Volume 38 June 2006 Number 6

www.utuia.org www.utu.org The Official Publication of the United Transportation Union

THE VOICE OF TRANSPORTATION LABOR “As Eugene V. Debs said a century ago, when labor embraces the power of solidarity, ‘It can demand and command.’” – UTU International President Paul C. Thompson (see page 4)

Your job + your family + your future = YOUR VOTE. Register to vote at www.utu.org.

NewsNews && NotesNotes UTU fights 1-person crews Two members injured on Wall Street, in Congress Two UTU members were severely injured in separate accidents recently. Organized labor’s fight against carrier efforts Don’t believe it, Brunkenhoefer warned. Bruce Maglicco, 56 years old and a member to operate trains with one person was fought There is absolutely no evidence that experi- of UTU Local 1628 in Pittsburgh, lost an arm last month over a battle line that stretched mental technology is safe enough to permit and a leg during an accident March 30 at a from the valleys of Wall Street to the halls of reducing existing two-person crews, he told Union Railroad yard near Pittsburgh. Congress. the investors. Frances Golias, 54 and a member of Local In New York last month, the UTU took its “We know how dangerous this work is – 1006 in Brownsville, Pa., was severely injured case for public safety and national security to even with two-person crews,” Durbin told the April 21 when she was caught between a rail car upon which she was riding and an abutment. Wall Street. And, in Washington, the UTU members. “Fatigue is already a seri- union gained a powerful ally in its fight ous problem in the railroad industry. Maglicco was in the process of building a train and he got caught between two of the cars. for jobs and benefits. What kind of homeland security is it when you’re hauling hazardous materials Golias, an employee of Norfolk Southern, was On Wall Street, National Legislative riding a car into a coal-processing plant when Director James Brunkenhoefer spoke at that could be the target of terrorist she became pinned. She suffered injuries to the the 7th Annual Global Transportation attacks and the anti-labor crowd tells hip area and extensive injuries to her extremities. Conference sponsored by the Wall Street you: ‘You’re on your own?’ firm of Bear Stearns, where he told “The railroads are entitled to make a UTU, BLET back N.Y. law investors, “We will support one-person profit,” Durbin said. “We have no prob- crews when Bush adviser Karl Rove Durbin lem with that. But we cannot, and we Legislation has been introduced in the New endorses Hillary Clinton for president.” will not, risk the safety and security of York State legislature to prohibit union officers this nation to pad their corporate profits.” of the Association of Commuter Rail Employees U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) sided with (ACRE) from receiving salaries from outside the UTU when he chided railroads for want- To blunt the railroads’ effort to reduce crew funds. ACRE represents train and engine service ing “to get rid of the conductors.” Durbin size, Durbin said, “We need to organize, we employees on Metro North who previously made his comments at the Tri-State Rail Con- need to mobilize. We need to get everyone we were represented by the BLET and UTU. ference in Chicago, hosted by UTU Locals know to vote in these elections to restore bal- ACRE also is actively seeking to represent 1290 and 1299. ance in Washington. It’s the only way we are train and engine service employees on Amtrak Rail investors have been enticed by rail going to stop this assault on working people.” in Connecticut where service is provided by the executives with the idea that carrier profits Durbin warned that if anti-labor conserva- Connecticut DOT under contract with Amtrak. could soar even higher if train-crew sizes are And, ACRE is looking to represent locomotive reduced to one. Continued on page 10 engineers on New Jersey Transit. ACRE has all the markings of a company union as its officers are paid by the employer, the UTU and BLET noted. The BLET and UTU jointly are asking mem- November vote Illinois senate bers in New York State to contact their state sen- ator to vote “yes” on Senate Bill No. 4722; and their state assemblyperson to vote “yes” on crucial to UTU scolds rails Assembly Bill No. A-9023. Each bill would stop Two UTU state legislative directors have Using unusually harsh language, and acting ACRE from using employer funds to pay union issued stern warnings to the members in their with unusual speed in the middle of a busy leg- officer salaries. states: The safety and security of the jobs held islative session, the Illinois State Senate May 4 UTU New York State Legislative Director Sam by most UTU members voted unanimously to reprimand railroads for Nasca says other rail unions are being asked to help lobby in support of this legislation. nationwide could be com- filing suit in federal court against the state- promised unless lawmakers passed Rail Employees Medical Treatment sympathetic to labor are Act. Big Sky bid is tops elected this November. The railroads’ lawsuit could endanger state The Hall County, Neb., Airport Authority vot- Illinois State Legislative and UTU support for rail infrastructure public ed last month to recommend UTU-represented Director Joe Szabo and Indi- subsidies. Big Sky Airlines of Billings, Mont., as Grand ana State Legislative Direc- The Rail Employees Medical Treatment Act Island’s next Essential Air Service (EAS) carrier to tor Tom Hensler recently serve the Central Nebraska Regional Airport. specifically prevents railroads from delaying, Hensler sent the warning to all mem- denying or interfering with an injured employ- Airport Executive Director Mike Olson rec- bers in their states. ommended Big Sky based on three factors: the ee’s access to immediate medical attention, cost of the service, public input on desired The UTU officials laid bare what is at stake and imposes a fine of up to $10,000 for each flights and projected passengers. Big Sky’s pro- this coming Election Day. separate violation. posed service, a once-daily nonstop flight to “Like it or not, the political process of this “The law is intended to end a string of man- Denver and twice-daily nonstops to Kansas City, country can determine whether or not you have agerial abuses that all railroad crafts have been requires a federal EAS subsidy of $1.35 million annually, the lowest of the four bids received. Continued on page 10 Continued on page 10 Around the UTU News from around the U.S. and Canada

