on electric utility rates in the state.

According to Speaker Madigan, this request is in response to the increased electric bills expected after January 1, 2007 as a result of the reverse-auction electricity procurement process. Company estimates that monthly customer bills will be costing approximately 20 per cent more.

In the next few weeks, the legislature will hold several public hearings to listen to the utility companies, industrial and residential customers, utility watchdog groups, among others on the subject. Local 15 intends to have representatives present and prepared to testify on Mr. Madigan’s behalf.

Our office understands that Exelon/ComEd Energy Delivery is currently contemplating to lease buses and asking its employees to volunteer to attend these sessions to rally in support on behalf of the Company.

Once again, the Company is asking its employees to stand up and provide help to the corporation when they are in need of assistance, yet when it comes to the corporation coming to the needs of its employees, assistance is no where to be found.

As such, ALL Local 15 IBEW members are asked to politely refuse the Company’s offer to support them in Springfield until the Company is willing to provide the support and loyalty back to the group that has made this Company successful for so many years. And that is the bargaining unit workforce.


TOGETHER WE STAND, DIVIDED WE BEG

I KNOW A FEW MEMBERS WHO WILL BE PUSHING THERE WAY TO THE FRONT OF THE BUS TRYING TO GET CLOSE TO MANAGEMENT.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

This is where ComEd(Exelon) lines up the whino's, bums, and crack whores for $5 each to take a bus ride to the capitol. You won't see the big wigs, they're busy threatening and trying to intimidate the state into giving them what they want. Of course house leader Emil Jones(D) will try and get the rate increases passed. Why? Cause the more ComEd(Exelon) makes the bigger contributions he gets(currently over $200,000.00 and growing).

"We'll go bankrupt", is an outright lie. You would think that Rowe would understand threatening people doesn't work, after he's tried that tactic so many times. If they cut half the upper management out of ComEd this company would be secure with or without a rate hike. I mean, over a 100 pres. & vice pres., who needs this much dead weight? Not to mention bloated CEO's pensions, salaries, etc....SCREW THE BUS RIDE!

[Dave@PSE&G]

Hey Stan, you're right about Rowe and his "hardball" tactics. The sentiment here in NJ is that the reason the PSE&G merger fell through was because Rowe basically told the BPU to "take or leave" their "last and best offer". Well, the Newark Star-Ledger reported that one member of the board, who is normally reserved and soft spoken, went off on a "loud and exaggerated outburst" at the Exelon exec's for trying to intimidate the board like that. A few days later, the BPU countered with a proposal WAY over what Exelon would concede, and the deal was dead. Rowe is, for lack of a better term, an ignorant asshole. With any luck, the Board of Directors will finally oust him after he fucks up one too many deals, and then perhaps your company will get some reasonable leadership to take it forward. Good Luck.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

GOTTA LOVE THE FRONT PAGE OF THE SUN TIMES.

Power outrage: Quinn slams electric rate hike
(http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/98404,CST-NWS-quinn16.article)

October 16, 2006

BY MAUREEN O'DONNELL AND LORI RACKL Staff Reporters
Stock prices at a near-record high.

Robust profits.

And a top exec who pulled down more than $27 million last year.

Hardly signs of a company on the brink of bankruptcy, according to a growing chorus opposed to ComEd's impending rate hike for its 3.7 million customers.

Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn is urging people to fight the hike, blaming it on "inflated egos with inflated salaries."

"It's hard to get a violin out for anyone who makes $27 million," he said Sunday, deriding the compensation package of John W. Rowe, CEO of Exelon, ComEd's parent company.

ComEd hasn't been allowed to raise electricity rates for nearly a decade. Utility officials say they'll lose about $1.4 billion -- and be headed for bankruptcy court -- if rates don't go up. A recent state power auction, in which power providers bid to supply electricity to ComEd, resulted in the rate hike that will boost the average ComEd customer's bill an estimated 22 percent to 26 percent after Jan. 1.

Gov also objects
The consumer advocate group Citizens Utility Board, or CUB, doesn't buy ComEd's doom-and-gloom scenario.
"When their executives are making as much money as they're making, and when they're spending at least $15 million on television ads trying to convince us they need a rate hike -- it doesn't pass the straight-face test,'' said David Kolata, chief of the watchdog group.

A CUB study says ComEd/Exelon earned $2.1 billion last year, and its profits more than tripled during the nine-year rate freeze. The analysis dubbed Exelon the most profitable electric utility in the country, with Exelon's shareholders getting a 21 percent return on their invested equity -- double the national average. The study also projected that the company would post "extremely high profit levels" through 2012 even if rates were reduced by 5 percent.

"They should tighten their own belt," Quinn said.

In a separate appearance from Quinn, Gov. Blagojevich assailed the rate hike -- which ComEd says would boost the average $60 residential bill to $73. Calling the auction process "a back-door way of trying to get a rate increase," Blagojevich said he would call a special session of the Legislature to extend the freeze "just as soon as we have the votes in both chambers and can get legislators to call the bills."

