UTU NEWS
| Volume 30 | August, 1998 | Number 8 |
UTU NEWS ONLINE EDITION AUGUST 1998 A Service of the United Transportation Union Charles L. Little --- Roger D. Griffeth Editorial Offices: UTU NEWS UTU@compuserve.com http://www.utu.org The following may be reprinted, or re-posted in electronic form, in part or in whole, to any network or computer system worldwide, or distributed via disk, provided proper credit is included and no alteration of text occurs other than for formatting purposes. NOTE: This text file is best viewed using a 12 pt. monospaced (nonproportional) font such as Monaco or Courier. ------------------------------------------------------ WELCOME TO THE VOICE OF TRANSPORTATION LABOR "Your union, the UTU, plays a proactive role in making sure decisions we make at the Surface Transportation Board (STB) are the right ones." -- Linda Morgan, Chairwoman, STB, June 23, 1998, Toronto Regional Meeting ------------------------------------------------------ TABLE OF CONTENTS --The UTU NEWS On-Line Edition takes advantage of the search-and-find features in your word processing software or on-line editor. For example, to learn UTU members' thoughts about on-the-job safety ("Voices: Members share their opinions"), have your word processing software or on-line editor search for the text ##P. IN THIS EDITION --Switching accident takes member's life ...........##A --UTU, BLE, CSX create new discipline policy ....##B --Enthusiasm builds for new union ..................##C --WARR meets with UP brass ......................##D --UTU Ladies' Auxiliary growing ....................##E --John S. Wlodarski dies ........................##F AROUND THE UTU --News from around the U.S. and Canada .............##G MEMBERSHIP PROFILE --Member on LACMTA tests new breed of bus .......##H BUS DEPT. / STREET BEAT --"For the Children" ...............................##I Editorial by Bernard J. McNelis Vice President and Director, UTU Bus Dept. --UTU opposes move to break up LACMTA ...........##J YARDMASTER REPORT --"Lively Meeting" .................................##K Editorial by Don R. Carver Assistant to the President, Yardmasters' Dept. EDITORIALS --"Revolutionary" thinking ......................##L --TPEL gets LACMTA boost ...........................##M --"A Few Things on My Mind" .....................##N Editorial by Charles L. Little UTU International President --"Contact Lawmakers on MCR 52" ....................##O Editorial by James M. Brunkenhoefer UTU National Legislative Director --Voices: Members share their opinions ..........##P STATE WATCH --News from UTU State Legislative Boards ...........##Q REGIONAL MEETING NOTEBOOK --Year's first meeting keeps flame burning ......##R --Toronto Meeting sets attendance record ...........##S --STB's Morgan lauds UTU oversight role .........##T --Canadian leader McDonough a big hit ..............##U MONEY & POLITICS ................................##V CN seeks STB approval of IC deal; UTU makes the difference for Amtrak; Analysts see rail earnings down; Coach USA to buy 10 firms; AAR among top 25 lobbyists in 1997 TRANSPORTATION REPORT ..............................##W NTSB blames BNSF for Amtrak crash in Arizona; UP, BNSF issue warning on grain shipments; UP, BNSF ask workers to sleep on the job; NTSB issues report on 1997 Kansas collision; Family of five killed when train rams van; Amtrak ordered to pay for 1995 crash; BMWE re-elects Fleming president; UTU/BLE committee meets; SEPTA strike ends SENIOR NEWS .....................................##X RRB reports reflect healthy economy; U.S. expands Medicare coverage; Outpatient data now available online; OAS benefits get quarterly adjustment; Pullman uniform fits after nearly 30 years; Local 1373 hosts memorable reunion; The Final Call TPEL HONOR ROLL --Contributors' continued support recognized........##Y FELA UPDATE --The Need for Lawyers, Part II .................##Z NOTICES --Monthly apparel winner announced ...............##AA --Walgreens ends drug program ..................##BB --UTUIA offers accidental-death benefit ..........##CC ==================================================== IN THIS EDITION --Switching accident takes member's life ...........##A SLATON,Tex. -- Jason Navarro, a 24-year-old member of Local 9 at Slaton, Tex., died June 1 when he was crushed between a locomotive and grain hopper, according to reports received at UTU International headquarters. Brother Navarro had worked on the railroad for 10 months. A BNSF switch foreman, Navarro was standing on the back of the engine directing the engineer when the engine grazed the grain car on an adjacent track, catching him between the two. --UTU, BLE, CSX create new discipline policy ....##B JACKSONVILLE, Fla.-- A "new beginning" seems to be shaping up between operating rail labor and the CSX railroad. Some are even calling it "revolutionary." For the first time in railroad history, unions and a carrier have worked together to create a new and fairer "disciplinary policy" that focuses on corrective action, not unilateral punishment. On July 1, about 200 operating craft employees joined UTU International President Charles L. Little, BLE International President Clarence Monin and CSXT President and CEO Pete Carpenter when they signed a new employee development and accountability policy that replaces the carrier's former disciplinary procedure. This is the first time such a policy has been jointly developed by unions and a carrier. The new policy provides that all CSXT operating employees begin with a "clean slate" as of July 1 with regard to application of the new policy. The signing ceremony took place at CSXT's Moncrief Yard. Federal Railroad Administrator Jolene Molitoris also participated. The backbone of this new policy was laid during meetings at the National Wage & Rules Panel. "Every operating employee on CSX literally begins his or her working life today (July 1) with a fresh start from a carrier that is asking them to participate in creating the best working environment on an American railroad in history," Little said. "This is an opportunity we intend to seize and turn into a success." Little added: "Today, we begin writing the first words in a new book about how labor and management should work together on the railroad of the 21st Century in a partnership of mutual respect and accountability." CSXT's Carpenter said, "For nearly a century, we've largely addressed rules violations by our operating employees by assessing discipline without collaboration with the employees' labor representatives. This policy moves us from a unilateral approach to one of partnership with the labor organizations. The credit for this historic policy goes to Charles Little and Clarence Monin for their vision, as we break from the past and set a new standard for the rest of the rail industry." Positive corrective action, not punishment, is the cornerstone of the new policy. Minor rules infractions by an employee will be addressed jointly by the local CSXT manager and the union local chairperson. Positive corrective action could include providing the involved employee with additional formal or on-the-job training or assigning the employee to an experienced employee from the same union who volunteers to assist. Repetitive cases of minor offenses and first-time serious rules violations will be handled by non-punitive methods, such as Incident Review Committees and Time-Out sessions. IRCs are composed of fellow craft employees, who will determine the root cause of the problem and prescribe appropriate corrective action. Time Outs bring together the involved parties to determine the root cause of the problem and a corrective solution. Only in cases of continued serious offenses or egregious rules violations will the new policy require formal hearings under the terms of the applicable collective bargaining agreements. --Enthusiasm builds for new union ..................