Volume October 2000 Number 10 32
The Official Publication of the United Transportation Union
WELCOME TO THE “VOICE OF TRANSPORTATION LABOR” “The UTU stands behind our brave brothers and sisters who work on the MTA as they do what they must to get a fair and just contract. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of them during this difficult time.” – UTU International President Charles L. Little
Senators line up behind rail retirement reform bill Special 4-Page More than two-thirds UTU members Election 2000 of Senate backs bill Guide Inside to improve rail pensions strike MTA LOS ANGELES – At 12:01 a.m., Sep- tember 16, thousands of UTU-represented WASHINGTON, D.C. – With the over- bus and rail operators hit the picket lines, NewsNews && NotesNotes whelming passage of the Railroad Retirement plunging the nation’s second-largest city reform bill in the U.S. House of Representa- into a strike. tives now a chapter in history, the unified 13- As this issue of the UTU News was going member Rail Labor Coalition is focused on to press, more than 4,300 UTU members quick passage in the Senate. were still on the picket lines and the UTU, carriers The coalition is also continuing a campaign MTA’s 450,000 daily riders had no public transportation. Negotiations had resumed. reach deal See Editorial, Page 4 The walkout came after months of bar- PORT LUDLOW, Wash. – As this issue of the UTU News was going to press, the UTU and seeking a White House endorsement of the Continued on page 8 the nation’s major freight railroads represented Railroad Retirement legislation. by the National Carriers Conference Commit- Since passing the House by a vote of 391 to tee announced that a tentative agreement has 23 in early September, at least 73 senators neers (BLE) and Brotherhood of Maintenance been reached for a new collective bargaining have now pledged to support the Railroad of Way Employes (BMWE) have dropped agreement. Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act their opposition in Congress to the legislation. It is the first agreement to be reached of 2000. In exchange for supporting the Railroad between the carriers and any of the 13 stan- Retirement bill before the U.S. Senate, the 11 dard labor unions taking part in the current Also, since the House okayed H.R. 4844, round of bargaining, which began last both the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engi- Continued on page 8 November. The proposed agreement covers train and engine service employees, and yardmasters, who make up nearly one-third of the railroads’ Prankster nabbed L&DRR workers work force, on about 95% of the nation’s Class I rail carriers. in member death finally win pact Complete details of the tentative agreement will be made available in an upcoming edi- BROOKINGS, S.D. – Authorities have LAFAYETTE, La. – The employees of the tion of the UTU News and on the UTU web- arrested a man they suspect tampered with a Louisiana & Delta Railroad (L&DRR) waited site at
UTU members on SEPTA ratify Congress eyes new three-year labor contract rail projects WASHINGTON – Congressional negotia- PHILADELPHIA – Conductors and assistant September, a package of information sent to tors agreed last month to provide $832 million conductors employed by the rail division of the each eligible UTU-represented SEPTA over the next several years to begin construc- Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation employee from local union officers recom- tion on five long-awaited commuter rail pro- Authority (SEPTA) have ratified a new three- mended ratification. jects in Chicago and the suburbs. year agreement with the commuter carrier. “The meeting with the National Mediation The deal calls for financing for the Chicago The vote was 156 to 86 to approve the pack- Board and SEPTA on July 13, 2000, con- Transit Authority and Metra to be included in age of wage, rule and benefit improvements. vinced the undersigned officers that we have transportation funding legislation being The new contract was effective upon ratifi- squeezed everything out of SEPTA there is to worked out by House/Senate negotiators. The cation, Sept. 1, 2000. get in this round of bargaining,” the UTU offi- money would allow for rehabilitation of the cials wrote. CTA’s 103-year-old Blue Line Douglas branch, Highlights of the pact include a $500 lump- “To hold out anymore will only mean that improvements to expand capacity on the sum payment; a 9% wage hike over three we will be forced, at a much later date, to CTA’s Brown/Ravenswood Line and line years; increased travel and uniform accept the same package as that which is extensions, service enhancements and more allowances; improved medical coverage, enclosed,” the local officers explained. locomotives and coaches on three suburban including a prescription drug benefit, and “Therefore, all of the undersigned officers are Metra train routes experiencing robust rider- vacation agreement improvements. voting in favor of ratification, and we recom- ship gains. In addition, the UTU and SEPTA made a mend you do the same.” Last year, transit officials, lawmakers and stand-by agreement stipulating that covered The letter was signed by Suozzo, Local 61 community activists cried foul when Congress employees shall receive percentage salary Chairperson D.W. Becker, Local 61 President allocated only $7 million for the CTA projects increases and/or lump sum payments equal to Earl C. Davis, Local 61 Secretary Paul and $25 million for the Metra improvements. those received by employees represented by Hutchinson, Local 61 Vice Local Chairper- This year’s agreement, if it passes the final hur- the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. sons Walter Yankowski and Mark Graziano, dles, would allow both transit authorities to Before the ratification vote, held during and Local 61 Treasurer R.J. Gallagher. complete all five projects by about 2005. Bus Department Yardmasters By Bernie McNelis By Don Carver Fraternalism Don’t complain if benefits everyone you don’t vote In most cases, unions started out as fraternal organi- Important decisions confront the UTU member- zations. That is, groups of employees got together to ship. There has never been a more important time for help their sisters and brothers and their families in each of us to exercise the right to