Getting those votes might not be easy. ComEd/Exelon and its employees have pumped more than $958,000 into state and local candidates' coffers over the last three years.

If the governor calls a special session, he should schedule it before the Nov. 7 election to pressure lawmakers into action, state Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka said through a spokesman. Topinka, the Republican nominee for governor, wants the rate freeze to remain in place "so we can go back to the drawing board and come up with a more equitable system for evaluating rates," said spokesman John McGovern.

Making his point by standing before a stretch limo near Exelon Plaza in the Loop, Quinn attacked Rowe's $27.5 million compensation package.

"Nobody's worth that much, I'm sorry," said Pat Lydon, 61, a legal secretary from Old Irving Park who was visiting downtown Sunday.

Quinn wants the Illinois Commerce Commission, which oversees utilities, to probe compensation for Rowe and four other ComEd/Exelon top execs who received packages of $2.7 million to $7 million last year.

Quinn's complaints about executive salaries are "misleading," said Exelon spokesman Thomas Stevens.

"Exelon senior executive salaries are paid by Exelon shareholders, not ComEd customers,'' the company said in a statement. Further, ComEd executive salaries are set by the ComEd board of directors, "to attract and retain industry leaders so that the company can continue to deliver to customers the reliable service they expect.''

Was in sarcophagus dispute
Under Rowe's leadership, Forbes magazine ranked Exelon as the No. 1 utility company on its 2005 list of the best-managed companies in the United States.
Rowe, 61, has led electric utilities since 1984. The lawyer and University of Wisconsin grad lives in a high-rise on North Michigan Avenue. Rowe could not be reached Sunday for comment.

While Rowe's salary is making headlines, it was one of his prized possessions -- a 2,600-year-old Egyptian coffin -- that catapulted his name into the news earlier this year. After an Egyptian official took issue with Rowe having the sarcophagus in his office, Rowe agreed to put the ancient coffin on indefinite loan to the Field Museum.

Contributing: Art Golab, Steve Patterson

Here's how much typical ComEd customers' bills will increase under the 22 percent rate hike:
Current monthly bill: After Jan. 1 rate hike:
$25 $30.50
$50 $61.00
$75 $91.50
$100 $122.00
$200 $244.00
$300 $366.00


NOTE: The consumer group Citizens Utility Board projects the rate hike for most ComEd customers will be 26 percent, not the 22 percent cited by ComEd.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Battle over rate increase heats up
Consumer interest group 'front group for ComEd'
By Chuck Goudie
October 18, 2006 - The battle over the ComEd rate increase is heating up. Two top Illinois officials want some answers from ComEd. State Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn are both trying to short-circuit the big rate increase for the electric power utility.

Related Links
Watch the video
Quinn is asking for emergency hearings into ComEd's relationship with a so-called consumer interest group that is backing the utility. Madigan says the multi-million dollar salaries paid to ComEd executives are a conflict of interest. ABC7 investigative reporter Chuck Goudie has exclusive details in this Intelligence Report.
Edison wants to charge about 25 percent more every time we switch on a light or run appliances. The huge rate increase comes at a time when huge executive paychecks paid to ComEd officials are raising questions about whether higher consumer rates will merely feed even higher salaries.

A TV commercial is featured on the website of an organization called CORE, Consumers Organized for Reliable Electricity. The group's aim is to promote the interest of electricity consumers. But, a spokeswoman for CORE admits, they are joined at the hip with an unlikely partner, ComEd.


"A large portion of it is funded by Commonwealth Edison -- I can't tell you how much," said Avis LaVelle, CORE media liaison.

Not only is CORE funded by ComEd, the I-Team has learned that CORE is actually a registered state of Illinois lobbyist, according to secretary of state records lobbyist registration records, the Consumers Organized for Reliable Electricity has one client, ComEd.

"There is something wrong if we are going to allow this one company with highly paid executives to raise the electric rates," said Quinn.

Over the weekend, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn raised his voice against ComEd compensating its top five executives nearly $47 million a year.

Quinn is raising the stakes in a letter to Illinois Commerce Commission Chairman Charles Box. The lieutenant governor is asking for emergency public hearings on Edison's executive compensation policy and on the so-called consumer interest group, CORE, that Quinn states "is acting solely in the financial interests of ComEd."

Attorney General Madigan said Wednesday that CORE is "a front group for ComEd" and that CORE has not registered with her office as is required by law for a non-profit organization.

Madigan says ComEd executives have a personal financial incentive to buy the most expensive electricity, because the more money ComEd brings in, the higher the stock option from parent company Exelon.

http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=investigative&id=4673977#



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ABC7 Now delivers the news you want right to your desktop! You can pick keywords (triggers) for stories of interest to you. Click here for more info!