##C TORONTO -- A crowd of more than 1,200 UTU members attending the three-day UTU/UTUIA Regional Meeting here gave an enthusiastic reception to the idea of creating a new rail labor organization with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE). "This is the right time for the UTU and BLE to come together," said UTU International President Charles L. Little during opening remarks that were repeatedly interrupted by applause. Noting the profound changes altering the rail industry, Little said, "It is time that we shape our own destiny instead of having destiny imposed on us." Little also described the anticipated outcome of recent talks with the BLE aimed at creating a new rail labor organization. "This organization will not be the UTU, and it will not be the BLE," Little said. "It would be a new union where historical craft autonomy and seniority would be sacrosanct, and where we would work together for the benefit of all as a union of equals. "We are working toward the day when there will be one great North American operating union combining the best of what the UTU and BLE offer their members," Little continued between rounds of applause. --WARR meets with UP brass ......................##D NORTH PLATTE, Neb. -- WARR now has the attention of the Union Pacific Railroad. "They got the company's attention," a UP spokesperson said after a mid-July meeting. "There's no doubt about that." Wives upset about their husband's working conditions on the UP started the group two months ago in this railroad town. On July 9, WARR (Women/Wives Against the Railroad) members and UP executives held a three-hour meeting. UP said it doesn't like the group's name, but they are taking them seriously now that the grassroots organization was featured in the July issue of the UTU News and supported with an editorial. WARR members say that the carrier needs to hire more workers, allow employees more rest time and address safety and family issues. UP operating employees have been suffering through the worst railroad-operating crisis in U.S. history caused by problems related to the merger with Southern Pacific. UP President Jerry Davis, who attended the meeting, said that WARR's concerns about worker shortages and rest time are "certainly valid." However, at the meeting, several WARR members walked out saying that UP officials didn't address the issues. "It's ridiculous. He's not addressing any of the issues," said WARR member Carol Gutherless. "It's just mumbo-jumbo," said Friede Hunt, another WARR member. UP officials said a new scheduling program will be ready Sept. 1. "I really think the lines of communication were opened," said Kathy Beisner, WARR's co-founder and president. "At least they acknowledged us, although I'd like to see some of the things they told us in the room come true." For more information about WARR, call Kathy Beisner at (308) 532-2236. --UTU Ladies' Auxiliary growing ....................##E CLEVELAND -- The UTU Ladies' Auxiliary is forming a new lodge at International Headquarters in Cleveland. The formation of the new lodge is part of an emerging plan currently being formulated to reinvigorate the group and make it more of an integral part of the UTU. Look for more information in coming issues of the UTU NEWS on the Ladies' Auxiliary. --John S. Wlodarski dies ........................##F John S. Wlodarski, age 55, a member of the UTU's Transportation Safety Team and former assistant legislative director for Montana, passed away April 3, 1998, after a battle with cancer. A member of Local 730, Great Falls, Mont., he began his rail career on the Burlington Northern in 1960 and soon was promoted to conductor. Brother Wlodarski held a variety of positions in Local 730, including secretary and treasurer, and legislative representative. He was elected local chairperson of Local 730 in January 1975, became assistant general chairperson of GO-386 in February 1993, and was elected assistant state legislative director for Montana in February 1992. He was appointed to UTU's Transportation Safety Team in late 1996. He is survived by his widow, Barbara, as well as a son and a daughter. A commemorative to Brother Wlodarski being circulated among those who knew him includes entries penned by GO-386 General Chairperson John D. FitzGerald, Local 730 President Bob Corrigan, and Wlodarski's successor on the Transportation Safety Team Fran Marceau, Montana state legislative director. AROUND THE UTU --News from around the U.S. and Canada .............##G L-78 & 265, POCATELLO, IDAHO Members of the two locals in June co-hosted the 1998 Idaho AFL-CIO State Convention Picnic in Pocatello, where about 400 delegates and guests enjoyed a full array of gastronomic delights. In attendance was State Sen. Lin Whitworth, a retired Union Pacific conductor and 42-year UTU member, who was awarded by UTU International President Charles L. Little the UTU's coveted Brass Lantern Award for his outstanding support of rail labor and our union. In President Little's absence, the award was presented by UTUIA Special Insurance Representative George Millward and Legislative Representative Dan Staples of Local 78, and Local President Jeff Mason and Bob Lamb of Local 265. LOCAL 105, LAS VEGAS, NEV. General Chairperson Tony Magee, who earlier expected a representation election would be held between the UTU-represented Gray Line members and the K-T employees represented by another bargaining unit on the property, said the company has now agreed to recognize each bargaining unit. However, because a dispute now exists over new airport shuttle service the company instituted in May, the UTU has filed an unfair-labor-practice charge against the company and an AFL-CIO Article XX charge against the other bargaining unit. LOCAL 338, CHATTANOOGA, TENN. Members of the local, along with UTU Ladies' Auxiliary Lodge 915 and members of Local 459, all in Chattanooga, Tenn., arranged for a joint "Broken Wheel" memorial service for 12 individuals connected with the union or the auxiliary at the Terra Vista Baptist Church in June, according to Local 338 Secretary and Treasurer Tommy D. Pierce. LOCAL 343, HAMILTON, ONT. The closure late last year of the Hamilton, Brantford and Hagersville terminals by CN Rail led to the premature closing of the local, despite the fact that there were still 36 members in Oakville needing representation, according to Scott Montani, who along with Jerry Coffey, visited the UTU International and convinced the Board of Directors to re-open the local. Meanwhile, the local recently welcomed Byron Blaney as its new president, succeeding Montani, who held the post for nearly three years and is currently in a run-off election for local chairperson (yard) with Brian Stephenson, who looks forward to getting more involved with union affairs. LOCAL 473, LAGRANDE, ORE. The local's regular monthly meeting is being postponed until August 19 to coincide with the scheduling of the annual picnic. The meeting will start at noon and run until about 2 p.m., with the picnic starting shortly thereafter and running until about 5:30 p.m., according to Local President David J. Thielen. Retirees frequently outnumber active members at the event, Thielen said, but all are invited and urged to bring a salad or dessert and their own table service. For more information, contact Thielen by calling (541) 963-7031 or by sending e-mail to <thielend@eoni.com>. LOCAL 924, RICHMOND, VA. About 500 are expected to attend the annual railroad picnic sponsored by UTU Designated Legal Counsel Eddie W. Wilson, Willard J. Moody Sr. and Lawrence M. Mann on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Bryan Park Shelter #1 in Richmond, Va. The event will feature door prizes and a horseshoe tournament, according to Margaret Fiala. Active and retired railroaders and their immediate families are welcome. Operation RedBlock, Amtrak, and others will have representatives on hand, and UTUIA's Joe Fletcher will be available to answer questions. For information, call John H. Hines at (804) 329-1086. Meanwhile, the local is getting 22 new hires, who will undergo a nine-week training period. LOCAL 933, JEFFERSON CITY, MO. Due to the need for manpower, members of the local are now sharing the workload with crews from the former Southern Pacific in advance of the official hub merger, according to Ken Menges, local chairperson. Menges said his local is one of the few that will be staying home once the hub merger is official, and he added that the local may be sponsoring a picnic in early autumn. LOCAL 1391, LORAIN, OHIO Members are making plans to proudly participate in the third annual