IN THIS ISSUE:

MaintainingNew Jersey’sTallest Building

Chief EngineersTapped for

Training Feedback

Atlantic CityTraining

Center Opens

STUDENTS SHINE ON THIS NIGHT ...

Local 68 Training Center Graduation

Local 68/68A/68B International Union of Operating Engineers Education Fund

Winter 2006

Dear Dennis, Tom, Vincent and all Union brothers and sisters,

As you know, I had a heart transplant several months ago. I’ve been unemployed since August 1, 2004.The sub-fund made it possible for my family and I to getthrough the biggest hurdle in my life so far. Also, thank you for the generous gift that Local 68 contributed to a fundraiser in my honor, as well as the letter sent Union-wide to my fellow Union brothers and sisters.Plus, thank God for the Union benefits which lasted for

a year after my employment ended. Local 68 is the bestUnion in the world as far as my family and I are concerned.While I was hospitalized for eight months awaiting a suitable donor heart, I was reassured that there would be a job waiting for me if and when I was able to work again. I can’t tell you what that meant. It’s tough enough to facethe possibility of an uncertain future, which might not lastall that long with major health trauma going on, but tohave to deal with financial problems and wondering if youcan support your family simultaneously is quite difficult. I don’t know how we’ve made it this far. Without theUnion’s support, I don’t know where we would be. I’m looking forward to contributing again to our great organization after I recover from surgery. Thanks toeveryone’s support, I’m back home with my wife and six-year-old son recovering wonderfully. Thanks from the bottom of our hearts!The Spaanstra’s

InOur Mailbox

Matthew AceinoMichel AlbersDonald Boyd Dale L. CameronAnthony J. CwiakalaAvelino Fernandez John FerredinoAntonio FulgencioGregory GrateDenise HargroveFred HoefelJames HoustonJohn W. HoytAlphonse IapiccoWilliam IngramThomas JohnstonAllen KeglerAlejandro LugoJames C. MahoneNunzio C. MasiSamuel MilanoJohn E. OliverAnthony PernaPeter J. ReillyVincent RussoWilliam StewartJerome J. TutakTed WardStanley WielczykWalter WithkaEzell WrightLacy Wright

I N M E M O R I A M

Local 68 IUOE wishes to extend its condolences to the families of Local 68 members who have passed away since July 31, 2005:

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Dennis,

I just wanted to take the time

to let you and Tom know how

much I appreciate the help you have

given me in my time of need being

out of work. But I also would like to

give thanks to your staff, especially

Suzanne Corns and Patricia Dandola,

for their help. Local 68 is a class act

and I am proud to be a member.

Sincerely,

Todd Plessis

Brother Dennis,

I just want to thank you for sending my resume

to Binsky/Snyder. I have been working there as

a roving mechanic and really enjoy it.

You said something to me the first time I met

you that really stuck to me. You told me that I

was unemployable since I did not have any

licenses. After checking the job openings on a

daily basis, I realized just how right you were!

Therefore, I give you my word that I will work

hard and have my licenses as soon as possible.

You do an outstanding job for the best union in

the world!

Thanks again,

Brother Nick Lettiere

Congratulations to Tom Giblin on his Election to NJ Assembly

In November 2005, Local 68IUOE Business ManagerThomas P. Giblin was electedto the New Jersey StateAssembly, representing the34th District.

“I am looking forward toworking as an Assemblymanon the many issues facingthe residents of our state,”said Thomas Giblin.

Education

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Not only has the Local 68 Training Center undergone a physicaltransformation, but it is in the process of transforming techno-logically as well. Training Center staff have been hard at work

developing the new Local 68 Learning Management System to fullyintegrate all aspects of the education process for Local 68 members viathe Local 68 website.

When members log in to the Local 68 website, they will see a “MyCampus” icon on the lower right-hand corner. Clicking on “My Campus”will bring members to a personalized profile of their education history.Here, members will be able to:

● Search, register and pay for available classes● View courses completed● View class attendance history● Review course materials and lesson plans online● View test and quiz scores● E-mail instructors or classmates● View comments from instructors“The new Learning Management System enables students to manage

their own education online. Students can see where they are in thetraining process and review materials that they may have missed ordidn’t quite understand,” said Robert Haitmanek, Local 68 IUOETraining Center Director.

By streamlining these processes, the Training Center staff will haveto spend less time processing paperwork, such as student hours, sit-time for licensing exams and other tedious documentation. Instead,the Training Center staff will have more time to service the educationalneeds of the Local 68 members by setting up site-specific training, visiting more sites, and meeting with chief engineers, engineers andmanagement to evaluate existing training and develop more specifictraining.

“With the help of the long-overdue Learning Management System, wewill be able to spend more time developing new courses and servicingmembers than ever before,” said Dennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOEPresident/Fund Administrator.

The Learning Management System integrates with other technologythat has already been installed in the newly renovated Local 68Training Center in West Caldwell. Students’ class attendance is trackedvia the palm scanner located in the lobby of the building. As a studentscans his or her palm, the time is recorded and automatically linked tothe Learning Management System files so that students receive fullcredit for their classroom attendance time. Students can then viewtheir attendance records online through the “My Campus” section ofthe Local 68 website.

“Our employers will also be able to view some portions of theLearning Management System so they can see how their financialinvestment in the education of Local 68 members is paying off,” saidDennis Giblin. “We are excited about the positive outcomes that willresult from the new Learning Management System.”

