John Mason Retires; Hawthorne Named TMT Craft Director

JOURNAL: ISSUE 2 - 2013

Longtime International Union Craft Director for Tile/Marble/Terrazzo and North Central Regional Representative John Mason retired July 22nd. The 34-year BAC member of Local 1 Michigan was praised by BAC President James Boland for his "deep commitment to BAC's skilled TMT craftworkers and encyclopedic knowledge of the trades. John's wisdom and counsel was sought out often not only by the Executive Board but by so many throughout the industry."

Mike Hawthorne

Succeeding Mason as TMT Craft Director/Regional Representative is Local 1 Minnesota/North Dakota Executive Vice President Michael Hawthorne. BAC Secretary-Treasurer Henry Kramer, who directs the IU's field operations and Field Staff, said, "Brother Hawthorne has big shoes to fill but there's no doubt he is bringing a wealth of experience to our North Central Region team and IU field staff."

Hawthorne, a Journeyman tilesetter, has 33 years of experience in the ceramic tile industry, five years with the Tile Finishers Union and 28 years as a BAC member. In addition to serving on a number of trust funds, he is Financial Secretary-Treasurer for the Minnesota State Building and Construction Trades Council and a member of the OSHA Advisory Council for the State of Minnesota.

"John's done an amazing job over the years. By setting the bar so high, I have my work cut out for me, but I am very grateful to have this opportunity and look forward to the challenging responsibilities ahead," said Hawthorne.