UTU NEWS
| Volume 31 | April 1999 | Number 4 |
UTU NEWS ONLINE EDITION
APRIL 1999
PROGRESS THROUGH UNITY
A Service of the United
Transportation Union
Public Relations Department
Charles L. Little
International President
Roger D. Griffeth
International General Secretary & Treasurer
Editorial Offices:
UTU NEWS
14600 Detroit Ave.
Cleveland, OH 44107-4250
UTU@compuserve.com http://www.utu.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IN THIS EDITION
Member's death raises questions ..................##A
Unions, carriers agree to fight fatigue .......##B
UTU targets bad grade crossings ..................##C
UTU backs proposed CN/IC merger ...............##D
GS&T Griffeth announces candidacy ................##E
Engineers sue GTW, allege spying ..............##F
Boycott of Wells Fargo Bank urged ................##G
Alabama & Gulf Coast workers choose UTU .......##H
AROUND THE UTU
News from around the U.S. and Canada .............##I
Game to raise funds for cancer patients .......##J
BUS DEPT. / STREET BEAT
"Workshops aid all bus members" ..................##K
Editorial by Bernard J. McNelis
Vice President and Director, UTU Bus Dept.YARDMASTER REPORT
"Amtrak creates yardmaster jobs" ..............##L
Editorial by Don R. Carver
Assistant to the President, Yardmasters' Dept.EDITORIALS
The moon, the stars, and a cold day ..............##M
Say "no" to S.621 .............................##N
"We won't rest on fatigue" .......................##O
Editorial by Charles L. Little
UTU International President"Members get a lot for their dues/Part 2" ...##S
Editorial by James M. Brunkenhoefer
UTU National Legislative DirectorVoices: Members share their opinions .............##T
"Preserving tradition by grasping change" .....##U
Editorial by Tom Donahue
Senior Fellow, Work in America InstituteSTATE WATCH
News from UTU State Legislative Boards ...........##V
FEATURE
Uncle Sam wants UTU members! ..................##W
By John H. Horvath
UTU NEWS staff writerROB veterans plan reunions .......................##X
SENIOR NEWS
Medicare reform panel falters .................##Y
Former Trailways employees sought ................##Z
RETRENSO Club plans dinner, dance ............##AA
Railroad pensioner works swing shift ............##BB
Retired Texas SLD Billy Cowan dies ...........##CC
The Final Call ..................................##DD
NOTICES
Aetna U.S. Healthcare notes changes ..........##EE
Directory of H&W benefit contacts ...............##FF
Monthly apparel winner announced .............##GG
UTU 1999 Quadrennial Convention information .....##HH
UTU/UTUIA 1999 Regional Meeting information ..##II
Regional Meeting pre-registration form ..........##JJ
Airline offers discount fares ................##KK
Regional Meeting golf outings planned ...........##LL
Regional Meeting golf registration form ......##MM
UTUIA offers Disability Income Replacement ......##NN
====================================================
IN THIS EDITION
Member's death raises questions ..................##A
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Stephen Barber III, a member of Local 1780 at Kansas City, Mo., died February 18 after being struck from behind by an intermodal side loader at the Kansas City Southern's (KCS) Knocke Yard in Kansas City.
Barber, the son of Steve Jr., a carman in Kansas City, was 26 years old. He had been railroading seven years. He had been certified as a locomotive engineer in January but was working as an engine foreman when the accident occurred.
Barber was killed instantly in the accident, which happened in the late evening, according to reports.
The UTU has been active for many years in trying to get the carrier to blue flag tracks in the yard while cars are being spotted, but the carrier has refused to implement such a rule, common at most other intermodal rail yards.
Former KCS General Chairperson Robert Martin said Local 1780 Chairperson Kent Nelson had written at least two letters asking the carrier to shut down its intermodal facility while cars were being spotted. The general superintendent of the facility flatly refused.
"They shouldn't be operating that facility" while workers are spotting cars, Martin said. "They should shut it down. This is really a hot issue with employees on the KCS," Martin said, adding Barber's death "was totally uncalled for."
Local Chairperson Mark Couch of Local 763 at Pittsburg, Kan., who has been active in trying to increase safety in Knocke Yard, said he told carrier representatives two years ago that "if you don't do something about this, somebody's going to get killed there. Nothing was ever done."
"We've complained and complained about this place since 1994, about the dangerous conditions," Couch said. "There was no need for his death whatsoever, particularly on something like this where we have brought it to their (the carrier's) attention many, many, many times."
Kansas City Southern General Chairperson Mike Matheny lamented Barber's death. "He was one of those nice guys," he said.
"Any time that those piggybacks are loaded, our tracks are blue flagged," Matheny, who works at a different KCS facility, said, "but not up there."
"I'm surprised that something like this has not happened before," Matheny noted. "No one was surprised that it happened."
"I have numerous records of these types of incidents at this KCS yard, and the superintendent has refused to talk with UTU representatives," Missouri State Legislative Director Larry Foster said. "This unfortunate accident has brought the limelight down on them and they don't like it."
"It's an ongoing problem since I've been in office in 1992. They have been cited, but they pay their fine and go on about their business," Foster said.
The Federal Railroad Administration conducted a SACP audit last month on the KCS as investigations into the death of Stephen Barber continue.
Unions, carriers agree to fight fatigue .......##B
HOUSTON -- In a landmark agreement meant to solve chronic worker fatigue problems, the unions representing operating railroad employees and yardmasters and the nation's largest freight rail carriers agreed on March 18 to take immediate steps to finally eliminate serious work/rest issues.
The agreement was announced jointly by Charles L. Little, International President of the United Transportation Union; Clarence V. Monin, President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, and Robert Allen, chairman of the National Carrier's Conference Committee (NCCC). A joint UTU/BLE committee approved a series of principles here after months of study, education and meetings under the auspices of the National Wage & Rules Panel. The UTU and BLE are currently involved in negotiations to form a new labor organization.
"We have taken a big step toward improving rail safety and the quality of life for our members," said Little. "This agreement is an example of the significant work we can accomplish working together with the BLE for the benefit of the operating crafts and yardmasters."
"Fatigue has been recognized by the National Transportation Safety Board as the number one killer on the rails," said the BLE's Monin. "It has been on our priority list for a long time. Our ability to sit down with the carriers and work this out is a direct result of our agreement toward unification with the UTU."
"This breakthrough agreement provides for flexibility for local management and union officials to be able to tailor guidelines to fit their specific operating requirements and quality-of-worklife needs," said the NCCC's Allen. "I'm glad we could work this out before we had one-size-fits-all legislation imposed upon us."
Under the new fatigue guidelines, each Class I rail carrier will establish joint worker/management work/rest committees to develop within six months and implement within nine months specific programs that would:
-- Develop work schedules with predictable rest days for extra and pool employees working in unassigned freight service. However, employees who wish to work on regularly scheduled rest days may voluntarily do so;
-- Guarantee at least eight hours of undisturbed rest for operating crew members at their home terminals after being released from duty and before the next assignment;
-- Ensure that workers are not called before 7 a.m. on a workday after being on compensated leave for 72 hours or more;
-- Encourage regular assigned service, rather than irregular assigned or pool service;
-- Arrange for timely transportation for crews that have been "deadheaded," or have completed maximum service under the Hours of Service Act, and establish a toll-free telephone hotline to report transportation problems;
-- Provide for periodic safety inspections of transportation vehicles and limit the amount of hours for drivers of these transports;
-- Provide minimum standards for the quality and safety of lodging facilities at away-from-home terminals;
-- Ensure accuracy of published crew line-ups;
-- Establish a maximum number of continuous hours for yardmasters.
Little said he hopes that this agreement will be expanded to smaller railroads.
UTU targets bad grade crossings ..................##C
CLEVELAND -- In the wake of the recent Amtrak accident in Illinois that claimed 11 lives, the UTU is spearheading a national labor campaign to identify unsafe railroad grade crossings.
To build a national database of unsafe railroad crossings, the UTU is asking its members, as well as the members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE) and the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS), to report problem spots to a special task force.
Unsafe railroad grade crossings should be reported to the UTU Hotline at 1-800-964-9464 or via e-mail to utu@compuserve.com or mail to Rail Crossing Task Force, United Transportation Union, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4207.
"We have contacted the BLE and the BRS and asked them to join with us in this effort to save lives and improve the safety of every American who crosses railroad tracks," said Byron A. Boyd, Jr., assistant president. "We intend to compile this information and let the political leadership in every state and in Washington know where the problem spots are located. We need to solve this problem before more accidents like Bourbonnais happen."
Boyd said that the complete list of unsafe rail grade crossings would be made available to the public on the UTU website, when it is completed, as well as websites of the other organizations.
"The members of our unions know what's safe and what is an accident waiting to happen," said Boyd. "Together, we can make a difference and speed up the solution to this problem."
Boyd said the UTU also is calling on the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to step up efforts to design and test crossing-safety systems that are more difficult to circumvent, such as four-way gates at railroad crossings. There are more than 260,000 grade-level railroad crossings in the country, but only about 62,000 are equipped with active warning systems, according to statistics.
The unions also are reaching out to Operation Lifesaver, a rail safety organization.
UTU backs proposed CN/IC merger ...............##D
WASHINGTON -- The United Transportation Union has agreed to support the proposed merger of Canadian National Railway Co. (CN) and Illinois Central Corp. (IC) along the same lines as was done in the Union Pacific/Southern Pacific and Conrail transactions.