Local 78, Pocatello, Idaho year membership pin and a certificate of Members of the Idaho Legislative Board, appreciation. along with officers and members of this Union Pacific local and UP Local 265, also in Pocatel- Local 1043, Sparks, Nev. Members of this Union Pacific local are lo, met with UTU-endorsed candidates from mourning the death of 41-year-old conductor the state to discuss issues of importance to the Richard Lane Bitton Jr., who passed away membership, said State Legislative Director after a brief illness, said Assistant State Leg- George Millward. Past U.S. Cong. Richard islative Director, Local Chairperson and Leg- Stallings and Sen. Bert Marley spoke and islative Rep. Chas R. Nelms. thanked the UTU for its support, and special recognition was given to retiring State Repre- Local 1558, Bergenfield, N.J. sentative Elmer Martinez. A similar event is This Rockland Coaches local has begun being planned for the UP employees who contract negotiations with their employer, belong to Local 1058 in Nampa. Utah State Legislative Director F. Jay Seegmiller, a can- which is a division of Coach USA. The cur- Local 153, Spring Valley, didate for state office, is already a winner in the eyes of rent contract expires June 30, said Alternate his family. In the back row, from the left, is Seegmiller, Vice President-Bus and General Chairperson N.Y. his wife Michelle and son Jason; in front, from left, is Rich Deiser. Major issues include wages and The 400 school bus operators working out Kathryn, Matthew and Ashley. health care. The local’s 250 members include of the Hillburn, Chestnut Ridge and Spring bus operators, shop personnel, dispatchers Valley terminals have a new contract that Seegmiller seeks and clerical employees. includes a retroactive wage increase going back to September 2005, as well as enhance- seat in legislature Local 1594, Upper Darby, Pa. ments to their health care and benefits pack- If UTU’s Utah State Legislative Director F. The members of this local who operate bus- age, said State Legislative Director Sam Jay Seegmiller sounds a bit like a politician, it’s es, trolleys and the Norristown high-speed Nasca. Besides Nasca and Alternate Vice probably because he’s trying to become one. line on SEPTA’s Suburban Division are gear- President-Bus Rich Deiser, who worked “There’s a quote from an ancient Greek ing up for their annual participation in the under the direction of International Vice philosopher,” Seegmiller said. “I’m paraphras- American Cancer Society’s Bike-a-thon, set President Roy Arnold, those who negotiated ing, but it’s something like, ‘Just because you for July 9, said General Chairperson Ron the pact include Gina Wehman, Tony Con- don’t have an interest in politics doesn’t mean Koran. More than 4,000 cyclists participate tento, Frantz Filsaime and Canez Francois. politics won’t take an interest in you.’ And it’s in the event, which last year raised more than $1.3 million. Local 167, Albany, N.Y. true. Legislators will pass laws affecting your A three-year contract with Albany Inter- rights. Things people take for granted – like the Local 1697, Lubbock, Texas national Airport operator, AvPorts, was rati- 40-hour work week – labor earned that for us, Bus operators in this local employed by fied May 17, said State Legislative Director and politicians are trying to take it away.” Texas, New Mexico & Oklahoma (Panhan- Sam Nasca. The pact features enhanced hol- Seegmiller is looking to win a seat represent- dle Trailways) are working with the company iday and vacation provisions and a 13.5-per- ing Utah’s Legislative District 49 in the State to stay in the mainstream despite major cut- cent wage increase over three years retroac- House of Representatives. His Web site, at backs sanctioned by Greyhound (the parent tive to Dec. 3, 2005. Those affected work in www.jayseegmiller.com, lays out his platform company), said Local Chairperson Leon operations, building maintenance, parking, and explains how citizens can back his effort. Davis. In cooperation with the company’s shuttle operations and custodial services. He’s one of three UTU members in Utah aim- new safety director, members are participat- Besides International Vice President Roy ing for statewide office. The others include Assis- ing in a training and hiring program, passing Arnold and Alternate Vice President-Bus tant State Legislative Director Trent Alvord on their professionalism as coach operators to Rich Deiser, negotiators included Phil Britt, (Local 238, Ogden), who’s seeking a House seat new hires. Chuck Donnelly, Harry Moreash, Walter from Legislative District 8, and Eric Gustafson Clark, Rick Roberts and Paul Pezzola. (Local 166, Salt Lake City), who’s targeted a Local 1741, San Francisco House seat from Legislative District 48. The school bus operators in this local Local 211, Binghamton, N.Y. A member of Local 166, Seegmiller began his recently raised more than $2,000 to sponsor Legislative Rep. and Delegate Dennis career as a switchman and brakeman on the the participation of members Emily Taormi- Barnett and his wife Teresa thank all those Union Pacific two weeks out of high school in no and Beau Thomson in an AIDS ride to who supported “The Flying Barnetts” in this 1976. He became interested in politics in the Los Angeles as part of a fundraising effort to year’s MS Walk on May 6. The effort raised early 1980s when PATCO went on strike and battle the disease, said Local Chairperson more than $3,000 for the National Multiple President Reagan eviscerated the union. In and President Ange Beloy. In May, Shane Sclerosis Society’s effort at finding a cure. 1987, he became his local’s legislative represen- Hoff, Kevin Lewis and Dave Kush were tative. Involved with politics ever since, he sworn in as delegates to the San Francisco Local 933, Jefferson City, Mo. Labor Council/AFL-CIO. Meanwhile, con- Members of this Union Pacific local, along served as assistant state legislative director under the able tutelage of the late Scott Belden. gratulations go to new local vice chairpersons with members of UTU Auxiliary Lodge 933, Frank Lemon, Rosalind Johnson and Meg will host their annual fish fry, barbecue and In 2004, Seegmiller first ran for state office against an individual who became Utah Speak- Felts, and new Alternate Legislative Rep. educational seminar on Sept. 8 and 9 at the Jeremiah Cushing. St. Martin’s Knights of Columbus Hall, said er of the House. He’ll be facing the same oppo- Legislative Rep. and Delegate Ken Menges. nent again in November. Local 1778, N. Vancouver, A golf outing will also be held on Sept. 8. All “It was a close race in 2004,” Seegmiller said. B.C. active, retired and disabled members and “This time, I’ve got a bit more help because the Democratic Party has targeted my race as one to The spring issue of the Meeting Point their families are invited. For information, newsletter is now available on the Web site contact Menges at (573) 635-6415 or win. My opponent has more money, but we work hard and make things happen.” shared by this local and Local 1923 in Prince [email protected]. George, B.C., said Secretary & Treasurer Seegmiller said his work with the UTU will David Moorhouse. Also new on the site is the Local 980, Enderlin, N.D. be an asset. “The UTU already has strong bipar- Fraser Discovery agreement. View or down- Members of this CN local, along with tisan relationships here, so I’ll be able to work load the PDF by visiting www.ututbc.com. members of BNSF Local 1137 in Fargo, N.D., with both sides of the aisle to get things done.” at a special educational meeting in May Members of Seegmiller’s campaign team, in Local 1957, Silsbee, Texas arranged by State Legislative Director John 2004 and this year, include his children, “who Members of this BNSF local in Beaumont, Risch, honored retiree Willis Croonquist of have learned so much walking with me and Texas, recently elected Spencer L. Bates as Local 1177, Willmar, Minn. Brother Croon- attending meetings,” Seegmiller said. “It takes a local chairperson for engineers, said Secre- quist, who served as alternate U.S. national lot of time and it can be difficult for my family, tary and Treasurer Steven Soffes. Mean- legislative director as well as Minnesota state but having a strong family makes a lot possible.” while, members are mourning the death of legislative director, was presented with a 50- conductor James L Dominy, who succumbed 2 www.utuia.org www.utu.org UTU BUS LINES

News items culled from the UTU’s Daily News Digest, posted every morning on the UTU Web site, www.utu.org. Groups sue operator LAMTA fare hike Local 1496 members over diesel fumes on the horizon ratify new contract Two environmental groups sued one of the Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Bus Department Vice President Roy Arnold nation’s largest school bus operators last month Yaroslavsky, calling MTA officials disingenu- reports that members of UTU Local 1496 in to demand its buses in California display warn- ous for suggesting otherwise, said last month Riverside, Calif., have overwhelmingly ratified ings that diesel fumes can cause cancer, accord- that an increase in bus fares is on the horizon, a new contract. ing to the Associated Press. according to the Los Angeles Daily News. The drivers are employed by Laidlaw Educa- The Environmental Law Foundation and “I think the agency has to be publicly tion Services. Our Children’s Earth Foundation want a upfront that it’s headed for a fare The ratification vote was 77 in favor, six judge to force Laidlaw Transit Inc., of increase,” Yaroslavsky said as the Metro- opposed, Arnold reports. Naperville, Ill., to put written warnings on politan Transportation Authority opened buses about the dangers of cancer-causing pol- hearings into a $3-billion budget proposed Gerald McElroy is the general chairperson lutants the buses emit. for fiscal 2006-07. on the property. The groups said the diesel fumes expose chil- Facing a $112-million operating deficit, “It was indeed a pleasure to work with dren to chemicals known to cause neurologi- administrators propose closing the gap by raid- Brother McElroy and his committee in negoti- cal, respiratory and cardiovascular disease. ing MTA’s cash reserves, leaving a relatively ating a three-year contract that improves the The groups charge that, under California’s small $66 million to cover emergencies. existing contract language and provides for a substantial increase in wages,” Arnold said. Proposition 65 – the Safe Drinking Water and Unless the agency can produce millions Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 – the buses must more in revenue, Yaroslavsky told an MTA “The agreement also provides for a benefits- list the dangers of diesel-fuel fumes, which Cali- committee, “You are going to have to raise reopener clause in two years,” Arnold said. fornia classifies as a cancer-causing agent. those fares, and you are going to have to raise “Overall the drivers are very pleased with About one million of six million California those fares a lot.” the agreement,” he said. school children ride a school bus. It was not MTA administrators say they are treating Laidlaw, a publicly traded company which immediately known how many take Laidlaw the upcoming budget as a stop-gap measure to also owns Greyhound, last year lost the con- buses. buy time while they increase efficiencies, scale tract with the Riverside Unified School Dis- The environmental groups said the lawsuit’s back routes, turn over some services to munic- trict. The company wanted to retain the UTU- real goal was to eventually get rid of diesel-run- ipal operators and renegotiate fare-recovery represented drivers, however, for use on other ning school buses. contracts. runs, Arnold said.

