Volume 43/44 December 2011/January 2012 Number 12/1

www.utuia.org www.utu.org The Official Publication of the United Transportation Union It’s your job, your vote, your responsibility Efforts at the bargaining table and in grievance es as we approach Election Day in November – While many candidates express positions you handling are the “stuff” of what labor unions do when we elect a president, all U.S. House mem - share on non-workplace issues, many also take anti- on behalf of members. bers, one-third of the U.S. Senate, many gover - labor positions, such as supporting legislation mak - nors and state legislators – we should be focusing ing it more difficult to join a labor union, eliminat - Union members also have a crucial role to play on how those candidates will impact ing collective bargaining rights and in protecting job security, wages, benefits and on our jobs and workplace safety. weakening workplace safety laws. working conditions. That role is casting ballots on Election Day for labor-friendly candidates, as The UTU backs candidates who UTU National Legislative Direc - the actions of Congress and state legislatures support working families, regardless tor James Stem offers, “The strength have significant and lasting impacts on working of their political affiliation. In deter - of our organization is our well families. mining candidates who receive sup - informed members. We strongly port from the UTU Political Action encourage active and retired mem - Judges that rule on our lawsuits, and regulators Committee (PAC), we examine their bers to participate in the political who write and enforce workplace safety rules, are record, scrutinize their speeches and process in their communities and nominated and confirmed by the political party analyze their responses to questions. interact with UTU officers concern - in power, while political majorities determine ing our legislative programs. Our whether new laws and regulations are labor- In the months ahead, you will be members know their jobs, their friendly or anti-labor. hearing a lot from candidates health care and their pensions are all through media reports, political advertising and Our job security, wages, benefits and working sensitive to the political process.” local appearances. Many candidates will seek to conditions are as dependent on Election Day gain your support on hot-button and emotional You owe it to yourselves and your family to stay results as the results of contract negotiations and topics. Informed trade unionists seek deeper truths informed on all the positions of candidates seek - grievance handling. about the candidates – especially, they seek to ing your vote, and to cast an informed vote on As the rhetoric of political candidates increas - determine a candidate’s views on workplace issues. Election Day. King was advocate for economic opportunity, trade unionism By Calvin Studivant It is unconscionable that Congress eliminated As Dr. King said: Alternate Vice President, Bus Dept. funding for high-speed rail construction that “All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and could relieve the intolerable congestion at air - importance and should be undertaken with As we follow the demonstrations of the 99 per - ports and on highways and create thousands of painstaking excellence.” new jobs. cent against the greed and wealth of America’s All that working families ask is the opportuni - top one percent, I am reminded of a 1967 speech It is equally unconscionable that Congress ty to work – jobs that can and will materialize by Dr. Martin Luther resists requests for more flex - with a fundamental shift in national priorities King Jr. in which he ible transit funding to allow from a thing-oriented society to a person-orient - advocated a transforma - a shift in budgets from buy - ed society. tion “from a thing-ori - ing new equipment to using ented society to a per - some of those funds to retain son-oriented society.” and expand existing service BNSF conductor Each day jobs are that would end transit sys - exported from our tem layoffs. killed in accident shores, layoffs are As we celebrate Dr. King’s HOUSTON – A BNSF conductor and UTU announced, health care legacy this month, let us member died Dec. 18 when his head reportedly insurance is cancelled or realize that he advocated struck a bridge beam while leaning over the rail - scaled back, and pension not only racial harmony, but ing of his moving locomotive’s side running board plans are eliminated, I economic opportunity and in an attempt to check the fuel level in a fuel- feel the pain of the mil - trade unionism. tank sight glass. lions of fellow Ameri - In response to anti-union The nighttime accident cans who are fit, willing politicians and employers, occurred some 80 miles north - and able to work, yet Dr. King preached: west of Houston, in Grimes unable to find jobs – or, if they do, cannot earn “In our glorious fight for civil rights, we must County, at milepost 26.8 of the enough to support a family, much less afford ade - guard against being fooled by false slogans, as BNSF Conroe Subdivision. quate medical care. ‘right-to-work.’ It provides no ‘rights’ and no Killed was Stacy L. Rieger , They are rightfully angry when corporate prof - ‘works.’ Its purpose is to destroy labor unions and 41, of Lumberton, Texas, a its become the most important objective. the freedom of collective bargaining. We demand four-year member of Local Unemployment numbers hardly reflect the full this fraud be stopped.” 1957, Silsbee, Texas. Accord - pain in America, because unemployment numbers As we approach Election Day this November, Rieger ing to reports, Rieger, after do not reflect the millions more who, after years of let us unite in support of labor-friendly candi - striking his head, tumbled from the locomotive searching for a job, simply gave up looking. dates. Let us support our UTU Collective Bar - down a 48-foot embankment into the Navasota How much more painful it is to realize that gaining Defense Fund and our UTU PAC. Let us River. Emergency responders, summoned by the locomotive engineer, pronounced Rieger dead at employers, emboldened by the worker pain of our do this in the non-violent but aggressive spirit of times, are using economic hardship to frighten the scene. Dr. King. those with jobs against voting “union, yes” in the The Federal Railroad Administration is inves - workplace. The strength of working families today is at the tigating the accident. In Congress, we see lawmakers more interest - ballot box. There is so much at stake, for our - Rieger is survived by his wife, four daughters ed in protecting tax breaks for the very wealthy selves, for our families and for the millions of and a stepdaughter. than passing stimulus measures to put Americans Americans seeking a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s He is the 10th UTU member killed on duty in back to work; and proposing legislation making it work. United in solidarity we can make a differ - 2011, two more than were killed during calendar more difficult to join labor unions. ence with our votes. year 2010. Page 2 December 2011/January 2012 UTU News AArroouunndd tthhee UUTTUU Local 168, Chicago, Ill. after 33 years of service, according to Local Members of this Amtrak local celebrated their Chairperson Schuyler Smith . Bishop was a vet - annual holiday extravaganza Dec. 6 at Ricobene’s eran of the U.S. Army. He was a member of VFW Restaurant, according to Local Chairperson Doug Post 1147, Patoka Masonic Lodge, Gibson Coun - Silkowski . “It was wonderful to see the ‘new kids ty Shrine, Scottish Rite and Hadi Shrine. He is on the block’ interact with the retirees,” Silkows - survived by his wife of 47 years, Michele; two ki said. The event was put on with the help of the daughters and three grandchildren. UTU Designated Legal Counsel firm of Harring - ton, Harrington, Acker & Thompson. Local 1440, Staten Island, N.Y. Members of this Staten Island Railway local Local 211, Binghamton, N.Y. are mourning the death of Robert “Sully” Sul - Members of this local are mourning the death livan , who was a railman for the carrier for nine of John J. McAndrew , 92, who died Nov. 16, for - years. “Sully faced Lou Gehrig’s Disease for the mer member Richard Ruggio reports. McAndrew, Ohio State Legislative Director Glenn Newsom, right, past three years and fought hard to overcome it, a 55-year member of the UTU, worked as a finds that Santa’s beard is the “real deal” as he tugs on day in and day out,” said Secretary & Treasurer brakeman and yard foreman before retiring from Watts Montgomery’s whiskers. Vincent LaBella . The local is asking all UTU Delaware & Hudson. He was a member of the brothers and sisters to assist this family with their Msgr. William Farrell Division of the Ancient On the first day of Christmas, future. Send donations to Sullivan’s wife, Ede, Order of Hibernians, Columbia Hose Company Montgomery gave to me… at: 366 Westwood Ave., Staten Island, NY #5, and a fourth degree knight of the Knights of You can’t blame UTU member Watts 10314. “Robert was not yet vested for a retire - Columbus Council 329. He was preceded in Montgomery for being tired this time of year. ment pension,” LaBella said. In other news, death by his wife, Kathryn, and is survived by You would be tired, too, if you had 2,074 peo- Local President Jaime Brownell reports he and three daughters, two sons and five grandsons. He ple sit on your lap. other members of the local recently met with was loved by his grandsons and all of their Montgomery has portrayed Santa Claus State Sen. Diane Savino to discuss the method friends, who called him “Helper.” the past three years around his home in by which the MTA processes pensions for dis - Portsmouth, Ohio. There the Norfolk South- abled Staten Island Railway employees. Follow - Local 240, Los Angeles, Calif. ing the meeting, Savino said she and her staff Many members have pulled the pin recently, ern conductor serves his UTU Local 496 as would assist disabled employees in minimizing Local Chairperson Harry Garvin Jr. reports. legislative representative. the delays of the application process. Union Pacific conductor Robert J. Goldsboro , He approached NS three years ago to see if who hired on in 1966, retired after 46 years of he could get a caboose to use as a mobile service. UP conductor Ron Epps , who hired on “North Pole.” The carrier agreed and mem- in 1977, has retired after 35 years of service. UP bers of the carrier’s Portsmouth safety com- conductor Walter Carter , who hired on in 1972, mittee, mostly all union members, trans- has retired after 39 years of service. UP conduc - formed the caboose into a rolling home for tor Ron Santos , who hired on in 1969, has the jolly old elf. retired after 43 years of service. UP conductor W. Wearing a suit handmade by his wife, Ray Jones , who started railroading