The UTU, the fourth union to back the merger, agreed to do so on March 18 because of CN/IC commitments to preserve job opportunities for UTU members after the merger. In addition, CN/IC made commitments not to impose either existing labor agreements on hundreds of UTU members affected by the transaction covered by another agreement.
The UTU had told the Surface Transportation Board (STB) that it opposed the merger because several outstanding issues had not been resolved. However, those issues, detailed in the UTU's filing with the STB and highlighted in a mid-March press release that received a great deal of attention, have largely been addressed.
The STB was expected to hold a voting conference on the merger transaction March 25 as this issue of the UTU NEWS is going to press. The STB is expected to approve the transaction.
"Once again, the UTU has worked to preserve its members' jobs and incomes in our deal with the Canadian National and Illinois Central," said UTU International President Charles L. Little. "The carriers will not seek through the implementing agreement process the application of the entire IC agreement on the Grand Trunk Western, or vice versa.
"In addition, we have addressed safety concerns and the carrier has promised to make available job opportunities to active UTU-represented employees, which will allow them to maintain their current level of annual compensation during the protective period without a loss of income," Little said.
The parties have until July 1 to work out a post-merger voluntary implementing agreement before either party may seek arbitration under New York Dock conditions. CN/IC also made a commitment that any changes to existing labor agreements be based on transportation benefits to the public and not solely on cost-cutting grounds.
The carriers have explained in their operating plan that a unified workforce and single collective bargaining agreement in the Chicago area are necessary to implement the transaction, as are changes related to the proposed service between Battle Creek, Mich., and Champaign, Ill.
With the announcement of UTU's support for the merger, CN and IC could claim they now have more than 50% of their unionized rail workers lined up behind the transaction.
The Brotherhood of Railway Signalmen, the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers also support the transaction. Those unions represent more than half of the organized work force of CN and IC in the United States.
GS&T Griffeth announces candidacy ................##E
Roger D. Griffeth, UTU general secretary and treasurer, has announced his intention to seek the office of International President. The quadrennial election of International officers will be conducted between August 23-27 at the Fountainebleau Hotel in Miami Beach, Fla.
Engineers sue GTW, allege spying ..............##F
Nineteen locomotive engineers are suing the Grand Trunk Western (GTW) for invasion of privacy and unlawful surveillance.
In January, engineers discovered a videotape camera hidden in a locker room exit sign at GTW's Pontiac, Mich., facility. The locker room is where engineers change clothes and meet before and after going on duty. The miniature camera was focused through a small hole, less than the diameter of a pencil, drilled in the exit sign face plate.
Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers General Chairman John Karakian asked GTW to provide details of the scope, purpose and duration of the secret surveillance, but GTW never provided satisfactory answers. Adding insult to injury, a GTW trainmaster reportedly bragged that he viewed tapes of naked engineers.
The lawsuit asks for an injunction directing GTW to stop secret surveillance. The suit also asks for compensatory, exemplary and punitive damages.
Boycott of Wells Fargo Bank urged ................##G
At the request of the United Steelworkers of America, Wells Fargo Bank has been placed on the AFL-CIO's boycott list for its role in financing union-busting activities by Oregon Steel Mills' subsidiary CF&I Steel in Pueblo, Colo.
AFL-CIO President John Sweeney is urging all union members, locals, and state and general committees to withdraw funds from both Wells Fargo and Norwest banks to send a signal to all banks that would use union members' money against working families and other unions.
Alabama & Gulf Coast workers choose UTU .......##H
The National Mediation Board (NMB) has certified the United Transportation Union as the collective bargaining agent for train and engine service employees on the Alabama & Gulf Coast Railway following an election on the property last month.
The shortline, which hauls paper products, pulp and other raw materials between Pensacola, Fla., and Kimbrough, Ala., was once a part of the Burlington Northern Santa Fe's Pensacola Sub.
It is currently owned by States RAIL, the parent company of approximately a half-dozen shortlines in the southern United States, including the Kyle Railroad in Kansas.
One employee, who wished to remain anonymous, said that the railroad's disregard for employee seniority played a pivotal role in their initial decision to unionize.
"Although there were several issues that surfaced over a 15-month period, the number one issue was seniority, which was not as concrete as everyone thought," the employee said. "Employees were chose as engineers simply because they were convenient to management."
As sentiment for union membership began to build, an Alabama & Gulf Coast employee reached out to UTUIA Field Supervisor Larry Chappell, who contacted the UTU International.
After a majority of the employees signed authorization cards, a representation election was scheduled by the NMB.
Director of Strategic Planning John Nadalin credited Chappell, Alabama State Legislative Director Ronnie Clements, Local 1912 Secretary and Treasurer Ted Moffett, Jr., and Assistant State Director Robert Cobb Jr. for bringing this organizing campaign to a successful conclusion.
"We will continue to expand our presence in the shortline rail industry. Our membership on the Alabama & Gulf Coast is expected to grow because the railroad is growing and doing new business," Nadalin said.
AROUND THE UTU
News from around the U.S. and Canada .............##I
LOCAL 78, POCATELLO, IDAHO
Member and UTUIA Field Supervisor GEORGE MILLWARD, along with Idaho State AFL-CIO president Dave Whaley, recently accompanied Justine Pino, widow of the late Idaho legislator and UTU Idaho State Legislative Director JOHN PINO, at a memorial held by the Idaho State Legislature to honor former legislators who passed away in the last year. State Representative Donna Boe of Pocatello delivered a life sketch of Brother Pino and his many accomplishments.
LOCAL 226, MOBERLY, MO.
Plans are in place for the third annual free golf and dinner outing at the Moberly Country Club, which begins at 10 a.m. on May 3, 1999, according to Secretary and Treasurer RICHARD DULEY. The event, open to active and retired members and their spouses, is sponsored by UTU Designated Legal Counsel YAEGER, JUNGBAUER, BARCZAK & ROE. Meanwhile, the local has established an electronic union hall to help members stay in touch. To learn how to participate, or for more information about the golf and dinner event, call Duley at (660) 263-4916, or send e-mail to < duley@missvalley.com >.
LOCAL 324, SEATTLE, WASH.
Secretary and Treasurer LARRY RUTLEDGE is reminding members working for BNSF that crew members and injured employees are not required to participate in the company's injury re-enactments. Anyone threatened by a carrier officer for not participating is urged to report the incident to the appropriate local chairperson.
LOCAL 343, HAMILTON, ONT.
The local's annual PAUL WOEHL Memorial Charity Golf Tournament has been scheduled for June 26, 1999, at the Sundrim Golf and Country Club, according to SCOTT MONTANI, who said the event will benefit The Childrens Make-a-Wish Foundation. The tournament serves as a memorial to Brother Woehl, who was killed in a motor vehicle accident. For information or to book a spot in the tournament, contact Montani at (905)765-2716, or write to him at 6 Glengary Cr., Caledonia, ON, N3W 2K9. E-mail can be sent to Brother Montani at < monti@attcanada.net >.
LOCAL 432, CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, ILL.
Bringing pride to the local is JOHN N. BURNER, Illinois Assistant State Legislative Director, who recently was appointed to Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White's transition team.
LOCAL 469, MADISON, ILL.
The Midwest Railroaders Organization, a charitable association sponsored by UTU Designated Legal Counsel LANCE CALLIS, held a fund-raising dance in Granite City, Ill., in late February to benefit cancer patient JIM HESSLING, a member of UTU Local 1929 in East St. Louis, Ill. Members of locals 469, 1929, 1388 (St. Louis, Mo.), and 1405 (St. Louis, Mo.) attended and presented Brother Hessling "with a check in excess of $6,200," according to L-469 Secretary and Treasurer JOHN I. PAYER. A special note of thanks is due L-1929 members RICK KARRAKER and DENNIS TAYLOR for their efforts in staging the event.
LOCAL 631, BRUNSWICK, MD.
Members are mourning the loss of former Local Chairperson B.P. MISKELL, who passed away February 1, 1999. According to Local Chairperson THOMAS A. GEORGE, Brother Miskell served the local as chairperson for 32 years, first with the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen and then with the UTU. At one time, Miskell was secretary of the Maryland State Legislative Board. He had continued to make TPEL Gold Club contributions until his death.
LOCAL 772, SHEFFIELD, ALA.
Member and conductor JAMES "BOXCAR" REAVES recently received a life-saving heart transplant at Birmingham Hospital, according to Local President and Chairperson T. DAVID JORDAN. The 47-year-old Reaves had been waiting for a suitable donor organ for nine months. Members note some 60,000 potential transplant patients nationally are waiting for organs to become available, and urge all to consider taking steps to become potential donors. For information, contact the Alabama Organ Center by calling 1-800-252-3677, or visit its website at < http://www.uab.edu/aoc >.
LOCAL 1570, ROSEVILLE, CAL.
Local members, along with those from Local 492 in Sacramento, Cal., hosted 118 guests last month who turned out for the 23rd Annual Retirement Dinner, according to L-1570 President JIM FEICKERT. Honored were JOHN BARBA, EARL BIANCHI, ROLLIE GRAY, JACK O'HARA, DON LEMAN and ALLEN POWERS during an event in which 43 raffle prizes were awarded.
LOCAL 1778, N. VANCOUVER, B.C.