ABC7 News Team

Chuck Goudie, Chief Investigative Reporter, ABC 7 News

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ComEd linemen score in suit
Judge gives go-ahead to seek damages for service call system
October 23, 2006
By Steve Daniels
-----
Commonwealth Edison Co. linemen and other workers have won a victory in their
class-action lawsuit against their employer, demanding damages for what they say
is an onerous system for responding to short-notice service calls.

A federal judge in Chicago ruled Oct. 4 that ComEd's nearly 1,500 front-line
employees have the right to sue as a class for damages.

The ruling gives the workers the right to sue under both federal and state
fair-labor laws, says Christopher Mammel, the Chicago attorney representing the
employees. To date, 485 ComEd workers have paid $500 apiece to join the lawsuit.
To be eligible for damages under federal law, workers must join the suit. But
under state law they could get awards without becoming plaintiffs, he says.

"I think (the ruling) is really significant for this group of linemen," Mr.
Mammel says.

While the judge's ruling doesn't address the merits of the case, it puts
attorneys for the plaintiffs in a stronger position to negotiate. Companies
desiring to avoid further legal costs often move to settle suits after a class
is certified. Mr. Mammel says he thinks he can make a case for damages totaling
at least $30 million and more likely more than $100 million.

But at this point ComEd shows no desire to settle. "To date, ComEd has prevailed
on all rulings related to its call-out response procedures, and we're confident
we will prevail in this case as well," ComEd says in a statement. "The
certification of class ruling . . . does not address the merits of the case."

Daniel V. Kinsella, a Chicago labor attorney who represents management but isn't
involved in this case, says the judge's ruling "is not going to encourage
settlement." ComEd already has won an arbitrator's ruling that its call-out
system doesn't violate the workers' collective bargaining agreement, he says.

The arbitrator rejected a grievance filed by ComEd's union to overturn the
system, which ComEd instituted in 2003 to improve responses to call-outs after
storms or for unscheduled maintenance and repair work. Employees are required to
respond to 35% of call-outs in a quarter. Those who fall short get penalties
ranging from days off without pay to firing (Crain's, Jan. 23).

To date, five employees have been fired for failing to respond to call-outs
frequently enough, Mr. Mammel says.

Before 2003, employee call-outs were a part of the job but workers weren't
subject to such penalties. "The factor that has made the (new) system more
abusive was that (ComEd) coupled it with discipline," Mr. Mammel says.

In the case, employees argue that they're effectively on call all the time,
which they say is overly intrusive on their private lives. They're asking, among
other things, to be paid for their transportation time to unscheduled jobs.

ComEd argues that the standards are necessary to ensure service quality,
particularly when outages hit. It says its call-out system is similar to that
used by other electric utilities around the country.

The workers counter that the more onerous rules were put in place because ComEd
cut the number of front-line workers in recent years. ComEd says it began hiring
this year to beef up its ranks.

copyright 2006 by Crain Communications Inc.My Scalar==1

[CHICAGO HAND.]

October 29, 2006


Re: Medical Contribution “Holiday”


To All Members of Local Union #614 and Affected Management Personnel


By this time everyone has either heard, or has been notified by the Company, that a four pay period holiday in regard to Medical payments will be instituted for most employees. While I commend the Company for this action, I ask myself, “why now?” The answer to that is quite apparent to the EED and the Call Center Negotiating Committee.

The Negotiating Committee sought the input from a third party benefits provider to do an “apple to apple” comparison for health benefits. During the course of this comparison it was disclosed that a surplus Trust Fund was in existence which held any over payments from previous years. When asked by the Negotiating Committee what this surplus was used for and how much money was in this fund, the committee was told that when the amount reached a certain level a Medical Benefit Premium Holiday is normally announced.

Is it a coincidence that after the Union questions the amount, and how the surplus benefits the employees of this company, the Company, within several weeks announces a Benefit Payment Holiday?

It is quite apparent to me and the other members of the Negotiating Committee that it is only because the Union has brought this issue to light, that you, the employees, are seeing this payment holiday.
This is a prime example of one of the benefits of being organized and being able to have an active say in what affects each and every one of us in our work place.

My sincere thanks goes out to all the members of the EED/Call Center Negotiating Committee.
And to all the members of our Union, thank you for being our eyes and ears out there in the field, keep up the good work.

In Unity, There is Strength!


Frank P. Kuders
President/Business Manager
IBEW Local Union #614



GOOD WORK BOYS, NOW YOU SEE WHY JOHN ROWE WAS DISSAPOINTED THAT YOU WENT UNION.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Be emPOWERed?

• Did management tell you that you were emPOWERed the last time you received a discipline for your decisions at work?

• Were you emPOWERed to refuse call-outs after working 1,000 overtime hours?

• Are you emPOWERed when management reminds you they run the Company?