UTUIA announces 2006/2007 scholarship winners Each of the following students has been selected to receive a $500 continuing schol- District 5 arship from the United Transportation Union Insurance Association. Congratulations Illinois, Wisconsin to all these scholars. Aaron J. Bulthuis, grandson of John M. Kilroe of Local 1494, Chicago, Ill.; Sara J. District 1 Naslund, granddaughter of Donald E. Dunn of Local 1423, Galesburg, Ill.; John D. O’Brien Margaret Jo Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, , son of John D. O’Brien Sr. of Local 1290, Chicago, Ill.; Williams Vermont , stepgranddaughter of Steven C. Mott of Local 195, Galesburg, Ill. Jonathan C. Nivens, grandson of Charles H. Hinze of Local 318, Hornell, N.Y.; Jaclyn District 6 A. Terrillion, daughter of Beverly A. Terrillion of Local 645, Babylon, N.Y.; Hayley C. Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas Drews, daughter of Gary D. Drews of Local 1393, E. Buffalo, N.Y.; Christina E. Gerrish, Brady W. Wyrick Scott A. granddaughter of Harold L. Woodard Jr. of Local 663, Bangor, Maine. , son of Robert K. Wyrick of Local 940, Wichita Falls, Tex.; Saunders Jr., grandson of John A. Saunders of Local 508, Smithville, Tex.; Cassie L. District 2 Bann, daughter of Stephen P. Bann of Local 965, Dallas, Tex.; Tamara A. Saunders, granddaughter of John A. Saunders of Local 508, Smithville, Tex.; Sarah E. Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania Tarrant, daughter of Roger L. Tarrant of Local 1524, Houston, Tex. Jaclyn R. Leone, daughter of Joseph J. Leone of Local 1390, Trenton, N.J.; Amanda B. Ressin, granddaughter of Louis District 7 Ressin of Local 610, Baltimore, Md.; Christopher J. Arnao, son Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, of Francis M. Arnao of Local 1390, Trenton, N.J.; Stephanie E. South Dakota Fortson, granddaughter of Robert W. Landis of Local 498, Anne L. Davis, granddaughter of Melvin F. Davis of Local 199, Allentown, Pa.; Jennifer R. Crossland, daughter of James R. Creston, Iowa; Ashley N. Christensen, granddaughter of Philip E. Crossland of Local 600, Cumberland, Md. Bodine of Local 911, Minneapolis, Minn.; Jenna E. Clark, granddaughter District 3 of Robert P. Labrosse of Local 1000, Minneapolis, Minn.; Thomas D. Gaynor, grandson of Richard G. Gaynor of Local 1405, St. Louis, Mo.; Thomas A. White Jr., Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, son of Thomas A. White of Local 1403, Kansas City, Mo.; Jennifer H. Williams, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia daughter of L. Alan Williams of Local 1532, Kansas City, Kan. Ashley M. Gates, granddaughter of Bobby G. Gates Sr. of Local 655, Bluefield, W. District 8 Va.; Brittany L. Hamilton, granddaughter of Joe H. Hamilton of Local 762, Montgomery, Ala.; Richard A. Hager, stepson of James A. Wolfe of Local 1291, Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah Birmingham, Ala.; Caleb M. Allen, grandson of Dillard C. Allen of Local 847, Amy M. Jackson, daughter of James E. Jackson of Local 1136, Sterling, Colo.; Birmingham, Ala.; Gregory Z. Durley, son of James D. Carter of Local 1245, Amanda M. Sayre, granddaughter of Melvin Sayre of Local 239, Oakland, Calif.; Atlanta, Ga.; Ory D. Hampton, son of Lowell D. Hampton of Local 847, Birmingham, William M. Schoonmaker III, son of William M. Schoonmaker II of Local 84, Los Ala.; Clay V. Normand, grandson of Charles A. Normand of Local 598, Mobile, Ala.; Angeles, Calif.; Jennelie M. Hayes, granddaughter of Ellis E. Hayes of Local 202, Heather K. Powers, stepdaughter of Patrick M. Gray of Local 1963, Louisville, Ky.; Denver, Colo.; Brooklyn S. Beckwith, daughter of Terell M. Beckwith of Local 1607, Joy N. McComas, daughter of Roger L. McComas of Local 1327, Peach Creek, W. Los Angeles, Calif.; Andrea Browning, granddaughter of William K. Browning of Va.; Brendan R. Gracik, son of Michael A. Gracik of Local 504, Wheeling, W. Va. Local 1366, Salt Lake City, Utah; Melissa M. Brun, granddaughter of David A. Brun of Local 202, Denver, Colo.; Keith A. Huchting, grandson of Ronald K. Huchting of District 4 Local 1813, West Colton, Calif. Indiana, Michigan, Ohio District 9 Tristan L. Holmes, son of Dwight L. Holmes of Local 904, Evansville, Ind.; Jesse C. Becker, grandson of Francis C. Brewer of Local 744, Frankfort, Ind.; Heather L. Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming Geary, daughter of Marcia K. Geary of Local 586, Willard, Ohio; Cole M. Redden, Richard D. Hefflinger, son of Robert M. Hefflinger of Local 283, Portland, Ore.; grandson of James E. Redden of Local 6, Indianapolis, Ind.; Kristin Cox, grand- Aubrey L. Jensen, daughter of Scott R. Jensen of Local 265, Pocatello, Idaho; Kaitlen daughter of Thomas B. Gier of Local 792, Cleveland, Ohio. E. Wynne, granddaughter of Thomas J. Wynne of Local 891, Whitefish, Mont. 3 www.utuia.org www.utu.org Power of solidarity www.utuia.org www.utu.org Paul C. Thompson, International President By Paul Thompson anxious to interpret laws so as to [email protected] International President benefit employers. And those employers, embold- Rick Marceau, Assistant President As we face challenges unlike ened by the White House, Con- [email protected] any in modern times, I am gress and anti-labor court rulings, reminded of what Past President Dan Johnson, General Secretary and Treasurer are aggressively plotting to ham- Al Chesser said two years ago at a [email protected] mer down wages, erode health- regional meeting: In a successful care benefits and eliminate safe James M. Brunkenhoefer, Nat. Legislative Dir. union, “every member lights a fire and humane working conditions. [email protected] in their belly and goes to work for each other and their union.” Since the UTU’s creation in The challenges facing work- 1969, our union has stood on the Contact the UTU: ing families are severe. To win principle of Progress through Uni- ty. We must rededicate ourselves via telephone at (216) 228-9400 the battle, we must stand in sol- idarity and not permit to that power of solidarity. via fax at (216) 228-5755 even a single fracture to The only political battle via e-mail at [email protected] show in our resolve we should be waging this against those who plot to year is the fight to put destroy organized labor. labor-friendly lawmakers Internal political divi- back in control of Con- sions comfort our enemies, gress. If we permit internal who are probing for weak- strife to dull that resolve, Security, safety on the line ness to exploit. we are going to become vic- Thompson Brothers and sisters, we tims of anti-labor forces. If there weren’t unions, rail workers would have to invent them. cannot afford to be at each By focusing all our ener- Many railroads have a sordid history of harassing and intimidating other’s throats. Leaders of other gies on Election Day in Novem- injured workers to not report injuries. The UTU documented the abuse, transportation unions – including ber, we defend our contracts, pro- including a railroad officer fraudulently posing as a clergyman to influence the BLET – similarly recognize tect our health-care benefits and medical treatment of an injured employee to help the railroad win a safe- the unceasing attacks against ensure safe working conditions. ty award and assure executive bonuses. organized labor and have put past Yes, we have our own political Last summer, major railroads in Illinois agreed to a state law prohibiting quarrels to rest to achieve the sol- convention in 2007, but that is carriers from interfering with an injured employee’s access to immediate idarity required to defeat those nine months after congressional medical attention. Similar laws were passed in Iowa and Minnesota to stop whose objective is to defeat us. elections, which permits suffi- such immoral and inhumane behavior. Yet those railroads are now chal- Labor literally has multiple cient time for internal campaigns lenging the laws in federal court. wolves at the door. AFTER we secure in November a These are the same railroads that negotiated a crew-consist moratori- The President of the United labor-friendly U.S. Congress. um they now want to discard like a rancid ham sandwich. To carriers, States is hell-bent on destroying In the months ahead, we must increased profits and larger executive bonuses take precedence over labor unions. identify family members, friends morality and humane treatment of employees. Conservatives controlling Con- and neighbors not registered to Strong unions are our only salvation. gress are committed to passing leg- vote. We must help them to regis- Can you think of a better reason to contribute to the UTU PAC and islation eroding worker rights. ter – and then direct our energies mobilize to elect union-friendly lawmakers in November? A growing number of to convincing them to go to the As International President Paul Thompson says, the only anti-labor federal judges, polls on Election Day and vote for political battle we should be waging this year is the fight to put handpicked by anti- labor-friendly candidates. labor-friendly lawmakers back in control of Congress and state union U.S. presidents As Eugene V. Debs said a cen- legislatures. and confirmed for life tury ago, when labor embraces the Job security and workplace safety are on the line. Union sol- by the Senate’s conser- power of solidarity, “it can idarity can and will make a difference. vative majority, are demand and command.”