The local's website, shared with Local 1923 in Prince George, B.C., now features the Spring 1999 edition of THE MEETING POINT newsletter, which includes a moving letter written by the late Brother DON FINK's sister, who notes her grateful appreciation of the support received in the wake of the accident two years ago which took the lives of her brother and engineer Terry Gallis. View the local's website at < http://www.ultranet.ca/utu/ >.
AUXILIARY OF THE UTU
The organization reports great strides in re-inventing and revitalizing itself. It recently mailed new constitutions to all lodges, has embarked on a quest to charter new lodges, and invites members' submissions for its informative bi-monthly newsletter, according to International President EDYTHE WALTER and International Secretary and Treasurer JOAN MONTGOMERY. Contact the Auxiliary of the UTU at 5151 Reed Rd., Suite 213-B, Columbus, OH 43220, or call (614) 459-4443.
AUX. LODGE 580, RALEIGH, N.C.
Members of the auxiliary are mourning the loss of EVELYN LINDER, who passed away in late January. The 55-year member of the lodge was a delegate to the 1998 Convention, and served the auxiliary in numerous other capacities.
Game to raise funds for cancer patients .......##J
Brother will be pitted against brother in a brutal and potentially bloody battle, where no quarter will be given, no prisoners will be taken, and all honor and glory will belong to the victors -- at least for a year. Then, if the past is any indication, the struggle will be repeated next year, and everyone involved will again go home a winner.
The battleground is the New England Sports Center in Marlboro, Mass., where the Second Annual Billy Flaherty Railroaders' Hockey Tournament will be held on a date in May yet to be finalized. The contestants are Amtrak employees from the Boston area, in a classic North Side vs. South Side confrontation involving members of Boston-based UTU locals 1462 and 262, as well as those from other crafts.
Regardless of the outcome, all proceeds from the game and affiliated activities will be donated to Amtrak employees battling cancer, in honor of the late Amtrak Conductor Billy Flaherty "and all the brothers and sisters we have lost throughout the years," according to Local 1462 President E.B. Radovich, a self-admitted hockey addict who plays a pivotal role in arranging the games.
Radovich notes there will be a post-game "feast" this year for all participants, and is seeking sponsors for the game's program booklet. Sponsors are asked to contact him at (508) 435-8633, or Paul Torosian at (508) 528-3965.
Those from the South Side with courage and skating skills who are interested in making one of the team rosters should contact Brother Torosian, while those who wish to represent the North Side should call Jim Howland at either (617) 222-3625 or (978) 658-7369.
BUS DEPT. / STREET BEAT
"Workshops aid all bus members" ..................##K
Editorial by Bernard J. McNelis
Vice President and Director, UTU Bus Dept.Once again, it is almost time for the UTU/UTUIA Regional Meetings.
This year, the meetings are set for May in Los Angeles, Calif., June in St. Louis, Mo., and July in Washington, D.C. I look forward to these meetings and I urge as many bus representatives, officers and members as possible to attend.
The first Bus Department workshop to be presented at each Regional Meeting will be on accident investigation and will take place on the first and second days of each Regional Meeting. This workshop will be very informative and interesting and should help all of our representatives and members to be more knowledgeable of how to conduct accident investigations. This workshop will be a great asset to our representatives in the conducting of an accident investigation on behalf of a member and helpful when the company determines responsibility for the accident.
We will also have an open bus general chairpersons workshop and other workshops that will provide important information for your use back on your property.
In the latest elections, some bus committees have newly elected committee representatives who have never served as a representative before. The Regional Meetings provide great education and training workshops to help you in your position as a representative on your own property.
If you have not attended a Regional Meeting in the last three years you are missing a great experience. Not only are you provided with education and training, but an opportunity to meet with other bus representatives throughout the country, in both the public and private sectors, to discuss common concerns and experiences and have some fun as well.
We look forward to seeing you at one of the meetings.
In unity there is strength.
YARDMASTER REPORT
"Amtrak creates yardmaster jobs" ..............##L
Editorial by Don R. Carver
Assistant to the President, Yardmasters' Dept.On March 10, 1999, General Chairperson James R. Cumby, GO-342, and Amtrak signed an agreement providing for yardmaster supervision of its Toledo, Ohio, operations.
Amtrak's Toledo Terminal was incorporated into the Chicago, Ill., seniority district. Prior to the agreement, no Amtrak yardmasters were employed in Toledo. Amtrak handles third- and fourth-class mail and magazines. In the near future, it is expecting contracts to handle second-class mail through the Toledo facility. It is expected that this new business will create additional yardmaster positions in the future at Toledo.
Amtrak and its loading contractor are expanding the switching yard and loading facilities in Toledo to accommodate the increase in business. Ongoing negotiations should result in additional yardmaster positions at various locations across the country where Amtrak is opening and developing similar facilities.
St. Lawrence and Hudson (former Delaware and Hudson) yardmasters received a lump-sum payment under the gain-sharing provision of the last yardmaster contract. General Chairperson Joseph M. Mercurio reported the St.L&H yardmasters recently received a lump sum equal to 4% of their 1998 earnings. The lump sum is paid in addition to wage increases provided for in the contract.
The break-up of Conrail is drawing closer. Bids are being posted to establish the yardmaster position each Conrail yardmaster will own on the split date. Following the awarding of positions, the yardmasters will be trained, if necessary, on their new positions.
EDITORIALS
The moon, the stars, and a cold day ..............##M
A recent article in Railway Age titled "Locomotive Remote Control" extolling the marvels and virtues of beltpack technology in Canada has some tongues wagging. The article's author, Luther Miller, has bought into the myth that beltpacks are an invention as important to railroads as sliced bread was to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
The writer quotes an unnamed senior U.S. railroad officer saying the railroads don't want to "antagonize the unions" and others (FRA, Congress) right now by trying to push these dangerous gadgets into service south of the 49th parallel. The officer says, "This is a big one, but the moon and stars aren't aligned right now to suggest that we would have any probability of success."
We think he should also throw in a cold day in... you know where. Beltpacks are dangerous and are a leading cause of death on the railroad and at steel mills. The unification of the UTU and BLE will help prevent beltpacks from endangering workers and taking jobs away from both locomotive engineers and conductors. No longer will the carriers be able to play one union off against the other on this subject. Those who think otherwise are misguided and shortsighted.
We believe in at least two-person crews, for safety and other strong reasons, from now well into the future. The new union will protect locomotive engineers and conductors equally from this misguided technological device. For that to change, the moon, the stars, a cold day in...and Jupiter will all have to be in alignment.
Say "no" to S.621 .............................##N
Many shippers have a legitimate beef with the railroads. Some even have herds. But that is no excuse for the Senate to pass a bill that would re-regulate the railroads and be hurtful to railroad employees.
If S. 621 sees the light of day, it could cost union jobs and harm an industry that is now beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Contact your Senator and Congressman and tell them that rail labor believes in fair competition, but not re-regulation.
"We won't rest on fatigue" .......................##O
Editorial by Charles L. Little
UTU International President"What is the UTU going to do about the fatigue problem?" It's a question that has plagued railroaders for generations.
Finally, we are doing something. The media and railroad industry are calling it a landmark agreement. I believe that we have created the best opportunity in generations to solve chronic work/rest issues.
You can read the details of the Houston Agreement on page one of the UTU News and on our website, A joint UTU-BLE committee agreed to a series of landmark principles with the National Carrier's Conference Committee, after months of study and meetings under the auspices of the National Mediation Board and the Wage & Rules Panel.
Our ability to effectively negotiate favorable and flexible work/rest principles is a direct result of working from a position of labor strength in an industry that now finds itself in desperate need of skilled railroad operating employees. This is a tangible benefit of UTU-BLE unification efforts. And let me make one very strong point: We are talking about unity with the BLE in a brand-new organization, not merger, as some would wrongly believe. This agreement is an example of the significant work we can accomplish, working for the benefit of our members.
BLE President Clarence Monin said that our ability to negotiate these groundbreaking agreements with the carriers is a direct result of his union's initiative to unify with the UTU. Monin correctly points out that the National Transportation Safety Board has recognized fatigue as the number one killer on the rails.
The principles include equality between carrier and labor on special work/rest committees as well as implementation dates and a fair arbitration process. What makes these principles special is that they recognize that "one solution fits all" will not work, and provide for local autonomy.
The Houston Agreement provides for the flexibility to devise local solutions and to be able to tailor guidelines to fit their specific operating requirements and quality of worklife needs. So, what might work in Peoria might not work in Tucson, and each can solve their own problems in their own special way.
What is also noteworthy is that this agreement did not come from some government dictate or re-regulation. We made a commitment three years ago to try to solve major issues in a new way. No longer could we accept the repeat of past negotiations with Presidential Emergency Boards imposing onerous settlements on us.
This agreement was negotiated between the carriers and labor during months of interest-based bargaining conducted under the auspices of the NMB and its able chairperson, Maggie Jacobsen. Critics of this process are only interested in blowing smoke rather than affecting real positive change.
We hope to expand this agreement in the future to Class II, Class III, regional and shortline railroads.
Now, it's up to us to make it work. Let the real work begin.
"Members get a lot for their dues/Part 2" ...##S
Editorial by James M. Brunkenhoefer
UTU National Legislative DirectorLast month I talked to new UTU members about locals and local officers. This month I will continue with legislative committees, and more.
The national legislative office is located in Washington, D C. The efforts of your local legislative representative are coordinated through your state legislative director who, in turn, coordinates the state-level efforts through the International office in Cleveland as well as the office of the national director. Through the efforts of these groups working in your state capital and on Capitol Hill, UTU defends various laws that benefit you.
