We had 66 members and/or guests in attendance
at our March Union meeting. Jobs with Justice gave a good report and
presentation about rising health care costs. They also reported on a health
care rally held on Friday, March 11.
Tyna McMillan and Danny Stewart
get Local 247 Carhartt jackets as new journeymen.
Tyna McMillan and Danny Stewart were presented
Local 247 Carhartt jackets as new journeymen.
We elected Gene Lawhorn, Joe Baron, Bruce
Dennis, and Joe Whitney as General Convention delegates and Pete Savage,
Shaun Cushman, Davy Oury, and Mike Couch as alternates.
Under reports Bob Hansen gave us an update on
health care costs, trust mergers and 401(k) plans. Political Organizer Ed
Glad reported on bills in Salem and an energy siting hearing concerning a
job at Astoria. Regional Council delegates reported on the recent quarterly
delegate meeting. We also had representative and organizer reports. We got a
Christmas in April update, a May Day planning report and a Union-Industries
Show report.
Under new business, we set a budget for a
retiree’s party and donated $500 to the Butte, Montana local for maintenance
of Labor Martyr Frank Little’s grave.
Corned beef and cabbage was served to all.
Trustee Kevin Stokes was the cook, and he received a 247 T-shirt along with
a big thank you from all attendees.
As per usual, this report only gives the
highlights of the meeting. For more comprehensive coverage, attend your
Union meeting.
Bruce John Cummings of Portland passed away March
12, 2005, after battling prostate cancer. He was born April 9, 1934 in Astoria
to James and Laura Cummings, and was the youngest of three sons. Bruce grew up
in Portland, attended Parkrose High School and started a carpenter
apprenticeship after two years at Portland State College.
Bruce served two years in the Coast Guard and then
started his career as a general contractor when he started B.J. Cummings Company
in 1962. For over 40 years he served as the self-proclaimed “Benevolent
Dictator” of the corporation, and worked to promote both the carpenters’ union
and apprenticeship program. Bruce was recognized repeatedly for his integrity,
dedication to clients, and contributions to the construction industry.
Bruce’s personal life revolved around three
special ladies. He married Dolores Neathammer as a young man, but their life
together was cut short by cancer that took her life soon after. After about
seven years, Bruce found love a second time when he met Sandra Graham in 1966.
They quickly married and built a family with daughter, Laura, and son, Tim. They
enjoyed many adventures and welcomed their four precious grandchildren to the
family before Bruce lost Sandi to breast cancer in 1997. Bruce found love once
more when he married Diane Smiley in 2001 and added her two daughters, Becky and
Laurie, to his family. Bruce and Diane enjoyed traveling and sharing each
other’s company until prostate cancer took his life.
Bruce was a faithful Christian, loving husband and
father, loyal friend, card-carrying Republican, and committed Ford man who
eagerly anticipated his annual fishing trip to Alaska accompanied by some of his
favorite guys. He will be forever remembered by family and friends as a
remarkable man with a big heart for serving others through his generosity and
supporting the ministries of those doing the Lord’s work here on earth.
Bruce leaves behind daughter, Laura Edmonson; son,
Tim; four grandchildren; and wife, Diane. A celebration of his life was held
March 31 at Hinson Memorial Baptist Church. The family asks that remembrances be
made to Cancer Care Resources, 439 N. Broadway, Portland, 97227
We are looking for members to volunteer their time
and skills for one day! On Saturday, April 23, 2005, we will be assisting
individuals in our community with various home repairs through Rebuilding
Together with Christmas in April.
Rebuilding Together with Christmas in April is the leading local volunteer
organization that, in partnership with the community, rehabilitates the homes of
low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly, disabled, and families with
children so that they can continue to live in warmth, safety, and independence.
If you are interested, please contact the office
and Dawn or Sherrie will be happy to sign you up and send you the information to
complete. Thanks so much for your help!!
We need your help, so please volunteer! Mark your
calendars for April 23!
PLEASE NOTE: This is an opportunity for EVERYONE!!
Even if you know someone who don’t have any construction skills, there is
cleaning and landscaping and lots of other miscellaneous tasks to be completed.
Please bring the family!! Anyone can help!