vote. times of need. They saw the need to help one anoth- Free elections in our nation did not come without er because their employer wouldn’t. Many of the employees helping out the payment of a high price. They have been purchased by those Ameri- the one in need did not have much themselves. Helping another co- cans who possessed the belief that a willingness to fight and die was a fair worker or someone less fortunate than themselves is what it was all about price to pay for this freedom. then and should be what it is about today. The belief began with the patriots more than 200 years ago and contin- After those employees realized how much they could do helping each oth- ues today in those brave Americans in our armed forces who are protect- er as a fraternal organization, they realized how much they could do if they ing our nation as you are reading this issue of the UTU News. acted in unity and in solidarity on common issues they had with their employer. Unfortunately, fraternalism and solidarity faded to a lesser role Our nation is at a crucial crossroad. The direction to be taken will be and many members of unions began to think, and still think, a union is only decided on November 7, 2000. Numerous benefits fought for and won by about how will the union help “me?” Many times we do not think about the labor leaders are at risk and could be lost if we do not vote and permit oth- needs of our sisters and brothers. Certainly, each of us has an obligation to ers to speak on our behalf. our families and ourselves, and at times that should take precedence over Many of our membership will not be able to vote in their local precinct anything else. But we should not forget the value of fraternalism. because of the nature of the transportation industry. The absentee ballot Contracts, for example, should be negotiated to help everyone. Sometimes allows early voting when it is known that you will be away from home or there are issues that will be addressed in negotiations that may affect only some physically unable to go to the polls on election day. members; still, they need to be addressed. While those issues will be addressed Contrary to popular opinion, every vote does count. Each of us must in negotiations, remember it is to give that particular group of members the vote and encourage each of our family members to vote. protection they need, not to slight any others members or “get less for them.” We forfeit our right to make a valid complaint when we do The message I am trying to send is that fraternalism and solidarity not exercise our right to vote and thereby permit others to should not be a thing of the past. It takes work by every member to make make these important choices for us. a successful local, even if that participation is limited to attending a local meeting. Fraternalism and solidarity should be forever, not just when it is good for “me.” 3 How should we be paid? In the 21st century, should rail- achieve our goals. road employees still be paid using a To eliminate the disparity Charles L. Little, International President confusing 19th century pay struc- between the post- and pre-85 ture? Byron A. Boyd, Jr., Assistant President employees, we found that creating Or should we simplify and mod- a simplified pay system to replace Paul C. Thompson, General Sec./Treas. ernize the way we’re paid so it the antiquated 19th century pay makes more sense for the times in structure was essential. James Brunkenhoefer, Nat. Legislative Dir. which we live? By doing so we are Shouldn’t we try to pro- confident that the carri- tect all of the ways we ers will no longer be earn income now with- able to challenge cer- Retirement bill moving out continually putting tain income compo- them at risk every few nents, such as arbitraries Now it is the U.S. Senate’s turn. In early September, the U.S. House of years during national or constructive Representatives overwhelmingly passed H.R. 4844, the Railroad Retire- contract negotiations? allowances, that go into ment Survivors Improvement Act of 2000. As this edition of the UTU And doesn’t it make our pay system. News is going to press, at least 73 U.S. Senators have asked that this bill sense to professionalize Instead, under a sim- be passed quickly. We thank them all. our pay system so it By Byron A. Boyd, Jr. plified system, those This is good news to more than 50,000 widows and widowers who are reflects our status as the arbitraries and counting on increased pension payments. It’s good news to all newer most productive railroad allowances would be rolled into employees who will be vested in the retirement system after only five years workers in the world? the new payroll method applica- of service. It is good news to thousands of veteran railroad employees who Some people say it can’t be done. ble to all employees. can choose to retire at age 60, with 30 years of service. Others say it shouldn’t be done. It’s also good that, after H.R. 4844 passed the House in a landslide, both Just as all politics and sports are We say that it has to be done. the BLE and BMWE decided to support the retirement bill in the Senate. local, so, too, is what you make in In return, the 11 original members of the coalition, any one of which could And if not now, then when? the rail industry. have vetoed BLE or BMWE participation, decided to include those broth- And if not us, then who? Our plan takes into account that erhoods’ members in expanded health and welfare benefits for early retirees. Sometime in the near future each district would need to arrive They didn’t have to because the health benefits were negotiated with the approximately 45,000 UTU mem- at a purely local payroll solution. railroads outside of the retirement legislation. But they did. You see, when bers will have the opportunity to We understood at the outset that it comes to doing what is right for all railroad employees, the original 11 vote to ratify what we believe will it would be impossible for one unions in the Rail Labor Coalition members did what was right. be an historic contract. national rule to apply in all cir- Not only will it accomplish our cumstances. UTU gets L&DRR on track primary goals of ending entry rates Therefore, establishing a new It is always sweet when justice triumphs in the end. That is why we want and the dual basis of