LMS=Training Center StaffDedicate More Time to Serving Members

Learning Management System Tracks Attendance, Test Scores and More

Every member needs to get online! Need helpsigning on to the member’s only section of the Local 68 website? Call 973-227-6426.

System integrates all aspectsof the education process

“Let's go back to our job sites and talk up the importance of education.”

Education

Sixteen Local 68 members received their Journeyman Certificates at an inspirational graduation celebration held at The Manor inWest Orange on January 19, 2006. Also recognized were 10 BOMI

graduates. Graduates' families, Training Center staff and instructors, Local 68

Education Fund Trustees, as well as Local 68 business representativesand leaders were all in attendance to celebrate the achievement of thegraduates.

As the master of ceremonies, Dennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOEPresident/Fund Administrator, congratulated the graduates and remindedthem not to let their graduation mark the end of their education.

“Your education is an insurance policy second to none,” said DennisGiblin. “I want to see you back at our Training Center taking continuingeducation classes. The jobs that are available in Local 68 require thehighest levels of skills and certifications. Don't ever let yourself fallbehind.”

Dennis Giblin also noted the outstandinginstructors at the Training Center and in particular,recognized Dave Williams whose Black SealLicense class had a 100 percent passing rate onthe most recent exam. “This is the first time everthat a class has enjoyed a 100 percent success rateand we are very proud,” said Dennis Giblin.

A highlight of the evening was an engagingkeynote speech given by Dr. Robert C. Spellman, a Professor at EssexCounty College, world traveler, minister and author. Dr. Spellmaninspired the graduates with his humorous and poignant remarks andpraised the students for their hard work and achievement. He echoedthe theme of continuing education to the audience saying, “Don't waituntil it starts to rain before you fix the roof.”

Local 68 IUOE Business Manager Thomas P. Giblin also addressedthe audience and recognized the significant contribution that spousesplay in the pursuit of education. He thanked the families for supportingthe Local 68 students as they progressed in their schooling. “We salutethe students who have completed their apprenticeship and those whohave helped them get to this point,” said Tom Giblin.

The Journeyman Certificates were presented by Dennis Giblin andLocal 68 Training Center Director of Education Robert Haitmanek. The graduates each had a chance to speak to the audience and expresstheir gratitude.

Local 68 celebrates BOMI graduates

Ten BOMI graduates were also recognized at the event. “The BuildingOwners and Managers Institute (BOMI) designation is a mark of distinction,” said Dennis Giblin. “We are proud of tonight's BOMIgraduates who have pursued further education and serve as models forthe rest of the Local 68 membership.”

Local 68 Training Center Graduates 16, Awards 10 BOMI Certificates

Top Photo:Dr. Robert C. Spellman addresses graduates.

Center Photo:Gelaine Alexandre accepts her certificate.

Bottom Photo:Graduates and their guestscelebrate at The Manor.

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F ollowing the presentation of the Journeyman Certificates,the Thomas F. Barry Student Excellence Award was presented to Artur Czarnecki. This Award is presented

annually to the graduating student who maintained the higheststandard of excellence during his school attendance. The lateThomas F. Barry, a member of Local 68 for more than 45 years,served as an instructor with the Union's education program for33 years and trustee of the Local 68 Education Fund for 19 years.

Czarnecki is a native of Stalow Wola, Poland, and has been inthe United States for 16 years. Since his first language is Polish,Czarnecki found that going back to school was a big challenge inthat he had to learn technical English vocabulary, in addition tolearning all of the required course materials.

“Several years ago, someonetold me to go back to my owncountry of Poland and said Iwould never make it here. Istand here tonight proving himwrong,” said Czarnecki, as hereceived the award. “I can'tthank Local 68 enough for theopportunity that I have beengiven to further my educationand become licensed in NewJersey,” added an emotionalCzarnecki.

Czarnecki, who has been a Local 68 member for five years andworks for Versacold Logistics in Secaucus, credited his manager, Karl Jeger, for hiring him and giving him a chance. David Mitchell,the site's shop steward said of Czarnecki, “He took the advice togo to school and has worked so hard to make it to this point.”

“This is the type of student and employee that we are lookingfor. Artur Czarnecki is a model for other Local 68 students,” saidDennis Giblin as he congratulated Czarnecki.

2006 Graduates

Gelaine AlexandreKarin BertotAdolfo E. CantorArtur Z. CzarneckiRichard DrzewieckiWilliam ForthJohn GalluzziCarmine A. IorioJames M. Kirby Kamal MuhammadJoseph NicastroThomas PattermadaRossel PuetroBertrand D. RoeJohn J. SladerThomas J. Weiss

BOMI Graduates

Robert AzarowJoseph BottaWilliam HollisBrendan McMahonBrian Meehan Chris MuratoreMichael PhillipsEdward RomanowskiJohn WardDavid Williams Jr.

Czarnecki wins Thomas F. Barry Student Excellence Award

Students will serve as models tothe rest of the membership

Training CenterEnrollment Continues to Grow... Sign UpToday!

The excitement and energy surrounding the new Local 68Training Center keeps growing.Since 2003, student enrollmenthas more than doubled from 255students in 2003 to 702 studentsin 2005. At press time, 245 students were registered for the January 2006 semester.

Call 973-227-6426 to sign up today.

● 2003

● 2004

2005 ●

Ready to face ever changing economic conditions

Recent News

A s reported at the December Union Meetings by Local 68 IUOE President/Fund Administrator DennisJ. Giblin, the per-hour contributions to the Local 68 Welfare Fund will remain at an industry-low $0.20per hour increase per year for at least the next two to three years.