Let me give you a couple of examples. First, there is Railroad Retirement. While Railroad Retirement costs a little more, it pays a lot more than Social Security. There also is the Federal Employer's Liability Act (FELA) that protects injured workers. You can usually expect that, as an injured railroad worker, you will receive significantly more money under FELA than you would have under any state's workers compensation.
The president of the union interviews attorneys who are specialists in railroad injuries. These attorneys are known as designated legal counsel. If you are ever injured, you may want to talk to them to find out about your rights. It doesn't cost you anything to get the information.
Your union representatives also interview and question candidates, endorse candidates and suggest candidates for your support. That's right, they offer suggestions. We don't tell you how to vote and we don't tell you who to vote for. We know that many members don't care for politics and don't like politicians but, at the same time, we live in a political world. If we don't defend ourselves, the other guys will run over us.
We have a political action committee known as the Transportation Political Education League (TPEL). It is one of the largest and most effective operations in the American labor movement. We are proud that it has brought us to where we are and we are convinced it will take us successfully into the next millennium. We hope that you will consider making a monthly contribution to this program through payroll deduction.
This union was originally founded as a fraternal benefits insurance society. Currently, the United Transportation Union Insurance Association has many fine insurance avenues for you to travel. You may be offered an opportunity to buy that insurance from a field representative. You will find their rates are competitive, but more importantly, they are interested in helping you, not helping an insurance company that would like to help pass laws that would hurt you and your family. Other insurance companies hire sales people. UTU hires their own.
UTU will always fight for you and your family. We will fight your employer when we think they have done you wrong. We will fight on the side of your employer when it looks like something is going to happen to them that would cause them to lose business and as a result, cause them to eliminate your job. But you can bet that in either case we are always fighting for you. If you don't know something, ask somebody and keep asking until you get an answer. We don't want to keep any secrets from you. Get to know your local officers and please, go to your union meetings when you can. Participate in the process to the extent that you can. You are the strength of this organization.
Voices: Members share their opinions .............##T
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: ARE YOU SATISFIED WITH YOUR HEALTH & WELFARE COVERAGE?
"I'm a conductor covered under the Union Pacific Railroad Employees Health System. Overall, it's a good package, but I'm at odds with the prescription plan. Prescriptions are free, but what's approved is narrow. I have to call and fight with them. But it's no problem seeing a doctor. The dental coverage - I don't like it. There's a lid on total payments per year, and certain things are only 50% covered. The railroad wants you to be an unmarried orphan with great teeth." -- STAN BLAKE, L-1857, GREEN RIVER, WYO.
"I'm an engineer with Norfolk Southern, under United HealthCare. You can pick on them, but I guess it's appropriate and fair. There's been some changes, but if you've already got a doctor, and he's in the plan, you don't have to change. Aetna could improve the dental coverage. My daughter needs braces, and it's not nearly enough to cover the costs. They just started the eye care plan. The exam coverage is appropriate, but frame selection and coverage could be better." -- RICHARD T. HAYDEN, L-1405, ST. LOUIS, MO.
"I'm a conductor with CSX, and I've had no problems with United HealthCare. I'm especially pleased with the prescription drug coverage. You get what you need and you don't have to fool with the insurance company to get your money back. I have Aetna for a dental plan, and I guess I'm about 90% happy with it. They could pay for more cleanings, and there's a higher deductible than I'd like to see. I wear glasses, but I haven't used the new vision care benefit yet." -- DONNIE D. HEAD, L-1567, CORBIN, KY.
"I'm working for CSX as a conductor, and I'm real pleased with the coverage. We've used everything but the eye care benefit, but I've got no complaints with any of it. So far, we have been pleased with the Aetna dental benefit. I think we've got a great health care program. In almost all other industries, employees have to pay a pretty good chunk for health and welfare coverage. A lot of guys may not realize how valuable it is, and they may be taking it for granted." -- BILLY R. PARKER, L-404, NEWARK, OHIO
"Preserving tradition by grasping change" .....##U
Editorial by Tom Donahue
Senior Fellow, Work in America InstituteNOTE: Thomas R. Donahue currently serves as a Senior Fellow of the Work in America Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving U.S. productivity and the quality of working life.
A native New Yorker, he was secretary-treasurer of the AFL-CIO from 1979 to 1995 and was elected president in August 1995 to complete an unexpired term.
Donahue was the AFL-CIO facilitator who helped shape the recent UTU/BLE Unification Agreement.
He has served the trade union movement in a variety of positions, ranging from organizer and business agent to first vice president of the Service Employees International Union, and executive assistant to AFL-CIO President George Meany. He served as U.S. assistant secretary of labor for labor-management relations during the Johnson Administration.
Donahue served as chairman of the U.S. Special Trade Representative's Labor Advisory Committee from 1989 to 1995. He has been a member of the President's Council on Sustainable Development and co-chaired, with the late Commerce Secretary Ron Brown, the Task Force on Sustainable Communities.
He is a member of the board of the Council on Foreign Relations, the American Arbitration Association, the Work in America Institute, the National Planning Association, the Kennedy Center Community Board, the Institute for Multi-Track Diplomacy, and is a member of the board of trustees of Manhattan College. He is a national vice president of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and a member of the Advisory Council on Unemployment Compensation.
From 1983 to 1995, Donahue chaired the AFL-CIO committee on the evolution of work and produced three significant reports: "The Future of Work," 1983; "The Changing Situation of Workers and Their Unions," 1985; and "A Labor Perspective on the New American Workplace-A Call for Partnership," 1994.
History, tradition, the glories of the past, are all an important part of the present and the future; they make us what we are. But what we each have to deal with everyday in our individual and institutional lives is change. It's the one certainty in our lives-inexorable change-whether it's changes of style, technological change, attitude or changes in our physical surroundings. Change abounds, and there's nothing we can do about it.
The question, then, is how we handle it. Do we allow it to happen and respond as best we can? Do we watch for it and then adapt? Or do we go out and grasp it, shape it, mold it to our needs and use it to advantage ourselves?
I think that your Board of Directors and the UTU officers grasped change and are making it work for you by approving the negotiations with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers (BLE). I think that President Little and Assistant President Boyd have been brave enough and tough enough to do that, working through the negotiations and discussions that have engaged us since last March.
THE CHANGING SHAPE OF UNIONS
In all the years that I have served in the labor movement I have come to know a lot about the different labor unions of the AFL-CIO and I have seen a lot of realignment of unions through mergers and amalgamations and through the creation of new unions shaped for the future.
When the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO) merged in 1955, the new federation had over 130 affiliates. Today there are a little more than half that number! Technological change, shrinkage of employment in many industries and, most importantly, the increased concentration of employer power, have all required changes in the shape of the institutions representing workers in every industry.
This is not, however, a new phenomenon. If you were to look back at the roster of unions at a convention of the AFL in the early 1900s you would find the Axe and Edge Tool Makers Union, the Brotherhood of Blacksmiths, the Boot and Shoe Workers, Cigar Makers Union, Brotherhood of Tanners and Curriers and the Brotherhood of Street Car Conductors, Motormen and Car-drivers - all worthy institutions which served their members well before being transformed by industry changes and technology. Their successors have continued to serve those same workers in new structures.
In recent years we've seen the mergers of the Tobacco Workers Union and the Grain Millers Union into the Bakery Workers; the Rubber Workers, Upholstery Workers, and the Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers merged into the Steelworkers' Union and many, many more. Indeed the UTU at its inception in 1969 represented the creation of a new union by the Order of Railway Conductors and Brakemen, the Switchmen's Union, the Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, and the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen. Similarly, the United Postal Workers Union was created by six individual unions, propelled to come together by the changed structure of their employer and by technology.
By and large, one has to conclude that smaller unions have had a tough time in the changing world of work and have had to combine to gain strength in much the same fashion that their employers have.
Every one of those mergers or realignments involved wrenching change for the members concerned and, in every case in my view, the members were well served by the foresight of their leaders in recommending the creation of the new organizations.
Over the years, the UTU has enjoyed importance and power in negotiations because of who you are and what you do, because without you the trains and buses don't move. But even that importance and the power and respect it commands isn't enough when you and other unions are played off one another by the employers. When the members of your union and the members of the BLE are put into competition by the employers, something structural has to change so that you can provide a common front for all the operating crafts.
I believe that the creation of a new organization, combining the best of the BLE and the UTU, and hopefully completing the consolidation of all the operating brotherhoods, gives you a whole new importance within the industry and within the labor movement, a new, united force addressing the problems of operating crafts and addressing the increasingly rapid technological change in the industry as well as the changed corporate structures you face.
RESPECT FOR CRAFT AUTONOMY
Over the past year, your leaders and the BLE officers reviewed all the possible options for seeking to combine the strengths of the two unions: the merger of one into the other, the formation of joint councils, a loose federation of unions, and the creation of a new organization. It became clear that full respect for craft autonomy-the underlying principle of the UTU since its creation-was the critical, underlying element for unity of the two unions, and that the creation of a new organization with that as its cornerstone was the logical way to go.
With that agreed, the parties went on to examine each union's current capacities, strengths and weaknesses through a series of committees looking at media and public affairs, legislation, structure, constitutions, and finances. The committee members and your executive officers looked at the shape of divisions and locals, state and provincial legislative bodies, committees of adjustment, the leadership structure and the roles of officers, the governing board and lots more.