in 1978, has Mary, and accompanied by Mary as “Mrs. retired after 33 years of service. “On behalf of all Claus,” Montgomery travels across the carri- the members of Local 240, I wish all these mem - er’s Portsmouth Division, from Columbus, bers many years of health and happiness in their Ohio, to Williamson, W. Va., treating young- retirements,” Garvin said. sters of all ages to the joy of the holidays. Disabled UTU member and track worker Carmine “The first year we hosted about 300 peo- Antonelli, left, attends a meeting with Local 1440 Gener - Local 243, Fort Worth, Texas ple, and it has grown each year,” Mont- At this local’s annual Union Day, International al Chairperson Thomas Wilson, right, Local President gomery said. “NS buys candy to hand out, I Vice President Paul Tibbit and fellow local mem - Jaime Brownell and N.Y. State Sen. Diane Savino. buy little toys, and Operation Lifesaver bers recognized retiring Treasurer L.D. Turner , donates coloring books, crayons and flying according to newly elected Secretary & Treasurer Local 1445, Elizabeth, N.J. discs with their logo on it. Veterans of Foreign Wars Lodge 7508 recently Randy Reed . Turner retired after 42 years of service with Union Pacific and 30 years as local treasurer. “The bigger kids are all asking for iPods presented this NS local with an award “for meri - He hired out with Texas & Pacific Railroad in 1969. and iTouches and cellphones. The smaller torious and distinguished service,” according to kids want dolls or trucks. The request that Secretary & Treasurer Bob Braden . The award gets me the most, though, is when they ask was bestowed on the local for its fundraising that their father or mother who is serving in efforts on behalf of Colin Pascik, a U.S. Marine the armed forces be home for the holidays. I from New Jersey who lost both legs to an impro - lost a brother in Vietnam and that request vised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan in really gets to me. 2010. On hand to accept the award from VFW “I want to thank all the guys from Local Lodge 7508 representative Agnes Wojtowicz 496 who help me out. I could not do this were Local Chairperson Tony Maldonado , Local without them, and Mary,” Montgomery said. President Ron Sicinski and Braden. “We had a disabled child about five who was brought to the caboose by his grandparents. Local 1886, Houston, Texas The guys lifted the child into the caboose so Army Pfc. Cody Norris, 20, the son of member International Vice President Paul Tibbit, third from left, he could spend time with Santa Claus.” Stan “Reese” Norris , was killed in Kandahar, presents former Treasurer L.D. Turner, fourth from left, Montgomery, who sports a full white Afghanistan, Nov. 6, when enemy forces fired with a UTU brass lantern. Also pictured, from left, are upon his unit, Texas State Legislative Director General Chairperson Troy Johnson, Reed, Local President beard, also portrays Santa Claus at schools, nursing homes and daycare centers. Connie English reports. Cody enlisted in Octo - J.P. Beckman, Texas State Legislative Director Connie ber 2010 as an infantryman. “A benefit fund has English and Vice General Chairperson Steve Simpson. “This is the best publicity NS could ever get, and I will continue to do this as long as the been set up for the family of Cody Norris and I Local 305, Lincoln, Neb. company allows me,” Montgomery said. encourage all of you to be generous this holiday The members of this BNSF local and other season,” English said. Contributions in Cody’s employees have raised $4,888 for children’s char - name can be sent to Port Terminal Federal ities since July 2010 through a BNSF incentive- Local 407, Charleston, S.C. Credit Union, 8934 Manchester St., Suite 215, based program designed to help reduce human- This combined CSX/NS/South Carolina Public Houston, TX 77012. factor incidents, Secretary & Treasurer Bryan Railways local held its third annual Christmas Dance reports. Employees at the railroad’s Hob - party Dec. 3 at the Holiday Inn in Summerville, Local 1957, Silsbee, Texas son Yard, without a human-factor incident for an A fund has been established for the family of S.C., thanks to the efforts of Local President Local 1957 member Stacy Rieger , a BNSF entire quarter, have the option of receiving a gift Darren Ferrell , Secretary & Treasurer Mike Cor - conductor, who was killed Dec. 18 when his card from the BNSF company store, or donating rigan reports. More than 100 gifts were collected head reportedly struck a bridge beam. (See their dollars earned to one of two charities. As a and donated to the Shriners Organization. The page 1). Local 1957 member Caleb Butler set result, Dance said, members have contributed event was sponsored by the UTU Designated $2,882 to the local Coats for Kids campaign and Legal Counsel firm of Rossman, Baumberger, up a benefit account in Stacy’s name at Com - $2,006 to the Children’s Hospital and Medical Reboso, Spier & Connolly. munity Bank to aid Rieger’s family. Communi - Center. Also, human-factor incidents in the yard ty Bank is located at 645 North 5th St., Sils - have been reduced 41 percent. In other news, Local 490, Princeton, Ind. bee, TX 77656-4040. The phone is (409) 386- members in November welcomed back to rail - Members of this Norfolk Southern local are 6058; the account number is 51036468. Rieger road service Monte M. Haugen after 12 months saddened by the passing of Jackie Bishop , 73, is survived by his wife, Ann, four daughters of National Guard duty in Iraq. who began railroading in 1969 and who retired and a stepdaughter. www.utu.org / www.utuia.org December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Page 3 UTU amends rail disability plan Revisions to the Anthem Voluntary Short Except for these revisions, there are no other treasurer to ensure that coverage is not interrupt - Term Disability (VSTD) plan that better reflect changes to the plan or its operation. There are no ed. There is nothing for rail members to do to the actual claims experience of UTU rail mem - new pre-existing condition exclusions to satisfy continue this valuable coverage. bers and adjust to the prevailing market rate for under the revised plan. If you decide to leave the plan, you must noti - this type of coverage became effective Jan. 1. If you have already satisfied the 12-month pre- fy UTU with a waiver form (available on the Revisions to the Lincoln National Life Short existing condition exclusion period, or are in the UTU website), completed and mailed to the Term Disability plan for process of satisfying it, UTU International. Once the UTU receives bus members are being then your status will car - your waiver form, it will contact your local treas - evaluated and should be ry forward to the revised urer to discontinue deductions and make any available within the plan. Your enrollment necessary refunds to you. next 60 days. date under the original Once you submit a waiver form, you will no The UTU Board of plan will apply to the longer be eligible to participate in the plan. If you Trustees has carefully revised plan. wish to re-enroll at a later date, you will be sub - studied the various options available to the If you become a member, for the first time, ject to full underwriting at your expense, with no groups and concluded that these revisions are after Jan. 1, 2012, you will be subject to a 12- guarantee of acceptance. If you are accepted, you warranted and necessary for the long-term health month pre-existing condition exclusion peri - will be required to satisfy a new 12-month pre- and viability of the plans. od (the same provision as existed under the existing condition exclusion period. First and foremost, the UTU’s focus is to main - original plan). Waiver forms should be mailed to: Attn: Dora tain a basic “safety net” of coverage for its mem - If you incurred a disability that commenced on Wolf, UTU, 24950 Country Club Blvd., Suite bers while balancing plan costs with benefits. or before Dec. 31, 2011, your disability benefits 340, North Olmsted, OH 44070-5333. The revisions below became effective Jan. 1. If (for the entire period of that disability) will be In 2009, the UTU introduced the Anthem you currently do not participate in the Anthem calculated based on the original plan benefits in (VSTD) plan and made preparations for the ini - VSTD plan because you had previously waived effect prior to the Jan. 1, 2012, revisions. All dis - tial enrollment. The plan has received over - coverage, you are not affected by these revisions. abilities that commenced on or after Jan. 1, 2012, whelming support from its railroad members, will be subject to the revised plan guidelines. •The monthly premium has changed to with more than 40,000 enrolled. Since its incep - $34.50 per month from $31 per month. Your benefits remain 100 percent tax free. tion, UTU members have become eligible for more than $25,000,000 in disability benefits. •The plan no longer provides benefits for If you own a UTUIA disability plan, you may While the UTU never want to see its members alcoholism or drug addiction treatment at a continue to collect those benefits with no offset sick or injured, it is excited that the Anthem plan rehabilitation center or other institution to your Anthem disability benefits. is available when they need it. approved for such treatment. The premium changes were made effective •The benefit period has been reduced to 26 with the December 2011 payment. This hap - pened automatically through the UTU local weeks for all disabilities. ERMA maximum hiked UTU members and their dependents Members ratify two new rail agreements insured under the Railroad Employees Two new UTU-negotiated rail agreements wage increases, a boost in the meal allowance, National Early Retirement Major Medical have been ratified by members. plus improvements in vacation provisions, work - Benefit (ERMA) Plan (GA-46000) had UTU-represented trainmen and engineers ing conditions and allowances. Also established their lifetime maximum coverage amount employed by Evansville & Western Railroad is a seniority maintenance provision, and cov - increase Jan. 1. overwhelmingly ratified a new five-year agree - ered employees will gain coverage under the The lifetime maximum, effective Jan. ment, while UTU-represented trainmen and UTU National Health and Welfare Plan as well 1, 2012, increased to $131,500, a jump engineers employed by Iowa as the national dental and vision plans. of $5,300. Interstate Railroad ratified a ERMA is a comprehensive benefits plan new six-year agreement. for employees who retire at or after age 60 The Evansville & Western Evansville & Western, Iowa with 30 years of service. The plan covers agreement provides for sub - Interstate members ratify deals qualified employees, spouses and stantial wage increases with dependents until the employee reaches full back-pay, certification pay age 