Local 23 Representing at the IUBAC International Convention in Detroit!

Huge news out of Detroit! Local 23 took home a big win at the International Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Union national competition in Detroit over the weekend!

Michael McKee, Local 23 member, was awarded 1st Place Brick!

“It means a great deal for me to place and see how I did amongst my peers,” said Michael McKee, Local 23 Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maryland apprentice, who won first prize in brick. “I love that bricklaying offers something new every day. It’s hard work, but it’s very rewarding to see a building come from nothing.”

McKee and his fellow contestants raced to build complex mockups that reflect real-world construction projects in less than 8 hours. They’re scored on criteria like layout, craftsmanship, neatness, safety, and aesthetics by a team of judges who are all industry and craft experts.

“The apprentices competing here today are the future of our industry,” said Tim Driscoll, BAC President and IMI/IMTEF Co-Chair. “We have an unparalleled training system that’s the envy of the industry, and it doesn’t exist without great labor-management cooperation.”

“I’m incredibly proud of Michael for bringing home the gold and being such a great representation of our union and the hard work and precision we bring to every job site. I’d also like to thank Brian Greynolds, our Director of Apprenticeship and Training for BAC Local 23 for helping to shape the next generation of bricklayers,” said Danny Musacchio, Local 23 President.

Read more about the event and winners here.

Left to right: International Bricklayers Union Vice President Keith Hocevar, Local 23 Training Director Brian Greynolds, Local 23 member Michael McKee, 23 Secretary Treasurer Noah Carmichael, IU Regional Rep. Russel Smith.

Cynthia has worked for BAC for almost 20 years. Over the years, she has worn many hats and served under different configurations of our union, different leadership, and different members, but one thing has stayed the same: her dedication to serving our membership and her pride in the job.

She has helped members with all different types of challenges and opportunities, and she looks back fondly on times where she has been able to help members get disability and retirement.

“If I could send one message to all the members and everyone I have worked with, it has truly been a pleasure to work with so many great people and I will miss you all tremendously. It’s been an honor serving the members of the Local 23 union family and that is what has kept me going through all these years – knowing that every day I get to work with such wonderful and hardworking people,” said Cynthia.

In retirement, Cynthia is looking forward to traveling, camping, exploring new hobbies like learning how to smoke a killer brisket, gardening, and enjoying time with her family, including her cat, Prince Panda!

“Cynthia served our members with passion and determination and she was always there for them. She leaves big shoes to fill and she will be missed, but never forgotten. We wish Cynthia all the best and thank her for her decades of amazing service for our union and its members. Enjoy your retirement, Cynthia!” said Danny Musacchio, President, BAC Local 23.

Below are some pictures from Cynthia’s retirement party!

Bob Frederick working for Grae-Con at the Parkersburg Recreational Center.