The result of all those meetings and discussions is the final "Agreed Upon Statement of Principles" which both union boards have now approved.
THE WAY AHEAD
With a set of principles in place and with the determination of both unions to move forward, a good deal of work remains to be done. Several committees are currently working on all the large points and on the fine print of a unification agreement and a constitution for the new organization, for which the working title "North American Rail and Transportation Union" is being used.
In the meantime, while those talks go forward, both unions have agreed to ask the National Railway Labor Conference to recognize a joint UTU/BLE negotiating committee in furtherance of efforts to present a unified approach to current and future negotiations.
A GOOD JOB -- DONE WELL
It must be said that everyone who was part of these negotiations and who will continue that work to the final agreement deserves applause. Charlie Little and Byron Boyd, along with Clarence Monin and Ed Dubroski of the BLE, put a lot of themselves into the negotiations and had the courage to make hard decisions at crucial times. Each of them deserves the high praise of their members. The other officers and board members of each organization, legal counsel, ranking staff members, all spent lots of overtime hours and weekend days and nights making this happen.
If all the work ahead can get done by the end of September, and if the members of both unions ratify the eventual proposals, a new labor union will be born that could fulfill the hopes and aspirations of railroad men and women all across America and Canada, ensuring decent jobs under decent conditions in this industry. That new union will also take its place in the ranks of the American and Canadian labor movements as a new force, thoroughly attuned to the 21st century and prepared to deal with all of its challenges and opportunities.
STATE WATCH
News from UTU State Legislative Boards ...........##V
COLORADO
The "Right to Work for Less" bill was defeated in the Senate Business Affairs and Labor Committee when the Democratic minority, joined by two Republicans, voted the legislation down in support of Colorado's working families.
The bill would have made Colorado a right-to-work state, making union membership optional, regardless of how workers voted at a particular workplace.
The initiative, which Legislative Director Jack Shaver termed "obscene," was supported by newly elected Republican Governor Bill Owens.
Shaver noted that all of the members of both political parties who helped defeat this legislation had previously received TPEL campaign contributions.
ILLINOIS
State Legislative Director Joe Szabo would like to recognize the leading locals in TPEL contributions in the state of Illinois for 1998.
The highest monthly contribution per local goes to Local 1290 at Chicago with a total of $601.94 per month. The Metra employees there are served by Legislative Representative John O'Brien and President Don Schwieger.
The highest average contribution per member of $9.36 per month was donated by the Indiana Harbor Belt employees of Local 1421 at Franklin Park. The IHB employees of Local 1421 also had the greatest average increase in monthly contributions per member with an increase of $2.05 per member per month. They are served by Legislative Representative Gary Babiarz and President Terrance Pero.
Local 195 at Galesburg, which represents workers on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe, increased its monthly TPEL contribution by $103.44 per month. Bud Linroth serves as legislative representative and Mark Donahue serves as local president.
MAINE/NEW HAMPSHIRE
Legislative Director Jeffrey Eichel said the UTU in Maine is working to change the wording in a bill which would criminalize trespassing on railroad property in the state.
The Railroad Trespass Prevention Act (LD-70) would make it illegal to trespass on railroad property without proper consent.
"We cannot support this legislation without changes to the current language," said Eichel, who pointed out that the "exemption clause" must be changed before the UTU offers its full support.
Eichel said that the bill as written would prevent local chairpersons or other union officials access to the property for purposes of investigations or other matters.
"When the House goes back to their work session, we'll try to have this bill rewritten" with language approved by the UTU, he said.
In New Hampshire, the UTU is strongly supporting a crew consist bill similar to legislation passed in Wisconsin that would require at least two crew members on a train.
SB-34, which was sponsored by District 7 State Senator Rick Trombly (D), would make it a felony to operate a train in that state without at least two crew members at all times.
MISSOURI
UTU members in Missouri are encouraged by Legislative Director W. Larry Foster to contact Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Wayne Goode at (573) 751-2420 to offer support for HB 4.
An amendment to HB 4, introduced by Rep. Joan Bray (D), would restore $1.2 million in "rail passenger funding" to the state's transportation budget.
Foster also asked that members contact Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Danny Staples at (573) 751-3534 to voice their support for two rail-related initiatives which have been passed by the state's House of Representatives.
HB 338 will revise Division of Motor Carrier and Railroad Safety Law by changing wording in the statute to require a warning flagman or a "track-out-of-service" sign at rail crossings when under repair. It will also require van drivers who transport more than five passengers in charter service, operated interstate or intrastate, to possess a commercial driver's license (CDL).
HB 678 allows the Division of Motor Carrier and Railroad Safety to use funds from the grade crossing safety account for certain administrative expenses to keep inspectors on the job. Foster said he will testify on behalf of this legislation before the Senate Transportation Committee.
NORTH DAKOTA
Legislative Director John Risch reports that the UTU, organized labor and others were successful on the following legislative fronts:
-- Passage of HB 1441, which requires the highway patrol to establish minimum safety standards for contract vans that carry up to 14 passengers. The legislation, which was drafted by the UTU, calls on the highway patrol to establish driver qualification provisions, motor vehicle inspections, drug and alcohol testing, as well as maintenance, hours of service, and insurance standards.
-- Defeat of HB 1464, an effort by big business to single out unions in proposing restrictions on political action committees (PACs). The bill would have prevented unions from using dues for political activity, required separate solicitations for political funds, and prohibited dues from supporting the administration of such funds. This was an attack on the rights of working families, Risch said.
-- Passage of SB 2435 to prevent inaccuracies from being entered into the personal motor vehicle driving records of train crew members following accidents between pedestrians or vehicles and trains. In testimony before the Senate Transportation Committee, Risch had cited an incident in which a crew member's driver's license was revoked for failure to properly report a grade-crossing accident with an automobile.
FEATURE
Uncle Sam wants UTU members! ..................##W
By John H. Horvath
UTU NEWS staff writerA funny thing happened to Thomas J. Finn nine years ago when he accompanied his younger brother to a U.S. Army recruiter's office.
Finn's brother didn't join, despite his initial intentions to do so. But Finn, himself, enlisted with the Army Reserve, becoming a member of the 1205th Transportation Railway Operating Battalion in Middletown, Conn.
"I had no previous experience with the Army, and no aspiration to join the military," said Finn, a member of Local 77 in New York, N.Y.
"I had been working for two years as a conductor on Metro North, and my seniority didn't give me many choices as far as the shifts I was working," Finn explained. "But the Army gave me a chance to learn some fun things while preserving my seniority on my civilian job. And it gave me a chance to miss some of the terrible night jobs," he said, only half in jest.
Today, the Army Reserve is actively courting experienced railroaders like Finn, who is just one of a number of UTU members who have answered the call. In so doing, they contribute to their country, to their industry, and to their personal and professional growth through enlistment with the Army's railway operating battalions (ROBs).
THE HISTORICAL STRATEGIC BACKBONE
Railroading has enjoyed a long relationship with the U.S. military. Prior to the War of 1812, transportation had taken a back seat in national military strategy. But by 1862, during the Civil War, the Union Army had established the Military Railroad Service and found itself winning a substantial number of battles because of the ability to swiftly and effectively move troops and supplies.
In World War I, more than 69,000 troops were dedicated to providing railroad transportation, and more than 43,000 worked in rail service during World War II (WWII), according to Maj. John A. Watkins, USAR.
As many retired UTU members recall, the Army boasted a total of 11 Railway Grand Divisions during WWII. Each was sponsored by a private railroad company, except for the 774th, which was organized in Italy in 1944. The grand divisions broke down into about 46 ROBs, seven of which were never activated during that war.
Later, the Korean Conflict marked the first for the U.S. in which the host nation provided military rail transportation, Watkins noted. Still, the Army counted five ROBs playing a welcome support role.
Through the 1950s, the 1960s and the 1970s, many railroads were downsized, went bankrupt, or merged with other companies, while passenger operations decreased dramatically. At the same time, and especially during the Vietnam era, the military increasingly relied on helicopters and transport planes.
BATTALIONS ACTIVATED
In the 1980s and 1990s, however, U.S. railroads began to rebound. But at the onset of the action that became Operation Desert Storm, the Army discovered the commercial rail industry lacked sufficient manpower and equipment to meet the nation's military requirements.
In response, the Army took steps to rejuvenate its rail operations. In 1995, offices were established in the Army Combined Arms Support Command (CASCOM) at Fort Lee, Va., and in the Army Transportation School at Fort Eustis, Va., to oversee certification, training, and licensing of civilian and military railroad personnel.
Today, the U.S. military counts two active ROBs, including the 1205th and its sister unit, the 757th based in Milwaukee, Wisc. Both were activated during the initial phases of Operation Desert Shield to support rail operations at military installations and depots, and remained on active duty until all units in the Persian Gulf were redeployed to their home stations. Both are part of the Army, and both are considered to be in reserve status.
The 757th is the sole surviving WWII-type ROB, and its forces can be deployed anywhere in the world. At the moment, many attached to the 757th are in Bosnia supporting Operation Joint Forge.
In contrast, the primary mission of the 1205th ROB is to haul materiel to a location about 25 miles south of Wilmington, Del., a depot in North Carolina known as Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point (MOTSU).
RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME
Back when Thomas Finn accompanied his brother to the recruiter's office and decided to join, he was the right man in the right place at the right time.