• ComEd wants you on their bus, but every day you are not on their Team!

• Your Pension and Health Care Plans are under the Exelon umbrella, not ComEd but the Company wants you to accept a third-rate medical plan.

• The Company wants YOUR help, what are they giving you?

• They want guarantees of their rates so they can make a profit for the shareholders. What guarantees are they offering you so you can continue to receive wage increases and decent health care benefits to provide for your family?

• Has the Company guaranteed to invest profits back into the infrastructure to protect the safety of the public and its workforce?

• Has the Company guaranteed to increase staffing levels to perform the work with Local 15 members rather than their increasing use of contractors?

• Has the Company guaranteed you anything?

• Local 15 IBEW has never opposed a fair and equitable rate hike for the Company. Our questions have always been how will the money be spent? Into the ComEd infrastructure and the Local 15 workforce or to purchase another utility company? Until Local 15 receives answers to those questions, we strongly urge our members to just say “NO, THANKS” to ComEd and their bus trip to Springfield.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

Exelon execs downplay talk of rate compromise


(Crain’s) — Exelon Corp. CEO John Rowe and Frank Clark, CEO of Exelon-owned Commonwealth Edison Co., expressed pessimism Wednesday that an accord can be reached in the Illinois General Assembly to reduce ComEd’s 24% electric rate hike.

“I am not at present certain there will be (a compromise),” Mr. Rowe said during a conference call with Wall Street analysts Wednesday. “This stalemate may end up being the solution.”

The two executives were responding to questions about state Sen. James Clayborne Jr.’s efforts to spur a new round of discussions between utilities and consumer advocates over the rate hikes that just took effect after nine years of level electric prices. Those negotiations are set to get under way at the end of this month or in early February.

Mr. Clark said he interpreted Sen. Clayborne’s initiative as a way to discuss helping “transition customers to the new rates.”

He rejected the positions of consumer advocates, who have said that a compromise must include abolishing the state-managed auction of power generators that produced the higher electricity prices responsible for most of the recent increase.

“Commonwealth Edison is clearly committed to the auction,” Mr. Clark said.

Mr. Rowe also said there was little wiggle room to reduce the rate hike already on the books, since ComEd has executed contracts with the auction winners. Regarding consumer advocates, Mr. Rowe said, “The contracts are signed, and they have no magic wand to make them go away.”

Senate President Emil Jones, who has endorsed the Clayborne-led talks, has consistently opposed efforts to freeze ComEd’s rates for another three years at 2006 levels.

House Speaker Michael Madigan, a leading proponent of the freeze, plans again to bring up legislation in the House to abolish the rate hike and extend the freeze.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who has expressed support for the freeze in the past, largely has stayed out of the legislative debate but could become a player once the legislative session begins in early February.

[boogerman]

My question is does anyone get compinsated for waiting for the phone to ring, we are only allowed one phone number to be called. Somtimes our list goes around twice to get four men. Then your charged with two calls.There are about 23 lineman on our rotating list.

[Racer X]

No, no one gets compensated, that is why we are suing Exelon/ComEd. The Union dropped the ball, so we are taking matters into our own hands.

comedreporter.com (http://comedreporter.com)

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ARCOS LAW SUIT




Current Status:

On March 30, 2007, fact discovery for this litigation closed. All together, more than 40 depositions were taken in addition to literally thousands of pages of documents which were disclosed. The deadline for disclosing expert witnesses and opinions is April 15, 2007, after which time the parties will be deposing the experts. Additionally, April 15, 2007 is the deadline for filing motions for summary judgment. Summary judgment allows the Court to decide which issues will require a trial and which issues can be summarily decided by the Judge without a trial. The attorneys for both sides will be filing written briefs both in favor of and opposing summary judgment. Currently, this case is scheduled to begin a jury trial on September 10, 2007.

On October 4, 2006, the Court granted Plaintiffs’ motion to facilitate notice to the plaintiff class and to certify plaintiff class. That motion had asked the Court to authorize and approve a Notice to all potential members of a collective action under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act to enable them to join the case already pending on that claim. The Motion also asked the Court to decide that the state law claims should be pursued as a class action, to include all members of the class of plaintiffs described in the Motion. Then, on November 15, 2006, the Court approved the form of the notice to the potential plaintiffs and the counsel for the Plaintiffs began the process of mailing notices to individuals who are hourly employees subject to Defendants’ ARCOS call-out system beginning in July 2003 or any time thereafter.


Plaintiffs claim that hourly employees who are subject to the ARCOS system are required or permitted to remain on-call waiting for call-outs and are required to travel in response to a call-out, but that these hours are not counted as work time and therefore not compensated. In addition, Plaintiffs claim that employees who are subject to the ARCOS system have not been properly compensated for shift differentials and for overtime whenever time is spent responding to a call-out and overtime is required. Plaintiffs also claim they are required to perform work for the benefit of Defendants, such as safeguarding Defendants’ equipment and work sites, during unpaid meal periods for which they are not compensated, and that their regular rate of pay is not calculated properly for overtime purposes.