“While other unions are seeing substantial per hour increases each year, we are extremely proud that wecan hold our increases to just $0.20 per hour,” said Dennis Giblin.

Giblin explained that the actual cost of claims paid through the Local 68 Welfare Fund continues to outpacethe amount collected from employers into the fund, a result of increases in prescription drug costs.

“Through sound investments, reduced administrative fees and the interest we earn on reserves, we plan tokeep our Welfare Fund contribution increases low while maintaining the same outstanding level of benefits that our members have come to depend on,” said Dennis Giblin.

“Health care costs continue to rise. We each can do our part to help make our Welfare Fund's financialperformance remain strong,” explained Dennis Giblin. Giblin urged members to use generic prescription drugsand also to use the Local 68 mail-order program, which will continue to save the fund money.

Changes to Fund's Prescription Drug Program

Giblin also outlined the changes approved by the Welfare Fund Trustees to the prescription drug program:■ Participants in the Prescription Drug Program who are on maintenance drugs (i.e., for diabetes, high

cholesterol, etc.) are being moved to a mandatory mail-order refill program. Participants will have the opportunity to refill their prescription three times at a retail pharmacy before the mandatory nature of the program activates. Once the maintenance drug has been refilled three times, the participant must use the mail-order program to obtain any additional refills. The benefit to participants who use the mail-order program is that for the price of two copays (two times the retail copay), the participant receives a 90-day supply of the drug. This means that the participant is receiving a one-month supply with no copay.If for some reason, the participant only requests a 30-day supply of a maintenance drug, a single copay will apply (one times the retail copay). Local 68 members can call the Caremark Rx mail-order pharmacyat (866) 881-5605 or refill orders online through www.horizonblue.com.

■ The family prescription deductible has changed for the Prescription Drug Program. Now, the annual deductible for a family is a pooled $200. The deductible for an individual person remains at $100. However, once any combination of family members reaches the $200 deductible, the entire family has now met the deductible for the year. Previously, each family member had to meet the $100 deductible individually.

Fund Office Moves from Four Banks to One ... Streamlines Operations, Reduces Fees

With an eye on continuing to create more efficiency and improved member services in the Local 68 Fund Office,Local 68 IUOE President/Fund Administrator Dennis J. Giblin recently oversaw the consolidation of the office’sfour bank relationships into one.

Under the direction of Fund Service staff member Chris Ruton, the many banking options available wereresearched and in-depth interviews were conducted with representatives from the potential banks. The finalselection was Commerce Bank.

As a result, Chris Ruton reports that the Fund Office operations will have these three key improvements: Improved Cash Flow■ Same-day availability on cash and on all deposited checks.■ Since all of Local 68's accounts will be housed with Commerce Bank instead of four different banks, the Fund

Office can make electronic fund transfers rather than making physical deposits and withdrawals.Bank Fees■ Commerce Bank has agreed to waive all fees associated with Local 68 accounts.Maximized Interest Potential■ By making the switch to Commerce Bank, Local 68’s deposited funds will earn three times as much interest

(based on current interest rates) as they were in the past.In addition, Fund Service staff members Chris Ruton and Kathy Iandiorio now oversee fund collections from

delinquent employers. As a result of their leadership, the Fund Service Office has seen a tremendous improvementin the timeliness of fund collections and the expedient resolution of any discrepancies.

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L68 Economics101: Structural Changes,StreamlinedOperations and Saved Costs

Local 68 Holds the Line onWelfare FundContributionIncreases

Fund Office MakesAdministrativeFunctions MoreEfficient

Recent News

December 2005

Gordon Armiger UniccoRichard Boutilier Trump TajRobert Bullis LaroMiguel Cabrera Collonade Apts.Eduvigio Cadorna Newark Beth IsraelJoseph Calderone JA JonesSamuel Chris (Francine) A. GrossGustav Duester St. BarnabasJohn Duratz TecomRichard Feinberg CaesarsRobert Fletcher Johnson ControlsBruce Ford Newport EngineeringModesto Fuente Haagen DazsJohn Giblin 550 Broad StreetEllsworth Gernandt Building ServiceRobert Hahn LarkinRobert Lee St. BarnabasEugene Monahan Laro EngineeringRenatam Ramos Harborside FinancialJoseph Salter ATT LucentAlan Segal TropicanaJacobo Shabelev Franciscan HomeRichard Tantillo TMC ServicesJohn Walsh Trump PlazaErnest White Laro ServiceRobert Wolters One Source Corp.

Pensions Awarded

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Local 68 Officers and Executive Board Members

Thomas P. Giblin Business ManagerDennis J. Giblin PresidentGeorge D. Morrow Vice PresidentMichael V. Gann Recording SecretaryRobert Masterson Financial SecretaryCarlos J. Rodriguez ConductorPaul G. Bulger GuardWilliam A. Walsh TreasurerWilliam J. Lawlor TrusteeCharles J. McDonald TrusteeRichard Slappy TrusteeEdward P. Boylan AuditorJohn C. Lombardo AuditorJoseph J. Schaedel AuditorThomas Beere Executive BoardJames J. Beirne Executive BoardWilliam V. Freda Executive BoardJames M. Gorman Executive BoardKevin P. Mc Manus Executive BoardJohn H. Moore Executive BoardSean O’Neill Executive BoardStephen Skirka Executive BoardJohn C. Radcliffe Executive BoardMartin J. Roughneen Executive BoardEdward C. Sweeney Executive BoardRonald Walker Executive Board

F ormer Local 68 Business Manager and Current GeneralPresident of IUOE Vincent J. Giblin was on hand to install thelocal’s new officers and executive board at the Sept. 8 union

meeting held at the Newark Airport Hilton. Giblin offered congratulations to the officers and executive board

and remarked on what he has learned in his services since March2005 as General President of the IUOE.