65. If the employee qualifies for for conductors and engineers, Wier also assisted with the Iowa Interstate Medicare before reaching 65, ERMA no Wier freezes health care insurance negotiations. He praised General Chairperson longer covers the employee, but depend - contributions, preserves cost- Dave McFarland , Local 258 Chairperson Nor - ents continue coverage until the employee of-living adjustments, and improves working man Kitchen , and Local 258 President Jesse reaches age 65. ERMA is not applicable conditions and seniority moves. West for “the extraordinary effort put forth in when any covered individual becomes UTU International Vice President Dave Wier, negotiating a solid agreement with substantial Medicare eligible. who assisted with the negotiations, congratulated improvements in wages, working conditions and For individuals who have reached the General Chairperson R.W. “Red” Dare (Cana - health care benefits. The National Health and lifetime maximum, the incremental maxi - dian National, GO 433) and Local 1525 Chair - Welfare package is far superior to the former Iowa mum available is applied to eligible person Danny Kautzman for “the great effort put Interstate plan in all aspects and was an integral expenses submitted for dates of service forth in negotiating an agreement with dramatic part of the negotiation process.” after Jan. 1. improvements in wages and working conditions. The wage increases, coupled with the certifica - tion pay, provide members with outstanding increases in the daily rates of pay.” RRB tax rates will be Charlotte drivers The Iowa Interstate agreement provides for unchanged in 2012 win new contract Railroad Retirement and Social Security CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Members of Local tax rates for 2012 will be collected on a larger 1715 have ratified a new agreement with Char - 2012 holiday schedule amount of gross wages, while the percent - lotte Area Transit by a three-to-one margin. Rail employees working under the nation - ages collected from paychecks will remain The new contract provides for wage increases, al agreement between the UTU and the the same, at least through February. freezes employee contributions to health care National Carriers’ Conference Committee Social Security and Railroad Retirement insurance, restores travel time, adjusts work rules (NCCC) will receive 11 paid holidays in 2012. Tier I tax rates will be 4.2 percent, and as sought by the membership, and adds a retiree The 2012 paid holidays are: assessed on all wages up to $110,100. Employers pay an equivalent amount on health care plan. New Year’s Day , paid holiday observed those wages. Negotiations were led by General Chairperson Monday, Jan. 2 Also, a Medicare tax of 1.45 percent will be Kevin Moss and Vice General Chairperson President’s Day , Monday, Feb. 20 assessed on all wages, with no maximum cap. Trent Hasson , with assistance from Calvin Stu - Good Friday , Friday, April 6 For railroad workers, the Railroad Retire - divant, who is alternate vice president of the Memorial Day , Monday, May 28 ment Tier II tax will be 3.9 percent on gross UTU Bus Department. Independence Day , Wednesday, July 4 wages up to $81,900, while employers will Studivant praised the efforts of Vice Local Labor Day , Monday, Sept. 3 pay a tax of 12.1 percent on that level of Thanksgiving Day , Thursday, Nov. 22 wages. Chairperson Donnell Taylor , Local President Bruce Wright , Secretary Bill Brown and former Day after Thanksgiving , Friday, Nov. 23 The Social Security and Railroad Retire - Christmas Eve , Monday, Dec. 24 ment Tier I tax rates could rise if Congress General Chairperson Brenda Moore , along with Christmas Day , Tuesday, Dec. 25 does not extend the temporary two-percent - Glennie Holland , Cheryl Brown and Derrick New Year’s Eve , Monday, Dec. 31 age point reduction beyond February. Moss , and UTU International organizer Mike Lewis . www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Page 4 December 2011/January 2012 UTU News “It is solidarity of labor we want. We do not want to find fault with each other, but to solidify our forces and say to each other, ‘We must be together; our masters are joined together and we must do the same thing.’” – American labor and community organizer Mother Jones Working together to make SMART a reality The following is a joint letter from union for the sake of all our mem - UTU International President Mike bers. Both of us pledge our loyalty to Futhey and Sheet Metal Workers’ A message to UTU members the mission we now undertake. International Association General from SMWIA General President Joe Nigro on the merger of The Sheet Metal Workers’ Interna - the two organizations to become the President Joe Nigro and UTU International tional Association (SMWIA), a Sheet Metal, Air, Rail & Transporta - member of the AFL-CIO and the tion Workers (SMART). President Mike Futhey Canadian Labour Congress, is Nigro Futhey 150,000 members strong, with 2,027 Brothers and sisters: working in the railroad industry. The merger of the United Trans - SMWIA members also work in orderly transition of our respective to work with us collaboratively, cre - construction, manufacturing, serv - portation Union (UTU) and the organizations. atively and with open minds to pre - Sheet Metal Workers’ International ice and shipyard industries, primari - Change, at times, may be difficult serve the best practices of the UTU Association (SMWIA) into the ly in HVAC systems as well as but both of us are committed to and SMWIA, and to become more architectural and specialized metal International Association of Sheet efficient and cost-effective in con - fabrication. Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation bringing our unions together in ducting union business. SMART by building on our The SMWIA’s earliest predeces - Workers (SMART) became effec - As we write this, committees are tive Nov. 30, 2011. strengths. sor – the Tin, Sheet Iron and Cor - forming to work out the myriad nice Workers’ International Associ - The two of us firmly believe that The UTU brings to SMART details necessary to accomplish the ation – was formed in January merger. 1888. In 1924, the SMWIA name We intend the implementation was adopted. Railroad shop workers The two of us firmly believe that the time process to be transparent and wel - have always been an integral part of for conflict between our two great unions is over come your involvement in building the union. SMART into the best possible the time for conflict between our proven accomplishments before the two great unions is over. It is time to National Mediation Board and in heal our wounds and embark jointly dealing with the Railway Labor Act, on a productive and rail safety and state successful future. legislative issues. Central UTU The SMWIA [email protected] issues of craft and brings to SMART general committee expert knowledge Mike Futhey, International President autonomy are related to organiz - [email protected] Arty Martin, Assistant President intact and not an ing and extensive training resources [email protected] issue. It is time to Kim Thompson, General Secretary and Treasurer build a bigger, and facilities [email protected] stronger and more effective organi - nationwide. James Stem, National Legislative Director zation in order to meet the many Combined as SMART, we create a [email protected] challenges facing you, our member - large and powerful voice within the Contact the UTU: ships. AFL-CIO and in advancing legisla - Phone (216) 228-9400; fax (216) 228-5755 We begin now to implement the tive objectives in Congress and state legislatures. For the latest news, visit www.utu.org; also, sign up provisions of the merger agreement on the UTU website to receive news alerts via email. that recognizes the need for an In the months ahead, we ask you Sugar: Our good friend, and old enemy When I want to get started on a you to keep down your sweetner job that I have been putting off, I eat intake, do consider using it in small a few chocolate chip cookies (think A message to UTU members quantities. sugar), and my enthusiasm picks from UTU Medical The bottom line is that each of us right up and I am on my way. should work hard to keep our calorie Unfortunately, there is a down - Consultant intake in balance with our calorie side to our easy access to energy- expenditure so we are not carrying packed food – sugars. Dr. Norman Brown much excess fat. If we eat more sugars (think calo - The bathroom scale and our waist - ries) than we burn up in a day, our lines are the best monitors of how we bodies, being good stewards, turn product, which is added to sweeten contain a lot of fiber. The mixed in are doing. Reading labels on pack - this spare energy into fat. When we many foods, especially sodas, is con - fiber slows the sudden surge of sugars aged foods about sugar content also continue this, day-after-day, excess tributing to our obesity epidemic in into our bloodstreams, such as may can help. fat can make us vulnerable to many America. occur after a soft drink, and many Fructose in processed foods medical conditions, such as high Despite the controversy about experts believe the slowing is benefi - appears to be especially worrisome. cial. Turning that idea around says While I believe we will one day learn that sugar, without fiber, is less which of us can or should eat what If we eat more sugars than we burn up in a day, healthy for us. foods to our best benefit, I personally our bodies turn the spare energy into fat blood pressure, diabetes, heart this form of sweetener, all agree that The bottom line: Work to keep calorie intake attacks and liver ailments. it can be sweeter than table sugar, in balance with calorie expenditure Please note that I say sugars, not and appears more likely to turn into just sugar, since there are many sug - fat in the liver and may not be good ars, and newer information indicates for us. While the jury is still out, Sugar substitutes are now very have found that a diet high in pro - which ones we eat may make a dif - please consider limiting foods con - available in the form of saccharine, tein and lower in carbohydrate and ference. taining this additive. aspartame (Equal), sucralose fat helps me most in keeping my own Table sugar contains both fructose Our ancestors took in their sugars, (Splenda) and Stevia. Studies have weight down while still having the and glucose. Some believe that high including some fructose, through been inconclusive as to whether energy to pick on myself and UTU fructose corn syrup, a relatively new sweet fruits, such as berries, that also each is totally safe, but if one helps members about our eating habits. www.utu.org / www.utuia.org December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Page 5 State Watch News from UTU State Legislative Boards North Carolina New England states Georgia