WASHINGTON WATCH By James M. Brunkenhoefer Railroad carriers use jets; we use votes Railroads are leaving no stone unturned in efforts to eliminate your job What we do have, though, are two potent weapons. One is the UTU and erode the health-care benefits you have earned. It is just that simple. PAC; the other our vote on Election Day. After lying about the crew-consist moratorium they signed, railroads are Your participation in the UTU PAC and your efforts to ensure family, seeking a back-door exit they hope their friends in the White House and friends and neighbors are registered to vote could be the deciding factors Congress will open for them. in whether the railroads succeed next year in eliminating our jobs and Railroads have been using their private jets, their opu- eroding our pay, health-care and other benefits. lent business cars and receptions at posh resorts to attract Never has it been so important that every member contribute to the lawmakers to so-called briefing sessions on rail issues. UTU PAC, which is how we support labor-friendly candidates for election The message delivered is: too many employees are being and re-election. paid too much and have overly generous benefits. At the ballot box, we can gain victory by ensur- Not discussed as they offer their cap- ing our family members, friends and neighbors reg- tive audience chilled shrimp and cock- Shrimp cocktails ister to vote and then cast ballots for labor-friendly tails are the enormous carrier profits, candidates on Election Day. Brunkenhoefer the size of executive bonuses, and how are no match for votes rail workers are treated on the job: come Election Day Active member participation in the UTU PAC and worked long hours to the point of exhaustion, harshly at the ballot box is OUR walk-off homerun. disciplined and refused time off for family emergencies. We are approaching the bottom of the ninth inning. Railroad officials envision a walk-off homerun in the bottom of the If we lose, we lose jobs, family financial security and adequate and afford- ninth inning – a negotiating impasse that reaches their friends in Congress able health care. armed with anti-labor recommendations from a carrier-friendly Presiden- The stakes are high – higher than they have been in modern history. tial Emergency Board. The robber barons have returned and they have no mercy. The UTU can’t match the carrier hospitality shown law- makers as they prime them to do their bidding. We have no Our only hope is to replace anti-labor lawmakers with those friendly to private jets, fancy business cars or cash to spend entertaining working families. 4 lawmakers at resorts. If we don’t do it – and do it now – no one else will. State Watch News from UTU State Legislative Boards

Texas Missouri Iowa

State Legislative Director Connie English Jr. (left) Iowa Secretary of State Chet Culver, who is run- and Assistant State Director David Arterburn ning for governor, recently attended a meeting of (right) recently presented a UTU PAC donation The Missouri State Legislative Board has Local 17 in Marshalltown, according to William to Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate endorsed Duane N. Burghard (left) for the state’s Backoff, the local’s legislative rep. “Since being Chris Bell at the Texas AFL-CIO Committee on 9th Congressional District, U.S. House of Repre- endorsed by the Iowa State Legislative Board, Political Education (COPE) Convention in Fort sentatives. State Legislative Director Larry Foster Culver has been attending meetings of the various Worth. COPE is the political arm of the Texas said that he has met with Burghard three times and UTU locals in the state,” Backoff said. Pictured AFL-CIO. At the convention, statewide candi- has a fourth meeting scheduled. “This just goes to at the meeting, left to right, are State Legislative dates appeared before the delegates seeking their show the level of concern Mr. Burghard has for Director Pat Hendricks; Iowa House Representa- endorsement. English, who serves as a vice presi- issues that affect ordinary people and the district in tive Mark Smith; Local 17 President Mark dent of the Texas AFL-CIO, was selected to serve which they live,” Foster said. Woodruff; Backoff; Culver; Local 17 S&T Dave on the drafting committee, which made endorse- McNary; Local 306 (Eagle Grove) Local Chair- ment recommendations to the delegates. than 56,000 workers die from job injuries and person and Legislative Rep. Larry Pearson; Local 17 Local Chairperson Steve Wilkens and Local illnesses and another six million are injured 17 Assistant Local Chairperson James Reeder. each year. New York UTU members in New York recently partic- Minnesota New Jersey ipated in the Workers’ Memorial Day celebra- Members are reminded that the State Leg- tion in Hornell. islative Board has a membership outreach and The event featured dignitaries speaking enrollment drive happening at this time. about the rights of workers and the importance All UTU members should have received a of recognizing people who made sacrifices to UTU PAC letter with pledge form and return bring benefits to American employees. postage-paid envelope in their U.S. mail at New York State Legislative Director Sam home, according to State Legislative Director Nasca, addressing the crowd, called workers Philip Qualy. who died while on the job “heroes.” All members are being asked to sign up and “I’ve heard the word hero a lot lately,” Nasca contribute any amount with which they are New Jersey State Legislative Board Alternate said. “I went to Webster’s Dictionary, and there comfortable, Qualy said. Director Ralph Styverson (left) recently met with are a lot of definitions for the word. “Minnesota will have some of the most con- New Jersey State Senator and Transportation “One definition said it is ‘one greatly regard- tested state and congressional races in Ameri- Committee Chairperson Nicholas Sacco to thank ed for their courage or nobility of purpose, ca later this year,” Qualy said. “As railroaders, him for his support of the renewal of the state’s especially one who has risked or sacrificed his we need to make our voices heard to those who Transportation Trust Fund and his backing of or her life,’” he said. “I believe these words ful- are friends of railroad labor. funding for bus and rail systems. “Sen. Sacco is a long-time friend of the UTU,” State Legislative ly describe the people who work each day to “Please contribute because we have got to make our lives healthier and safer.” Director Daniel J. O’Connell said. “The UTU keep fighting the good fight for our railroad helped win him re-election last November.” According to the AFL-CIO Web site, more workers and our working families,” Qualy said. Bus Department Yardmasters By Roy Arnold, vice president/director By J.R. “Jim” Cumby, vice president