pay, but it will pay structure would be done at the to draw your attention to the story on Page One about a little railroad in also include an increase in pay and local level on a district-by-district, Louisiana. no givebacks. or a run-by-run, basis. Another key element will be a Remember how the BLE went into a rant about a year ago when the 16 It would take into consideration new, simplified pay system that employees of the Louisiana & Delta Railroad asked the UTU to represent all of the unique pay components guarantees a UTU member will them? Seemed the brothers at the L&DRR had lost patience after the that go into those runs locally as make at least as much as they BLE hadn’t gotten them a contract after allegedly representing them for well as the uniqueness of every dis- now earn for doing the seven years. In fact, they didn’t even remember that the BLE was trict. supposed to represent them because they hadn’t done anything. same job, and have a bet- Well, the BLE (as usual) said the UTU raided them (even ter chance of making We can build a simplified pay sys- though the BLE was shutout at the L&DRR in an NMB repre- more long term. tem in place of the system we have sentation election) and filed another complaint with the AFL- We decided early on had in place for more than 100 CIO. So, what else is new? Well, now the employees at the in the negotiation years without losing any ground. L&DRR have a solid contract. The UTU did what the process to be proac- We believe it is finally time to workers asked us to do, and we did them right. Isn’t that tive, progressive, take that big step. We have noth- what representation is all about? What does the AFL-CIO and positive in ing – literally – to lose, and every- think about that? order to thing to gain. WASHINGTON WATCH By James Brunkenhoefer Don’t let your job end up in the garbage dump By now, I am sure, you know that there is an elec- what you could call pro-union. You can imagine the type of people that tion going on. But it appears that George W. Bush they would select to go on the U.S. Supreme Court, the National Media- and Dick Cheney have chosen not to run against Al tion Board, the Federal Railroad Administration, the Surface Transporta- Gore and Joseph Lieberman. Instead, they want to tion Board, and every other government agency. And remember that run against the garbage dump. Cheney had been on the Union Pacific board of directors. No, they do not directly comment about Bill Clin- Under the Bush Administration, the FRA took up to six years to handle ton and Monica Lewinsky and their personal lives. a safety complaint. In fact, they “lost” many complaints. Under Bill Clin- They use code words like, “Restoring honor and ton and his FRA administrator, Jolene Molitoris, our safety complaints are integrity to the Oval Office.” often acted upon within between six weeks and six months. Now, I don’t know of a single human being on the planet that approved UTU’s membership has been growing because employers with which we of what Clinton did. At the same time, there is absolutely no doubt that hold contacts have been hiring. We also have experienced a number of Gore or Lieberman had nothing to do with it. organizing successes because the Republican anti-labor political culture in I agree that our President should be a role model. He should at all times Washington, D.C., has been countered by the Clinton/Gore White hold himself morally and ethically above reproach. However, it is most House over the last eight years. unfortunate that Bush and Cheney have chosen to run against the wrong New employees who have been hired in recent years should look at man. Bill Clinton is not on the ballot. On January 20th, Bill Clinton is seniority rosters, but with a new view. Don’t just look at it and think leaving town, no matter what happens on November 7th. So let’s stop of how many people will retire soon and how many notches you will focusing on the garbage dump and start looking at what we are really fac- move up. ing in November. Look at the seniority dates and you will see great cycles, where lots of Does UTU agree with all the positions of Gore/Lieberman? Absolutely people are hired one year and then years go by and nobody new is added. not. Obviously, this union, like many others, has trouble with this ticket’s Well, friends, those gaps are called recessions. position on trade, along with certain other policy issues. But Are you ready to risk your job and your future? Because, if you let Bush there is one thing I am absolutely sure of: the Bush/Cheney and Cheney and the Republicans distract you from looking at a seniority list would be longer. Much longer. roster that is growing instead of shrinking, and instead get you to concen- 4 Bush and Cheney are two oil men who are not exactly trate on a garbage dump, that is exactly where your job may go. State Watch News from UTU State Legislative Boards Arkansas New Jersey Florida After more than 21 years of service as the The last day to register to vote in the state of The year 2000 has brought “term limits” to UTU’s legislative director in the state of New Jersey is October 10, and the last day to the state of Florida and residents here are Arkansas, Don Beavers announced his apply for an absentee ballot is October 30, looking at a 60% turnover in their state legis- retirement, effective October 1, due to according to UTU Legislative Director Dan lators, reported Legislative Director Carl health concerns. He was O’Connell. Cochran. succeeded by former Assis- Anyone needing forms to register to vote or “We are not looking forward to what we are tant Legislative Director to apply for an absentee ballot can contact facing in the year 2001,” said Cochran, “for we James T. Matthews. O’Connell’s office at (609) 396-1994. have lost a lot of good friends.” He added, Beavers began his railroad- however, “I guess it’s time to make new ones.” ing career as a brakeman Kansas In other news, Cochran was re-elected to the with the Missouri Pacific in Legislative Director Don Lindsey attended Dade County Democratic Election Commit- 1962. He was later promoted the joint informational seminar of UTU tee. “Our goal is to get a Democrat in the Locals 464, 477, 794 and 1227, which was Beavers to conductor and served in White House. With the possibility of our that capacity