Lorain County Labor Pride Day on Sunday, September 6, according to Local President Larry J. Faunt. The local plans to set up a booth and hand out information, Cliff Merritt coloring books, and other promotional items. An estimated 10,000 people turned out last year for the family-oriented event that features pony rides, a classic-car show and more. LOCAL 1697, LUBBOCK, TEX. Members working for Texas, New Mexico & Oklahoma Coaches (Panhandle Trailways) are trying to cope with a record-setting heat wave while transporting record numbers of passengers, according to Local Treasurer Pat Tuman, who noted the local's newsletter in July recognized Roberto Corral of El Paso, Tex., as member of the month. LOCAL 1715, CHARLOTTE, N.C. General Chairpersons Steve Smith, Greg Ashley and other officers and committee representatives of the local, along with Alternate National Legislative Director Jim Stem and UTU Vice President Bernie McNelis, met last month with Transit Management of Charlotte representatives to discuss the company's plans for growth. Smith noted traffic in the area has become very congested and the city is ready for transit expansion. UTU members look forward to working with the company for improved transportation service in the region, which would increase job opportunities and spur the local's membership growth. LOCAL 1900, MIAMI, FLA. Plans called for General Chairperson Earl White, Vice Chairperson Art Mincey, Local President Prince Gibbs, and others to meet in early August with Florida State Legislative Director Carl Cochran and International Vice President Bernie McNelis to help coordinate affairs of the new general committee of adjustment created when members came under the authority of the National Labor Relations Act. Formerly, the local's members, working as truck drivers for PARSEC in Miami and Jacksonville, Fla., had been governed by the Railway Labor Act. MEMBERSHIP PROFILE --Member on LACMTA tests new breed of bus .......##H People in Los Angeles, Cal., are probably accustomed to seeing the unusual, but the recent sight of a man in a flight suit piloting what appeared to be a vehicle from a sci-fi movie must have raised a few eyebrows. The man was Hugh C. Cooper of Local 1607, Los Angeles, Cal., and the vehicle was the Earl Clark Advanced Technology Transit Bus (ATTB), a low-weight, low-emission bus built with materials similar to those used in the construction of the B-2 Stealth Bomber. The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) on June 1 began a seven-month test run of the ATTB, during which passengers are being treated to free rides. For publicity during its public debut, Cooper, who has been test-driving the bus for five months without passengers, was dressed in the flight suit. Three such buses are being tested, and they're liable to show up on any route at any given time. If well-received by the operators, maintenance people, and the public, LACMTA will likely consider ordering them for regular fleet service, the authority said. The ATTB runs on electricity supplied by a generator powered by compressed natural gas (CNG). Cooper, a 15-year UTU member, gave the bus a thumbs-up. "It has some horsepower problems, and another version with a different engine is being tested," Cooper reported. "Otherwise, it's easy on the mechanics, who can pull the powertrain and engine and replace them in about an hour. And the touch-pad controls have been designed with the operator in mind. I've been training the other operators, and I think they're going to like this bus." The high-tech bus was named in honor of the late UTU General Chairperson Earl Clark, longtime leader of the more than 4,200 UTU-represented bus and train employees on LACMTA, who passed away in May 1996. BUS DEPT. / STREET BEAT --"For the Children" ...............................##I Editorial by Bernard J. McNelis Hope, prosperity and a better future for the children of the world. We've heard that before, and we do believe that the children are the future of the world. What world are we giving them when we know that 6.1 million children in Bangladesh are working, many as young as 13? In Nigeria, it is estimated that between 15 and 20 million children, some as young as six, are employed by multinational corporations. In India, the government estimates that 90 million out of 179 million children ages six to 14 are working, many making about $1.30 per week. In 1997, the Apparel Industry Partnership created a voluntary workplace code of conduct that includes the prohibition against the employment of children younger than 15. This partnership is made up of labor, consumer, human rights and religious groups. We know about our NAFTA problems with Mexican bus drivers being paid about $8 a day, but in comparison to the Indian children, they have it made. Most of us have read about child labor violations and sweatshops throughout the world, and even in the U. S. Meanwhile, Independent Special Prosecutor Kenneth Starr has spent more than $35 million of our tax dollars investigating President Clinton. I believe the money would be better spent investigating and reporting on which businesses are making millions of dollars, if not billions, as a result of child labor. The use of child labor is immoral, and that is what we should be reading and seeing about every day in the newspapers and on TV. We as individuals must support those companies which do not use child labor, if we can find them. --UTU opposes move to break up LACMTA ...........##J LOS ANGELES - If California lawmakers broke the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) into two pieces, setting up one to run transit in the San Fernando Valley, both entities would be financially "viable," according to a controversial report issued by the state auditor's office. The UTU is firmly opposed to any privatization efforts on the MTA. "We will do everything we can to make sure MTA riders and workers have one strong, efficient, financially reliable transit system," said UTU International President Charles L. Little. Lawmakers and other Valley advocates who contend an independent Valley agency could better manage the region's transit services immediately seized on the report as ammunition in their cause. The MTA, which lobbied heavily against a bill that would have established such a Valley agency, conceded in a written response that the report's findings were "reasonable." The study was ordered by state Sen. Tom Hayden (D-Los Angeles) earlier this year. After receiving a chilly reception in the Senate Transportation Committee, Hayden amended his bill. The current version, stalled in an Assembly committee, would create a transportation planning board for the valley. YARDMASTER REPORT --"Lively Meeting" .................................##K Editorial by Don R. Carver The Toronto Regional Meeting was a success. Membership attendance set a record, and yardmasters are attending in greater numbers. Open discussions in our workshops were both lively and informative. The yardmaster workshops give yardmasters from different carriers the opportunity to meet, exchange ideas and discuss common problems. The various subjects covered by the workshops offer educational opportunities to members and officers that exceed those offered at last year's meetings. We encourage you to attend the final meeting in Reno. Implementing agreement negotiations are continuing with CSX Transportation and the yardmaster committees affected by the break up of Conrail. At press time, yardmaster representatives were with Soo Line General Chairperson Tom Turner in Washington, D.C., at the NMB offices, in mediation with Soo Line, attempting to consummate an agreement. On July 14, 1998, President Little cleared the air with CSX Transportation regarding the application of the new discipline policy to the yardmaster craft. It was said the policy did not apply to the yardmasters. President Little intended that all crafts represented by the UTU on CSX Transportation be covered by the policy. CSXT understands and agrees with the position held by President Little. All yardmasters contemplating retirement should contact the Yardmaster Department at the International to receive important insurance information at 216-228-9400. EDITORIALS --"Revolutionary" thinking ......................