We remain vigilant Fatigue, inexperience for new laws, rules a recipe for disaster It is mind boggling to read all the new federal regula- Railroads are bragging that human-factor caused train tions, legislative materials and legal papers that come accidents declined in 2005. But safety experts say data across my desk that affect bus operators . should be studied over multiple periods. Many are helpful to bus operators. Others, such as a law Well, from 1999 through 2005, human-factor train permitting disqualification of a driver if he or she is cited for non-commer- accidents increased by 30 percent. cial driving infractions, make no sense. The UTU continues to try to amend Of special concern is that the number of rules violations for speeding, that law to permit states to provide retraining and re-education, through unauthorized occupancy of main tracks and failure to comply with control driving school, as an alternative to the mandatory lifting of the CDL. signals exceeded 1,060 in 2005 – up from 625 in 1999. I am also monitoring, with assistance from our national legislative office We know full well that crews do not intentionally violate rules. Fatigue and UTU law department, new regulations proposed by the Federal Motor and inexperience are driving these troubling numbers. Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Yet the major railroads continue to resist negotiating fatigue mitigation Electronic on-board recorders for hours-of-service compliance (Dock- and improving training standards. The UTU had to go into federal court to et No. FMCSA-2004-18940). This rulemaking would amend FMCSA bring the National Carriers’ Conference Committee back to the bargaining regulations concerning the use of electronic on-board recording devices as table. a way to document compliance with hours-of-service regulations. A notice While railroads acknowledge that going to work tired is like going to of proposed rulemaking is planned for this month. work drunk, they continue to demand that train and engine service employ- Hours of service of drivers; supporting documents (Docket No. FMC- ees and yardmasters work 50-hour-plus weeks without sufficient or sched- SA-98-3706). This FMCSA rulemaking would amend the hours-of-serv- uled rest days. ice record-keeping requirements to clarify what supporting documents And new hires continue to be hurried through training programs, creat- motor carriers must have to validate hours-of-service records. ing situations where new engineers are paired with inexperienced trainmen The new FMCSA rule would provide that the duty of the motor carrier who have not received training over the territory they are working. And is to verify the accuracy of drivers’ hours-of-service and record-of-duty sta- neither is being provided classroom training where actual tus. The driver’s duty would be to collect and submit to the motor carrier application of operating rules is taught. all supporting documents with the record-of-duty status. Also, a supporting Sound operating decisions can only be made when our document-based self-monitoring system would be required as the primary membership has sufficient operating experience. method of ensuring compliance with the hours-of-service regulations. 5 Union insurance products for union families The United Transportation Union Insurance Association is proud of Ultimate Par Permanent Life Insurance its long tradition of serving the members and families of the United IRAs and Flexible Premium Deferred Annuities Permanent life insurance that provides guaran- Transportation Union. The Traditional IRA and Roth IRA are specialized savings plans authorized by the federal gov- teed protection over long periods of time is also This year, we celebrate 35 years of providing great insurance protec- ernment to help you accumulate funds for retirement. known as whole life protection. It not only pro- If you receive wage, salary or commission compensation, you may contribute up to $4,000 to a vides a sum of money to be paid at death, but can tion and service to the thousands of men, women and children who Traditional or Roth IRA in 2006. If you are age 50 or older, you may contribute up to $4,500. also be used to provide an income stream to Depending on your income level, and if you dependents, making it possible to maintain the have placed their trust in us. choose a Traditional IRA, you may be able to quality of life they have come to enjoy. deduct some or all of your contribution on your Whole life should form the foundation of any We are as committed as ever federal tax return. The Roth IRA is not tax insurance portfolio. to continue to offer you sol- deductible. You can also use permanent life as a way to While both IRA types allow for the tax-free accumulate money through cash value build-up id protection at reason- accumulation of investment earnings over the life for your use some time down the road. able rates. of the fund, the primary difference is that a Roth Ultimate Par offers you permanent life insur- IRA allows you to withdraw funds at retirement ance protection with guaranteed premiums, cash The UTUIA pledges without paying any federal income tax. values and a guaranteed death benefit. Depending on your particular situation, you may Your policy may also share in the association’s to continue to con- want the tax deductibility of current-year contri- surplus through the payment of dividends. butions (Traditional) or the exemption from feder- Dividends are determined by the UTUIA’s duct our business affairs al taxes at retirement (Roth). Also, you may want experience from year to year and depend largely for the benefit and securi- to alternate your contributions between the Tradi- on things such as the general level of interest tional and Roth IRAs from year to year. rates, the amount and timing of claims paid and ty of our members and their The Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity operating expenses. (FPDA) is an insurance product. It has the same UTUIA has traditionally paid dividends in the past; however, they are not guaranteed and are families. benefit as an IRA of having your investment earn- subject to change. The UTUIA recognizes its obligations to its members and shall con- ings accumulate tax free until withdrawn. Dividends can increase the value of your insurance by increasing your cash value and/or death There are no limits on your contributions to an benefit, or by offsetting a portion of your premium payments. You can instruct us to use your divi- tinue to strive to live up to the ideals of the fraternal benefit system. FPDA and any amount can be contributed at any dends in a way that best serves your financial needs. time subject to a $25 minimum. By purchasing additional insurance protection, you increase your cash value which may gener- At retirement, you may choose to receive a lump sum, or as is more common, a series of period- ate its own dividends. ic payments. We offer several options to best serve your needs. Upon death, the annuity value will We can also send you your dividends in the form of a check. Other Insurance Products offered by UTUIA be paid directly to your beneficiary, avoiding the expenses, delays and frustrations of probate. Cancer Insurance – Cancer is often a lingering disease that strikes all age groups. While cure rates have increased over the years, cancer can often require expensive and prolonged treatments. Most health plans are not adequate to cover the special needs and expenses associated with cancer treatments. Our cancer plan can bring peace of mind in knowing you will have some extra cash available to cover the Ultimate Term Life Insurance unexpected expenses associated with cancer treatments. Our plan is guaranteed renewable to age 100; benefits Disability Income Replacement Insurance do not reduce at age 65; it pays in addition to any other insurance you may own, and it pays regardless of the Term life insurance provides temporary protec- number of times you are admitted and discharged from the hospital. You and your entire family can be covered Today you are healthy and have the ability to earn an income. tion over a generally shorter period of time than for only pennies a day. Today you are healthy and may qualify to purchase a disability income protection plan. permanent insurance. The death benefit is Accidental Death and Dismemberment – Plans are available in $15,000 or $30,000 amounts to cover you Tomorrow that may change. payable only if you die within a specified “term” in the event of death caused by accident or the dismemberment of a limb or limbs. Coverage can be extended Disability Income Replacement Insurance is one of the most critical forms of insurance you can period of time. to cover your entire family. Benefits are doubled to $30,000 or $60,000 for deaths caused by automobile. If you own and yet it is one of the most overlooked. You may want to use temporary life insurance as are a fare-paying passenger in a common carrier, your benefit would double again to $60,000 or $120,000. You Your most valuable asset is your ability to earn a way to enhance your permanent life insurance and your entire family can be covered for only $7 per month. protection. a living – how will your family manage if you are disabled for a prolonged period of time? It can provide additional life insurance protec- tion during the years you are raising your family Don’t wait another day! and incurring large expenses for a mortgage, main- Visit us on the Web at www.utuia.org and select the “Contact Us” button. This will allow We all need an income to buy food, clothing, taining a household and your providing for your you to locate the Field Supervisor nearest you. You can then send e-mail or call by phone. pay the mortgage or the rent, pay for our chil- children’s education. or dren’s education, and so much more. Our term product has flexibility at the heart of In fact, your earning power has produced every- its design and can be custom fit for your needs and Call us at (800) 558-8842 and we will have a Field Supervisor contact you directly. thing you have. circumstances. or A serious accident or sickness can severely Why purchase a “one size fits all” product from Complete, clip and mail the coupon below to have someone from our office contact you. affect your ability to earn an income and maintain someone else when we can customize a product to your standard of living. fit your needs at no additional cost? Don’t take that gamble. Let us help. Benefits can be structured on a level, Our disability income plan can make all the dif- increasing or decreasing pattern. You can Information, please select the premium paying period that is most ference. convenient to you. I would like more information on UTUIA’s products. We offer the flexibility of 6-, 12- and 18- Any period can be selected (subject to certain age limitations) – one year, five years, 10, 20, even month benefit periods, 30-, 60- and 90-day elim- Please print 50 years or anything in between. ination periods and benefit amounts that will fit your budget. Premiums are guaranteed for the first full year after which we may charge the same, or more, sub- Our policy is guaranteed renewable, which ject to a guaranteed maximum premium. Full name Sex Date of birth Unlike traditional term insurance policies, Ultimate Term may produce cash surrender val- means we can never refuse to renew your coverage as long as you pay the premiums, whereas group ues, particularly policies that pay level premiums over long premium payment periods. disability plans can cancel your coverage if they choose. Address City State ZIP These cash surrender values can create many of the same opportunities that exist under whole Take the time to apply now before your health situation changes. life plans. This is one of the best investments you’ll make to insure your family’s financial future. Telephone number with area code UTU local number

Complete and mail to: UTUIA Sales Dept., 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4250 06/06

6 www.utuia.org www.utu.org www.utuia.org www.utu.org 7 UTU for Life

Railroad Retirement, UTU for Life program adds Soc. Sec. compared By V.M. “Butch” Speakman Jr. cell phone discount benefit While Railroad Retire- ment and Social Security Retired members have yet another good rea- your area, call or write to the UTU Internation- are closely coordinated, a son to join the UTU for Life program. al, or contact UTU for Life Program Coordina- comparison of the two Cingular Wireless is now offering special tor Carl Cochran at 7935 N.W. 173rd St., reveals differences in the rates on cell phones and service. UTU for Life Hialeah, FL 33015, call him at (305) 821-7015 benefits payable. members can get up to 18 percent off Cingular or send him e-mail at [email protected]. While rail employees and cellular-service bills and 40 percent off new UTU for Life benefits also include: a baseball- employers pay Tier I taxes at phones and other equipment. style cap featuring the UTU for Life logo; a color- the same rate as Social V.M. Speakman Call Cingular’s Business Customer Service ful full-size wall calendar; a wallet-size medical Security, they also pay Tier II taxes used to at (866) 246-4852 for details or log onto emergency card; membership in the UTU Trav- finance benefits higher than Social Security www.cingular.com/benefits/afl. elers Club; discounts on car rentals; discounts on levels. Consequently, Railroad Retirement ben- UTU for Life is aimed at bringing retired and room rates at a number of the nation’s most pop- efits remain substantially higher than Social active UTU members together for fellowship, ular hotel chains; two booklets to help keep track Security benefits – especially for career information and political action. The program of health issues and finances; an important- employees. is based on the idea that retirement should- papers folder designed to hold legal documents; a listing upon death in “The Final Call” section of The average age annuity paid n’t mean abandoning workplace friends, the UTU News, and discounts of 15 percent on career rail employees by Railroad losing touch with your industry’s cur- railroad artwork by noted rail artist “Scotty.” Retirement at the end of fiscal year rent events or losing influence over 2005 was $2,165 a month, versus an public-policy issues. For information about the program, contact average Social Security payment of To that end, retired members across the UTU International at (216) 228-9400, or $960 monthly. Spouse benefits the continent are establishing local check the UTU’s Web site at www.utu.org and averaged $640 a month under Rail- chapters of the UTU for Life program click on “UTU FOR LIFE,” found on the left- road Retirement versus $465 under the Social that generally meet on a monthly basis. So far, hand side of the home page in the red area. Security program. chapters are meeting in Seattle, Wash.; Those with e-mail addresses also are urged to register on the Web site to receive the latest The benefits awarded recent retirees are gen- Pocatello, Idaho; Oceanside, Calif.; Peru, Ind.; news on program benefits, chapter meetings, erally greater than payable to those who retired Grand Junction, Colo.; Rogers/Bentonville, and political action alerts. years ago because recent awards are based on Ark.; Indianapolis, Ind.; Muscle Shoals, Ala., higher average earnings. and Lorain, Ohio. For just $9 a year, how can you afford NOT For career railroad employees retiring at the To learn how easy it is to set up a chapter in joining today? end of fiscal year 2005, regular annuity awards averaged nearly $2,815 monthly, versus about $1,305 under Social Security. If spouse benefits UTU for Life Membership Form are added, the combined benefits for the (Please print legibly) employee and spouse would approximate $4,000 under Railroad Retirement, compared to $1,960 under Social Security. Name Local Survivor benefits are also generally higher under Railroad Retirement – about $1,065 to Address aged and disabled widow(er)s versus about $910 under Social Security. City State or Province Postal Code For more information about Railroad Retire- ment benefits, contact the nearest office of the board. Addresses and phone numbers may be Phone E-Mail obtained by calling the board’s automated toll- free help line at (800) 808-0772, or at I wish to join the UTU for Life program. Enclosed is a check or money order payable www.rrb.gov. to “UTU for Life” in the amount of $9 (U.S.) for one year’s dues. V.M. “Butch” Speakman Jr. serves as labor member of the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board. Complete and return to UTU for Life, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4250

T HE F INAL C ALL

Following are the names of recently deceased retirees who maintained annual membership in the UTU For Life program (formerly known as the UTU Retiree Program), according to reports received at UTU International Headquarters. These brothers and sisters will be missed by their many friends and by fellow UTU for Life members.

