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More to know about IBEW state grant
This is in response to the letter on May 28 submitted by Bill Jaeger over concerns about IBEW Local 725 receiving grant money for our alternative energy solar panel installation from the Indiana Office of Energy Development.
Mr. Jaeger does not have all of the information and facts. Let’s be clear, the local union spent over $47,000 in materials, time and labor to match the funding of a $42,580 grant. In fact, we will expect to “recoup our investment” within eight years because we did invest our money and time in the solar project.
We invest over $250,000 a year to train and provide the best possible classroom training and education for local skilled electricians through the Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, a partnership between the union and its electrical contractors. It is self-funded with private money. Our electricians are required to receive 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and five years of classroom study that leads to an associate’s degree upon reaching the status of Journeyman.
We are actively involved in volunteer work, donating time and labor, and providing financial assistance to a wide range of local organizations that are in need. We sit on local boards and non-profit agencies to give back to our community. We live and work here and want to see Terre Haute and surrounding communities prosper and be a great place to live and work.
The solar installation is an educational tool that is open to public inspection and tours. We are playing a small part to promote energy sources that will make us less dependent on foreign countries, make our environment cleaner, and give new work opportunities in an expanding market where jobs are and will continue to be created — issues that I would hope Mr. Jaeger can appreciate — for the betterment of our community.
So perhaps these are the reasons we were fortunate enough to receive the grant. We were not granted a “favor” as a supporter of any government agency. We were only one of 12 recipients this year, most being cities and public entities. Were they granted favors also?
Let’s remember we are all in this together. Maybe we should wait to have a “party” when we have more jobs, when roads and schools can be built, when we have enough teachers to provide our children with a quality education, and we can stop polluting our oceans with oil.
— R. Todd Thacker
Business Manager
IBEW Local Union 725
Terre Haute
Duke Energy shows civic commitment
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Duke Energy for choosing the Wabash Valley Fairgrounds as the site of their 2010 Global Service Event.
The Vigo County Fairgrounds received a helping hand from Duke Energy Wednesday, May 19. Over 60 employees painted, welded, landscaped, replaced light bulbs and replaced light poles. The work force that was provided was phenomenal. The enthusiasm which their many employees exhibited during the day was contagious and certainly shows the quality of workers that they have on their staff. Their willingness to roll their sleeves up to improve our facility shows the commitment Duke Energy and their employees have in making our community a better place to live.
The projects that were undertaken have truly made a difference in the functionality and appearance of our Fairgrounds. We want to thank all of those involved. They are truly to be commended.
— Jennifer Cook, president
On behalf of the
Board of Directors
Wabash Valley
Fair Association