On June 22, 2006, plaintiffs were allowed by the Court to file their Third Amended and Supplemental Complaint asserting, among other things, additional claims that plaintiffs are not relieved from work duties during unpaid meal periods and therefore are entitled to compensation for that work. That complaint can be downloaded on this site. The Court struck Defendants’ Motion to Dismiss and admonished them that if they chose to reassert it against the new Complaint, they should restrict their arguments to only the matters alleged in the Complaint rather than other materials or evidence beyond the scope of the Complaint. Subsequently, defendants decided not to re-file the Motion to Dismiss and instead answered the Third Amended and Supplemental Complaint. Consequently, although defendants may still argue later in the case some of the legal positions they argued in their Motion, their Answer to this complaint allowed the case to move forward.

We appreciate your patience and support, and will continue to keep you advised of our progress in this matter. If you have any questions, please contact Cindy Pellegrini @ 312-494-0200 x 470 or cpellegrini@childresslawyers.com.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

a local 15 brother was burned when he cut a live 3 phase 4kv paper lead cable in a manhole with an electric band saw thursday.
please pray for him and his family as they struggle with the pain.
i should have more details monday.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

LOCAL 15
Meet the Candidates

PETER JONITES for President
JOE RODRIGUEZ for Vice President

Monday, May 7th at Dillagaf’s Pub
14045 S. Cicero Ave. Crestwood, IL
Starts at 3:30pm – Back Room

Located 1 ½ miles south of I-294
(Exit 127th and Cicero). Also near I-57

[CHICAGO HAND.]

The Future of IBEW Local 15


Peter
Jonites
For President

Joe
Rodriguez
For Vice-President
Joe
Alvarez
For Executive Board

Mike
Brown
For Executive Board


Courage Integrity Leadership


A Team to Fight for Better, Fairer Contract Negotiations
• The Membership must reject closed-door deals and the Leadership who made it.
• Pete and his team will focus on membership’s needs, not the company’s wants.
• This Team will demand a better contract with the help of BA’s and advisors.
• No contract extension until the Medical Plan is resolved!

THIS IS THE LEADERSHIP TEAM YOU WILL
WANT NEGOTIATING YOUR NEXT CONTRACT!


Edison is no Longer a Company
It Has Become A Corporation
THIS IS OUR UNION

Now it’s time for you to support the future of Local 15.

JONITES WILL UNITE US

[CHICAGO HAND.]

May 3, 2007 (SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) - Senate President Emil Jones' family ties to the parent company of ComEd raise questions about his role in the legislative debate over soaring electric rates, state lawmakers said Thursday.

But whether that could affect negotiations about a relief package for consumers is unclear, they said. Jones insisted the situation does not create a conflict of interest.
Synch-Solutions, a firm owned by Jones' stepson John Sterling, has provided computer software services since 2004 to Exelon, the parent company of ComEd, the Chicago Sun-Times first reported in its Thursday editions.

Jones insisted Thursday he knew nothing of the contract and that it has nothing to do with his efforts to prevent lawmakers from cutting the rates ComEd charges customers.

Some lawmakers, however, say voters will wonder whether Jones is representing the public's interests or his stepson's in the debate over what to do about electric rates.

Sen. John Jones, R-Mt. Vernon, said he has already received calls from constituents urging the president to step aside from any decisions about electric rates.

"It's not going to play very well in my district," said Jones, who isn't related to the Senate president. "They're going to be very disturbed about it."

Rep. John Bradley agreed.

"Obviously, it is something which concerns and troubles people throughout the state, and obviously it could have some impact on the negotiations," the Marion Democrat said.

Lawmakers said news of Sterling's contract would intensify the criticism from consumers eager for a legislative solution to electric rates that shot up when a 10-year rate freeze ended in January.

Emil Jones has been one of the Legislature's strongest opponents to requiring power companies to roll prices back to 2006 levels. He even used a rare parliamentary maneuver to reverse a Senate vote that would have included ComEd in rate-cutting legislation, handing one of his fellow Democrats a humiliating public defeat.

Sterling did not immediately return a telephone message left at his office Thursday afternoon.

Exelon spokeswoman Jennifer Medley said Sterling's firm is one of more than 300 suppliers of the company's computer services and was chosen through competitive bidding.

"Family relationships were not a factor that was considered in the process," Medley said.

Jones said he's proud of both Sterling and his wife Lorrie, who got a new state job and a $70,000 raise around the time she married Jones in 2005. Jones said he knew nothing about his stepson's work for Exelon.

"He doesn't check with me on what business he's doing business with, so I have no way of knowing what he's doing," Jones said. "He doesn't get involved in policy."