Local Name City/State Local Name City/State Local Name City/State 1 Heinold, William K. Buffalo, N.Y. 586 Blair, Virgil L. Marion, Ohio 1290 Hoevel, Frank A. Riverdale, Ill. 28 Brown, Ewing E. Sterling, Col. 650 Pohl, Paul J. Minneapolis, Minn. 1313 Hall, R. D. Amarillo, Texas 32 Zirbel, Roy H. LaVerne, Calif. 656 Weeks, John A. N. Little Rock, Ark. 1390 Hazin Jr., Joseph Apalachin, N.Y. 113 Roe, Walter L. Judsonia, Ark. 706 Smoot, Raymond L. Aiken, S.C. 1390 Horan, John L. Myakka City, Fla. 211 Rose, Donald J. Johnson City, N.Y. 762 Jones, Lynn L. Chattahoochee, Fla. 1390 Taylor Jr., Daniel C. Phillipsburg, N.J. 240 McKemy, Gail Clifford Buena Park, Calif. 792 Hayes, W. J. Norwalk, Ohio 1393 Taber, Mason E. Hamburg, N.Y. 298 Werner, Wilbur D. Garrett, Ind. 792 Johnston, Floyd A. Stow, Ohio 1458 Boyer, Willard T. New Iberia, La. 320 Galbraith, James C. Alpena, Mich. 830 Yeager, John W. Fort McCoy, Fla. 1477 April, John P. Citrus Springs, Fla. 324 Keller, Ronald T. Bothell, Wash. 832 Steele, Chester L. Bemidji, Minn. 1522 Kraft, Charles A. Edgewater, Md. 338 McMahan, Clarence D. Flintstone, Ga. 894 Vermillion, Manning E. Fort Scott, Kan. 1524 Schiller, Raymond G. Livingston, Texas 386 Jardel Sr., John R. Cherry Hill, N.J. 903 Featherston, Linton W. Fernandina Beach, Fla. 1545 Tilley, Charles C. Jonesboro, La. 446 Forbes, Earl C. Cheyenne, Wyo. 911 Nadreau, William C. Chippewa Falls, Wis. 1565 Lewis, Lowell B. Turlock, Calif. 493 McMurray, Norman C. Cherokee Village, Ark. 951 Smith, Louis R. Mesa, Ariz. 1573 Gibson, Andrew B. Klamath Falls, Ore. 504 Flowers Sr., Robert L. Paden City, W. Va. 1042 Peadon, L. C. Oklahoma City, Okla. 1672 Sullivan, Bernard J. East Haven, Conn. 511 White, Jesse L. College Park, Ga. 1801 Lickliter, Earl H. Ponca City, Okla. 1918 Espinoza, Gilberto El Paso, Texas 1948 Saiani, Richard J. Greenacres, Fla. 1957 Dominy, James L. Kirbyville, Texas

8 www.utuia.org www.utu.org Regional meeting workshops offer something for everyone

The theme of the upcoming UTU/UTUIA regional meetings in Reno, Nev., A drug- and alcohol-awareness workshop. The panel will explain the and Asheville, N.C., is “labor solidarity,” so, in that spirit, the union and benefits of the Operation RedBlock program that has saved many lives and insurance association have joined forces to offer an innovative and inform- kept many families together through tough times of substance abuse and ative selection of workshops and other activities for members and guests. alcohol dependency. The regional meetings will include the following workshops: Secretary and treasurer workshops. These will include a presentation An International officer panel, with questions taken from the floor; on automation of the monthly billing statement process; instruction by International auditors on the Winstabs computer program for treasurers, as Live arbitration of a case. The first day of the regional meetings, UTU mem- well as the manual system for bookkeeping, and an overview of UTUIA and bers will have the opportunity to watch a live arbitration hearing conducted using D/IPP products. One-on-one instruction from the Winstabs support team the National Mediation Board’s WebEx online service. The arbitrator and the car- will be available. A presentation on the new direct-pay program being imple- rier/union representatives will be in three different locations, and the audience at mented by the International also will be offered. the regional meeting will be able to see and hear the session via large-screen projections in the conference hall. UTU members also will be able to test-drive The Railway Labor Act. This workshop will include an informal round- the system and ask questions about how it might be useful to them as a way to table explanation and discussion of the National Mediation Board, which is hold arbitration hearings without traveling, and as a way to hold other meetings the federal government agency that administers the Railway Labor Act. and discussions without incurring the expense of travel. A variety of bus workshops will be presented, addressing such issues “Next Generation: The Needs of Younger Members.” What does the as grievance handling, arbitration preparation, driver awareness as it next generation of union members need to work and survive effectively? relates to homeland security, and effective legal analysis. Participants also This workshop will give members a chance to discuss some of the chal- will discuss the history of labor, a steward’s role, committee relationships, lenges and possible solutions to the variables that they face every day. The grievance handling, just-cause investigations, negotiations and accident next generation of transportation workers has some excellent ideas, and investigations. UTU leaders will be there to listen. A workplace safety workshop. This presentation will provide informa- “Defusing Workplace Trauma.” Have you ever been witness to a work- tion on power brake, blue flag and other safety rules. In this workshop, related fatality? If so, you may never be the same. This workshop will show Federal Railroad Administration officials will discuss mechanical issues that you how to cope with these types of situations. By using well-defined pro- affect UTU members. cedures and techniques to defuse the situation, relieve anxiety and accel- erate the normal recovery process, the UTU can help its affected members. A UTUIA products workshop. Presenters will provide descriptions and benefits of UTUIA life insurance and disability income policies. Members A remote control operations workshop . Presenters will explain how and their families are invited to see what UTUIA has to offer in regards to remotely controlled yard operations came about, how it works, and the protecting them and their loved ones. safety aspects of remote operations. Also included will be a presentation on the FRA’s final remote-control locomotive report, followed by a question- A Designated Legal Counsel presentation will provide members and and-answer session that will provide the opportunity for those who use their families with information on options available should the member be remote control to communicate their suggestions for improvements. injured on the job. “Vote Your Pocketbook Now.” This workshop will give ideas on how to “Acceptable or Not: Workplace Behavior,” will examine the causes of, tackle the many new challenges that could be presented if a Republican and response to, sexual, racial, religious or other types of harassment. Congress returns to power in January. It also will look at the Bush adminis- tration, which sought many anti-labor initiatives over the past six years. “Back to Basics” will deal with the fundamental aspects of union mem- Issues such as Social Security and Amtrak will be covered. This workshop bership as it applies to yardmasters, such as the proper and timely handling will impart understanding about the value of UTU PAC to workers. of claims and grievances, the appeals process and the efficient enforce- ment of the labor contract. “Empowering the Membership.” This program will explore the busi- ness of organizing: gaining new members and retaining members once UTU Auxiliary workshop. UTU Auxiliary officers will discuss pertinent they are signed up. Subjects will include teaching the history of organized issues affecting UTU families. labor; teaching the history of UTU; teaching members about grievance han- dling and their responsibilities; communicating with members, local officials, A local chairperson workshop, which will include training for local general committees and carrier officials; boosting attendance at local meet- chairpersons on investigations and arbitration hearings. Workshop presen- ings; alternatives to local meetings and other subjects of interest. ters will also take questions from the floor.