The North Carolina State Legislative Board New England Legislative Board Director recently sponsored a table at the Democratic George Casey was recently elected vice pres - Party’s Western Gala Fundraiser, State Left to right: State Legislative Director Howell ident of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO. In the Legislative Director Dickie Westbrook Keown, JoAnn Keown and Rep. Lewis. photo above, Casey, left, is shown with Steve reports. UTU representatives were able to State Legislative Director Howell Keown Tolman, Massachusetts AFL-CIO president, speak with many state and federal lawmak - recently presented Georgia Democratic and New England Legislative Board Assis - ers about issues of importance to the union Congressman John Lewis with a UTU PAC tant Director Joe Motte (right). Tolman is a and its members, Westbrook said. Above, contribution to aid in his fight for issues sitting state senator, former state legislative South Carolina State Legislative Director important to the UTU and all working fam - director of the Transportation Communica - Jack Ramsey (left) and Westbrook (right) ilies. Lewis is a member of the House Ways tions Union, and the son of the late Dave meet with North Carolina Secretary of State and Means Committee, with oversight of Tolman, who was general chairperson of the Elaine Marshall. Railroad Retirement, Social Security, former Order of Railway Conductors & Medicare and unemployment benefits. Brakemen (a UTU predecessor) and the Donate to UTU PAC! “Lewis told me that he sincerely appreciates UTU. His brother John is a BLET vice pres - the longstanding friendship and continuing ident and that organization’s national legisla - support of the UTU and all of its members,” tive director. Keown said. It doesn’t cost, IT PAYS! Feds issue rule prohibiting LACMTA members drivers from using cellphones WASHINGTON – A final rule has been issued by the Federal Motor Car - vote yes on pact rier Safety Administration (FMCSA) prohibiting bus (including school bus) drivers and truck drivers, operating in interstate commerce, from using LOS ANGELES – The almost 5,000 UTU members employed by Los hand-held cellphones while operating their vehicles. Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LACMTA) have Also included in the ban are drivers of small pas - ratified a new contract, which runs through June 30, 2014, by better than a three-to-one margin. senger vehicles designed to transport between nine and 15 passengers. The new contract provides for wage increases, a signing bonus, improved work rules, narrows the pay gap between the top and bottom The final rule became effective in late tiers of employees, and maintains health care and pension December, and violation subjects drivers to benefits. stiff fines and loss of their commercial dri - LACMTA General Chairperson James Williams led the ver’s license. negotiations, with assistance from former UTU Interna - An exemption permits the use of a hand- tional Vice President Vic Baffoni. held device for communicating with law “We have high praise for all the general committee and enforcement or other emergency services while local officers who supported our efforts during a difficult the vehicle is in operation. Williams two-year process to obtain this agreement,” Baffoni said. The ban exempts the use of hands-free devices locat - “We gained stability and job security in a very troubling eco - ed in close proximity to the driver where the driver need only press a single nomic environment and we are in a position to build on this agreement, on button. The FMCSA said stops can be avoided “by using hands-free” devices behalf of our membership, in better economic times.” with a speakerphone function or a wired or wireless earphone. The agreement affects Locals 1563, 1564, 1575, 1607 and 1608. In 2010, the FMCSA banned text messaging by bus (including school bus) and truck drivers while operating their vehicles in interstate commerce. Drivers who violate the restriction will face federal civil penalties of up to FAA announces new rules $2,750 for each offense. Additionally, states will suspend a commercial driver’s license (CDL) after aimed at cutting pilot fatigue two or more serious traffic violations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced new rules Commercial bus and truck companies that allow their drivers to use hand- aimed at preventing dangerous fatigue among aircraft pilots. held cellphones while driving will face a maximum penalty of $11,000. The new rules are in response to a Colgan Air crash near Buffalo, N.Y., in 2009 that killed 50 people. Under the new rules: •Flight-duty times would range from nine to 14 hours. Santa Monica drivers Additionally, rather than just counting flight time and rest time, flight-duty time would include the time spent flying to the job, which, as in railroading, is called deadheading; ratify new contract •Flight-time limits will be eight or nine hours, depending on SANTA MONICA, Calif. – UTU members employed by Santa Monica the start time of the pilot’s entire flight duty. Regional Bus Lines (Local 1785) have ratified a new three-year contract by a three-to-one margin. •Minimum rest periods will be 10 hours between shifts. The pilot must have an opportunity for eight hours of uninterrupted sleep during that rest period. The contract, which expires June 30, 2014, includes pay raises, maintains and improves work rules, retains full-cov - •Pilots must have 30 consecutive hours of rest each week, which is a 25 per - erage health care insurance, and provides that discipline for cent increase over current standards. using cellphones on duty must be verified on camera or wit - The new rules do, however, allow pilots to sit at the controls for an hour nessed by two or more independent sources. (The Federal longer per day, from eight hours to as many as nine. Motor Carrier Safety Administration cellphone ban affects Also, pilots flying late at night, across multiple time zones or on schedules only drivers in interstate commerce.) involving numerous landings and takeoffs, will work shorter shifts than those Former UTU International Vice President Vic Baffoni, flying during the day. Reddy who assisted in negotiations, praised the efforts of General The rule also requires pilots to sign paperwork verifying that they are rested Chairperson Adhi Reddy and Local 1785 officers Moses before each flight to highlight the need for personal responsibility. Avila and Martin Guerrero . www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Page 6 December 2011/January 2012 UTU News December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Page 7 UUTTUUIIAA:: YYOOUURR uunniioonn--oowwnneedd iinnssuurraannccee ccoommppaannyy Insurance FOR unionized transportation employees, managed BY labor-represented employees FOR labor-represented workers UUTTUUIIAA’’ss pprroommiissee ttoo yyoouu:: Invest in any of the UTUIA’s accident and/or health insurance policies, to protect you and your family members, and the UTUIA makes these promises to you: u All benefits will be paid directly to YOU u Only YOU can cancel your insurance policy; it is guaranteed renew - ‘Insurance is the foundation of a sound financial plan’ able By Tony Martella With more than $25 million in surplus, UTUIA is financially sound and Executive Director of Business Operations and Insurance offers a broad portfolio of competitive products. u No physical required And unlike so many private insurance companies, the union-friendly The foundation of a sound financial plan is to assure suf - UTUIA doesn’t engage in anti-union activities, such as lobbying for cor - u Your premium does not increase with age ficient income to protect our loved ones in the event of an porate-favored public policies. u You will NEVER be singled out for an increase in premiums untimely death, catastrophic illness or long-term disability. To learn more about UTUIA products, contact a UTUIA field supervisor. The United Transportation Union Insurance Associa - The list of field supervisors and their contact information is shown below. u Benefits will always be paid at full value, regardless tion (UTUIA), owned by its policy holders, offers top-qual - The first person you should pay on payday is yourself. Invest in yourself ity insurance products for every stage of life and family cir - and your family; let the UTUIA help you. cumstance, geared specifically for transportation industry Disabled? UTUIA can help Accidental death protection Martella members and their families. UTUIA is all about dedicated trade unionists assisting UTUIA helps you save dedicated trade unionists in a not-for-profit company. During your working years you are 3.5 times more likely UTUIA’s accidental death and dismemberment policy offers The UTUIA offers three investment vehicles that offer to be injured and need disability coverage than to die guaranteed approval for all active transportation employ - guaranteed returns and can be used to ensure a more se - and need life insurance. This does not suggest you should ees and their family members. Unlike most accidental UTUIA offers life insurance cure retirement. With more than $85 million invested, the abandon life insurance to purchase a disability policy, but it death plans, the UTUIA’s plan also covers confinement in UTUIA’s retirement products are doing just that for your does highlight the importance of disability insurance in any an intensive care unit as a result of any accident. UTUIA Whole life insurance offers plans that start at only $6.50 per month; our most pop - friends and family. financial plan. Your most valuable asset is your ability to Permanent life insurance offers guaranteed premiums, a guar - earn a living – protect it with a UTUIA disability plan. ular plan is only $19.50 per month and offers up to $180,000 The UTUIA offers Individual Retirement Accounts anteed death benefit, guaranteed cash values and may pay divi - (IRAs), Roth IRAs and an annuity plan. Depending on your If you already participate in the Anthem or Lincoln plans, of accidental death benefits and up to $18,000 for ICU con - dends. It provides coverage up to age 121. income level, some or all of your contributions to an IRA may you have taken an important first step. While owning a group finements. This plan is a must for anyone working in the Loan provisions allow you to borrow up to 90 percent of the cash be tax deductible. If you invest in a Roth IRA, your future pay - plan like Anthem or Lincoln is important, it is just as important transportation industry. value in your policy. Other benefits include supplements (called outs will be tax free. With all three plans your year-to-year to supplement those plans with additional UTUIA coverage “riders”) to cover your spouse and dependents, an accidental earnings will grow tax free. Why pay Uncle Sam more than so that your family is fully protected. Do not forget: UTUIA death benefit provision and a waiver of premium if you become you have to? Begin investing in tax-deferred growth today benefits are never offset against your Anthem or Lincoln disabled. and let the tax laws work in your favor. coverage. UTUIA pays 100 percent, in addition to any Term life insurance group plans. The UTUIA also offers several payout options when you Protection from accidents Term life insurance offers substantial insurance coverage at a do decide to withdraw your funds. Also important is that, low cost. It also provides coverage for a specific period of time, up Each year, more than one in nine persons seek medical since our annuity is an insurance product, your beneficiary to age 95. Conversion privileges guarantee your approval to a will receive your annuity value upon your death while avoid - attention for an injury. Each year, some 1.5 million people whole life insurance policy without medical review. UTUIA covers cancer expenses are hospitalized and 27.7 million people treated in hospital ing the time, expense and frustrations of probate. emergency rooms. A fact that few consider is that 57 percent Fighting cancer is a battle in the best of circumstances of all injuries occur in the home. These UTUIA field supervisors are ready to help you and can take a toll on even the most financially stable Out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and co-pays, out-of- families with great health care coverage. Statistics tell us network charges, missed work days not covered by disability that one out of three individuals will be diagnosed with cancer plans, missed work days by loved ones caring for an injured in their lifetime and that cancer will affect three of every four person convalescing at home can all add up. Our accident David Landstrom Greg Hale Chris Fly families. A two-parent family and all of their children (children indemnity plan pays cash directly to you to use as you (307) 630-2927 (574) 286-5902 (252) 813-7319 under 18 or 23 if full-time student) can typically be covered see fit when accidents occur. You are covered 24/7 both on [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] by the UTUIA against cancer expenses for less than $1 and off the job , and family members can be added to cov - per day. erage for less than $1 a day. The UTUIA offers a multi-benefit cancer plan that can This comprehensive plan not only covers hospital confine - See www.utuia.org to find the field supervisor that represents your local make the difference when cancer strikes. Join the thousands ments, but emergency treatment, dislocations and fractures, of other UTUIA members who have already purchased a burns, eye injuries, lacerations, diagnostic exams, physical Brian Martin Art Rayner cancer plan and protect your family today. therapy, ambulance and much more. (208) 241-3867 (724) 699-1233 [email protected] [email protected] Go to the UTUIA website: www.utuia.org Call UTUIA, toll-free, at (800) 558-8842 Information, please for complete details on any product I would like more information on UTUIA’s products. (Please print) Serge Decoste Malcolm Morrison Email the UTUIA: [email protected] (909) 292-7361 (910) 995-6720 Clip and mail the coupon at right ; a UTUIA [email protected] [email protected] representative will contact you. Full name Sex Date of birth