for more than hosted by Local 477 President Mike members being on the road at any given time, 17 years before being elected Wiemerslage. Also in attendance were Vice I would like to encourage all of our members President Carl Vahldick, Burlington North- to the office of legislative to vote absentee,” he said. ern Santa Fe General Chairpersons Jim director. Huston and C.D. “Bud” Davis, UTUIA Cochran also remarked that the Florida Leg- “I always participated in Field Supervisor Dan McElley, and repre- islative Board recently held its quadrennial local government, but I got sentatives of the UTU-designated legal reorganization meeting. Vice Chairperson really irked when the carrier counsel firm Hubbell, Sawyer, Peak, O’Neal John Dyess has been appointed to the posi- started abusing the 1,000- and Napier. tion of command sergeant major at the U.S. mile brake test. I put my feet Army Headquarters in Panama City, Fla. Matthews in the ground, and I’ve been Indiana going ever since,” said Beavers regarding his Director James Carrico and the Indiana legislative service. Legislative Board would like to remind all He noted that he was the UTU’s youngest UTU members here that the last day to regis- legislative director at the time of his election, ter to vote in the state is October 10. Also, if and, “as I retire, I am now the senior member.” an individual chooses to mail in his or her reg- Matthews, a member of UTU Local 462 at istration, the registration must be postmarked Pine Bluff, Ark., began his rail career on the no later than October 10. Cotton Belt in 1960. He has served as both Carrico also noted that when the results the president and delegate of his local and of the U.S. Census are known, the possi- served as legislative representative for 20 bility exists that the state could loose a years. He was the assistant legislative director Congressional seat. By law, the Indiana in Arkansas for 12 before being elevated to his General Assembly must redistrict Indi- Members of the Florida Legislative Board, as they new position. ana’s House and Senate districts and the take their oath of office, are (left to right): Vice Chairperson John Dyess, Vice Chairperson Shannon Matthews and others are planning a retire- federal Congressional districts, based on Hopper, Secretary Earl White, Legislative Director ment reception for Beavers and those interest- the census. Carl Cochran, Assistant Director John Wingate, ed in attending can telephone him at (870) “Register and vote! The job you save may be Alternate Director Jerry Munn, Chairperson Jim 534-1537 for more information. your own,” he said. Searles and Vice Chairperson Pat Fraga. Feedback Vote with your head in November election By Bob Yarger under New York Dock protection. These “non-railroad” holding compa- Member of Local 256, Watervliet, N.Y. nies were actually owned and operated by former Class I railroad man- agers, who started them with the huge buyouts they got when severed from the Class Is. With the line sales, the workers who remained Once again, election time is rolling around. The polls show that Amer- employed by the new shortlines had to start over from scratch at unioniz- icans aren’t very excited this year, with many not really knowing much ing, and many of those still are not unionized, making very substandard about the candidates, or caring much about them or the election either. wages and taking all kinds of abuse. Reality is, however, that if George W. Bush gets into the White House, working people could be made to suffer for many years afterward. Did you know that one of the biggest contributors to the Republican Railroaders old enough to remember the Reagan years will recall that campaign is the National Rifle Association? Think about that before you his administration tried to first rob the Railroad send them money. If you do, you are helping to fund the very organization Retirement System of funds, then eliminate it alto- that is working hard to eliminate the minimum wage, pass right-to-work gether, folding it in with Social Security. Had that legislation (which makes “closed” or union shops illegal), diminish work- happened, it would have meant drastic reductions in ers’ rights, and take away your railroad pension. In reality, the gun-control railroad pensions. For most of us, the promise of a legislation proposed by the Democrats would have very little effect on decent pension at the end of our careers is the main law-abiding gun owners. reason we put up with the harsh working conditions Gun control, abortion, gay rights and other issues are the “hot buttons” and crazy hours of the railroad. that Republicans push on voters to make them vote their way. Unfortu- Yarger Reagan was not successful at killing Railroad Retire- nately, many people vote strictly on their feelings about these issues with- ment because there was a Democratic majority in Con- out using their head. In reality, these laws usually have little or no effect gress at the time. Today, there is a Republican majority in Congress. on the average worker, but the anti-labor laws that the Republicans pass Thus, a Republican president and a Republican Congress could steamroll when they get into office certainly do. As one worker put it: “Hunting is over labor laws unchecked, setting unionized working people back 50 to only a hobby. Which is more important, your hobby or your livelihood? 100 years. For me, my rights as a worker come first.” During his reign, Reagan appointed lackeys to the Interstate Commerce So please think twice before dismissing the election this year as unim- Commission, who allowed the railroads to abuse the Staggers Act through portant. If the Republicans are allowed to win the presidency or in the the Section §10901 exclusion. This exclusion allowed Class I railroads to Congress, it could mean a real change for the worst for working people. sell off lines to “non-railroad” companies and avoid paying labor protec- And if you’re not registered to vote, please do so soon. Your future as a tion to displaced workers, which would have previously been required union worker depends on it. 5 The “Power of One” In Your Own Words UTU members from across the country speak their mind on what the “Power of One” means to the future of the North American railroad industry and all of transportation labor.