UNITED TRANSPORTATION UNION INSURANCE ASSOCIATION NOTICE OF PRIVACY POLICY

At the United Transportation Union Insurance •Maintaining your insurance policies in force; Association, protecting your privacy is very important to us. •Providing you with better customer service. The reason we collect information is to better serve your We may share the above non-public personal information needs. Having accurate information about you permits us to we have about you with persons or companies that perform provide you with an appropriate range of insurance prod- services on our behalf and to other financial institutions ucts. with which we may have joint marketing agreements. We The non-public personal information that we collect may share this non-public personal information with affili- about you varies according to the products, services or ben- ated or non-affiliated third parties as permitted by law. We efits you request, and may include: do not disclose personal medical information about you •Information we receive from you on applications or except as permitted by law or as you may authorize. other forms, such as name, address, Social Security number, assets and income; We restrict access to non-public personal information •Information about your transactions with us, our affili- about you to those employees who need to know that infor- ates or others, such as name, address, Social Security num- mation in order to provide products or services to you. We ber, policy coverage, premiums and payment history; are, and will continue to be, vigilant in safeguarding your •Information we receive from consumer reporting agen- personal and medical information. cies, such as a credit history. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safe- We may share the above non-public personal information guards that comply with federal regulations to guard your we have about you with the United Transportation Union. non-public personal information. This privacy policy applies Sharing this information assists us in: even if you no longer have policies or a relationship with us. •Processing the payment of your insurance premiums; 6/06 9 www.utuia.org www.utu.org emphasize the safety and national security ben- The UTU makes a better friend than an ene- UTU fights efits of a minimum of two sets of eyes in the my, investors are being told. The UTU and other rail unions have assisted railroads in gaining con- Continued from page 1 locomotive cab. The UTU has been explaining in numerous gressional passage of Railroad Retirement reform public forums how railroads carry some of the and eliminating a federal tax on railroad fuel – tives continue to control Congress after the both of which helped boost railroad profits. November congressional elections, Congress is most deadly hazmat known to humanity; and likely to “rubber-stamp” anti-labor recommen- that in this era of increased national security con- For railroads now to roll the dice on safety and dations of a carrier-friendly Presidential Emer- cerns, it would be foolhardy to put the lives of national security and turn on their loyal train gency Board appointed by the Bush White thousands of Americans living near railroad crews, who already work in harsh and dangerous House. tracks in danger by reducing crew size to just one. conditions and often go weeks without a rest day, is to risk losing union support on Capitol But if labor-friendly Democrats are in control Hill for federal track-improvement grants and in 2007, Durbin said, “the railroads will sit down loans and help in holding at bay captive shippers and negotiate with you because they’re going to seeking reregulation. know the days of turning the clock back on Investors told: the UTU workers is over.” While carriers continue to predict to Wall makes a better friend Street higher profits resulting from reduced This is why, Durbin said, it is so essential for train-crew size, a federal court sided with the union families to register to vote and cast votes than an enemy UTU that carriers could not make such in November for labor-friendly candidates. demands at the bargaining table during this Union families must also encourage neigh- round of national contract negotiations. bors and friends to register to vote and cast bal- Medical emergencies, highway-rail grade- This is because existing agreements between lots in November for labor-friendly candidates, crossing accidents and a host of other mishaps the UTU and most major railroads require a min- Durbin said. could result in a public calamity. A single release imum of one conductor on every freight train – Congress isn’t buying the railroads’ story that of chorine gas from a tank car could kill literally agreements that remain in force until the last new technology can replace train crews and a thousands of people nearby. affected conductor voluntarily leaves service. federal court already sent railroads packing. The UTU, in concert with other rail unions, UTU International President Paul Thomp- U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Mine- also has emphasized that carriers are cutting cor- son said the UTU would “continue seeking out ta and FRA Administrator Joseph Boardman ners on engineer, conductor and brakeman opportunities to inform investors, the public, have said the issues of train-crew size and exper- training in the face of a wave of retirements and the media and lawmakers at all levels of govern- imental technology called positive train control increasing demand for rail transportation. ment the safety and national security risks rail- have yet to be studied fully by the federal gov- In too many instances, engineers and conduc- roads are willing to take in order to boost even ernment. tors on freight trains may not have even a year of further what are already record carrier profits Mineta said the two issues are separate and experience between them. One-size-fits-all and executive bonuses.” should remain separate. training and failure of carriers to teach applica- Thompson also warns that UTU support for Moreover, Republican lawmakers in Congress tion of safety rules increase the risk facing Amer- the railroad legislative agenda on Capitol Hill have joined those on the Democratic side to icans living near train tracks and rail yards. should not be taken for granted.

also donated heavily. And they expect a return “This is where you come in,” Szabo and November vote on that investment.” Hensler said. “We must organize and fight this Continued from page 1 The state directors reminded members that fight. Each one of us must do what it takes to the president also appoints the head of the Fed- make sure every member understands what is at a job and what the conditions of that job will be,” eral Railroad Administration, stake. Each one of us must not only ensure that Szabo and Hensler said. “Like it or not, the simple the National Mediation we are registered to vote, but also that our fami- fact is that political and legislative strength, and Board and any possible Presi- ly members and coworkers are registered to vote. who has the most, can determine the outcome of dential Emergency Board, Each one of us must understand the value of a our national contract negotiations. “which has the ability to UTU endorsement: it has nothing to do with determine the terms of our political affiliation and everything to do with “The railroad industry owns this White your job and your future. House. Members of the Bush Administration, next contract, including the including (Vice President) Dick Cheney, (Trea- elimination of our jobs. “Each one of us must sign up for and give what sury Secretary) John Snow and (White House “If we can make key we can to UTU PAC. And we must recruit our Chief of Staff) Joshua Bolten, all have strong Szabo changes in the make up of coworkers to sign up and contribute what they can. ties to the railroad industry. BNSF Chairman Congress, we can significantly “In order to achieve widespread one-man Matt Rose was a leading personal donor to the level the playing field and affect not only how operations, the carriers must win twice: through Bush campaign. Union Pacific Railroad was one Congress handles the PEB, but also in how the a PEB and through the FRA. The political of the top 10 corporate donors. CSX, NS and FRA handles regulations and implementation process and this November’s congressional elec- most of the other railroads and senior executives of positive train control or one-person crews. tions hold the key to both.”

