Edition: Winter 2016
IAM Local 1280 in Newark, OH, along with the Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers (GMP), bought and assembled 125 bikes and helmets for the Salvation Army’s “Bikes for Kids” drive.
The 12-year tradition is carried on in the memory of deceased IAM member Dave “Stinky” Pugh, who along with his wife would donate several bicycles each holiday season to the program.
The members, employed at fiberglass-manufacturer Owens Corning, raised money for the bikes through employee donations, contributions from other unions, local businesses and other organizations. Management has joined in by raffling off a vacation day, which has become a popular tradition in the effort.
“IAM Members play a key role in, and care about their communities wherever they are employed,” said IAM District 54 President and Directing Business Representative T. Dean Wright, Jr. “Yet this effort is a little more special, three unions and retirees coming out each year to pitch in, demonstrates the importance of the effort. Nothing embodies the holidays like kids and bicycles, all the while honoring the memory of a good union brother.”
Over the years, the Newark team has assembled, and donated more than 1,000 bikes to the program.