"As soon as I returned from my basic training, the 1205th was activated for Desert Shield, and then Desert Storm," Finn said. "That was for 16 months of activation, and the UTU was behind me all the way. My seniority was intact, my pay and medical benefits were all kept straight, and when I returned, the people in Local 77 presented me with an award recognizing my service."
That Finn enjoyed the experience is reflected in the fact that he re-enlisted after his eight years of duty were fulfilled.
Steven G. Considine, another member of Local 77 and a conductor on Metro North, also serves with the 1205th. Though Considine has been with the battalion for just two years, he, too, appreciates the experience.
"I really enjoy the training in North Carolina," he enthused. "I just always wanted to serve in the military, and I like railroading."
OF TRAINS AND TRAINING
Training includes more than military drills in North Carolina and running freight on other properties. The 1205th ROB recently entered into an agreement that buys time on the Long Island Rail Road's state-of-the-art locomotive simulator at the Hillside Yard in Hollis, Queens. In addition, the Army helps foot the bills for Considine's ongoing academic education.
"I take classes on the side, and they pay for my schooling," Considine noted. "It's a great opportunity for an education. I'm taking some business administration and psychology courses. At some point, I'd like to get into adolescent counseling."
Two of Considine's brothers have military experience, and he thinks that may have something to do with his desire to serve in the military. Without a doubt, though, the railroading bug was inherited from his father, who's a retired Metro North engineer. In that respect, he and Finn share a lot, as Finn's father is an active engineer on Metro North.
Brian Sizer, chairperson of Local 1473 in Boston, Mass., and a conductor on the New England Central, took another route to the 1205th ROB. In fact, neither railroading nor the military were part of Sizer's family background or part of his plans as an adolescent.
"I was going to be a cop," Sizer explained. "I enlisted in the Army Reserve right out of high school so I could join up with the Military Police (MP). I lived near the Central of Vermont, and about a year after I got out of school, I heard the railroad was hiring, so I took a job there."
Operation Desert Storm sent Sizer, as an MP, to Saudi Arabia for six months, and after he returned stateside, he heard about the 1205th ROB, made some inquiries, and got transferred.
FAMILY MATTERS
"I checked out the 1205th and thought it was a better unit. It dealt with something I knew about, so I made the switch," Sizer said.
The reserve requires members to spend time away from home. Generally, those who enlist attend six weeks of basic training. For the next six years, they're committed to spend one weekend a month with the reserve, and two weeks of additional training each year. The last two years is spent on inactive reserve, which includes no drills, no training, and no pay.
For some, the time away could be a source of family friction. Because Considine is single, he faces few domestic complications, yet for Sizer and Finn, both of whom are married with children, it all seems to work out.
"We've been married for six years and have a 21-month-old daughter," Sizer said. "My wife likes me being in the 1205th, because the unit doesn't get sent overseas, and it gives me more railroading experience."
"I have three children, including a seven-year-old, another that's 18 months old, and a two-month-old baby," Finn said. "But my wife has no problem with it. We view it as a little vacation we take from each other, and we really appreciate each other when I get back."
THE REWARDS OF SERVING
Neither Finn, Considine nor Sizer point to monetary gains as the motivation to enlist with the Army Reserve, but all find it personally rewarding.
"I think I lose money, compared to what I can get at my regular job," Sizer said. "But I guess I'm just a patriotic guy. Plus, I get to do something different, and I like what I'm doing."
Finn, too, points to personal reasons for his involvement with the 1205th. "I have a good time, there's great people, we learn different equipment, and we get to see other railroads and experience their characteristics," Finn said. "It even helps the railroad I work for in my civilian life, because whatever you learn with the reserve goes back into the job."
Considine, a relative newcomer, has some second thoughts about a long-term relationship with the ROB, but no regrets. "I can't say for sure I'll re-enlist when my time's up, because I might be married then and have too many other responsibilities," Considine said. "But for now, I really enjoy the training in North Carolina. I just always wanted to serve in the military, and I like railroading."
NOTE: The traditional print version of this edition of the UTU NEWS included photographs that accompanied this story, as well as a reference to a website hosted by the 1205th ROB that can be accessed at < www.angelfire.com/ct/1205thtrob >.
Those depicted in photographs include Staff Sgt. Brian Sizer, a New England Central conductor and chairperson of Local 1473 in Boston, Mass.; and Staff Sgt. Thomas J. Finn, Jr., a Metro North conductor and member of UTU Local 77, who posed with his father, Thomas J. Finn, Sr., a Metro North engineer represented by the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineeers.
Also included is a photograph of U.S. Army locomotive #4601, used at the Army's Fort Eustis, Va., transportation school and at the Military Ocean Terminal Sunny Point (MOTSU), N.C., located about 25 miles south of Wilmington, Del. Army Reservists from the 1205th ROB report to MOTSU annually for training. The facility covers 11,000 acres and includes about 98 miles of track, three wharves with a total of six berths, and special facilities for the transportation of ammunition and other dangerous cargo. MOTSU is the only port capable of handling containerized ammunition. Its rail system links with the CSXT.
ROB veterans plan reunions .......................##X
More people were involved with military rail operations in World War I, but the relative handful of survivors who recall the "War to End All Wars" are far outnumbered by those who served with a Railway Operating Battalion (ROB) during World War II.
Many of the estimated 43,000 World War II ROB veterans are now retired UTU members, but sadly, time has begun to erode their ranks, if not their memories.
"I wouldn't take a million dollars in trade for the experience," recalled retired UTU member Herschel M. Lewis of Local 1314 in Etowah, Tenn., "and I wouldn't give a dime to go back!"
Lewis served as arrangements chairman for an umbrella group, the Military Railway Service Veterans (MRSV), that staged an annual reunion of about 17 ROBs for 52 years.
"The last reunion was held in Pittsburgh in 1997," Lewis said. "At that event, we decided we would no longer hold the reunions. Attendance was slipping, partly due to the number who have begun to pass away, but also, those left were less able to withstand the travel required. The other problem was that it takes a lot of time and energy to make all the arrangements for these events, and no one was able to handle the task any longer."
A veteran of the 727th ROB, Lewis said some of the ROBs that had met under the MRSV banner will be holding their own, smaller reunions, including his own battalion., which he noted proudly was the first to take over the operation of a foreign railroad in World War II.
Following is a listing of ROBs holding reunions this year, along with contact information:
The 712th ROB (including WWII and Korean War veterans) will reunite September 23-25, 1999, at the Paducah, Ky., Holiday Inn. For information, write to Charles Sewell, 223 Cumberland Rd., Gilbertsville, KY 42044, or phone him at (502) 362-8211.
The 727th ROB will hold its 54th reunion September 15-18, 1999, at the Louisville, Ky., Holiday Inn. For information, contact retired UTU member Herschel M. Lewis of Local 1314, Etowah, Tenn., by writing to him at 1414 Ridgeway Circle, Athens, TN 37303-4450, or call him at (423) 745-5892.
The 735th ROB is tentatively planning to hold a 50th reunion at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minn., sometime in September. For information, write to Lester Dahl, 12315 Camino Loma Vista, Yuma, AZ 82365, or call him at (520) 342-9643.
The 743rd ROB reunited March 4-7, 1999, at the Melbourne Airport Hilton, 200 Rialto Place, Melbourne, FL 32901-3092. For information about future reunions, write to Joe Eller at 2033 Trevino Circle, Melbourne, FL 32935, or call him at (407) 255-2060.
The 749th ROB will meet for its 52nd reunion July 28-31, 1999, at the Drawbridge Estate in Ft. Mitchell, Ky., according to retired UTU member Frank Gale of Local 313, Grand Rapids, Mich. For information, write to Don Gothard at 4173 Dixie Ct., Columbus, OH 43228, or call him at (614) 279-3026.
The 752nd ROB's Company "C" will no longer be holding reunions, according to Russell Decker of 2915 Fortune Ave., Parma, OH 44134, who noted the group decided to disband a year ago in May. However, Decker would like to hear from fellow veterans and can be phoned at (216) 661-8929.
SENIOR NEWS
Medicare reform panel falters .................##Y
The 17-member Bipartisan Commission on Medicare Reform disbanded last month after falling one vote shy of the 11 needed to make an official recommendation to Congress.
In the wake of the panel's vote, President Clinton and congressional Republicans said they would continue to work for a Medicare overhaul this year.
Republicans and Democrats alike see Medicare reform as a potent political issue in next year's election. Some 40 million disabled people and seniors are now on its roles, a number expected to swell to 78 million by 2030.
The reform panel, created as part of a 1997 federal budget agreement, was charged with finding ways to modernize the federal health care program, help it avoid a projected bankruptcy in 2008, and enable it to cope with the pressures it will face when the Baby Boom generation retires. It first met in May 1998, and was to report to Congress by March 1, 1999, a deadline it missed by about two weeks.
The panel's 10-member majority endorsed a proposal forwarded by its co-chairmen, Sen. John B. Breaux (D-La.) and Rep. Bill Thomas (R-Cal.) that would have provided Medicare beneficiaries with a choice of private health plans, drug benefits for three million poor people, and would have gradually raised the eligibility age from 65 to 67.
Those against the plan denounced it as a thinly veiled attempt to save money by trimming Medicare's future benefits.
In addition, panel members frequently clashed over the desire to amend Medicare to cover prescription drugs for all beneficiaries, a goal Democratic panel members and President Clinton continue to champion.