Call or email today: Address City State ZIP Charlie Skidmore Joe Solito Steve White (800) 558-8842 Telephone number with area code UTU local number Email (303) 564-5616 (504) 914-0008 (864) 379-4062 [email protected] Complete and mail to: UTUIA, 24950 Country Club Blvd., Suite 340, North Olmsted, OH 44070-5333 1/12 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

www.utu.org / www.utuia.org www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Page 8 December 2011/January 2012 UTU News UTU ni um Al UUTTUU AAlluummnnii AAssssoocciiaattiioonn News, information for members of the UTU Alumni Association UTU retiree celebrates 90th birthday with skydive ( P

Different people celebrate birthdays in differ - h o “God Bless the USA.” After the jump, Falvey t o

ent ways. Take UTU retiree Richard “Red” c o signed copies of Stephen Ambrose’s book “Band of u r t

Falvey . He celebrated his 90th birthday by jump - e

s Brothers” for friends and onlookers. y ing out of an airplane. J o

e His 90th birthday jump “was not unusual; it was

H

This wasn’t the first time Falvey had parachut - e

r something I wanted to do,” he said. “I had jumped m i t

ed. It was the 26th. t ,

a few years before. Prior to that I did two jumps in H a r

He knew since he was young he wanted to sky - r California in preparation for the 60th anniversary i s b u

dive. He saw someone do it at the end of a barn - r of D Day. In 1994, I jumped on the 50th anniver - g , storming show near where he grew up in Yonkers, P a sary of D Day.” . ,

N.Y., and was hooked. P a Falvey said this won’t be his last jump. On his t r i o t “When I saw them jump I said, ‘I am going to - most recent jump Falvey carried a coin in his shoe N e do that.’” w s from a fellow World War II vet whom he is trying ) He joined the Army in 1942, but only after the to persuade to jump someday. Falvey also has plans recruiter guaranteed him airborne training. After to jump on his 101st birthday, in tandem with five qualifying jumps Falvey “earned his wings” Elliott over his farm in Hammondsport. on Christmas Day 1942, “one of the best days I ever had,” he said. He made his first combat jump into Normandy on D-Day, landing in an apple orchard six miles Locals honor retirees from his unit’s intended drop zone. Falvey was in the headquarters company of the Second Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Reg - with memberships iment assigned to the 101st Airborne Division of Many UTU locals honor their retiring the U.S. Army, the outfit made famous in the members by enrolling them in the UTU “Band of Brothers” book and subsequent televi - Alumni Association and picking up their sion series. “I knew them all,” Falvey said. first year’s membership dues. “This is a great parting gift for a retiring UTU retiree Richard “Red” Falvey celebrates his 90th UTU member that pays dividends for This was not his first birthday with a parachute jump. years to come,” Alumni Association Coor - dinator Carl Cochran said. jump; it was his 26th UTU Alumni Association membership application forms can be downloaded from He ended the war in Berchtesgaden, Germany, Alumni Alaskan cruise the Alumni Association page of home of Hitler’s sanctuary called the “Eagle’s Landfall Travel, the UTU Alumni www.utu.org. Nest.” Association’s designated travel agent, is put - Locals can also remit $9 for each retiring “I saw Hitler’s home, but it had be bombed ting together a seven-day cruise to Alaska for member(s), along with his or her name and heavily by the British. It was surrounded by members of the association. local number, to the UTU Alumni Associa - guards and pretty well looted by then.” The Holland America cruise will depart from tion, 24950 Country Club Blvd., Ste. 340, A member of Local 385 in Croton-on-Hudson, Seattle Sept. 8 and visit Juneau, Glacier Bay, North Olmsted, OH 44070-5333. N.Y., he returned to the railroad and worked for Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria, B.C. A UTU Alumni Association new-member 40 years as a railroad conductor before retiring Prices start at $879 per person; airfare is kit, which contains detailed information from Penn Central in 1982. He lives today on his extra and can be arranged by Landfall. about the benefits of membership along farm in Hammondsport, N.Y. Certain other conditions apply. with an embroidered baseball-style cap, Jumping from 13,500 feet, Falvey and his tan - For complete details call Landfall at (216) will be mailed to the new member in two to dem jump mate Michael Elliott floated to earth as 521-7733, or view the Alumni Association four weeks from receipt of payment. the public address system at the airport played page at www.landfalltravel.com.