##L For nearly 100 years on the CSX railroad and its predecessors, rules violations by operating employees were dealt with by disciplining the worker without collaboration with his or her labor representatives. Needless to say, it didn't work all that well. But on July 1 at the Moncrief Yard in Jacksonville, Fla., the UTU and BLE signed a new employee development and accountability policy that replaces the CSX's former disciplinary procedure. It is truly a "revolutionary" development in rail labor since it is the first time such a policy has been jointly developed by unions and a carrier. And it's about time. This new policy moves CSX and operating rail labor into an important area of real partnership and one that can make a big difference. The new policy provides that all CSXT operating employees begin with a "clean slate" - or a "New Beginning" - with regard to application of the new policy. Positive corrective action, not punishment, is the cornerstone of the new policy. The idea for this new policy came out of talks held at the National Wage & Rules Panel. CSX has boldly taken the lead in setting a new agenda for carrier/labor relations entering the 21st Century. This new policy is a wake-up call to other carriers who must learn that the best way to run a railroad is by working in cooperation with operating rail labor. It also shows the potential of what a unified operating rail labor union can do to make the workplace better for its members. --TPEL gets LACMTA boost ...........................##M Hats off to our 916 members of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) who stepped up to the TPEL plate recently and pledged $35,600 a year. It is this kind of dedication and commitment that keeps the TPEL at the top of the heap in the world of rail and transportation PACs. Their involvement - and yours - helps keep the UTU's political voice strong. Here's a special thanks to LACMTA General Chairperson James A. Williams and California State Legislative Director J.P. Jones for keeping the fires burning. --"A Few Things on My Mind" .....................##N Editorial by Charles L. Little I thought I'd take an opportunity to update you on a few things going on around here... UTU/BLE MEETINGS First, we have been holding regular meetings among the five UTU/BLE committees set up to explore the creation of a new organization. So far, the meetings have been productive and collegial, which is the way it should be. By September 30, the top four UTU/BLE International officers have committed to making every effort to conclude the examination of forming a new organization. There are many issues both unions must come to agreement on by then if we are to move forward. From our end, we intend to stick to our bargain and do whatever it takes to make this work for the membership's best interests - and no one else's. ON THE WARR PATH There is a very brave group of railroad women and wives in North Platte, Neb. They call themselves WARR - Women/Wives Against the Railroad - and in only 30 days they have quickly become a positive force in the industry. When I heard about what WARR was doing, we decided to support them editorially in last month's UTU News. Next thing we know is that the president of the Union Pacific Railroad, Jerry Davis, and other UP brass, hold a meeting with WARR. What a coincidence. As we said last month, when the women and wives of railroaders get involved, it can only help make the union that represents their families stronger, and the railroads more nervous. Just ask the UP. And stay tuned for more news about the International's effort to get women and families more involved in union activities through a re-invigorated UTU Ladies' Auxiliary. DISCIPLINE POLICY The new "discipline policy" we've signed with the CSX railroad has the potential to radically change relations with the carrier. We are serious about changing the railroad for the 21st Century, and if CSX is just as serious, as they say they are, then we have a real chance here to make a big difference. It's well past time that carriers realize that proper training, encouragement and support work far better than one-sided discipline. CSX President Pete Carpenter is strongly committed to this idea. Also, look for something similar very soon on other railroads. All of this is an outgrowth of our groundbreaking work at the National Wage & Rules Panel. A GREAT REGIONAL MEETING Thanks to all of those who made the Toronto Regional Meeting such a success. It was personally gratifying to see the strong support for our efforts to create a new labor organization with our Brothers and Sisters of the BLE. We are seeing more and more each day the potential we have together across North America to champion our issues. Spending time with UTU members in Toronto, one of the great cities of the world, reinforces our roots in firm International soil. --"Contact Lawmakers on MCR 52" ....................##O Editorial by James M. Brunkenhoefer Last month, we wrote about MCR 52 and growing apples. Well, it appears the seeds need additional water and fertilizer. This legislation must first move from the House Transportation and Infrastructure Railroad Subcommittee. This vital resolution that would help our widows is tied up. Although the Democrats are in the minority, all of the Democrats on the Railroad Subcommittee have indicated support for this resolution. But because they are not in the majority, they cannot force a vote. If this resolution has a chance of passing in this Congress, it must move now, and only the Republicans on the subcommittee can schedule a vote. Listed are all of the names, addresses, phone numbers and fax and e-mail numbers for all of the Republican members of the subcommittee. I would encourage everyone to contact all of them and explain to them the importance of moving this resolution. Not just people from their district and not just people from their state, but everyone. If you choose to e-mail, be sure to include your full name and mailing address at the end of your communication. Rep. Tillie Fowler, (Florida, 4th Dist.), 109 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-0904; (202) 225-2501; (202) 225-9318 fax Rep. Jon D. Fox, (Penn., 13th Dist.), 435 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-3813; (202) 225-6111; (202) 225-3155 fax; jonfox@mail.house.gov Rep. Bob Franks, (New Jersey, 7th Dist.), 225 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-3007; (202) 225-5361; (202) 225-9460 fax; franksnj@mail.house.gov Rep. Kay Granger, (Texas, 12th Dist.), 515 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-4312; (202) 225-5071; (202) 225-5683 fax; texas.granger@mail.house.gov Rep. John Mica, (Florida, 7th Dist.), 106 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-0907; (202) 225-4035; (202) 226-0821 fax; john.mica@mail.house.gov Rep. Jerry Moran, (Kansas, 1st Dist.), 1217 Longworth House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-1601; (202) 225-2715; (202) 225-5124 fax; jerry.moran@mail.house.gov Rep. Joseph Pitts, (Penn., 16th Dist.), 504 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-3816; (202) 225-2411; (202) 225-2013 fax; pitts.pa16@mail.house.gov Rep. Jack Quinn, (New York, 30th Dist.), 331 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-3230; (202) 225-3306; (202) 225-226-0347 fax Rep. Bud Schuster, (Penn., 9th Dist.), 2188 Rayburn House Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20515-3809; (202) 225-2431; 202) 225-2486 fax --Voices: Members share their opinions ..........