Clinton, who has proposed committing to Medicare $700 billion in savings from future budget surpluses, was sharply critical of the majority's plan. "Even if all changes recommended by the commission were adopted," he said, "because of the projected inflation rates and health care costs, it would not be sufficient to stabilize the fund."
Former Trailways employees sought ................##Z
UTU Retiree Program member Robert J. Beard is hunting for former employees of the Trailways Transportation System.
The former UTU District of Columbia legislative director, delegate to two UTU conventions, grievance committee vice chairman, charter coach operator, transit bus driver, bus memorabilia collector, and author of the book, Square Wheels on the Interstate, is compiling a mailing list to reach potential members of the recently formed Trailways National Retirees Association.
Beard recently attended the Trailways Corporation's annual convention in San Antonio, Tex., where he acted as a representative of all past employees and learned the company has recognized the retirees' association as a "division" of the system.
Those on Beard's mailing list will receive information regarding the association's benefits, dues structure, publications, and invitations to various events nationwide.
For more information, write to Trailways National Retirees Association, P.O. Box 23, Temple Hill, MD 20757-0023, send e-mail to < Squarewheels@eros.com >, or call Beard at (301) 423-5448.
RETRENSO Club plans dinner, dance ............##AA
A group of Pennsylvania Railroad and Conrail retirees planning their 17th annual dinner and dance has extended an invitation to rail veterans from all crafts to attend the upcoming event.
The RETRENSO (REtired TRainmen and ENginemen SOcial) Club's annual gathering will be held Sunday, May 2, 1999, at the Lamplighter Restaurant in Delmont, Pa., according to retired yardmaster A.V. "Jock" Powers, a UTU Retiree Program member from Local 1948, Youngstown, Ohio.
For information, contact Powers by writing to him at P.O. Box 325, Westmoreland City, PA 15692, or call him at (724) 863-1232.
Railroad pensioner works swing shift ............##BB
UTU Retiree Program member and trumpeter Bernie Ragazzo swings!
In fact, the entire 20-piece Bernie Ragazzo Big Band, after nearly 50 years in the business, still swings at least a dozen times a year.
According to the New York Central Railroad (NYC) veteran, music and railroading have been his life's passions. "I would have worked on the railroad for nothing. No pay," he asserted. "I never had it so good. The way they cooked on the train -- it was so tasty! I met lots of nice people, worked with a good road foreman who was just a super guy, and I had a pass and traveled the country. How can you beat that?"
A resident of Girard, Ohio, Ragazzo has always lived in the Youngstown area. He began playing trumpet at age 5. Emulating the chops of Harry James and Charlie Stevack, he played in his junior high school and high school orchestras, and after graduation, formed the band he's worked with ever since. "About a half dozen in my band are still the guys I played with since forever," he said.
Intent on studying music at Youngstown University, Ragazzo took a yard job in 1950 with the NYC. "They let me work at night so I could attend classes in the day," he explained. "I worked just one day on a steam engine, and the following day, they brought in the brand-new diesels."
He continued his studies and got his music degree, but by then, he was hooked on railroading. Still, the job's schedule allowed him to play three or four dates a month with his orchestra.
Though he did plenty of traveling with the railroad, he said most of his band's jobs have been close to home. "We all had wives and families and work commitments, and none of us were really in it to become stars. We just wanted to play."
Those in the area interested in hearing (or hiring) his dance band can contact Ragazzo by calling (330) 545-4130, or by writing to him at P.O. Box 67, 438 Parkview Dr., Girard, OH 44420.
"I love music the way I love railroads," the New York Central (NYC) veteran said. "The railroad was one of the best jobs I had in my life. Before I retired from Conrail in 1977, I had it made!"
Retired Texas SLD Billy Cowan dies ...........##CC
Retired former UTU Texas State Legislative Director Billy Cowan, 73, died March 9 at South Austin (Texas) Medical Center.
Born in Sadler, Tex., he went to work on the Katy Railroad and joined the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen (BRT) in August 1944. He held a variety of leadership positions in the BRT and UTU, arriving in Austin in 1962 as state legislative director for the BRT, and serving as a vice president of the Texas AFL-CIO. He retired in May 1982.
Fighting for all workers, he played a pivotal role in extending the state's minimum wage law to farm workers in 1969.
The Final Call ..................................##DD
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
R Birch, Mrs. H. E. San Diego, CA
R Robinette, Billy J. Gate City, VA
0005 Hoover, V. L. Sunrise Bch., MO
0023 Bass Sr., Robert L. Modesto, CA
0033 Geohringer, Carl E. Stroudsburg, PA
0117 Grendahl, Orrel C. Portland, OR
0238 West, Raymond W. Pahrump, NV
0243 McBride, Jackie D. Denison, TX
0292 Klotz, Edward F. La Fayette, NY
0300 Gardner Jr., Charles Norwood, PA
0300 West, Byard T. Philadelphia, PA
0305 Ryan, Ralph P. Lincoln, NE
0363 Pack, H. E. Rustburg, VA
0375 Wright, Merl D. Aledo, IL
0440 Rhodus, Charles B. Florence, KY
0477 Brunner, Orville E. Newton, KS
0492 Gadberry, Richard E. Roseville, CA
0602 Ditty, Palmer Northumberland, PA
0602 Nierle Jr., J. M. Montoursville, PA
0631 Miskell, Birtrand P. Frederick, MD
0662 Bethea Sr., J. L. Newport News, VA
0891 Rutherford, L. J. Whitefish, MT
0974 Hobbs, J. V. Columbia, TN
1031 White, Thomas E. Yulee, FL
1261 Sudderth, James E. Duluth, GA
1378 Cain, George D. Harrington, DE
1381 Usher, E. L. Lowell, IN
1393 Williams, Clair H. Delevan, NY
1433 Phillips, Robert B. Medinah, IL
1473 Turner, Harold J. Melrose, MA
1473 White Jr., A. J. Summerville, SC
1518 Ripley, Charles O. Indianapolis, IN
1522 Hutson, William R. Clinton, MD
1522 Lewis, David H. Graham, NC
1534 Broset, Gustave A. Peru, IL
1545 Shultz, James B. Monticello, AR
1581 Coffman, Wayne L. Bakersfield, CA
1581 Luther, John D. Bakersfield, CA
1590 Haynie, A. W. Sebring, OH
1607 Huskey, Beverly Portland, OR
1620 Edsall, Clarence R. Elkhart, IN
1661 Mercer, C. C. La Grange, KY
1765 Heyman, Erwin O. Kentwood, MI
1794 Cooke, David Frank Salem, OR
NOTICES
Aetna U.S. Healthcare notes changes ..........##EE
Aetna U.S. Healthcare has been informed by Provider Network of America (ProNet) that 133 physicians who have admitting privileges solely at Columbia Trident Regional Medical Center have terminated their relationship with ProNet;
In May 1998, Baptist Centra Care, an association of 15 urgent care centers in Tennessee, split off into two entities: Centra Care and Baptist Centra Care. The nine facilities that formed the new Baptist Centra Care do not participate in the Aetna U.S. Healthcare managed care network. The following six facilities that compose Centra Care do participate: Rivergate in Madison, Tenn.; White Bridge in Nashville, Tenn.; Hermitage in Hermitage, Tenn.; Hendersonville in Hendersonville, Tenn.; Smyrna in Smyrna, Tenn., and Mt. Juliet in Mt. Juliet, Tenn.;
Effective March 31, 1999, St. Elizabeth Hospital in Elizabeth, N.J., will not be a participating provider in Aetna U.S. Healthcare's Northern New Jersey non-HMO managed care network;
Aetna U.S. Healthcare reports that the Lancaster General Medical Group in central Pennsylvania has opted out of the managed care network.
Directory of H&W benefit contacts ...............##FF
United HealthCare
-- Active UTU members and others covered under The Railroad Employees' National Health and Welfare Plan (GA- 23000), and retired members and others covered under United HealthCare Group Policies GA-46000 or GA-23111 (except Plan D of GA-23111, the Medicare Supplement) should send claims to: United HealthCare, P.O. Box 30985, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0985. For information, call 1-800-842-5252.
-- Those individuals enrolled under United HealthCare Managed Medical Care Program who need information about the program and its benefits: 1-800-842-9905.
-- To report suspicious billing and fraud under United HealthCare's Silent Witness Program: 1-800-338-2327.
-- For the Medical Management Program (mandatory prior approval for certain tests and procedures) as required under the Plan (GA-23000): 1-800-842-4555.
-- For retired UTU members and others covered under Plan D of GA-23111, the Medicare Supplement: United HealthCare, P.O. Box 30304, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0306. Call 1-800-809-0453.
Aetna / U.S. HealthCare
-- Those individuals enrolled under the Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Managed Medical Care Program who need information about the program and its benefits: Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Health Plans, P.O. Box 7064, Dover, DE 19903. Call 1-800-842-4044.
-- For claims for dental benefits under Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Group Policy GP 12000: Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Life Insurance Co., P.O. Box 120, Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0120. Call toll free 1-877-277-3368, or call 1-616-942-6400.
Merck-Medco Prescription Drug Program
-- Members covered by The Railroad Employees' National Health and Welfare Plan (GA-23000) or United Health Care Group Policies GA-46000 and Plan D of GA-23111 are eligible for a prescription drug care plan and a mail-order maintenance-medication benefit. For information about the drug program under GA-23000 and GA-46000, call 1-800-842-0070; those covered under Plan D call 1-800-842-0304. Active and retired members without prescription drug coverage can order prescription medications by mail at a discount off the wholesale cost by calling toll free 1-888-666-9554.