his summer, UTU News “It takes all of us as ‘one’ together to make “It means the power of everybody pulling as “The ‘Power of One’ things happen in this country. We need to stand one team to make a change in the railroad means that one organi- Treporters asked our mem- together and unite.” industry for the benefit of all crafts.” zation represents all of bers attending the Regional Kathy Myers Wayne L. Brown, Sr. the various crafts, and Local 324, Seattle, Washington Local 769, Alexandria, Virginia that way, you don’t have Meetings in Reno, Birmingham, any conflicts between and Minneapolis what the “It means, ‘United we stand, divided we fall.’” “With all of the acquisitions and mergers in the crafts as to agree- ments. Cut out the divi- “Power of One” meant to them. Norbert J. Shacklette railroads, we have only one way to go and that’s sion. The more you can Here are all of the quotes we Local 1823, St. Louis, Missouri the ‘Power of One.’ Strength and unity.” Bear cut out the division, the could fit on these pages. In order Sam Hale better off we are going to “The ‘Power of One’ means to me that we all Local 1290, Chicago, Illinois be…That’s just the way it is. There might be a lot to publish all of the quotes col- need to be unified, we all need to be together, of carriers out there, but they are one. The only lected by our reporters, the and we all need one operating craft out here…If “Not only does it mean uniting all crafts thing we’ve got are unions. We need to be one.” we have one operating craft and one union rep- under one union, to me, it means what I as one Mark J. Bear online edition of the UTU News resenting us we can make agreements that can person can do to make the UTU the number Local 1626, Anchorage, Alaska will contain additional quotes. protect everyone’s seniority no matter which “The ‘Power of One’ is unification. The ‘Pow- “It means we all come one transportation union in the world.” craft they are in.” er of One’ is all helping together to solve our under one umbrella, Jerome J. Ott “My dad worked as an operating engineer, so I Dennis J. Burke common problems. The old saying, “You either and we all fight for one “The ‘Power of One’ means that for the first Local 911, Minneapolis, Minnesota grew up around a union all my life. I’ve tried for common goal.” time in transportation history, we must be Local 1971, Atlanta, Georgia hang together or hang separately,” is true. I a lot of years to get on this railroad just for that want to hang together.” focused on our common goals, set aside the dif- Miles R. Cunningham “The ‘Power of One’ means the power of all of reason, because it was union-represented. As far Local 1933 ferences the individual crafts feel they may “Unity. There’s definitely more power in one Don W. Dunlevy us united for one single cause, putting all our as ‘Power of One,’ well, there’s strength in num- Washington, D.C. have, and unify against the common situations, union. I honestly believe it would really be a Local 150, Carnegie, Pennsylvania efforts into it, and at the same time it means the bers. I heard that from my dad all the time, and so that we may forcefully bring successful con- good thing for everybody, engineers and train- difference that one person can make.” I believe it to be true…We’ll have a lot better clusions to our cause.” men. Bottom line, it’s a good shot.” “It’s already taken effect on our property. We “The ‘Power of One’ results against the carriers. Staying separate, I means the UTU needs Andres Trujillo just don’t see it happening.” Roger M. Lenfest, Jr. Buddy Higdon took over the BLE engineers on our property Cunningham to be the sole union Local 1138, Miami, Florida Local 898, Boston, Massachusetts Local 1892, Houston, Texas several years ago and this is what we need. It’s J. Mike LaPresta paying off. When we go to the superintendent representing transportation workers in Ameri- Local 947, Chaffee, Missouri ca. Just like President Little stated here at the “It means we have more power in the legisla- “The ‘Power of One’ there’s one union, not two that he can use “It means instead of fighting with each other, Regional Meeting: ‘If we’re represented by one ture. The larger the number of people we repre- means the unity and against you.” “It means we’re larger in number, we have we’re fighting the carriers. Instead of spending union, then there’s less conflict with the car- sent the more power we have to elect people strength that a unified Elton R. Williams better say-so when it comes to negotiating, and all our time and effort and energy against each riers.’” who understand the people we represent. It’s a workforce can leverage Local 854, Portsmouth, Virginia it means more money in our pocketbooks.” other, we can use it where it should be used, great concept, and I’m in 100% support.” on management.” William K. Stone Omar “Butch” Loe against the carriers.” Local 1378, Wilmington, Delaware Jack D. Ramsey, Jr. Roberta Ward “It means the ability to get a better contract, Local 785, Paducah, Kentucky Dennis J. Schuler Local 407, Charleston, S. Carolina Local 898, greater earnings, greater benefits for the work- Local 27, Cleveland, Ohio “With unity, we are one. Divided, we fall.” Boston, Massachusetts ing man.” “It will finally give us an opportunity for all of Marvin W. Baxley “I think all people Joe G. Wethington rail labor to sit down and speak with one voice. “It’s the salvation of Local 1971, Atlanta, Georgia working for the railroad And there will be no more infighting between “I realize we need to Ward Local 1315, Covington, Kentucky collective bargaining. should belong to one the unions. That only happens at the national have done it 30 years The only way we’re “The ‘Power of One’ is the united front that