“There is no finer local across this country than Local 68. You havea lot to be proud of and you owe it all to your own personal involvementin Local 68,” said Giblin. “I took for granted the loyalty and respect ofLocal 68 members. I will never forget where I came from and I knowyou will continue the same level of loyalty and respect for the newofficers and executive board members who assume office today.”

VincentGiblin InstallsNewOfficers and Board

Addresses Local 68 membership at September 8 meeting

ChangesApproved toPension PlanThe Local 68 IUOE PensionFund Trustees have approvedAmendment No. 36, whichhas become effective retro-active to January 1, 2005.

Under this change, if aparticipant retires andchooses a joint or contingentsurvivor, his or her pension isreduced either 10 percent or20 percent. If the spouse pre-deceases the pensioner, thereduced payment will revertto the unreduced amount.

Formerly, if a spouse pre-deceased the pensioner, themonthly payment wouldremain reduced.

Participants who havequestions about AmendmentNo. 36 or their pension fund statement should call theFund Service Office at (973)227-6426. Participants whowant to apply for their Local68 Pension Fund benefitsshould contact Mary AnneWojtal (ext. 212) or TheresaRowan (ext. 203) at the FundService Office at least six to eight weeks prior to theprojected retirement date.

Changes toDrug Program■ The mandatory mail-order

Prescription Drug Program takes effect in 2006.

■ Annual family Rx deductible is now pooled at $200, no longer $100 each.

35-Year Members Honored

In Recognition

Appreciation shown to members for their many years of hard work

35-Year Local 68Members

(Includes those who attended the 35 - Year Member Ceremony

as well as those who were not able to attend):

Winston BrooksDavid A. BurseJoseph CiannilliCraig CostanzoWilliam CurtisJohn DeCostaWilly DuczakEdward DyleJoseph FedorAyres GrayStanley J. Greer Jr.James R. JamesWilliam KeeganJames LesterPatsy LiSantiRobert LoneHayward ManuelVincent J. Murphy IIIJames MurrayJohn NeelyJoseph E. Opalak Jr.Willie S. PerryClarence ReedGeorge RennieJose RomaoCharles A. RossJohn J. SheilEdward SlavinskyJohn SmeltzerPhilip J. SteinertRonald C. SweeneyPeter G. WojtachWilliam V. WoltersRobert S. ZdichockiJustyn Zysk

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Having worked for several Local 68 sites for 27 years before hisretirement eight years ago, Hayward Manuel was among themany Local 68 members being recognized for their 35 years of

service to the union. Manuel began at First National Storage, SouthKearny, then worked at Two Guys,Newark, and spent the remainderof his years at the Meadowlands,East Rutherford.

“It is an honor to be recog-nized for the many years ofhard work,”said Manuel.

The annual Local 68 35-Year Member recognitiondinner took place prior tothe September 8 unionmeeting at the NewarkAirport Hilton.

“It is a tradition to honorour 35-year members toshow our appreciationfor their dedication.

They are the reasonthat today's Local 68members continue to

enjoy such outstanding benefits,” saidDennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE President/FundAdministrator.

Three other 35-year members in atten-dance - John Neely, Philip Steinert andWilliam Curtis – reminisced over dinnerabout their years working together at FoodFair Stores, Linden, where they began togetherin 1970 repairing palettes.

“It is great to have such long-standing rela-tionships with our fellow union members. Eventhough we all moved on to other sites, we havekept in touch and are glad to have known

each other a long time,” said John Neely. Reverend Monsignor John J. Gilchrist, Spiritual Director, Local 68,

was in attendance and offered the prayer at the beginning of thedinner. Following the dinner, each 35-year member in attendance waspresented with a pin, plaque and Local 68 hat.

“We are proud to recognize the men who have contributed so manyyears to Local 68. It is a momentous occasion to celebrate an enormousachievement such as 35 years as a member of our local,” said ThomasP. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE Business Manager.

XXXV

Group photo - Seated (l-r):Jose Romao, John Neely,Hayward Manuel,William WoltersStanding: Dennis J. Giblin,Msgr. John J. Gilchrist,William Curtis,David Burse, John DaCosta,WilliePerry, Philip Steinert,Thomas P. GiblinBottom photo: Hayward Manuelreceives his 35-year member pin.

TomCorona Helps Create a Site-SpecificTraining Program

Working with staff from the Local68 Training Center, Tom Coronahas created a Site SpecificTraining Program, comprised ofthree modules. (Corona is VicePresident and OperationsManager for Local 68 site JonesLang LaSalle and Local 68Education Fund Trustee.) Uponcompletion of this certification program, building engineers will be designated as Advance SystemCritical Engineers. Employees ofJones Lang LaSalle who completethe program receive an hourlyrate increase for the successfulcompletion of each phase.

“This program helps me mitigate risk and business liabilitydue to a lack of necessary MissionCritical Skills,” said Corona.

“The commitment to educationthat Tom Corona and Jones LangLaSalle have shown by creatingthis program and financiallyrewarding those employees whocomplete the program is trulycommendable,” said Dennis J.Giblin, Local 68 IUOEPresident/Fund Administrator.

The Site Specific TrainingProgram is available to all Local68 members who meet the pre-requisites for eligibility to enroll inthe program. For more informa-tion, call 973-227-6426 ext. 215.