Some of Jones' fellow Senate Democrats came to his defense, saying Sterling's firm is well-qualified to do the job.

"They say nine-tenths of everything is perception, but that doesn't make it a fact," said Sen. Donne Trotter, D-Chicago.

Jones has butted heads with House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, over how to react to the spike in electric rates. Madigan wants to cut rates, but Jones prefers a one-time package of rebates to consumers hit hardest by the increases.

Lawmakers involved in talks on the issue said they don't know whether Jones' utility ties will weaken his negotiating power.

Sen. Mike Jacobs, D-East Moline, noted that Democrats still have a "supermajority" in the Senate, giving Jones a possible political edge over Madigan.

Madigan and Jones have recently begun negotiating directly over a response to the rate increases, which have incensed many voters. Lawmakers say the negotiations aren't near an end.

"I don't think we're close to a resolution at all," said Rep. George Scully, D-Flossmoor. "I think that discussions are healthy, and I think that out of discussions a resolution can evolve."

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

[CHICAGO HAND.]

CALL CENTER
MEETING NOTIFICATION
FOR CONTRACT RATIFICATION

There will be a contract ratification meeting scheduled
for all PECO Employees in the Call-Center
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
At IBEW Local 98’s Union Hall
1719 Spring Garden Street
Philadelphia, PA
Representatives of IBEW will be there to explain the details of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Afterwards everyone will have the opportunity to vote to ratify the Contract.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Brian J. Brennan
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers May 4, 2007
23 Williams Street
Wharton, NJ 07885

Dear IBEW Local 614 Union Member,

On Thursday, May 3, 2007 at 1:00AM, your Union Negotiating Committee, tentatively agreed to two (2) Collective Bargaining Agreements, one for the PECO Energy EED Workgroup, and one for the PECO Energy Call-Center. Your Bargaining Committee Members have worked extremely hard these past two plus years to negotiate the best agreement that they could possibly get for you. We had 89 sessions of joint negotiations with the Company, and a number of sessions discussing issues with just ourselves. They worked tirelessly day and night, putting personnel obligations on hold to get an acceptable contract for all of you.

The Union and the Company met yesterday to proof read the agreement. The Company will be printing and copying the contracts and will distribute them to the Union. Everyone will be getting a copy of the agreement along with a summary of the contract. If you do not get a copy of both these items within a week from this date, please see your union representative and ask for them.

These bargaining agreements will spell out your wages, benefits and working conditions. I, along with the negotiating committee, believe that these are fair and acceptable contracts. Meetings will be set up for the Call-Center and Distribution Group within the next 3 weeks to explain the contracts in more detail. There will be time after the explanation of the contract to answer questions. Immediately after the explanation of the contract and the question and answering period, all eligible employees covered under the agreements will have an opportunity to vote on their contract.

The time is finally here where over 5 years ago we started a journey where you will have a voice in the workplace and a guarantee of working conditions, wages and benefits in writing. Upon ratification of the collective bargaining agreements, all of you will experience that opportunity.

I am very proud of everyone that has taken ownership of their future here in IBEW Local 614.

To everyone that’s involved, your Business Manager Frank Kuders, Assistant Business Managers, Shop Stewards, Officers, Executive Board Members, all Committee Members, everyone that attends Union Meetings and all the behind the scenes Union Members, you make a difference and all of you will pave the way for everyone to benefit in the future.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to serve you and be a part of your success.

Sincerely,
Brian J. Brennan
IBEW, International Representative

[CHICAGO HAND.]

ComEd spinoff in S'field mix


By Steve Daniels
July 02, 2007

Exelon Corp. and state lawmakers agreed last week to pave the way for a spinoff of Chicago electric utility Commonwealth Edison Co. as a separate, publicly traded company.

Negotiators hammering out a deal to cut soaring electric bills signed off on a provision that would expedite regulatory review of any proposal by Exelon to spin off its ComEd unit, people close to the talks say. Current law gives the Illinois Commerce Commission 11 months to conduct a comprehensive review of a spinoff. The provision negotiators agreed to last week cuts that to 90 days and limits the scope of the review.

Agreement on the spinoff language came as utilities, state legislative leaders and Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan put the final touches on a settlement that would give consumers socked with higher electric bills this year a combination of rebates and rate cuts worth at least $1 billion. The deal also would establish a new state agency to purchase electricity on behalf of utility customers from power generators like Exelon. Participants say the talks should wrap up early this week, with votes in the Legislature possible anytime after lawmakers return from the Fourth of July recess.

Clearing the regulatory path to a spinoff will bring new pressure on Exelon to shed ComEd from shareholders who see the utility as a financial liability due to regulatory uncertainty in Illinois. Unloading ComEd would free Chicago-based Exelon, which is enjoying record profits at its nuclear power plants, from Illinois regulation.