union so that everyone level. The people out here are ready to work ago; we’d all be a lot better off today. Now we’re “The ‘Power of One’ means unity for all rail- going to make it in this we need to have in order to have a chance in has a united fight and together. They want the ‘Power of One.’” fighting each other, and what’s going to hap- road workers…With four or five unions, the railroad industry is to negotiations with the carriers in the near future, we’re not fighting with James C. Crowl pen, I can’t tell. We should have done it a long company always plays one against the other. If be one complete union especially when this issue of remote operations each other.” Local 533, Osawatomie, Kansas time ago.” there’s only one, it’s one on one.” so we’re not fighting rears its ugly head.” Margie O’Donnell ourselves, we’re fight- Dewayne Thompson Sidney G. Showalter Thomas C. Albarado Local 1951, “I agree with the ‘Power of One.’ I hope it ing the company, Local 781, Shreveport, Louisiana Local 559, Roanoke, Virginia Local 1836, New Orleans, Louisiana Albany, New York O’Donnell goes smoothly and I hope it comes about. I did- which we’ve got to Skinner n’t believe in it at first, until our vice presidents fight, because they’re “It means one union, everybody working “The ‘Power of One’ means one union for all “The ‘Power of One’ “The ‘Power of One’ means we will be the convinced me. I could see the need for the not our friends.” together to reach a common goal. We all want operating employees. It will help in bargaining ‘Power of One’ with things like the black box signifies the unity that strongest union in the nation. We need one Courtland H. Skinner the same things; we’re all fighting for the same with one union speaking for everybody. It and other issues. We need to be one union.” is in accordance with union if we’re going to win and be ahead of the Local 771, Needles, California things. Why not have one union doing it all?” would be one union for all of us.” our UTU motto: railroads. It’s that simple. When we fight against Danny W. Theriac John E. Pierce Steve Burroughs ‘Progress Through Uni- each other, we can’t win. We’ve got to get Local 462, Pine Bluff, Arkansas Local 1760, Detroit, Michigan Local 363, Roanoke, Virginia ty.’ This would be a “It means the unification of labor, instead of us together and be one, and one will conquer all.” all rowing in different directions, when we’re all great way to unify rail “I like that idea. The ‘Power of One’ is the “It means strength in numbers. It really does. Gerald L. Byers in the same boat. We’ve got to do it as a team.” “The ‘Power of One’ means unity, one union labor and avoid the power of us all working together collectively The more people are together, the bigger the Local 931, Greenville, S. Carolina David H. Brickey for all railroad workers. It will give us one voice. race to the bottom.” and we are not getting that with the BLE and song they get to sing. You get to carry a bigger Local 1438, Lansing, Michigan Instead of many confused voices, there will be Larry P. Barrilleaux UTU as they are right now. The sooner that hammer.” Barrilleaux one united voice.” Local 1836, “I think that there’s strength in numbers and changes, the better off we’ll all be.” Michael B. Furlong rather than spending so much time fighting “I think the ‘Power of One’ is a good idea, Jim H. Valley New Orleans, Louisiana John E. Waltzing Local 1975, Smithville, Missouri each other, we’d be better off working together Local 783, Spencer, N. Carolina Local 329, Boone, Iowa because I think what the carriers have always and negotiating as one.” done is try to separate union by union to keep “The ‘Power of One’ means everybody stick- “It means you don’t have to look around to see Gary L. Johns us apart. We are going to be a hell of lot “We need to stop the ing together and trying to improve things.” “If we’re all together who’s with you and who’s against you. ‘The Local 1525, Carbondale, Illinois stronger union if we become one union Power of One’ virtually eliminates the word waste of time in compe- Larry D. Valentine in one union, we will instead of fragmented the way we’ve been.” tition with our railroad Local 586, Willard, Ohio be stronger in company ‘enemy.’ It means you’re pulling together, “I believe it’s the future of our union. I believe Daniel M. Paradise brothers and sisters. negotiations and we instead of against each other.” the energy needs to be put towards that. It’s a Local 1614, St. Paul, Minnesota The used-car-salesman “I feel that if we can get these two unions can all get more bene- G. Thomas DuBose big step.” attitude and bounty in together, we will have a stronger base for nego- fits for our families.” Local 535, Macon, Georgia Steven R. Evans “It reminds me of the raiding back and forth tiations and anything else that rail labor’s Billy R. Gilkey between the BLE and involved in.” Local 950, West Memphis, Arkansas Biblical story of the “It means consolidation, better benefits, bet- Local 785, UTU helps no one but Tower of Babel. The ter working agreements and I think as a whole Mike C. Ruffner Paducah, Kentucky “The ‘Power of One’ people began building the UTU and BLE should get together as one.” Roed the carriers. We need Local 1379, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Gilkey the ‘Power of One’ means a lot of numbers their tower when they Carroll Harley III “The ‘Power of One’ union in our rail industry. And we need it now. I equating back to one, were of one mind. If we Local 674, Augusta, Georgia “The ‘Power of One’ means we can get more will help us get things done that we’re not get- get together as one believe the UTU is that union.” things done. Unity means everything. Without which means power, ting