idation of rail workers, the federal government challenge the legality of this legislation upon its Illinois senate has chosen to leave to the states the matter of passage and enactment into law…” Continued from page 1 regulating the integrity of medical treatment of The resolution concludes with language injured rail workers. directing that copies of the measure be delivered reporting for years to their union leaders,” said One state senator described the unanimous to the court for use as an exhibit demonstrating UTU International President Paul Thompson. resolution as expressing “outrage” that the rail- the railroads acted in bad faith. “Opposing humane treatment of injured roads negotiated the language of the Rail UTU Illinois State Legislative Director Joe employees offends society’s moral code.” Employees Medical Treatment Act only to chal- Szabo said, “It is interesting that the railroad UTU Local 1258 member and State Rep. lenge the same language in a federal court after industry would spit in the face of the General Eddie Washington – a Chicago Metra conduc- it was signed into law. Assembly at the very time it is seeking mil- tor – originally introduced the legislative lan- “Two words spring to my lips—‘duplicity’ and lions of dollars of support for it’s CREATE pro- guage that was signed into law by Illinois Gov. “sandbag,’” State Sen. William R. Haine said gram of infrastructure improvements in Chica- Rod Blagojevich last August. after the vote. “We want the court to under- go. Biting hard on the hand that feeds you is Illinois state senators – Democrats and stand the duplicity of an industry that would not exactly a wise political strategy. All this Republicans – say the railroads previously recommend a course of action to the General over something as morally fundamental as agreed to the legislative language. Thus the state Assembly and then shortly thereafter file a law- ensuring interference-free medical treatment senate resolution accuses the railroads of a suit asking the court to declare the General after an on-duty injury?” “breach of faith” for asking a federal court to Assembly’s action illegal.” Similar laws have been passed in Iowa and void the law, alleging the Federal Railroad The state senate resolution says, “The rail- Minnesota. Administration has exclusive authority to regu- roads stated to the Senate sponsors and support- The BNSF Railway, CN, Amtrak, CP, Otter late railroad safety. ers that…the railroads would not oppose the Tail Valley and UP are challenging in federal The UTU and Illinois lawmakers will argue legislation or the public policy that was the gist court Minnesota’s Injured Railroad Workers against railroads in federal court, holding that of the legislation. Senate sponsors and co-spon- Medical Treatment Bill, which provides for while the FRA regulates harassment and intim- sors…assumed that the railroads would not criminal as well as civil penalties. 10 www.utuia.org www.utu.org Attend your local UTU / UTUIA UTU Regional Meeting regional meeting! Registration Form Registering before the regional meetings speeds sign-in procedures at the meeting site, helps organizers plan The 2006 UTU/UTUIA regional meetings more accurately, and saves on meeting costs. These savings will be passed on to each pre-registered attendee. Each person attending the regional meeting, including family members and guests, MUST have been designed to provide education be registered in order to attend any planned event. Please note that these meetings last 2 1/2 days and fun for the whole family. and conclude on the afternoon of the third day. Registration fees are $150 per person; children 11 years All those attending the regional meetings of age and under are complimentary. On-site registration will be $200 per person. All fees must be paid in U.S. must be registered in order to attend any funds. Canadian funds will be returned, possibly delaying your registration. If you have questions, consult your planned social function. Children ages 11 bank. Registration forms with payment must be received 30 days prior to the start of the meeting. and under who are pre-registered are com- Which regional meeting will you be attending? Ì Reno Ì Asheville plimentary. A completed registration form listing Arrival date: Departure date: each attendee, regardless of age, and Transportation type: Ì Automobile Ì Air Ì Other complete payment in U.S. funds must be Member Registration received at the UTU International Head- quarters, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, Name Local Title (if any) OH 44107, 30 days prior to the sched- uled start of the meetings or the regis- Home address trant will be charged an on-site registra- City/State/ZIP tion fee of $200. The pre-registration fee for the 2006 Phone number ( ) Email regional meetings is $150 per member, Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal spouse or child over age 11. Additional fees Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals apply for the golf outings. You must make Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal your own room reservations. The $150 registration fee covers the wel- Spouse Registration Ì Reno Ì Asheville coming reception the night before the Spouse name Title (if any) meeting, two lunches, one evening meal, a breakfast buffet and all workshop materi- Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal als. Those wishing to attend only the work- Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals Day 3 Buffet breakfast No meal shops do not need to pay the registration Ì Ì fee. No one-day registrations will be Child Registration Ì Reno Ì Asheville offered this year. Child name Age Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal Reno, Nevada, Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals June 19-21, 2006 Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal Reno Hilton, 2500 E. Second St., Child name Age Reno, NV 89595 Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals http://www.caesars.com/Hilton/Reno/Hotel Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal (800) 648- Hilton hotel reservations: Child name Age 5080 toll free or (775) 789-2000 direct to Meals: Day 1 Lunch No meal the hotel. Reservation code: UTU region- Ì Ì Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals al meeting, code UTUAC06. Room rate: Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal $92.00 single/double, plus tax; rates good for three days before and after the meet- Child name Age ing. Reservation deadline: May 29, 2006, Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal or as soon as all rooms being held for the Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals UTU are reserved. Parking: Free. Golf Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal outing: The golf outing will be held at 8 a.m. Guest Registration Ì Reno Ì Asheville on Sunday, June 18, at the Rosewood Lakes Golf Course, 6800 Pembroke Dr., Reno; Guest name Relationship to member phone (775) 857-2892. The cost is $80 per Home address golfer, which includes transportation, golf, lunch and much more. City/State/ZIP Meals: Day 1 Ì Lunch Ì No meal Asheville, N.C., Day 2 Ì Lunch Ì Dinner Ì Both Ì No meals Aug. 22-24, 2006 Day 3 Ì Buffet breakfast Ì No meal Golf Registration Ì Reno Ì Asheville Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa 290 Macon Ave., Name Handicap Name Handicap Asheville, NC 28804 Name Handicap Name Handicap http://www.groveparkinn.com (Golf fees are $80 per golfer; include in total payment.) Hotel reservations: (800) 438-5800 toll Payment Options free or (828) 252-2711 direct to the hotel. Check/money order (U.S. funds only) $ Reservation code: UTU regional meet- Credit card Ì VISA Ì MasterCard ing, code 67Y8RJ. Room rate: $120 sin- Card number Exp. date Total charged $ gle/double, $40 each for third and fourth Signature persons. Room rates are good three days before and after the meeting. Reservation Should additional space be needed, make copies of this form and attach to the original. This form and payment of $150 per person over the age of 11, plus golf registration fees of $80 per golfer (if applicable), must be received at the UTU International deadline: July 22, 2006. Parking: Free. Headquarters, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4250, 30 days prior to the regional meeting. Make checks or money Golf outing: The UTU regional meeting orders payable in U.S. funds to “UTU Regional Meeting.” Those who do not pre-register for the regional meeting but instead choose to register at the meeting site will be charged a $50 penalty fee. golf outing will be held Monday, Aug. 21, at the The Golf Course at The Grove Park Inn. The cost is $80 per golfer, which UTU arranges discount airfares, car rentals includes golf, lunch and much more. Continental and Frontier airlines are offering discounted airfares to the regional meeting cities. Avis Rent a Car is offering discounted rates to those attending either regional meeting. Go to the “Meetings” page of www.utu.org for details. 11 ww Volume w.utu June 2006 TThhiiss mmoonntthh’’ss wwiinnnniinngg pphhoottoo:: 38 ia.org Number 6

The UTU Public Relations Department awards UTU gear to the union member who submits the best photograph during the previ- ous months. ww w.ut The winning photo will be pub- u.org lished in the UTU News. Excep- tional photographs will be included The Official Publication of the United Transportation Union on the UTU website. The UTU would like to see pho- tographs or digital photographs of work-related scenes, such as rail- road, bus or mass transit operations, Trustees report Rail Retirement new equipment photos, scenic shots, activities of your local, or photos of your brothers and sisters system in sound financial shape keeping America rolling. Printed photographs should be There is good news to report: The financial health of NRRIT trustees oversee activities of professional mailed to UTU News, 14600 the Railroad Retirement system is excellent. investment advisers who determine investment strate- Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107- 4250. A quarter century ago, the Railroad Retirement sys- gy. A significant change under the 2001 law permits the High-resolution digital photo- tem was in a tatters and teetering on bankruptcy, with Railroad Retirement Trust Fund to be invested in pri- graphs should be in the JPEG format three retirees drawing benefits for every active worker. vate equity and bond markets rather than be limited to and e-mailed to “[email protected]”. lower yielding government securities. With each photograph, please In 1983, labor and management cooperated to craft include your name and UTU local a solution with the intent of preserving and strength- As a result, the fund has achieved rates of return on number, the names of the persons o investment as high as 20 percent annually, adding some ld Vir ening a system that has served transportation workers in the photo (left to right), where the ginian Norfo Railw better than Social Security. $10 billion to the value of the fund since 2001. photo was taken, and all other per- lk Av ay an “Pun enue d me tinent information. kin’ V in Ro mber The pain-and-gain strategy of a quarter century At a hearing last month, House Railroad Subcom- way ine” lin anoke of Loc All photographs submitted yard. e pas , Va., al 117 mittee Chairman Steve LaTourette (R-Ohio) t the W as a 2 in M ago worked. Labor and management came become property of the UTU. This ach host Russ ullen a reti month ovia T ler ta ell G s, W. red ya together again in 2001, the result being a called the 2001 Railroad Retirement and ’s win ower kes p. Inge Va. T rdma Remember to review your ning for a c ower , he ph ster f Survivors Improvement Act of 2001 “one of photo oal tr down oto w rom t renewed option for career railroad workers to employer’s policies regarding use of graph ain at the as ta he was South carrie ken n retire at age 60 with full benefits that con- the most resounding successes to ever come cameras on the property or during taken Yard r’s so ear by , the o uthbo work hours. ld Vir und tinue to be meaningfully greater than avail- before this committee; a great victory for ginian Rail- able under Social Security. Railroad Retire- workers and their families.” ment’s survivor benefits also were increased. UTU International President Paul For career employees retiring at the end of Thompson called the results “an enormous Periodicals Postage fiscal year 2005, regular annuity awards aver- success born of partnership. While the Bush PAID at Cleveland, Ohio, aged nearly $2,815 monthly, versus about $1,305 under administration was scheming to raise the and Additional Social Security, reports the Railroad Retirement Board. If retirement age and companies throughout America were spouse benefits are added, the combined benefits for the cutting retirement benefits, transportation workers ww Mailing Offices w.utu employee and spouse are some $4,000 under Railroad gained both an earlier retirement and increased benefits. .org / www Retirement, compared to $1,960 for Social Security. “It is sad, however, that the carriers don’t recognize JUNE 200.6utuia .org the value of partnership with their unions,” Thompson ISSN 0098-5937 The 2001 reform law created a National Railroad Retirement Investment Trust (NRRIT), whose trustees said. “The carriers gained more than $1 billion in pay- Published monthly (except include three from rail labor and three from manage- roll tax cuts because of the improved financial health of for combined months of ment. UTU General Secretary and Treasurer Dan the Railroad Retirement system, a direct result of labor December/January Johnson was an initial labor trustee appointee. support to gain the law’s passage.” and July/August) by the

UNITED TRANSPORTATION

UNION, 14600 DETROIT AVE., CLEVELAND, OH 44107-4250 • Inside this issue of the UTU News: Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio, and additional mailing offices • Paul C. Thompson, International President; Daniel E. Johnson, General Secretary/Treasurer • This publication available on microfilm from UMI, 300 N. Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48106 • POSTMASTER: Send address changes to UTU News, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4250. Illinois SLD Szabo Utah State Director Jay Members in Texas The UTUIA has the Please recycle says, “Vote your job.” Seegmiller is running for should back Bell for answer to your insurance

6/06 See Page 1. state office. See page 2. governor. See page 5. needs. See pages 6 and 7.