The state's regulatory power over ComEd gave lawmakers leverage to squeeze at least $800 million out of Exelon to ease the impact of dramatic rate hikes this year on ComEd's customers and those of Downstate utility Ameren Corp.

"Bottom line, it's better for shareholders if (Exelon) can completely spin it off," says Barry Abramson, senior utility analyst at Rye, N.Y.-based Gamco Investors Inc., which holds about 130,000 shares of Exelon stock. "On a go-forward basis, shareholders would no longer have to worry about Exelon's need to satisfy regulators and political concerns in Illinois."

ALLY OR FOE?

A spinoff of ComEd could turn the utility into an ally of consumer advocates pressing for lower electric rates, a stance it hasn't taken as a unit of Exelon, the state's largest power-plant owner and prime beneficiary of higher prices. For Exelon, cutting ties to ComEd would prevent state policymakers from ruling on future strategic moves, like big acquisitions.

In the past, company officials have acknowledged studying whether to split Exelon and its highly profitable nuclear power plants from low-return ComEd, which owns the wires that deliver electricity to 3.8 million Chicago-area customers. The lobbying in the capital is the strongest evidence yet that Exelon CEO John Rowe is ready to shed ComEd.

But Exelon was loath to pursue a ComEd spinoff under a traditional regulatory process that gives opponents opportunities to extract more concessions from the cash-rich parent in return for state approval, according to investors familiar with the company's thinking.

An Exelon spokeswoman declines to comment, saying the company won't address the specifics of a potential legislative deal while negotiations are continuing.

The agreement making a ComEd spinoff easier comes at a time when the utility's contribution to Exelon profits is shrinking. As recently as 2004, ComEd accounted for more than a third of Exelon's operating earnings. This year, as Exelon's power plants have become far more profitable and the Chicago utility's returns have decreased, ComEd is expected to contribute no more than 4% of Exelon's projected operating profit of $2.7 billion to $2.9 billion.

Electric utilities separated from affiliated power generators have been known to turn on their former corporate siblings, notes Paul Patterson, utilities analyst at research firm Glenrock Associates LLC in New York. For example, NStar, the largest utility in Massachusetts, sided with the state's attorney general to oppose rate increases that would have benefited its former power-plant affiliate.

"The unknown is: What role would ComEd play in the political environment if it weren't affiliated with Exelon?" Mr. Patterson says.

ComEd played the lead role in advocating for a state-run auction of power generators bidding for the right to supply the utility's customers following the expiration last year of a nine-year freeze on electric rates. Lawmakers sharply criticized the September auction after it led to a 24% average increase in ComEd rates, benefitting Exelon's plants, which supply much of the juice.

The settlement under discussion now is expected to replace the auction with a new state power authority that may have the ability to negotiate supply contracts with generators and even build power plants that would compete with Exelon's.

©2007 by Crain Communications Inc.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

OUR WORK GROUP HAS BEEN KICKED IN THE GUT AND STOMPED ON PRETTY HARD WITH THESE LAST TWO RULINGS.

SO MUCH FOR GETTING PAID WHILE ON CALL.
THE COMPANY CAN PRETTY MUCH DO WHATEVER THEY WANT WITH US 24/7.


MAN I CANT WAIT TO LEAVE HERE.

JUDGE DISMISSES UNION APPEAL TO NEGATE COX (ARCOS) AWARD
On July 31, 2007 the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit dismissed the Union’s case to appeal the decision made by the lower court last year to deny Local 15’s request to overturn the Cox (ARCOS) Arbitration Award.
The Appeals Case was heard by Chief Judge Easterbrook as well as Circuit Judges Kanne and Williams.
Local 15 first appealed Arbitrator James Cox’s Award to the National Labor Relations Board claiming the arbitrator overstepped his jurisdiction by ruling on issues not before him. The Chicago NLRB office deferred the issue to arbitration. That decision was advanced to the NLRB headquarters in Washington D.C. where the case review was denied.
The issue was then presented to Federal District Court in Chicago who granted the Company’s motion to dismiss by refusing to overturn the arbitrator’s award.
Prior to appealing the lower court’s decision to the Seventh Circuit, the case was presented before a federal mediator for resolution, but to no avail.
The case was orally argued before the Seventh Circuit on April 9, 2007 and the written decision to dismiss was submitted on July 31, 2007.
The Seventh Circuit affirmed the dismissal finding that “as long as the arbitrator is even arguably construing or applying the contract and acting within the scope of his authority, the award will be upheld”.


DISTRICT COURT JUDGE DISMISSES PRIVATE ARCOS LAWSUIT
On July 30, 2007 Judge David H. Coar of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois – Eastern Division dismissed the private lawsuit challenging the arbitration ruling made by Arbitrator James Cox.
In his ruling, Judge Coar concludes, “Defendant’s motion for summary judgment is GRANTED. Because summary judgment is granted as to meal compensation, travel compensation and on-call time compensation under the FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act), Counts I, II and III of the Third Amended Complaint are dismissed. Count IV and V are dismissed as preempted by federal labor law. Because summary judgment is granted as to the retaliation claim, Count VI of the Third Amended Complaint is dismissed. This case is closed.”
As this is a private lawsuit on the matter, please contact Childress, Duffy, Goldbladt Ltd. for info.