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Critical systems, electrical wiring schematics, human relations, DX refrigeration and the ability to readblueprints - these were among the recurrent training needs noted by the Hudson County Local 68 ChiefEngineers at the first-ever Chief Engineers Meeting held on November 29, 2005, at the Light Horse

Tavern, Jersey City, N.J. A second Chief Engineers Meeting was held on January 12, 2006, at the Adega Grill,Newark, N.J., to reach out to the chief engineers in that area. Newark chiefs expressed the need for moretraining on fire and security systems, in particular.

Organized by Local 68 IUOE President/Fund Administrator Dennis J. Giblin, the Chief EngineerBrainstorming Sessions will be held every six weeks in different geographic areas of New Jersey as a wayfor the Local 68 Training Center staff to survey Chief Engineers about the education needs for their sites.Thirty-six people attended the Jersey City session, while nearly 50 people attended the Newark dinner.

“This is an excellent idea that has been needed for a long time,” said Ralph Urizzo, Local 68 ChiefEngineer, Barclays Capital. “It is so important to evaluate the needs of our members and provide feedbackto the Training Center staff,” added Urizzo.

Attendees at both dinners heard from Dennis Giblin and the Local 68 Training Center staff on the newfeatures of the Training Center, including the Learning Management System, which integrates all aspects ofa student's education management online (See separate Gauge story on the Learning Management Systemfor more details).

“The changes to the Local 68 Training Center are more than just bells and whistles,” said Michael Lynch,Local 68 Engineer, One Washington Plaza, and also a Training Center Instructor. “As chief engineers, weneed to communicate this to the people at our sites.”

Tom Corona, Vice President and Operations Manager, Jones Lang LaSalle, and Local 68 Education FundTrustee, was on hand at the Jersey City meeting to represent a Local 68 employer site and to speak withthe Chief Engineers about the importance of education and the value of the investment in training. He discussed the three-part training module that he has developed with Local 68 Training Center staff thatprovides him with a recruitment pool of skilled workers.

Corona was a member of Local 68 for nearly 25 years, spending most of that time at the MeadowlandsComplex. He was also an instructor for the Training Center before being promoted by Jones Lang LaSalle in2003 to management positions.

“It is so critical that you, as Chief Engineers, help develop the skills of the people who work for you.From the employers’ point of view, if your workers do not have the necessary skill sets, then they become aburden rather than a viable asset,” explained Corona.

Dennis Giblin emphasized the importance of education and the need for each and every member of Local68 to commit to improving their skills. “Entry level jobs are becoming non-existent in Local 68. We want ourmembers to be the most skilled workers available at every employer site so that we can keep as many jobsas possible,” said Dennis Giblin.

Also addressing the audience was Thomas P. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE Business Manager. “Our ChiefEngineers play an important role at every job site and have a responsibility to be leaders. I am proud of thetremendous array of talent we have in our membership. However, I urge you to not rest on your laurels andto work to protect our future,” said Tom Giblin.

Chief Engineers Brainstorm on the Training Needs of Members

Education

Member feedback is essential to Union leadership

In addition to education, technology is animportant factor in helping to keep Borgata'sLocal 68 members at the top of their games andwell-organized. Every associate has access toa computer and each has an email account andvoice mail. Work orders are communicatedvia text messages on wireless Nextel walkie-talkie phones, which each Local 68 membercarries while working their shift. The comple-

tion of work orders is also tracked on theNextels making data collection andproductivity monitoring much moreefficient.

Some unique components of theBorgata workplace include the “TalentTips” program through which anymanagement associate can call a tip-line and report exceptional performanceby an associate, resulting in an immediatemonetary bonus. This replaces thecustomary “employee of the month”awards that many other casinos utilize.Also, Borgata is reportedly the onlyAtlantic City casino that allows itsassociates to enjoy the facilities and/orproduct at the end of their work shift.

Under the leadership of Borgata CEOBob Boughner and Vice President ofHospitality Peter Finamore, the Local68 operating engineers at Borgata areall part of the team who service guestson a daily basis. Owned by Boyd Gaming

and MGM MIRAGE, Borgata's workplace culture emphasizes that thereis no difference between management and associates.

“We are all part of the same team. As a result, Borgata is one of themost sought after employers in the area,” explained Eugene Dimino,Facilities Manager for Borgata.

“The atmosphere at Borgata is great,” added Mark Gordon, Local 68Shop Steward and Electrician.

Borgata has been such an enormous success that a major expansionof the facility is underway, which is likely to result in additional jobopportunities for Local 68 members. The first phase of the expansion,scheduled to open in Spring 2006, will include additional casino product,three restaurants and some shops. The second phase will consist of an800-room hotel tower with an anticipated opening in late 2007.

Pearl Jam - Rod Stewart - Big Smoke -Women in Wine - Maxim Magazine Parties- Aerosmith - Sting - World Poker Tour -

Motley Crue – This is just a sampling of theworld-class entertainment going on nearly everynight at Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa, Local 68'snewest employer site in the Atlantic City casinos.Billed as a “destination”, Borgata has becomeone of the hottest spots to work in Atlantic Citysince its opening in 2003.

According to Kevin Akeret, Directorof Facilities for Borgata and formerLocal 68 member, he received hun-dreds of applications for the few jobopenings in his department. Amongthose positions, 61 are filled by Local68 IUOE members.