##P Periodically, the UTU NEWS will contact members at random to report their thoughts on a question of interest to the general membership. This month's question: WHAT WOULD MAKE YOUR JOB SAFER? "On the Lake Terminal Railroad at the US Kobe steel plant, we have new brakemen with only 13 days of training, which is hardly enough. Maintenance of the frequently overloaded rolling stock is another sore point with us. The hot iron ladles we deal with don't have any handbrakes, which creates a dangerous situation for us. We wedge them with wooden blocks, but on the slightest grade the cars can run away. And our radios are frequently dead because of poor battery rechargers." -- LARRY J. FAUNT, L-1391, LORAIN, OHIO "I think better training for the new Norfolk Southern crews would help. The railroad is turning them loose on the job too soon, and I think it's going to catch up with them down the road. A lot of us here spent years working with a full four-member crew getting the experience that allows us to work safely. There are new men working now who don't do much switching, but shortly they'll be qualified as engineers. On some locations, new-hire engineers are working with new-hire conductors." -- JIM JOHNSON, L-459, CHATTANOOGA, TENN. "Two things: The Union Pacific (UP) needs to hire enough people, and they need to arrange good line-ups. With too few people and today's line-ups, it's hard to get proper rest, and that leads to problems. The UP says its computerized phone line-up system is 86% accurate, but a study we did back in October shows it's really about 25% accurate. Also, in as little as 60 days, guys off the street can be promoted to conductor, and I think their training could be a little longer and better." -- KEN MENGES, L-933, JEFFERSON CITY, MO. "I drive the highway all the time for Suburban Transit, and I think a little more of a crack-down on aggressive drivers would do it for us. It's not that the new 65-mph speed limit is a problem. It's just that nobody on the road wants to just lay back and give the other driver a break anymore. Some of the truckers here on the New Jersey Turnpike don't seem to be fully awake. Also, because we're running on local streets now with lots of traffic lights, the company's scheduling could use some improvement." -- WALT MITCHELL, L-1589, N. BRUNSWICK, N.J. STATE WATCH --News from UTU State Legislative Boards ...........##Q FLORIDA By a vote of 6-1, Florida Governor Lawton Chiles and the majority of the state's Cabinet have overwhelmingly denied the burning of the fuel "orimulsion" at a Florida power plant, possibly saving the future of coal trains in the state. According to Florida Legislative Director Carl Cochran, the June 24 vote by the governor and the Florida Cabinet prevented the use of orimulsion at a Florida Power and Light Company plant in Manatee County. Orimulsion is a tar-like fuel composed of a bitumen-based material suspended in water. Produced in Venezuela, critics contend that orimulsion has been proven to increase the fine particulate matter in the air and contribute to the "greenhouse effect." Also, unlike crude oil, orimulsion does not float on the surface of the sea, but disperses throughout the water. Cochran warned that the use of orimulsion in U.S. power plants is a threat to coal trains throughout the country. "Before you know it, your state will be told that new railroad jobs will come with the new oil. What they will not tell you is that orimulsion will replace our coal trains and that the new jobs will be a two-day switcher, which will gradually replace all our coal trains," he said. In response to the fires which have burned across the state, Cochran would like to thank everyone who helped to get fire-fighting equipment to the sites being ravaged by flames. "We've had it rough here, and we appreciate the efforts of everyone helping us cope with this disaster," he said. MASSACHUSETTS/RHODE ISLAND State Legislative Director George T. Casey reports that the Massachusetts/Rhode Island Legislative Board has made the following recommendations for support in the primary elections to be held September 15, 1998, and for the November general election. * = Incumbent MASSACHUSETTS House of Representatives Dist. 1 John W. Olver (D)* Dist. 2 Richard E. Neal (D)* Dist. 3 James P. McGovern (D)* Dist. 4 Barney Frank (D)* Dist. 5 Martin T. Meehan (D)* Dist. 6 John F. Tierney (D)* Dist. 7 Edward J. Markey (D)* Dist. 9 J. Joseph Moakley (D)* Dist. 8 Ray Flynn (D)* Dist. 10 William D. Delahunt (D)* Governor L. Scott Harshbarger (D) RHODE ISLAND House of Representatives Dist. 1 Patrick J. Kennedy (D)* Dist. 2 Robert A. Weygand (D)* Governor Myrth York (D) SOUTH CAROLINA Legislative Director Jack Ramsey announced that the 70th Annual Meeting of the Tri-State Boosters Association will be held September 17-19, 1998, at the Hampton Inn at Mt. Pleasant, S.C. A block of rooms is currently being held for the Tri-State Boosters for September 16-20. Those interested in attending the meeting can call the Hampton Inn at 1-800-HAMPTON to reserve a room at the special UTU group rate. Ramsey also noted that a Tri-State Golf Tournament will be held on Wednesday, September 16, at the Patriot's Point Golf Course in Mt. Pleasant, beginning at noon. Those interested in participating should mail their name and address, average score or handicap, and a $50.00 entrance fee to James T. Wilson, P.O. Box 791, Abbeyville, SC 29620. For more information, call Ramsey at (843) 884-1263. WEST VIRGINIA After nearly 30 years of outstanding service to the UTU and his fellow members, State Legislative Director George C. Williamson announced his retirement at the Toronto Regional Meeting, effective July 1, 1998. UTU International President Charles L. Little presented Williamson with the time-honored UTU Brass Lantern and thanked him for his years of exceptional service to the membership of the UTU. (A photograph of the two together at the podium appears in the traditional print edition of this month's UTU NEWS.) A UTU member since 1966, Williamson served 29 years as a local chairperson, 16 years as a local president, and 24 years as the legislative representative of UTU Local 1869 at Williamson, W.Va. Succeeding Williamson as director of the West Virginia Legislative Board is John R. Pennybacker, Jr., a member of UTU Local 504 at Wheeling, W.Va. Pennybacker was serving as assistant director of the legislative board and is currently the legislative representative and delegate of Local 504. REGIONAL MEETING NOTEBOOK --Year's first meeting keeps flame burning ......##R TORONTO -- An all-time Regional Meeting attendance record. More families with children participating in events than ever before. A night out at Medieval Times watching knights performing daring deeds on horseback. Those were a few of the highlights at the Toronto Regional Meeting. Of course, there were many more, including major speeches by U.S. Surface Transportation Board Chairperson Linda P. Morgan and fiery Canadian New Democratic Party leader Alexa McDonough. More than 1,200 UTU members and their families attended the three-day meeting at the International Plaza Hotel in one of the world's greatest cities. During the course of the three-day Toronto Regional Meeting, UTU members gave their enthusiastic support to the idea of creating a new labor organization with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE). They also attended nearly 30 different educational workshops covering a wide variety of issues and topics, and participated in other social and training events. But, most of all, the Toronto Regional Meeting showed how UTU members are keeping the flame of fraternalism burning brightly. Thanks to all of you who attended. And a special thanks to our Canadian brothers and sisters for their wonderful hospitality. The traditional print edition of this month's UTU NEWS includes two pages of photographs taken at the Toronto Regional Meeting. --Toronto Meeting sets attendance record ...........##S TORONTO -- The first Regional Meeting hosted in Canada set a new attendance record for the United Transportation Union, beating out last summer's meeting in Atlanta. Nearly 1,200 members registered and attended the first summer Regional Meeting here and more families with children came than ever before. "The UTU is a union that is truly on the move," said International President Charles L. Little. "We accomplished a great deal in Toronto, and I want to thank all of our members and families who participated." --STB's Morgan lauds UTU oversight role .........