The Susquehanna Valley Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (ATHS) hosted the 29th annual John Hiestand Memorial Antique Truck show in Carlisle, Pa., on August 1^st. Local 776 Members, the father-son duo of Jeff and Kraig Keller, again invited Local 776 to participate.

Local 776 Business Agent Chalmer Edgin spent the day hanging out with and greeting the owners and drivers of the many trucks that were on display. Many of the trucks were retired freight trucks from Union carriers of the past! While The Local’s tractor is not an antique just yet, it was welcomed to the event, giving show spectators the opportunity to view and compare vehicles from different eras.

(L-R) Local 776 ABF Members Randy Whitehouse and Dan Wright were at the show, along with Jeff and Kraig Keller.

The Susquehanna Chapter of the ATHS was founded in 1992. Currently, Kraig serves as President, and his father, Jeff, serves as Treasurer. The chapter currently has 110 members who meet once a month. In addition to the truck show, other social events are held, including an annual picnic for the members. Many Members own, restore, and maintain antique trucks, but it is not a requirement for membership; it is just an interest in antique trucks and meeting with others who share that interest! If you’re interested in learning more about the Local Chapter, Kraig can be reached at 717-332-7669.

Jeff displayed his 1951 Mack "Chicago Express". At 75 years young, it's ready to go on the road again!

Commented Local 776 President Spencer Dearth: “Thanks to Kraig and Jeff for the invitation to the show. As the motto on the Local’s trailer states, “Our History Creates Our Future.” Participating in the show helps the public remember the Teamsters are a huge part of the Trucking Industry past and present. I would like to thank Chalmer for taking time from his weekend to attend the show, proudly representing Local 776."

There was plenty of chrome and horsepower on display at the show.

This past week has been a busy one at the Camp Hill Union Hall as we continue to address damage from the July 4th storm. Drying and dehumidification are nearly complete, and most of the cleanup equipment has now been removed. All water-affected ceilings, walls, and flooring have been removed, and roof replacement is already scheduled. With the building stabilized, we will now move into reconstruction and repairs of the impacted areas.

Even with all the additional activity, Hall operations have continued without interruption.

On behalf of the Officers, Business Agents, and Office Staff, I want to extend our sincere appreciation to the many members who reached out with offers of help and support. Your solidarity is felt and valued.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through this process.

Fraternally,

Spencer B. Dearth

President, Teamsters Local 776

After 40 years of service, Rich Belack recently retired from UPS. Like most long-term UPS Members, Rich started as a part-time employee at the Harrisburg Hub. After a few years, Rich became a full-time package car driver, a role he held until his retirement.

Rich and his wife, Gina, will celebrate 40 years of marriage in September. They have two sons and one grandson, all of whom are vying for Rich's time now that he's retired!

After 40 years of working, it takes a while to settle into retirement. Right now, Rich and Gina are just enjoying time in their own little piece of heaven, a 25-acre property north of Harrisburg they call home! Retirement will give Rich some additional time for his hobbies, mainly hunting and fishing. With 25 acres, he doesn't have to go far to scout out game! After getting settled into retirement, Rich and Gina plan to travel.

When asked for any parting words, Rich replied: "All in all, it was a good job, and I belonged to a good Union."

From everyone at Local 776, congratulations and best of luck in retirement, Rich. May you enjoy every day as a retiree!

Local 776 Business Agents Jason Kraft (L) and Dave Licht present Rich with a Local 776 Retirement Watch