“The Local 68 members at our siteare among the best. In fact, our leadsare among the best I have ever workedwith. The main reasons are becausethey take ownership of their jobresponsibilities and have excellentorganizational skills,” said Akeret.The leads Akeret is referring to areLocal 68 members Harold Robinson,General Maintenance Lead; TomWalsh, Electrical Lead; Ed Neumann,Kitchen Lead; Joe Jacobs, PlumbingLead; and Rob Page, HVAC Lead.

“The kitchen mechanics maintainthe equipment for 20 food serviceoutlets throughout Borgata,” explained Neumann. This includes suchfine dining restaurants as Ombra, which has more than 12,000 bottles ofwine on its menu, and Old Homestead Steakhouse, offering its legendarysteakhouse menu.

Robinson, the General Maintenance Lead, has been with Local 68since 1993, when he began on the Grounds Crew at the Claridge. Hecredits his personal commitment to improving himself for his successwith Local 68 and Borgata.

“I have always continued taking classes and furthering my education,which has helped me to move up to the Lead General Maintenanceposition with Borgata,” said Robinson. “I am looking forward to theopening of the new Local 68 Atlantic City Training Center and plan to takeclasses there.”

Site Spotlight

Borgata – Local 68’s Latest Casino Site in Atlantic City

One of the hottest spotsto work in South Jersey

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Top photo l-r: Borgata Leads: Mark Gordon,Tom Walsh, Harold Robinson, Ed Neumann, Joe Jacobs, and Rob PageLower photo l-r: Kitchen Shop: Kenny Munoz, Jim Morford, and John Broomhead

Reaching into the sky 45 stories – or 781 feet – 30 Hudson Street, owned by GoldmanSachs and located on the Jersey City waterfront, maintains the coveted title of “TallestBuilding in New Jersey.” Since the building opened on April 1, 2004, Local 68 members

– as employees of Hines - have been maintaining and servicing the building’s plumbing, electricaland HVAC systems.

“It takes a huge commitment of time and energy to open a building and I am proud of our Local68 members who were on hand at 30 Hudson Street to do just that,” said Robert Masterson, Local68 IUOE Business Representative (pictured, far right).

“The Local 68 engineers go the extra mile to make sure that every issue that comes up isaddressed,” said Larry Hilaire, 30 Hudson Street Property Manager(pictured, third from right). “It is a pleasure to work with such adedicated team.”

As employees of Hines and working in a building where sensitivefinancial data is processed daily, each employee undergoes a rigorousthree-week background check prior to being hired. Stringent hiringrequirements and above-average building system requirements meanthat each Local 68 member on site has been carefully selected and iswell-trained on the most sophisticated building maintenance systemsin the industry.

“This building incorporates the highest level of technology of anyLocal 68 site,” said Robert Thompson, Local 68 Member and ChiefEngineer for 30 Hudson Street.

“All work calls and preventative maintenance tracking are Web-based via the Datastream 7i system,” explained Bill Clarke, AssistantChief Engineer for 30 Hudson Street.

“The guys that work at this site undergo extensive site-specifictraining. In fact, it takes a full year before someone can truly knowand understand the building,” added Thompson.

Although 30 Hudson Street is currently the tallest building in NewJersey, there were plans for it to be even taller. However, September11, 2001 occurred while the building was under construction, which

resulted in the height of the building being shortened by several hundredfeet. Even with this reduction, the building retains its status as “New Jersey’sTallest Building” and holds an impressive 1.6 million square feet of space.

Of note, the Local 68 members on site are proud to report that 30 HudsonStreet holds a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)Green Building designation recognized by the U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency. This means that the building incorporates various energy conserva-tion, water conservation, stormwater management, waste reduction andrecycling, and indoor air quality programs.

“Our recycling program has been especially successful and is currentlyoperating at close to a zero cost. We recycle everything from lightbulbs andbatteries to paper and cans,” explained Thompson. “Now, we are investigatinghow solar paneling would help to reduce the building’s energy costs.”

Since its opening, 30 Hudson Street has become an integral part of thetransformation of a once run-down sector of Jersey City. Although just underhalf the height of the world’s tallest building – Taipei 101 in Taipei, Taiwanstanding at 1,670 feet – 30 Hudson Street is a tall order for Local 68 mem-bers who proudly maintain this New Jersey landmark.

“We are proud to have such an integral role in maintaining the GardenState’s tallest building,” said Dennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE President/FundAdministrator.

Site Spotlight

30 Hudson Street – Local 68’sTallest Order

Building rises the highest in New Jersey

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Local 68 Members at 30 Hudson Street: Frank Borelli,William Clarke, Jr.,James Crosson, Hormidas de los Santos, John Kelly,Thomas Larkin,Craig Mall, Paul Martin, Denis Mulvaney (Shop Steward), Jason Salvatore,Robert Thompson - Chief Engineer, Raymond Vanderhoof, Sean Vesey

Choppers and Birdies

Union Event

Cycle engines roarin’ and tee shots soarin’

12

Local 68 Hits the Links

On September 19, 2005, Local 68 held its annual golf outing with113 participants at Hendricks Field Golf Course, Essex CountyParks System, Belleville, N.J.

“Playing in this annual event has become a tradition among manyof our members and employers,” said Thomas P. Giblin, Local 68 IUOEBusiness Manager.

A cocktail hour and banquet dinner were held following the outingat Nanina’s in the Park, Belleville, N.J., at which several awards werepresented.

“Each year, we look forward to a relaxing and enjoyable day on thegolf course,” said Dennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE President/FundAdministrator.

Motorcycle Run Brakes in New Hope,Pa.

On September 24, 2005, Local 68 held its third annual Motorcycle Run.