##T TORONTO -- U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairperson Linda Morgan said during her keynote address that implementing agreements must be completed before the acquisition of Conrail by Norfolk Southern and CSX can go forward, and that approval of the transaction doesn't prejudge any current collective bargaining agreements. Morgan delivered her remarks during a major speech to a gathering of more than 1,200 UTU members on June 23 at Toronto's International Plaza Hotel. "Your union, the UTU, plays a proactive role in making sure decisions we make at the STB are the right ones," said Morgan, who noted she felt honored to be considered the union's friend. "I believe that we have ensured your interests are protected, not only for today, but for tomorrow." Morgan said the UTU's activities in Washington, D.C., have "brought respect for your union, and your issues are on the table up-front." Addressing the significant changes affecting railroading, Morgan called it an industry in transition and at a "regulatory crossroads." She also promised the STB would look carefully at any future changes. Morgan called the recently approved Conrail carve-up "a win-win situation." She characterized it as being pro-competitive and pro-growth, adding "we believe this is a pro-employee transaction." Morgan also noted that the monitoring effort applicable to the Conrail transaction "includes provisions brought forth by UTU." --Canadian leader McDonough a big hit ..............##U TORONTO -- Final-day luncheon speaker Alexa McDonough, head of Canada's New Democratic Party, criticized carriers north of the border for being more interested in profit than people. "Rail line abandonment has been a license for Canadian National and Canadian Pacific to mint money," McDonough said. "I don't see them giving it back to their employees." McDonough called on Canada to "revitalize" its rail program and to "create community user and grain supplier short lines" to help solve the rail abandonment problem. MONEY & POLITICS ................................##V --CN seeks STB approval of IC deal WASHINGTON -- Canadian National Railway Co. has asked the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) to approve its $3-billion takeover of Illinois Central Corp. The new carrier would have 18,670 miles of track with 26,000 employees operating in 16 U.S. states and eight Canadian provinces. CN filed its acquisition plan with the STB on July 15. The two carriers reached an agreement in February, which will extend CN's reach to the U.S. Gulf Coast. CN President and CEO Paul M. Tellier asked the STB for a speedy approval of a "merger that makes a lot of sense." However, many shippers have complained to the STB that the last two mergers -- UP/SP and Conrail/CSX/NS -- resulted in many of them losing access to competing railroads. STB Chairperson Linda Morgan said on June 23 during a speech at the UTU Toronto Regional Meeting that the board has placed the proposed Canadian National-Illinois Central merger on a 10-month procedural schedule, instead of the six-month schedule the carrier sought. Tellier said that within three years the merger will add $350 million (Canadian) to CN's gross revenue making the carrier "the biggest of the small guys." Last year, CN had revenue of about $3 billion and Illinois Central's revenue was about $700 million. ----------------------------------- --UTU makes the difference for Amtrak CLEVELAND -- Amtrak Acting President George Warrington recently thanked the United Transportation Union (UTU) for its efforts in getting increased funding for the national passenger rail carrier. Warrington personally called UTU International President Charles L. Little and credited the UTU's political effort in Washington with "making the difference" in a vote by the House Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee to provide $609 million for its Fiscal Year 1999 operations. The House voted to provide $54 million more for Amtrak than was included in the Senate's legislation. The Senate initially had voted to authorize only $555 million in funding. The $609-million appropriation maintains Congress' commitment to provide the necessary funding to allow Amtrak to become self-sufficient by 2002. "Amtrak President Warrington told me that the UTU made the difference in getting the additional funding for Amtrak," said Little. "It is gratifying to see that our efforts in Washington are bearing fruit." Little said Warrington singled out National Legislative Director James Brunkenhoefer, Alternate National Director/North Carolina SLD James Stem, and Washington, D.C., Legislative Director Steve Fritter as making a difference. "The financial viability of Amtrak means the financial health of Railroad Retirement and the preservation of 26,000 union jobs," said Little. ----------------------------------- --Analysts see rail earnings down WOODSTOCK, Vt. -- U.S. railroads as a group will see earnings decline by as much as 30% during the second fiscal quarter due to continuing problems at Union Pacific (UP) and lackluster results elsewhere, according to a First Call Corp. survey of analysts. The exception, the analysts said, would likely be the Burlington Northern Santa Fe, which continues to log good performance. Analysts also said service and merger issues have taken a toll on CSX and Norfolk Southern. ----------------------------------- --Coach USA to buy 10 firms HOUSTON -- Coach USA, Inc., said it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 10 closely held motorcoach companies with combined annualized revenue of $125 million. The acquisitions will increase the company's fleet by about 500 vehicles to over 4,300 buses, giving it the largest fleet in the $14-billion-per-year sightseeing and charter-bus industry, the company said. ----------------------------------- --AAR among top 25 lobbyists in 1997 WASHINGTON, D.C. - A computer-assisted analysis of disclosure statements conducted by the Associated Press (AP) has revealed that money spent on political lobbying activities in 1997 by the Association of American Railroads (AAR) placed it among the top 25 contributors. According to the AP analysis, the AAR last year spent $5.8 million on lobbying activities. TRANSPORTATION REPORT ..............................##W --NTSB blames BNSF for Amtrak crash in Arizona NEW YORK - The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has blamed Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp. for not properly inspecting the bridge that shifted under the weight of an Amtrak passenger train last August causing a derailment that injured 183 of the 312 passengers. No one was killed. The NTSB said the probable cause of the crash was displacement of the BNSF track due to erosion of the foundations of the bridge during a severe flash flood, and it said BNSF managers should have done a better inspection and slowed the train's speed to fit the conditions. The high-speed train was traveling at 89 mph. In its report, the NTSB also faulted the Federal Railroad Administration for not issuing minimum standards for special inspection procedures for bridges at risk during severe weather. ----------------------------------- --UP, BNSF issue warning on grain shipments NEW YORK - Union Pacific Corp. and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp. are telling agricultural shippers that grain volumes may be too large for their railroad systems to handle this fall. The two carriers said weak export markets have resulted in a large backlog of grain, and that, combined with expectations of a strong harvest this year, could result in shipment volumes that are higher than the railroads' capacity. "If the market goes up and there's a sudden demand," said UP spokesperson John Bromley, "it's going to be physically impossible for any railroad to move one-and-a-half crops." Some industry officials have estimated that up to 50% of the grain harvested last year has not been shipped as farmers and grain elevators wait for commodity prices to rise and export demand to pick up. ----------------------------------- --UP, BNSF ask workers to sleep on the job FORTH WORTH - Citing research that says napping for a few minutes can improve alertness and reduce fatigue, the Union Pacific and BNSF railroads are asking some employees to catch a few minutes of shut-eye. At BNSF, the policy now applies to 18,000 engineers and conductors. At UP, about 1,000 workers are covered so far. Both railroads have implemented the programs slowly through small pilot programs and are gradually expanding them to include more employees. BNSF is expected to expand the program to track workers. UP said it would expand the napping pilot program