[Bull Dog]

Looks like things went bad for you. Well there is only three things you can do. 1 get together as a union and tell them your not going to submit to this.

2 submit to this crap.

3 quit and go work some were else.

Hell of a choice but this is what we've come to today.

Good luck to all but this crap is every were today thanks to a spineless union. I ask were is the leadership!

[CHICAGO HAND.]

I DONT KNOW BOYS BUT IT LOOKS LIKE THE NUKES COULD DO BETTER AND THIS IS A REFLECTION OF WHAT IS COMING OUR WAY NEXT YEAR.


TENTATIVE AGREEMENT
REACHED WITH EXELON NUCLEAR

• Three-Year Agreement.
• Wage Increase: 3.5% - April 1, 2008
3.5% - April 1, 2009
4.0% - April 1, 2010
• $500 Signing Bonus.
• Annual Incentive Program Bonus.
• Extension of December 31, 2001 Voluntary Severance Plan.
• Per Diem Increases to $102
• Meal Money Allowance increases $1.00 each April 1st for term of Agreement.
• Management Upgrade compensation increases to 10% of Base Pay.
• Welders to receive $1,500 Annual Bonus for maintaining welding certification. Current “welding additive remains.
• Ability to convert two existing Extra Vacation Days into four half-day Vacations.
• Contract language relative to clerical job moves will remain as it is currently written for one (1) year.
The Ratification Vote will be by Mail Ballot. No date has been scheduled for counting the Ballots. Local 15 Recording Secretary Christine Watkins will be the Election Judge.

More information on the voting process will be forthcoming soon.

[CHICAGO HAND.]

The rumbling is getting louder every day about a strike in september. Management has already suckered a few local 15 boys to join the dark side so they will have a few experienced hands. Start saving some cash for the mortgage payments.

[mainline]

I'm sorry to hear that things out tere are so bad. I think my company liek many others is close on your heels. They are giving us GPS, giving the meter readers ford focuses, and looking at AMR so that they can eventually get rid of a whole class of union employees. It is sad but true when I was a kid my dad was a lineman for the local utility. They took care of you. UNIon mangement relationships weren't always great, but you knew who your boos was and what their goals were. Now who knows. Like you we are coming up on a contract negotiation. I hope that your membership is preparing for a strike. Too many of us are up to our eyeballs in debt. It allows the company to jam stuff down our throats. SO save your money and stick it to them. Its nice to see that your company does that stupid signing bonus to distract the weaker sheep. Good luck my thoughts will be with you.

[Patriot]

I think you are seeing the wave of the future of investor owned's! Sounds just like Mid American/Rocky Mountain/pacificorp! 659 settled, not sure how their retirement went. 125 is in negotiations now, UWUA127 is a year away yet. AMR's are going in all the time, only makes business sense, I guess, all the REA's have had remote reads for years. OUr company thinks they are progressive, yet they still walk in the stone age. Now lots of talk of load management, LOL! Muni's have had that for 20 years, Co-ops and REA';s have had it longer than that. Our trucks, diggers, buckets, are being driven 200K, being almost completely rebuilt. And trust me 200K miles in Wy is a lot of hard miles. Only time in my life I wish I was 59 1/2~!

[IN THE SHADOWS]

Hey Patriot...

59 and 1/2 you and me both brother!!!! I am hearing a little and its not good out of our negotiations....Pension and retiree medical supposedly a lot like what 659 settled for....2 % on the wages...your 2 % esop is at risk by a "goals meeting" process....but since negotiations are still going on anything can change...so we'll wait and see....Really makes you want to bust your ass during the storms huh? Soon as a package comes out to vote..I will get one over to you!!! Hang in there. Oh and by the way 80/20 on the medical down from 90/10

[Patriot]

Thanks my friend! Information is good! And communications!

[IN THE SHADOWS]

Patriot.....Check your e-mail

[CHICAGO HAND.]

The strike in september looks quite possible.
Things are getting ugly.

[Stanman, at ComEdy Il.]

Local 15 won't do it. Too weak, but that's a good bluff. And how are things getting any uglier than they have been?

BTW, What's up with the guy that got burned? How's he doing, who was he, all the info that the co. won't give to anyone? Why didn't you post it in accidents?

[WCLR]

The strike in september looks quite possible.
Things are getting ugly.


Strikes are never fun. I feel for the ones that have to picket. Last time I was IBEW strike pay was $85 a week. Ugly if you got a family to feed.

I hope you guys stand up for what you want! Dont back down and I wish you all luck. Keep us updated.