About 20 bikes participatedin the event, which ended in New Hope, Pa.

“The outing was a great way to spend some time outside of work with fellow Local 68 members,” said Ed Boylan, Local 68 IUOE BusinessRepresentative, who helped organize and attended the Motorcycle Run.

“We are glad that our members can enjoy these types of social opportunities,” said Thomas P. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE BusinessManager.

Low Gross Matt Larkin (Matrix)1st Low Net Jack Egan (St. Barnabas)2nd Low Net Dennis Lundy (Local 501)3rd Low Net Michael Castro (Guest of Member)Longest Drive Dennis Amerman (Guest of Member)Closest to the Pin - Hole 6 Bob Tansey (Cushman & Wakefield)Closest to the Pin - Hole 11 Dennis Lundy (Local 501)Closest to the Pin - Hole 13 Dan Himmelberg (Local 501)Closest to the Pin - Hole 14 Mark Landstrom (Cogswell)Most Honest Golfer Dan Noesges (Local 14)

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE DAY’S WINNERS

13

Under the direction of General President Vincent J. Giblin, the International Union of OperatingEngineers has established a Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund to assist in the recovery efforts followingHurricane Katrina's impact on Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.

All Local 68 members received personal letters from Giblin urging support of this worthy cause as manyof the hurricane's victims were IUOE members and their families.

“Sharing our own good fortune, reaching out a hand to brothers and sisters in need is a proud traditionin the IUOE, a tradition that we hope and pray will be manifested in abundance this year,” said Vincent J.Giblin, IUOE General President.

The IUOE estimates that 1,200 to 1,500 IUOE members have been affected by Hurricane Katrina. Theyare members of IUOE Local Unions 406 in New Orleans; 407 in Lake Charles, LA; 624 in Jackson, MS; 653 in Mobile, AL; and the Marine Division Local 25 in New Jersey with members working along the Gulf Coastregion. In particular, about 700 members from Local 406 lost nearly all they owned. Some of these members had insurance to help cover their losses, other had too little or none.

The International Office is now in the process of tracking down all of these members who are in need asmany have lost their homes and are displaced. The distribution of funds to each individual IUOE memberwill be determined based upon his or her need. Every dollar of Local 68 members' contributions will be distributed specifically to these members.

“We established the IUOE Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund soon after the hurricane hit to help membersand their families who were victimized. Countless members and local unions have responded most generously to our appeal. But more is needed and would be welcome. We guarantee that every last nickeldonated to this fund will be used to assist those members,” said Vincent Giblin.

The October-December 2005 issue of the IUOE newspaper includes extensive coverage of the impactHurricane Katrina had on IUOE members. To view the newspaper in its entirety and read several compelling individual stories of fellow IUOE Local 406 members, go to http://www.iuoe.org/OE%20newspaper/mainpage.htm and click on “October-December 2005”.

For example, read the story of Cheryl Frught who has served as a secretary in Local 406 for 23 years. She took her 16-year-old son, her mother, her neighbor's two sons and evacuated to Florida to stay in ahotel room the night before Katrina hit. It took her almost 24 hours to get to Florida, driving the whole wayat about 5-10 mph. Her husband stayed behind with brothers and a neighbor to keep watch over theirhomes. From her hotel room, she watched the levees break, submerging St. Bernard Parish in 10 to 15 feetof water. She did not know if her husband was dead or alive.

“I am sure that Local 68 members who have not already done so will consider making a donation oncethey read the stories of our fellow brothers and sisters’ traumatic experiences. I thank those of you whohave already donated so generously and urge those of you who have not yet to do so now,” said Thomas P.Giblin, Local 68 IUOE Business Manager.

Helping Our Community

International Establishes HurricaneKatrinaRelief Fund

Dedicates recent issue of its newspaper to telling the stories of IUOE members

Another successful blooddrive was held on

November 21 at the Local 68Training Center in WestCaldwell, N.J. A total of 63 participants contributed blood.

“Local 68 is the top union in the state for blood bankdonations with The BloodCenter of New Jersey,” saidThomas P. Giblin, Local 68IUOE Business Manager. “Weshould congratulate ourselvesfor our continued commitmentto this very important community service.”

The Blood Center of NewJersey supplies over 100,000blood products annually to thehospitals and medical centersof New Jersey. The next Local68 Blood Drive will be held onApril 12 in Atlantic City.

Blood accounts for about 7% of a person's weight. An average sized man has about 12 pints ofblood, and an average sized woman has about 9 pints. Yourbody immediately begins replacing the donated blood volume after you donate blood, so you can safely donate as often as 6 times a year.

Blood DriveHeld at TrainingCenter

Mail Contributions to: IUOE Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund, 1125 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036.

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14

The Doors Open to the NewAtlantic City Training Center

In January 2006, the southern location for the Local 68 TrainingCenter opened its doors at the corner of N. Franklin Boulevard andEast Delilah Road, Pleasantville, N.J. Demolition and construction

work on the site was accomplished with the help of more than 30volunteers from the membership, who were recognized for their effortsat the Dec. 7 union meeting at the Taj Mahal.

“We appreciate the hard work of the volunteers who contributedtheir time to make the Atlantic City Training Center a reality,” saidDennis J. Giblin, Local 68 IUOE President/Fund Administrator.

Atlantic City Training Coordinator Kevin Clark will oversee the scheduleof courses that will be developed for the southern members of Local 68.Clark has been surveying members to determine which classes wouldbe most appropriate to be offered at the new Local 68 facility. TheAtlantic City facility has three classrooms, including a computer lab.