T HE F INAL C ALL

Following are the names of recently deceased members who maintained annual membership in the UTU Alumni Association, according to reports received at UTU International Headquarters. These brothers and sisters will be missed by their many friends and by fellow UTU Alumni Association members.

Local Name City/State Local Name City/State Local Name City/State 60 Reizovic, Frank Bethpage, N.Y. 792 Belohlavek, Henry R. Willoughby, Ohio 1374 Henderson, James A. Columbiana, Ohio 61 Deandrea, Fred D. Audubon, N.J. 792 Hageman, Robert V. Willowick, Ohio 1382 Luedke, Marlan J. Benson, Ariz. 145 Markel, Glen T. Westerville, Ohio 792 Legnosky, William P. Cleveland, Ohio 1383 Renslow, Robert D. Hobart, Ind. 256 Lafayette, Oscar E. Whitehall, N.Y. 903 Stephenson, William J. Jacksonville, Fla. 1390 Bugno, Stanley L. Rochester, Ind. 257 Broberg, Theodore P. Chadron, Neb. 915 Crum, Basil T. Charleston, W.Va. 1393 Sciortino, Carl E. Buffalo, N.Y. 281 Cardo, Harold H. Montello, Wis. 923 Ruppanner, Ray A. Midland, Texas 1393 Slomba, Edward A. Ravena, N.Y. 298 Carnahan, Charles A. Saint Joe, Ind. 924 Taylor, Alvin O. Richmond, Va. 1400 Morton, Frederick H. Yarmouth, Maine 367 Newsom, Lloyd J. Council Bluffs, Iowa 982 Vanderwall, Francis J. Clifton Springs, N.Y. 1518 Alvis, James E. Indianapolis, Ind. 432 Wharmby, Albert E. Downers Grove, Ill. 998 Leggett, George B. Waycross, Ga. 1518 Imel, William R. Mooresville, Ind. 464 Hodges, Everett J. Oklahoma City, Okla. 1007 Cerow, Robert W. Watertown, N.Y. 1518 Stout, Calvin E. Louisville, Ky. 473 Presley, Donavan D. LaGrande, Ore. 1011 Martin, Jack Rockingham, N.C. 1518 Wehrmeyer, John E. Terre Haute, Ind. 544 Volbright, Vernon B. Havre, Mont. 1035 Turner, Alfred Eaton Park, Fla. 1524 Latham, J.W. Nacogdoches, Texas 587 Fiske Jr., John F. Canaan, N.H. 1067 Erickson, Ronald A. Tower, Minn. 1544 Pettus, Glenn A. Sun City, Calif. 605 Summers, James W. Clarksburg, W.Va. 1074 Humberson, Clifford R. McHenry, Md. 1574 Shepherd, Vern C. Portland, Ore. 622 Chisem, Isaiah M. Adamsville, Ala. 1074 McCracken Jr., William F. Brookville, Pa. 1598 Brown, William H. Manchester, Ga. 622 Gillespie, James A. Birmingham, Ala. 1075 Allen, Homen R. Monroe, Mich. 1709 Depeal, Boyd L. Bay City, Mich. 645 Dunbar, Gerard F. Floral Park, N.Y. 1075 Wallace, Donald C. Sebring, Fla. 1800 Carmona, Frank J. Tucson, Ariz. 645 Tresca, Frank M. Islip Terrace, N.Y. 1083 Wood, Ronald R. Villa Grove, Ill. 1814 Caldwell, Charles W. Inman, S.C. 744 Pellegrini, Charles F. Findlay, Ohio 1172 Flaim, Raymond Corinne, W.Va. 1831 Arbeeny, Albert Brooklyn, N.Y. 744 Sexton, Lloyd H. Louisville, Ky. 1227 Miller Jr., Jacob B. Moore, Okla. 1963 Hudson, Paul H. Loyall, Ky. 753 Bateman, Albert W. Memphis, Tenn. 1238 Heinrich, Dennis F. Vancouver, Wash. 1971 Putnam, John D. Raleigh, N.C. 756 Rosser, James C. San Antonio, Texas 1327 Porter, Gail Chapmanville, W.Va. 1974 Andrews, Conrad L. Sherwood, Ark. 771 Kirchner, Donald H. Needles, Calif. 1358 Queen, Earnest L. Danville, Ill. 785 Deaton, Billy H. Paducah, Ky. 1365 Collins, John R. Youngstown, Ohio

www.utu.org / www.utuia.org December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Page 9 Flagler’s railroad to Key West, Fla., celebrates centennial A century ago, the first “over-the-sea” en years of construction, halted three railroad opened for business, connecting times when hurricanes hit, one of the Florida mainland to the previously which resulted in the deaths of 135 isolated Key West. workers. Construction of the 153-mile railroad, Secretary of State Elihu Root called 37 miles of which was over open water the Key West extension “second only (including a seven-mile bridge), began in to the Panama Canal in its political 1905 as a project of Henry Flagler, for - and commercial importance in the merly a partner of John D. Rockefeller in United States.” creation of The Standard Oil Co. The Key West extension operated The construction cost of the railroad for but 23 years. On Labor Day, 1935, from Miami to Key West was $50 million, the fiercest tropical storm ever to hit which is equivalent to more than $1 bil - the United States destroyed the Key lion today. West extension. The State of Florida Nine years earlier, in 1896, Flagler purchased the remaining right-of-way had completed the 351-mile Florida and bridges, and they were rebuilt East Coast Railway, first by combining into road bridges for vehicle traffic existing shortlines between Jack - and became known as the Overseas sonville and Daytona, and then con - Highway. structing a new railroad south from The Florida East Coast Railway – on Daytona to Miami. Miami at the time which the UTU represents operating employees had fewer than 50 residents. struction of the Panama Canal began – to deri - on both sides of the cab, as well as yardmen and The “over-the-seas” railway, from Miami to sive comment that it was “Flagler’s Folly.” More yardmasters – remains in operation between Jack - Key West, was begun in 1904 – a year before con - than 4,000 workers were employed during its sev - sonville and Miami.

Louisiana SLD Gary Devall retires Great Lakes Airlines Gary Devall , state legislative director in tor in 1997, serving behind Tyrone Boudreaux . Louisiana and member of the UTU Transporta - Devall assumed the state board directorship in expands in two states tion Safety Team, retired Dec. 15. 1995 when Boudreaux retired. UTU-represented pilots and flight attendants Shawn McRae has assumed Devall’s state Devall also served his union brothers and sis - at Great Lakes Airlines received good news board duties. ters by working on the UTU Transportation Safe - recently with the announcement that the carrier ty Team and on the SOFA (Switching Opera - Devall, 60, began railroad - would be taking over service in North Dakota tions Fatality Analysis) Working Group. ing in 1971 as a brakeman on and Minnesota from Delta Air Lines. the Illinois Central in Baton “The high point of my union career was my Delta had been serving Devils Lake, N.D., but Rouge, La. He was promoted to involvement with the SOFA working group,” switched from turboprop aircraft to regional jets. conductor, the position he Devall said. “That was the first time where I saw The airport’s runway is not long enough for the held at retirement, the follow - the cooperation of the FRA, management and jets to land in windy weather, so Great Lakes’ tur - ing year. unions, all working sincerely for one goal: zero boprops, and crews, won the business. Devall He became interested in the fatalities.” affairs of his Local 1501 at “It has been an honor serving this organization Delta also had been serving Brainerd, Minn., but Baton Rouge and was elected local president in and I appreciate all the support I have gotten Great Lakes will also be taking over that service. the late 1970s. He was elected local chairperson from the members and the UTU International,” Dates of the takeovers have yet to be in the late 1980s and local legislative representa - Devall said. “I must remind everyone that we are announced, but officials at both Delta and Great tive about the same time. our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers and that we Lakes said they were cooperating to make the He was elected alternate state legislative direc - need to keep an eye out for one another.” changeover as seamless as possible. UTUIA seeks 2012 volunteer of the year The United Transportation Union Insurance If so, the UTUIA would like to know about it. Additionally, he or she will be honored at the Association is looking for a special person to A panel of judges at the UTU International 2012 UTU/UTUIA regional meeting nearest honor as its 2012 volunteer of the year. will review all submissions and select the 2012 his or her home, with all expenses paid by the Do you regularly volunteer at a hospital or volunteer of the year. UTUIA. nursing home? Do you lead a Boy Scout or Girl The individual selected as UTUIA volun - Also, 20 runners up will be selected to receive Scout troop or work with the handicapped? Are teer of the year will receive a $1,000 U.S. Sav - certificates of appreciation for their volunteer you involved in some other activity that benefits ings Bond and a plaque of appreciation from efforts. those in your community? the UTUIA. Nominations must be received or postmarked by March 31. The winning individual will be notified by reg - UNITED TRANSPORTATION UNION INSURANCE ASSOCIATION istered mail, and certificates of appreciation will 2012 Volunteer of the Year Nomination Form be forwarded to runners up as soon as possible. The decision of UTUIA judges is final. Previ - ous nominees may be nominated again; however, Name Local former volunteers of the year are ineligible to receive awards. The volunteer of the year program is an oppor - Address tunity for the men and women of the UTUIA to let their fraternal lights shine. It also provides an opportunity for the UTUIA City State ZIP to recognize its volunteers for their outstanding contributions to others.