done. Over the years, we’ve been spending which means influ- body, with one focus “The ‘Power of One’ means one union togeth- Clarence “Chris” Roed unity, you’re going nowhere. You’re not fighting a lot of unnecessary time and money in conflict and one goal, nothing er, everybody working for the same common Local 650, Minneapolis, Minnesota against each other. It makes a lot of sense. The ence, and the effective with the BLE. That time and money could be ability to get some- Carter can stop us…if we goal and going in one direction to make a bet- only time we ever made real progress was when much better spent getting better working con- share the same vision, ter life for each man and his family out here on “‘Power of One’ means three words: strength, everybody worked for the same goal, instead of thing done.” ditions for our people. The ‘Power of One’ will there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.” the railroad.” unity and power. It’s what the UTU is based on.” working against each other.” Jim K. Clark end that.” Andy L. Carter Malcolm T. Morrison II Stephen P. Miller Harold F. Upton Clark Local 118, Albert M. Bertolani Local 1564, Los Angeles, California Local 1011, Rockingham, N. Carolina Local 228, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Local 1972, Birmingham, Alabama Hinton,W. Virginia Local 577, Northlake, Illinois ment, which modernizes the investment poli- (Kan.), Jim Bunning (Ky.), Conrad Burns Retirement cies of the Railroad Retirement System there- (Mont.), Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Colo.), Continued from page 1 by permitting increased benefits for rail work- Lincoln Chafee (R.I.), Thad Cochran (Miss.), ers and retirees…,” the letter continued. Susan Collins (Vt.), Larry Craig (Id.), Mike unions in the original labor coalition, includ- The senators concluded that the limited Crapo (Id.), Michael DeWine (Ohio), Slade ing the UTU, unanimously agreed to allow number of legislative days left in Congress Gorton (Wash.), Rod Grams (Minn.), the full benefits of healthcare for BLE and made it important that the Finance Commit- Charles Grassley (Iowa), Charles Hagel BMWE members who retire at age 60 with 30 tee “move this legislation expeditiously, to (Neb.), Orrin Hatch (Utah), Jesse Helms years of service. Health and welfare benefits ensure that beneficiaries of Railroad Retire- (N.C.), Tim Hutchinson (Ark.), James Inhofe are not part of the Railroad Retirement system ment can receive improved benefits and the (Okla.), Richard Lugar (Ind.), Pat Roberts and are negotiated separately with the rail tax burden on the industry can be reduced (Kan.), Rick Santorum (Pa.), Richard Shelby industry. Because the BLE and BMWE while assuring the financial integrity of the (Ala.), Gordon Smith (Ore.), Arlen Specter opposed Railroad Retirement reform, they system.” (Pa.), Ted Stevens (Alaska), Strom Thur- were not part of that process. Therefore, it is mond (S.C.), and John Warner (Va.). noteworthy that a single “no” vote by any of UTU International President Charles L. Lit- the 11 coalition unions could have denied tle thanked the Senators for publicly support- The Democratic Senators who signed the BLE and BMWE members the expanded ing Railroad Retirement reform in such strong letter include: Daniel Akaka (Hawaii), Max healthcare benefits. bipartisan numbers so quickly after it passed Baucus (Mont.), Evan Bayh (Ind.), Joseph the House. Biden (Del.), Jeff Bingaman, (N.M.), Barbara On September 11, 30 U.S. Senators – Boxer (Calif.), John Breaux (La.), Richard including 17 Democrats and 13 Republicans – “It is gratifying that there is such a strong Bryan (Nev.), Robert Byrd (W.Va.), Max Cle- asked their leadership in a letter to support groundswell of bipartisan support in the land (Ga.), Kent Conrad (N.D.), Tom and quickly act on passage of the Railroad U.S. Senate for passing this Railroad Retire- Daschle (S.D.), Christopher Dodd (Conn.), Retirement and Survivors Improvement Act ment legislation,” Little said. “It goes to Bryon Dorgan (N.D.), Richard Durbin (Ill.), of 2000. show that the undivided unity of the now 13 John Edwards (N.C.), Russ Feingold (Wisc.), As of UTU News presstime, 73 Senators unions in the Railroad Labor Coalition, with its more than three million stakehold- Diane Feinstein (Cal.), Robert Graham (Fla.), have now pledged to support this legislation Tom Harkin (Iowa), Ernest Hollings (S.C.), and have signed the original Roth/Moynihan ers, is helping drive this bill forward to a successful conclusion.” Tim Johnson (S.D.), Daniel Inouye (Hawaii), letter. Bob Kerrey (Neb.), John Kerry (Mass.), Her- In the letter sent to Finance Committee “We now have a two-thirds majority in the bert Kohl (Wisc.), Mary Landrieu (La.), Frank Chairman William V. Roth (R-Del.) and U.S. Senate,” said UTU International Presi- Lautenberg (N.J.), Patrick Leahy (Ver.), Carl Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-N.Y.), the rank- dent Charles L. Little. “It’s time to move the Levin (Mich.), Blanche L. Lincoln (Ark.), ing minority member, the 73 Senators said Railroad Retirement legislation through the Barbara Mikulski (Md.), Zell Miller (Ga.), they “are writing to express support for and Senate for a conclusive vote.” Patty Murray (Wash.), Harry Reid (Nev.), quick action on the Railroad Retirement The Republican Senators who signed the Chuck Robb (Va.), John Rockefeller (W.Va.), reform proposal.” letter include: Spencer Abraham (Mich.), Paul Sarbanes (Md.), Charles Schumer “This proposal reflects an historic agreement John Ashcroft (Mo.), Robert Bennett (Utah), (N.Y.), Robert Torricelli (N.J.), Paul Well- reached between rail labor and rail manage- Christopher Bond (Mo.), Sam Brownback stone (Minn.), and Ron Wyden (Ore.).
