Building Trades News

Shawn Arballo (left) and Eric Packard, United Association Training Specialist.

Sprinkler Fitters Local 709 member Shawn Arballo was recognized by the United Association of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada for making it all the way to the national apprenticeship championship which took place this summer.

Arballo, who has since become a Journeyman, won the regional contest earlier this year. He was presented with a ring by Eric Packard, a Training Specialist from the United Association, to honor his achievement. This was the first time Local 709 participated in an Apprenticeship competition in 33 years.

Local 709 members and contractors demonstrated their generosity once again this year by donating toys to the Children’s Hospital.

Sprinkler Fitters Toy Drive a Huge Success

This year's annual toy drive for Children's Hospital was a huge success. At the December 3rd meeting, members and contractors donated unwrapped toys which will be delivered to Children's hospital before Christmas. Local 709 members and contractors out did themselves once again; the number of toys collected has continued to grow over the past several years. Last year's donations filled 3 pickup trucks, 1 van and 1 car and this year's donation's look to be even larger.

At the meeting Business Manager Sal Chiaravalloti thanked the members and contractors for their generosity. "You have brought such joy to the these children who are desperately sick," he said.

Thanks to the Local 709 members and contractors for showing their generous spirit once again this holiday season.