Telephone number Dates of volunteer activities Nomination forms should be mailed to: UTU - IA Volunteer of the Year, Attn.: Tony Martella, K K $ Executive Director of Business Operations and Total volunteer time (hours, minutes) Weekly Monthly Value of contribution (if applicable) Insurance, 24950 Country Club Blvd., Suite 340, North Olmsted, OH 44070-5333. Please attach a separate sheet of paper describing volunteer activities. The more documentation you can provide, the better. 1/12 Do not forget to include a separate sheet of paper describing the applicant’s volunteer UTUIA, 24950 C OUNTRY CLUB BLVD ., S UITE 340, N ORTH OLMSTED , OH 44070-5333 activities.

www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Page 10 December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Winter months most dangerous for railroaders We are into the season of losing limbs and lives updated or revised. in yard accidents. •Develop, implement and monitor sound More career-ending injuries and fatalities communication protocols that require employees occur during winter months – even in warmer cli - on multi-person switch crews to notify their fel - mates – than any other season of the year. low crewmembers when the need arises to enter Even veteran rails – not just new yard employ - between two pieces of rolling equipment – ees – lose their situational awareness during this regardless of whether the employee is the primary period, and the price they pay can be devastating. RCO or working on a conventional crew. Maybe it’s the holidays. Maybe it’s concern •Review SOFA Safety Recommendation No. over bills that arrive after the holidays. Maybe it’s 1 relating to adjusting knuckles, adjusting draw - seasonal darkness. Maybe it’s thoughts of sum - bars and installing end-of-train devices, and mer’s return. Maybe, maybe, maybe. communicate procedures implementing that rec - But what we know is that when we lose situa - ommendation to employees working in yards or tional awareness, the likelihood of losing limbs or other locations where the possibility of entering life skyrockets, and the objective of zero switch - between rolling equipment exists. That recommendation provides: ing accidents and fatalities flies out the window Cartoon by UTU member Alan Nash of Local 257 faster than heat through an open window. Any crew member intending to foul track or Consider the cold, hard facts: •Identify any winter-related conditions affect - equipment must notify the locomotive engineer ing safety. For example, ice can cause derail - before such action can take place. The locomotive •23 percent of yard fatalities occur in ments. Ice, snow and mud can cause falling. And December and January . engineer must then apply locomotive or train snow can muffle sound and reduce visibility. brakes, have the reverser centered, and then con - •50 percent of fatalities from being struck by •Adjust productivity expectations based on firm this action with the individual on the ground. mainline trains occur in December and January. darkness and weather. Additionally, any crew member that intends to •2011 is stacking up as a more dangerous •Discuss winter conditions in safety briefings, adjust knuckles/drawbars, or apply or remove an year than 2010. Just through September 2011, and post any weather-related concerns on bul - EOT device, must ensure that the cut of cars to be according to the Federal Railroad Administra - letin boards. coupled into is separated by no fewer than 50 feet. tion, 51 severe injuries occurred vs. 47 for the Also, the person on the ground must physically first nine months in 2010. Eight amputations •Above all, don’t lose situational awareness inspect the cut of cars not attached to the locomo - occurred during the first nine months of 2011 no matter the other circumstances in your family tive to ensure they are completely stopped; and, if vs. the same period in 2010. or personal life. Finally, as in all months of the year: necessary, a sufficient number of hand brakes Here are some tips to help you avoid a career- must be applied to ensure the cut of cars will not •Review current operating and safety rules ending injury or loss of your life this winter season: move. •Be sure winter clothing does not restrict that specifically address remote control locomo - •Recognize that personal safety is your respon - movement, or degrade hearing and vision. tive and conventional switching operations that require employees to go between rolling equip - sibility. ment, and determine whether those rules provide •Always perform tasks safely and in compliance Union Plus offers adequate protection to employees, or need to be with established railroad rules and procedures. $150k in scholarships Foundation offers aid to rail daughters Applications are available for the 2012 Union Plus Scholarship Program, which provides The John Edgar Thomson Foundation offers the “active role” of the railroad, may have been $150,000 in scholarships to union members, their financial assistance to daughters of deceased rail - receiving disability or sick-leave benefits. spouses and dependants. road parents. Eligibility is dependent upon the This year’s application process is entirely The foundation, established in 1882 daughter and surviving parent remain - online, allowing students to complete their appli - and endowed by the will of Thomson, ing unmarried. cation over time and save their responses. Dead - the third president of the Pennsylva - The monthly allowance made line to apply is Jan. 31. nia Railroad, is accepting applica - under the grant may cover the peri - tions for aid. Apply at: www.unionplus.org/college-educa - od from infancy to age 18; under tion-financing/union-plus-scholarship. Thomson (Feb. 10, 1808 – May certain circumstances to age 22 to 27, 1874) was an American civil These are competitive scholarships. Appli - assist grantees who are pursuing engineer, railroad executive and higher education goals. cants are evaluated according to academic ability, industrialist. He was president of the social awareness, financial need and appreciation Pennsylvania Railroad from 1852 to The foundation also offers special of labor. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommend - 1874 and oversaw the railroad’s con - health-care benefits. ed. A required essay can account for up to half the version from wood to coal. For further information contact total score. The deceased parent must have been in Sheila Cohen, Thomson Foundation, 201 Scholarship amounts range from $500 to the active employ of any railroad in the United S. 18th St., Suite 318, Philadelphia, PA 19103. $4,000. These one-time cash awards are for study States at the time of death; the cause of death Phone (215) 545-6083 or (800) 888-1278 toll beginning in the fall of 2012. Students may re- need not be work related and the parent, while on free. E-mail: [email protected]. apply each year.

DOT sets 2012 Discipline Income Protection Program: It Pays! random-test rates What is the Discipline Income Protection Program? This program pays you a The Department of Transportation has specific amount of money over a length of time if you are suspended, dismissed or ordered the following minimum random removed from service by the carrier for alleged violation of rules or operating pro - drug and alcohol testing rates for 2012: cedures, provided that such violations are not on the list of exceptions not covered. For workers in safety-sensitive posi - What benefits are paid? You choose the level of ben - tions and whose safety is regulated by efits paid, from $6 to $200 per day, all at low the Federal Railroad Administration , the Federal Transit Administration or the monthly assessments. The term of benefits, Federal Aviation Administration, employ - from 250 to 365 days, depends on how long ers must perform random drug tests on at you have been enrolled in the program. least 25 percent of covered workers, and Who sponsors the program? The United perform random alcohol tests on at least Transportation Union International sponsors 10 percent of covered workers. the Discipline Income Protection Program. For workers in safety-sensitive posi - tions and whose safety is regulated by Who is eligible for coverage? All UTU members the Federal Motor Carrier Safety may enroll on a voluntary basis. Administration , employers must perform How do I get more information? Contact your field supervisor or local insurance random drug tests on at least 50 percent representative, or write to: UTU, 24950 Country Club Blvd., Suite 340, North of covered workers, and random alcohol Olmsted, OH 44070-5333, or email “[email protected]” or check out the Discipline tests on at least 10 percent of covered workers. Income Protection Program page on www.utu.org.

www.utu.org / www.utuia.org December 2011/January 2012 UTU News Page 11 UTUIA S ChOLARShIP : A K EY TO SUCCESS