Value Options
-- Members needing to take advantage of mental health and substance abuse benefits administered by Value Options: 1-800-934-7245 (RAIL).
MetLife
-- Active and retired employees who need information about life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance policies administered by MetLife as provided for in the Railroad Employees' National Health and Welfare Plan: MetLife, P.O. Box 6122, Utica, NY 13504. Call 1-800-310-7770.
Vision Service Plan
-- Members inquiring about the benefits of the National Vision Plan should call toll free 1-888-877-4782.
Miscellaneous
-- For former Switchmens' Union of North America (SUNA) members holding permanent life insurance under Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Group Policy 47350: Aetna/U.S. HealthCare Life and Casualty, 620 Erie Blvd. West, P.O. Box 4951, Syracuse, NY 13221-4951. Call 1-315-424-4614.
-- For Yardmaster insurance coverage under Supplemental Sickness (G-9000) call Trustmark at 1-800-504-9052; for Supplemental Life (1898024) call MetLife at 1-800-310-7770; and for Retirement Health Coverage (A-7092-7093) call Trustmark at 1-800-351-2526.
Monthly apparel winner announced .............##GG
This month's lucky winner of his choice of any item of apparel bearing the UTU logo is Melvin E. Lark of Northwood, Ohio.
Brother Lark is a retired member of Local 2 in Toledo, Ohio, which represents workers employed by Conrail.
These items are awarded every month by random drawing as a show of appreciation to the many members who have supported the UTU throughout the years. Congratulations to Brother Lark!
UTU 1999 Quadrennial Convention information .....##HH
UTU 1999 QUADRENNIAL CONVENTION
Monday through Friday,
August 23-27, 1999
Fontainebleau Hilton Resort and Towers
4441 Collins Avenue
Miami Beach, FL 33140
Reservation number: (800) 548-8886CUT-OFF DATE FOR ROOM RESERVATIONS: July 20, 1999
DAILY ROOM RATES: $125, single or double; $250 to $375 for suites
PARKING: $13, valet only
Room reservations for all delegates attending the 1999 UTU Quadrennial Convention will be made by the International. Delegates will be receiving a packet of information in April by mail explaining registration procedures, credential requirements and other details.
Admittance onto the floor at the 1999 UTU Quadrennial Convention is restricted to delegates from individual locals. Officers, members and others may observe the proceedings from a small gallery at the rear of the convention floor.
UTU/UTUIA 1999 Regional Meeting information ..##II
Listed below are telephone numbers and room rates for the host hotels for the three UTU/UTUIA Regional
Meetings scheduled for later this year.Due to the popularity of the meetings and the limited number of rooms available at the hotels, those members
planning on attending one of these Regional Meetings should call as soon as possible to make their room reservations.A one-night deposit is required to guarantee your reservation. It can be paid by credit card when you call.
The UTU web site features the latest Regional Meeting information, links to web sites of host hotels, and a registration form.
Remember, each Regional Meeting lasts three full days. A golf outing is held the day before the first meeting day.
The UTU works hard to ensure that each Regional Meeting offers something of interest to all members, from local members to local and general committee officers to members of the family. Come and see why a UTU/UTUIA Regional Meeting is something not to be missed. (All rates quoted are per day)
WESTERN REGIONAL MEETING
Monday - Wednesday, May 24-26, 1999
Wyndham Hotel at Los Angeles Airport
6225 West Century Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Reservation number: (310) 670-9000
Cut-off date for room reservations: April 13,1999
Room rate: $109 double/$99 single
Parking rates: $7 self park/$12 valetOverflow hotel for Los Angeles meeting:
Sheraton Gateway Hotel (next door to Wyndham)
6101 West Century Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90045
Reservation number: (800) 445-7999Cut-off date for room reservations: April 13, 1999
Room rate: $109 double/$99 single
Parking rates: $9 self park/$13 valetCENTRAL REGIONAL MEETING
Monday-Wednesday, June 14-16, 1999
Regal Riverfront Hotel Downtown St. Louis
200 South 4th Street
St. Louis, MO 63102
Reservation number: (314) 241-9500Cut-off date for room reservations: May 2, 1999
Room rate: $99, single or double
Parking rates: $11EASTERN/CANADIAN REGIONAL MEETING
Monday-Wednesday, July 11-14, 1999
Hyatt Regency Washington (on Capitol Hill)
400 New Jersey Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20001
Reservation number: (202) 737-1234Cut-off date for room reservations: June 1,1999
Room rate: $99, single or double
Parking: $22, valet only
Regional Meeting pre-registration form ..........##JJ
UTU REGIONAL MEETING PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
By registering in advance for the UTU/UTUIA Regional Meetings, you will speed registration at the meeting sites and help organizers plan more accurately.
Name badges and information kits will be waiting for you upon arrival.
Which Regional Meeting will you be attending?
_______Los Angeles, Cal., May 24-26, 1999
_______St. Louis, Mo., June 14-16, 1999
_______Washington, D.C., July 11-14, 1999
UTU Local_______or other affiliation_________________
Name/Title___________________________________________
Name for Badge (if different)________________________
2d Registrant name/title_____________________________
Name for Badge (if different)________________________
3rd Registrant name/title____________________________
Name for Badge (if different)________________________
Home address_________________________________________
City_________________________________________________
State_______________________ Code____________________
Daytime phone number (_______) ______________________
Advance registration fee of $100 (U.S.) per person
included with this form?
______Yes ______No
All registration fees include: Sunday welcome reception; Monday lunch and evening theme reception; Tuesday lunch and special night out; Wednesday lunch and evening reception/banquet/awards dinner, and all training workshop materials. This registration fee is due 30 days prior to each meeting date.
Make all checks payable to "UTU Regional Meeting." Send this completed form to:
UTU Meeting Registration
14600 Detroit Ave.,
Cleveland, OH 44107-4250.You may cancel seven full days prior to arrival with no penalty. Please fax any changes or cancellations immediately to the UTU International at (216) 228-5755.
Airline offers discount fares ................##KK
Southwest Airlines, a unionized national air carrier, is offering discounted airfares for travel to and from the Regional Meeting cities of Los Angeles, St. Louis and Baltimore/Washington, D.C.
Members should call the Southwest Airlines Group and Meeting Desk at 1-800-433-5368, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., by no later than five days prior to the first date of travel, and refer to identifier code E8389 for Los Angeles, E8399 for St. Louis, or E8409 for Baltimore/Washington, D.C., to take advantage of this offer.
UTU members should make their airline reservations as soon as possible as fares are subject to terms and availability. Because of scheduling, reservations may not yet be available for confirmation.
Regional Meeting golf outings planned ...........##LL
Arrangements have been made for golf outings in each of the UTU/UTUIA Regional Meeting cities. These golf outings will be held the Sunday before the start of each Regional Meeting at challenging local golf courses.
Printed below is information about locations, tee-off times, fees and registration deadlines. A registration form follows. Please note the registration deadline for each golf outing.
The registration fee includes the greens fee and golf carts, as well as round-trip transportation to the course from the host hotel.
LOS ANGELES, CALIF., REGIONAL MEETING
DATE: Sunday, May 23, 1999; 8 a.m. shotgun start
PLACE: Camarillo Springs Golf Course, Camarillo, Calif.
FEE: $75 per person
DEADLINE TO REGISTER: May 14, 1999ST. LOUIS, MO., REGIONAL MEETING
DATE: Sunday, June 13, 1999; 7:30 a.m. shotgun start
PLACE: Stonewolf Golf Club, Fairview Heights, Ill.
FEE: $75 per person
DEADLINE TO REGISTER: June 4, 1999WASHINGTON, D.C., REGIONAL MEETING
DATE: Sunday, July 11, 1999; 7:30 a.m. shotgun start
PLACE: Marlborough Country Club, Upper Marlboro, Md.
FEE: $75 per person
DEADLINE TO REGISTER: July 2, 1999
Regional Meeting golf registration form ......##MM
GOLF OUTING REGISTRATION FORM
Name______________________________________Local_______
Address_______________________________________________
City/State/ZIP________________________________________
Which golf outing(s) will you be attending?
______Los Angeles
______St. Louis
______Washington, D.C.
Handicap or average 18-hole score_____________________
Registration fee included? _____Yes _____No
The format at all outings will be scramble/best ball. All foursomes will be established by draw from a handicap pool. No prearranged foursomes will be considered. Foursomes will be made up of one golfer from each of four classes: A, B, C and D.
Please complete this form and send it with your registration fee (payable to "UTU") by the applicable deadline to:
UTU REGIONAL MEETING GOLF REGISTRATION
14600 DETROIT AVE.
CLEVELAND, OH 44107-4250.
UTUIA offers Disability Income Replacement ......##NN
UTUIA recognizes your need to replace disability with the ability to meet never-ending obligations when an accident or illness strikes.
Our unfailing commitment to provide the best Disability Income Replacement insurance has made UTUIA the association to rely upon for affordable disability income insurance.
For more information, contact your UTUIA representative, or call the UTUIA Marketing and Sales Department today toll-free at (800) 558-8842, Ext. 211.
UTU NEWS ONLINE EDITION
APRIL 1999
PROGRESS THROUGH UNITY