system-wide by fall. The policy by both railroads is part of a larger program intended to counter fatigue. At both carriers, operators who nap must park trains off the main line, one person must remain awake, and naps can take no longer than 45 minutes, including the time it takes to fall asleep and wake up. ----------------------------------- --NTSB issues report on 1997 Kansas collision WASHINGTON, D.C. - A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report indicates the engineer aboard a Union Pacific (UP) freight train that hit the side of another UP freight train near Delia, Kansas on July 2, 1997, failed to stop the train at a stop signal. The engineer was killed in the early morning collision. UTU conductor Everett L. Starling of Local 1409, Kansas City, Kan., was treated for minor injuries, and a resulting fire forced the evacuation of an estimated 1,000 people. The collision derailed 20 cars of a 42-car freight train traveling east at about 70 mph en route to Memphis, Tenn., from Seattle, Wash. No one aboard that train was hurt. An 85-car westbound train, which was on a siding, was moving at about 10 mph when it struck the oncoming train six cars back from the locomotive. Killed in the collision was engineer M.E. Brown. Investigators from UTU's Transportation Safety Team joined NTSB and Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) investigators within hours of the collision. The NTSB cited the engineer's failure to heed the stop signal as the probable cause of the accident, but also noted the failure of the FRA and the industry to aggressively develop a positive train separation control system. ----------------------------------- --Family of five killed when train rams van BENTON, Tenn. - A family of five was killed less than a quarter-mile from their home when their van drove into the path of an oncoming freight train at a rural railroad crossing here on July 13. The crossing was not equipped with a gate or flashing lights. The train's engineer saw the van on the tracks and blew the whistle, but it was too late for the train to stop. Killed were Michael Varnell, 39, his wife Tammy, 32, and their three children, Jessica, 8, Kristin, 7, and Davey, 8. The van was pushed several hundred feet down the track after impact. The two-person train crew was unhurt. ----------------------------------- --Amtrak ordered to pay for 1995 crash WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. - Amtrak was ordered to pay $2.3 million in damages for failing to put up a crossing signal at a Florida intersection where a train hit a truck in 1995, killing an assistant engineer. A jury awarded $1.6 million to the family of Randall Moses, 43, who died when the train smashed into a tanker truck hauling sewage near Indiantown. The jury also awarded $400,000 to engineer Steve Wilkinson of Savannah and $250,000 to assistant engineer Bobby Dyal of Jacksonville, who were injured. ----------------------------------- --BMWE re-elects Fleming president MONTREAL - The Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes (BMWE) re-elected M.A. "Mac" Fleming president during the union's 43rd regular international convention. Fleming and six of seven international vice presidents were elected by acclamation by the 500 delegates. Fleming, president of BMWE since 1990, will serve another four-year term. ----------------------------------- --UTU/BLE committee meets CLEVELAND -- Members of the Legislative Operations Committee recently met at UTU International Headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, to discuss matters of mutual interest in the formation of a new labor organization. All five committees appointed by both the UTU and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE) have been meeting regularly to hammer out an agreement in principle to meet a Sept. 30, 1998, deadline to make their reports to members of the Oversight Committee, which consists of BLE President Clarence Monin and BLE First Vice President Ed Dubroski, as well as UTU International President Charles L. Little and UTU Assistant President Byron A. Boyd, Jr. A photograph in the traditional print edition of this month's UTU NEWS depicts BLE National Legislative Representative Leroy D. Jones; UTU Canadian National Legislative Director Tim Secord; BLE Texas Legislative Board Representative Raymond Holmes; UTU Colorado State Legislative Director Jack V. Shaver; Little; BLE Canadian National Legislative Representative George Hucker; UTU National Legislative Director James Brunkenhoefer; BLE Alberta Legislative Representative Don Anderson, and Assistant National Legislative Director James Stem. ----------------------------------- --SEPTA strike ends PHILADELPHIA -- A bitter transit strike here ended after 40 days on July 10. "The strike is over," said Transport Workers Union (TWU) Local 234 President Steve Brookens. This time the dispute ended when Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) management agreed to seek binding arbitration to resolve issues of part-time workers. In exchange for that agreement, the TWU said it would accept SEPTA positions on half a dozen other issues ranging from work rule changes to benefits. Neither TWU nor SEPTA would disclose details of the settlement, which was set to go to TWU members for ratification as this edition of the UTU NEWS reached deadline. SENIOR NEWS .....................................##X --RRB reports reflect healthy economy Barring any sudden, large decrease in railroad employment, the Railroad Retirement System should encounter no cash-flow problems during the next 20 years, according to the 1998 annual report recently released by the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board (RRB). The report, which addressed the 25-year period from 1998 to 2022, concluded that even under the most pessimistic of three scenarios considered, no cash-flow problems would arise until the year 2022, a year later than anticipated by last year's report. The RRB is required by law to submit annual financial reports to Congress summarizing the condition of the rail retirement system, as well as the rail unemployment insurance system. These reports are separate from the Triennial Actuarial Valuations released earlier this year that also reflected a positive outlook. By the end of the 1997 fiscal year, the balance of the various Railroad Retirement trust funds was $15.4 billion, up from the $14.8 billion held at the end of fiscal 1996, with the unemployment insurance system holding a balance of $85 million. ----------------------------------- --U.S. expands Medicare coverage Elderly and disabled U.S. citizens covered by Medicare can now get help paying for osteoporosis screenings and diabetes management, thanks to provisions of last year's balanced-budget law that expanded the program's benefits in July. About half of American women over age 50 suffer from osteoporosis, a disease that robs bones of calcium, making them brittle and easily broken. Medicare spends about 3% of its $200-billion budget treating broken bones related to the disease. Though subject to the usual deductibles and co-payments, the new benefit allows Medicare beneficiaries to get bone density screenings once every two years. Also, diabetics who manage their disease using diet, exercise or oral medication will now find supplies such as blood-sugar monitors, testing strips and lancets covered when a doctor prescribes self-testing. Formerly, only those injecting insulin enjoyed coverage. ----------------------------------- --Outpatient data now available online For the first time, important information about a U.S. hospital's outpatient services and charges is available free on the Internet. The American Hospital Directory, located at <http://www.ahd.com>, had been providing other information regarding nearly every hospital in the nation since September 1997. The site identifies hospitals in a geographic area and provides detailed information taken from files made public by the federal Health Care Finance Administration. Reports describe a facility's general characteristics, and outline services provided, average charges, average lengths of stay, and more. ----------------------------------- --OAS benefits get quarterly adjustment Canadian seniors