A message from UTU International Scholarship President Mike Futhey Education is the key to success, and the key to an education can be a United Transportation Union Insurance Association scholarship. Program With college enrollment time upon us, we strongly urge all eligible persons to take a few minutes to fill out the UTUIA scholarship application form print - DISTRIBUTION ed below and apply for a UTUIA scholarship. It will be one of the smartest Fifty continuing $500 scholarships are awarded each year upon things they ever do. verification of enrollment for the fall term. The scholarships are pro - This is the 38th year UTUIA is making available 50 con - tinuing $500 scholarships for its members, and the sons, rated according to the number of UTU members in each of nine dis - daughters and grandchildren of its members. We are very tricts. The names of the 50 scholarship winners for the academic proud of our scholarship program, a pride that comes from year 2012/2013 will be drawn at UTUIA headquarters in North helping thousands of college students over the years. Olmsted after the March 31 deadline for submission of applications. We realize the amount awarded, $500 a year, doesn’t meet the full cost of the recipient’s education, but in this ELIGIBILITY way we can help a larger number of students with educa - Requirements of a UTUIA scholarship applicant are that he or she tional costs. They may use the scholarship money for be a U.S. citizen, at least a high school senior or equivalent, and age tuition, learning materials or other related expenses. 25 or under. UTUIA scholarship winners will receive the full amount of the award each year for up to four years of undergraduate study as long as they maintain a Effective with the 2012/2013 academic year, applicants must be satisfactory academic record. associated with the UTUIA by either owning a UTUIA insurance With a UTUIA scholarship, we hope to give the recipient the opportunity policy, or by being the child or grandchild of a current UTUIA for a full-time education instead of a part-time education, day school instead policyholder. Scholarship applicants must also be associated of night school, higher education instead of basic training. with the UTU by belonging to the union, or by being the child or We are proud also in knowing that UTUIA scholarship recipients are grandchild of an active or lifetime UTU member. enrolled in some of the finest and most prestigious colleges and universi - Applicants also must be accepted for admittance, or already ties in the world. We also can point proudly to the many achievements of enrolled, for at least 12 credit hours per quarter or semester at a past scholarship winners who have contributed so much to our great recognized institution of higher learning (university, college or junior nation. college, nursing or technical school offering college credit). UTUIA is proud and happy to provide these scholarships for they are an Graduate schools are not included. Families of full-time International opportunity for achievement. The success of deserving students is our officers are not eligible. success and the benefits are boundless. The key to success is education, and the key to education is a UTUIA scholarship. Take a minute to apply Previous scholarship winners are exempt from the new UTUIA pol - for the chance of a lifetime. icyholder connection requirement; they may renew their annual As the saying goes: “If you think scholarship if otherwise eligible. This exemption is for the renewal of education is expensive, try existing scholarships only, and all new applicants must meet the ignorance.” UTUIA and UTU association requirements above. Mike Futhey, President AWARDS UTU International Scholarships are awarded on the basis of chance, not grades. A UTUIA scholar, however, is expected to maintain a satisfactory aca - demic record to keep the scholarship for the full four years. UTUIA SCHOLARSHIP ADMINISTRATION APPLICATION FORM 2012/2013 The UTUIA Scholarship Committee decides whether individual (P Lease TyPe or PrInT ) scholarships should be continued or discontinued. Each successful applicant must provide annual proof of eligibility on or before a dead - sTUdenT ’s naMe BIrTh daTe / / line set by the scholarship committee to qualify for a continuing (L AST ) (F IRST ) (M.I.) (M/D/Y) award. The day-to-day management of the program is handled by the office of the UTUIA general secretary & treasurer. MeMBer ’s naMe UTU Local (L AST ) (F IRST ) (M.I.)

address oF MeMBer UTUIA S CHOLARSHIP DISTRICTS occUPaTIon District Scholarships Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire eMPLoyer 1 New York, Rhode Island, Vermont 4 sTUdenT ’s reLaTIonshIP To MeMBer Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, 2 Pennsylvania 4 coLLege year , 2012-2013 Ë FreshMan Ë soPhoMore Ë JUnIor Ë senIor Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North 3 Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia 10

sIgnaTUre oF sTUdenT 4 Indiana, Michigan, Ohio 5 5 Illinois, Wisconsin 4 sIgnaTUre oF MeMBer (Please include date of death if member is deceased .) 6 Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas 5 Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Applications must be received no later than March 31, 2012. 7 North Dakota, South Dakota 6 Please submit only one application per student. Incomplete, photocopied or duplicate applications will not be accepted. Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, 8 Utah 9 The application form printed on this page is the official UTUIA schol - arship application form and is the only one you will receive. If you Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, need another application form, call (216) 228-9400, ext. 3015, or 9 Wyoming 3 email “[email protected].” Please include your UTU local number with all requests. Complete the form above, cut it out and mail to: UTUIA Scholarship Program United Transportation Union Insurance Association 24950 Country Club Blvd., Suite 340 North Olmsted, OH 44070-5333

www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Periodicals Postage Volume 43/44 December 2011/January 2012 PAID at Cleveland, Ohio, Number 12/1 and Additional www.utu.org / www.utuia.org Mailing Offices DEC 2011/JAN 2012 ISSN 0098-5937 Published monthly (except for www.utuia.org www.utu.org combined months of Dec- ember/January and July/August) by the UNITED TRANSPORTA - TION UNION, 24950 COUNTRY The Official Publication of the United Transportation Union CLUB BLVD., SUITE 340, NORTH OLMSTED, OH 44070- 5333 • Periodicals postage paid at Cleveland, Ohio, and addi - tional mailing offices • Mike MBTA conductor helps uncover ticket fraud Futhey, International President; Sharp-eyed Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority con - The alleged scheme, which began in 2007, involved Kim Thompson, General Secre - ductor John Slyman knew right away something was manipulation of vendor equipment to produce authentic tary & Treasurer • This publi - cation available on microfilm amiss: the monthly pass being presented by a rider just passes that were not recorded by the MBTA’s central from National Archive Publishing, did not look right. computer system as having been activated. Prosecutors P.O. Box 998, Ann Arbor, MI Slyman’s questioning of the passenger, and further allege the perpetrators produced more than 20,000 fraud - 48106. investigation by officials, helped unravel a phony pass ulent passes that were worth millions of dollars. This POSTMASTER: Send address scheme that some have estimated may have cost the included at least $2 million worth of passes that were changes to UTU News, 24950 Boston-area commuter line between intended for future use through November 2012. Country Club Blvd., Suite 340, North Olmsted, OH 44070- Please recycle $4 million and $14 million, and saved countless millions more. Slyman, 53, an eight-year MBTA Passenger’s admission leads veteran and member of Local 898 at Boston, was working a commuter train to multi-million dollar fraud ring PPhhoottoo ooff tthhee mmoonntthh inbound from Providence last March when a woman rider, a usual customer, The defendants allegedly sold the passes to customers The UTU International is presented the monthly pass, which has always looking for good pho - Slyman in person or through the mail at a discount and then used tos, and awards UTU gear to a value of $235. the proceeds on houses, jewelry, cars and vacations. monthly photo winners. “I asked her if I could see the pass again,” Slyman said. The UTU seeks photographs MBTA recently awarded Slyman a certificate of appre - or digital images of work-relat - “It was obvious the color was wrong. I asked where she ciation for his attention to detail and diligence in helping ed scenes, such as railroad, bus got it, and she began to hem and haw and change her sto - or mass transit operations, new to uncover the counterfeit pass scam. The agency also equipment photos, scenic ry. She was with her husband and they got into a fight. awarded certificates of commendation to five other shots, activities of your local, or She finally admitted she bought the pass on Craigslist.” photos of your brothers and sis - employees critical to the subsequent investigation. ters keeping America rolling. Knowing that the MBTA and Massachusetts Bay Local 898 Chairperson Don Wheaton commended Printed photographs should Commuter Railroad Company (MBCR) do not sell pass - Slyman for his efforts. He also recognized MBTA conduc - be mailed to UTU News, 24950 Country Club Blvd., es through Craigslist, private individuals or at a discount - tors Mike Newkirk and Gidget Gaines , who have uncov - Suite 340, North Olmsted, OH ed rate, Slyman called for transit police and the com - ered a number of fake passes over the years, saving the 44070-5333. High-resolution digital pho - muter rail trainmaster to meet him at South Station. carrier substantial sums of money. tographs should be in the JPEG format and emailed to “[email protected]”. With each photograph, Inside this issue of the UTU News : please include your name and UTU local number, the names of the persons in the photo (left to right), where the photo was taken, and all other pertinent information. All photographs submitted become property of the UTU. Remember to review your employer’s policies regarding Scholarship use of cameras on the property or during work hours. Application This photo is by Local 771 (Needles, Calif.) conductor Steven Kaiser . This BNSF NS conductor portrays UTU, SMWIA unite to UTU retiree celebrates The official UTUIA Railway train was taking a curve as it climbed the Cajon Pass. The pass is between Santa Claus across divi - create larger, more pow - 90th birthday with para - scholarship application form is on page 11. the San Bernardino and the San Gabriel mountains. sion. See page 2. erful union. See page 4. chute jump . See page 8.