NEWSLETTER
Utility Workers Union of America and its Michigan State Utility
Workers Council, AFL-CIO
110 W. Lenwee, Lansing, MI 48933
Internet Address: http://www.msuwc.org

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July 1, 1998

Volume XIII, No. 2

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IN MEMORY OF Paul R. Luna, Age 52, Line Worker in Charge, Local 107-Zeeland Juan R. Reyes, Age 45, Single-Phase Meter Worker, Local 150-Kalamazoo Thomas J. Tomasik, Age 46, Line Worker in Charge, Local 119-Flint

The first week of June brought havoc and devastation to our state. Severe weather and high winds toppled buildings, up-rooted trees and destroyed many of the power lines and structures which carry and support the electrical energy that powers our communities and homes.

That, in itself, is probably not noteworthy to write about. To many of our members it was just another storm. Maybe a little bigger than last week, maybe it took a little longer to clean up, and maybe a different location than in times past, but to utility workers, it was just another day on the job restoring and providing power to our customers.

Many of us have seen storms and tornadoes come and go over the years. They do their damage and pass on to neighboring states and we begin the restoration and clean-up process. Eventually we get the lights back on, get a home-cooked meal and some much-needed rest in our own beds.

It sounds quite mundane, matter-of-fact, or just an ordinary routine way of life. To many, I'm sure that is how it is perceived. For those who have "been there -- done that", we know it's different. Long hours and extremely hazardous and difficult working conditions tax our very being, both mentally and physically. The hazards of utility work have prompted the Council to dedicate this letter to our three fallen Union Brothers and to reaffirm our commitment to safety.

For the families, friends and coworkers of Paul, Juan and Tommy, life will never be the same again. The ability to live out the "American Dream" has passed from existence for their families. Only God knows what their future holds, but one thing is for sure, on this 4th of July, these three Union Brothers will not be here to celebrate.

The utility industry by nature is very hazardous work. We do not, and should not, need any more of a reminder than these three co-workers, of the seriousness of our work. It is not within our authority to go back and redo the events leading up to these tragedies, oh if only we could. God does not empower us with that ability but he does give us an opportunity to address the future.

The havoc and devastation that we want to address is not about downed power lines or interrupted service. It's about heart-broken families and friends, it's about going to three different funeral homes to pay last respects to co-workers, it's about up-coming holidays without loved ones.

The Council has been contacted by the Company to establish a joint committee to review and recommend improvements to the safe work practices for T&D employees. The Council will utilize this opportunity to improve the safety and safe work practices for OM&C employees.

Our past record indicates we have done many things right, but three fatalities in one week, is unacceptable. Therefore, let's collectively pay tribute to these three Union Brothers with a stronger commitment to safety in the future.