receiving Old Age Security (OAS) benefits recently received a quarterly adjustment for the period from July to September 1998, according to Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC). The basic OAS pension, paid to those age 65 or older, now totals $408.78 per month, HRDC said, an increase of 0.4% per month over the previous three months. Amounts for the Guaranteed Income Supplement, Spouse's Allowance, and Widowed Spouse's Allowance, based on the recipient's family income during the previous year, are also increasing by the same percentage. Meanwhile, those who need help because of pension matters involving either the Canada Pension Plan, the Quebec Pension Plan, or both can find a bilingual helping hand by calling (514) 873-2433. ----------------------------------- --Pullman uniform fits after nearly 30 years Nearly 30 years have gone by, but Retiree Program member John M. "Jack" Kuhn can still fit comfortably into the uniform he wore on his last day as a Pullman conductor in 1969. The 85-year-old recently dressed in full regalia for the debut run of Amtrak's Hiawatha commuter train, which began a 90-day trial run between Watertown and Milwaukee, Wisc., on April 13. On board that day with Brother Kuhn and his wife of 63 years, Virginia, was Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson, who threw his arms around the couple and insisted his aides get a photograph. About two weeks later, Kuhn received in the mail two Parker pens bearing Thompson's signature, two Wisconsin-shaped lapel pins, and two autographed copies of the photo taken with the governor. For Kuhn, a member of Local 281, Milwaukee, Wisc., being in the company of a famous individual was just like old times. Kuhn began with the company in 1941, joining Lodge 175 of the former Order of Railway Conductors and Brakemen. Shortly after, he received a draft deferment because his job on the troop trains was important to the war effort. Within one three-month period, he saw all 48 U.S. states. The war ended, the years went by, and Kuhn found he had enough seniority to capture runs on the most glamorous passenger trains during their heyday. Kuhn speaks with great authority about The Empire Builder, The Dixie Flyer, The California Zephyr, and the train he spent the most time aboard, The Super Chief. He also drops such names as Debbie Reynolds, Bette Davis, Paul Newman, Katherine Hepburn, Greer Garson, Natalie Wood, William Holden and Tony Curtis, celebrities he became acquainted with while working on The Super Chief. "Spencer Tracy was my favorite," Kuhn said. "He was very down-to-earth, and always wanted to talk about trains." ----------------------------------- --Local 1373 hosts memorable reunion About 75 members of Local 1373, Philadelphia, Pa., and their spouses recently attended the Annual Railroad Retiree Reunion in Folcroft, Pa. A photograph in this month's edition of the UTU NEWS taken at the reunion pictured UTU Retiree Program Coordinator George J. Koval (L-300, Philadelphia), UTUIA Field Supervisor Tom Anziano (L-1373), Local 1373 Secretary and Treasurer Bill Thompson and Local 1373 President Tony Mirarchi. ----------------------------------- --The Final Call Following are the names of members of the UTU Retiree Program who have died recently, according to reports received at the UTU International Headquarters. These brothers and sisters will be sorely missed by their many friends and by fellow UTU Retiree Program members. LOCAL NAME CITY 0150 Sludden, Charles J. Harrisburg, PA TPEL HONOR ROLL --Contributors' continued support recognized........##Y Below are benefactors of the UTU's Transportation Political Education League (TPEL) who have begun contributing more than $100 per year, or have increased their donations to more than $100 per year, within the last month. This list is a regular feature in the UTU NEWS, honoring those men and women who help make this union and nation great. * Denotes Retired Member PLATINUM CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Warshauer, Michael J. 1245 Atlanta, GA DOUBLE DIAMOND CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Folmsbee, Ronald J. 77 New York, NY DIAMOND PLUS CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Jones, Darrell H. 564 Cleburne, TX DOLLAR-A-DAY CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Morris, Timothy J. 281 Milwaukee, WI DIAMOND CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Broadaway, Tom L. 28 Cheyenne, WY GOLD CLUB NAME LOCAL CITY/STATE Reese, Paul W. 28 Cheyenne, WY FELA UPDATE --The Need for Lawyers, Part II .................##Z Last month we discussed whether or not you should hire a lawyer if you get hurt on the job. It was recommended that you call a Designated Legal Counsel anytime you suffer an injury. UTU Designated Legal Counsel will advise you on how to handle your claim if you do not need a lawyer, and they will also tell you when you should retain one. Who should you engage to handle your claim against the railroad? How about the lawyer who did an outstanding job in getting your friend off when he was charged with drunk driving? Or maybe the lawyer who wrote that excellent contract for your parents? Or the one who drafted the will of your grandmother? The United Transportation Union recommends and encourages you to seek the expertise of those lawyers it has appointed as Designated Legal Counsel. Attorneys appointed as UTU Designated Legal Counsel have years and years of experience in dealing with railroads. UTU Designated Legal Counsel know the language that railroaders speak. They know where to find the records buried in the railroad files. They know how to deal with railroad claims agents. They do an excellent job of trying Federal Employers' Liability Act (FELA) lawsuits. When you need a lawyer to write a will, go to the expert will writer. When you need a lawyer to handle your claim against the railroad, go to United Transportation Union-appointed Designated Legal Counsel. Monte Bricker, Coordinator Designated Legal Counsel Program 1-800-547-8811 NOTICES --Monthly apparel winner announced ...............##AA This month's lucky winner of his choice of any item of UTU-logoed wearing apparel is Charlie Waters of Tampa, Fla. Brother Waters is a retired member of Local 1221 in Tampa, which represents workers employed on the CSXT(SCL) in the area. Brother Waters will be receiving by mail a gift certificate redeemable for any one of the many fine quality union-made UTU jackets, shirts or caps available through the International (many new items are now available; write to the UTU Supply Department for details). This program is a way to thank the many men and women who make this union great. --Walgreens ends drug program ..................##BB The UTU has received notification that Walgreens Pharmacies has withdrawn participation in the Merck-Medco network of pharmacies servicing the Railroad Employees' National Health and Welfare Plan, effective July 10, 1998. This decision by Walgreens was due to the fact that they could not resolve their price differences with Merck-Medco. However, even with the withdrawal of Walgreens, 99.3% of the covered persons have a network pharmacy within 10 miles or less of their address of record. Members affected by this change will be receiving a postcard from Merck-Medco advising of a toll-free telephone number to call, and an e-mail address to contact, in order to locate a new participating pharmacy. --UTUIA offers accidental-death benefit ..........##CC $30,000 AM I ELIGIBLE? Yes, if you are presently a working UTU member. IS A PHYSICAL EXAM REQUIRED? No. DO I HAVE TO ANSWER ANY MEDICAL QUESTIONS? No, if you apply between June 1 and August 31, 1998. ARE THERE ANY OTHER BENEFITS UNDER THIS POLICY? Yes. If you lose a hand, foot or eye in an accident, you IS THAT ALL? No. The policy will pay a $60,000 benefit if death is ARE THERE ANY EXCEPTIONS UNDER THIS POLICY? Yes, any exception is listed in the policy. For THIS SOUNDS GREAT! HOW DO I APPLY? For personal service, contact our Marketing and Sales ==================================================== UTU NEWS AUGUST 1998 -----------PROGRESS THROUGH UNITY----------- ==================================================== |
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