“I am looking forward to active participation from the members. Mygoal is to have such high demand for classes that we will need morespace,” said Clark.

“We have heard the request from the Atlantic City membership tohave what the northern members have and we have provided it. Now,let’s make sure each and every member in southern New Jersey getsinvolved in the new Training Center,” said Dennis Giblin.

The West Caldwell Training Center has been enormously successfulsince its renovation, with a dramatic increase in registered apprentices.

In Atlantic City

Holiday Union Meetings Held at the Taj Mahal

H undreds of Local 68 members in the Atlantic City area attended the Holiday Union Meetings on December7, 2005 at the Taj Mahal. Members enjoyed plentiful food and beverages while they were updated on recentLocal 68 happenings.

Local 68 IUOE President/Fund Administrator Dennis J. Giblin gave many updates to the membership in hisreport. In particular, one useful reminder from Dennis Giblin was a clarification on eligible dependentchildren under the Local 68 Welfare Fund. Eligible dependent children are covered up to the end of themonth in which their 19th birthday occurs. If they are full-time students in an accredited college orinstitution of higher learning, they will be covered up to the end of the month in which their 23rdbirthday occurs. Full-time attendance is a minimum of 12 credits. Each semester must be verified with the Fund Service Office by the submission of the student's transcript or a letterfrom the school.

Dennis Giblin recognized the hard working staff of the Local 68 Fund Office and TrainingCenter and also commended Doris Jones for her dedication to managing the Atlantic City office.

Updates were also given on changes to the Local 68 Welfare Fund and on the Atlantic CityTraining Center (See additional Gauge stories on both topics).

Many of the Local 68 Business Agents as well as Local 68 Executive Board Members were in attendance at the meeting and extended their holiday greetings to the membership.

“We are proud of our union’s members and thank the Atlantic City members in particularfor their strong participation over the past year,” said Dennis Giblin.

Southern branch of L68 TrainingCenter ready for students

Local 68 members, who helped to construct the new Atlantic CityTraining Center (at left), were recognized and presented with jackets atthe December Union Meeting.

You can help organize more sites!It's as simple as striking up a conversation with a friend, neighbor, in-law, acquaintance, or even a stranger.You could be at a party, wedding, football game, or your child's school function - these are great chances toget contact information.

If you work in a heavily populated area such as Jersey City, Atlantic City, Trenton etc. - you probably knowwho is union and who is not in the adjacent building or, in some cases, even your own building.

If you find someone who is interested in organizing a site, ask for:■ Person's Name■ Phone number - a cell # if they have it■ Where they work■ What they do (job title, duties)Email the information or call Joe Donnelly.

For more information on organizing a site: North Jersey – Joe Donnelly @ 973-244-5809 or jdonnelly@iuoe-68.orgSouth Jersey – Pat Gilrane @ 609-347-3204 or pgilrane@iuoe-68.org

Organizing a Site

15

To help you start the conversation, here are the Top 5 Opening Lines to find out if the person might be interested in organizing their site:

1. Can you believe how much health insurance costs these days? [Local 68 members have excellent health benefits for low out-of-pocket costs!]

2. Most people aren't guaranteed an annual raise anymore. [Local 68 members have contracts that stipulate rates of pay and annual increases!]

3. I heard that many young people aren't saving enough for retirement. [Local 68 offers outstanding pension and annuity benefits!]

4. I feel bad for people who don't have any job protection. [Local 68 has grievance procedures in place to assist members!]

5. It's hard to imagine working somewhere with no opportunity for growth. [Local 68 has a brand-new Training Center with an apprentice training program and professional development classes! The tuition costs only $150 per year for as many classes as you want to take.]

IAP Worldwide Services at Fort Dix - The 92 members at Local 68's recently organized site take part in the company's Employee Appreciation Day.

Published by Local 68 IUOE Education Fund

Dennis J. GiblinLocal 68 President and Fund Administrator

14 Fairfield PlaceWest Caldwell, NJ 07006

Non-Profit OrganizationUS PostagePAID

West Caldwell, NJPermit No. 052

02 ThursdayUnion Meeting6:30pmTrenton MarriottTrenton

07 TuesdayHoshizaki Ice Machine Workshop3:30pm to 7:30pmAtlantic City Training Center850 Franklin Ave, Pleasantville

06 ThursdayUnion Meeting6:30pmUnion Elks Lodge #1583Union

12 WednesdayBlood Drive8am to 6pmTaj Mahal, Diamond BallroomAtlantic City

04 Thursday Union Meeting6:30pmWest Orange High SchoolWest Orange

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE 01 ThursdayScholarship Awards Dinner at 5pmUnion Meeting at 6:30pmDoolan's, Route 71Spring Lake Heights

14 WednesdayUnion Meeting1:30pm and 4:15pmTaj Mahal, Emerald BallroomAtlantic City

24 SaturdayLocal 68 Family PicnicBlack Bear Lake Country ClubMillstone

CALENDAR OF 2006 EVENTS

What: Learn the ins and outs directly from the major manufacturers ofkey critical systems technologies.

Why: The Local 68 Training Center is offering this seminar to directlyaddress the training needs identified by L68 Chief Engineers.

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

When: April 10–13, 2006 Where: Jersey CityHow: Call 973-227-6426, ext.215 (Rob Haitmanek) or ext.231 (Pat Lynch) to register or for more info.

Critical Systems Technology Seminar

08 WednesdayUnion Meeting1:30pm and 4:15pmTaj Mahal, Topaz BallroomAtlantic City