between $48,000 and $52,000, but only MTA strike “I have gone the last mile. because he is willing to work weekends and holidays. He is so close to the edge financially, Continued from page 1 I cannot go any further.” he said, that losing overtime would jeopardize gaining between the Metropolitan Trans- his ability to make car or house payments. portation Authority and the UTU failed to – MTA General Chairperson The MTA wants to reduce the demand for reach an acceptable agreement. The final overtime by hiring significantly more part- breakdown in the talks came after a 60-day James Williams time drivers, who gradually would replace full- cooling-off period and two extensions of the time drivers through attrition. strike deadline. Creating a new workweek is just part of a The drivers set up picket lines almost imme- Faced with demands by MTA negotiators much bigger package of cuts the MTA is diately. They have been honored by MTA that unions for the drivers, mechanics and reportedly seeking from drivers. Lawrence unions representing mechanics and clerks, clerks make significant economic concessions, Drasin, a UTU attorney, said the MTA is seek- and dozens of other unions. Contreras said unions would work with the ing $23 million in savings over three years. In regard to the conditions that led to the MTA “but not at the expense of destroying The MTA is also in the process of trying to impasse with the MTA, International Presi- middle-class jobs we helped create in Los draft new contracts with the Amalgamated dent Charles L. Little said, “The UTU stands Angeles.” Transit Union (ATU), which represents 1,861 behind our brave brothers and sisters who Transit agency officials said concessions, mechanics, and the 650-member Transporta- work on the MTA as they do what they must sometimes referred to as “givebacks,” were tion Communications International Union to get a fair and just contract. Our prayers and essential for the MTA’s financial well-being. (TCU), which represents clerks. thoughts are with all of them during this diffi- Another MTA proposal would put about 400 And the strike may actually be the path of cult time.” operators on a four-day workweek requiring least resistance for the members of the MTA UTU General Chairperson James Williams, them to be on duty for 13 hours but paid for board. Unless it wrings concessions from its along with L.A. County Federation of Labor only 10, with no overtime. The three hours of workers, it may have to scale back politically chief Miguel Contreras, angrily announced unpaid time would be spent killing time in appealing transit construction programs that their members’ intention to walk off the job at MTA recreation rooms or preparing for runs. are strongly supported by the state legislators 12:01 a.m. September 16 at a news conference. Overtime is a significant part of the average and congressional representatives upon whom “I have gone the last mile. I cannot go any bus driver’s income, and the UTU estimates the county depends for its own operating funds. further,” said Williams, his voice heavy with that the four-day week outlined by the MTA On the side of new transit projects are polit- anger and frustration. would reduce an average operator’s earnings ically connected contractors and middle-class “This union,” Contreras said of the drivers, by 15%. voters who are potential riders. Most impor- “feels it is being forced out on strike” because Bus drivers earn $8 an hour at the entry lev- tant are lawmakers in Sacramento and Wash- of management’s failure to bargain seriously. el; the most experienced make $20.72 an hour. ington, who want more transit projects for “There is no way we can reach an agreement A sore point among drivers is that the MTA which they can claim credit. tonight,” he said. likes to say drivers and mechanics make an The majority of the 13-member MTA board The dramatic walkout came after negotiators average of $50,000 a year. But drivers say that is composed of elected officials who are as for the UTU and MTA failed to find common consists of base pay of just under $43,000 and immune to a strike’s political pressure as politi- ground on overtime pay, work rules and other $7,000 in overtime, which means working a cians can be: Mayor Richard Riordan, a lame- issues. Confronting huge operating deficits in lot of weekends and holidays. duck moderate Republican nearing the end of coming years, the MTA has been demanding a “There is hardly anyone here who can make his term, controls four votes. Five other votes 15% reduction in overtime pay for drivers and it without overtime,” said Lawrence Tubbs, an belong to county supervisors, who represent wants extensive changes in work rules that are MTA driver and member of Local 1563 in El districts so massive that they are virtually favorable to unions. Monte, Cal. Tubbs said his income hovers invulnerable to a challenge at the polls. 8 Voices: Do you feel you have a personal stake in the upcoming elections?
Elton R. Williams Dennis J. Burke Thomas C. Albarado Judith P. Wall L-854, Portsmouth, Va. L-1971, Atlanta, Ga. L-1836, New Orleans, La. L-1908, Buffalo, N.Y. “As far as contracts go, I “I’m a yardmaster working “I’m a conductor on the “This is my 24th year as a think we stand a much bet- for CSX. I’ve worked in the rail Union Pacific, working as a school bus operator, and I def- ter chance with a Democra- industry for about 30 years, switchman. It’s very impor- initely feel I have a stake in tic Congress and a Democ- and I feel I do have a personal tant to me who wins the elec- this election. If Bush gets elect- ratic president. But honest- stake in the elections. I vote tion, and I think the outcome ed, we’re just going to go back ly, I don’t think I’ll feel that for what’s best for the future is very important to all labor to the way it was when Rea- much of a personal impact. for me and my family. I’m unions. I work hard with our gan and the elder Bush were I think local races affect me concerned about what politi- state legislative director to in office, and I don’t want to more than the presidential cians do on railroad issues make sure everybody is regis- see that happen. Big business race. The mayor and city because that’s my livelihood. tered and knows the candi- will do wonderfully well, but council control property tax- If it’s going to affect the carri- dates’ positions. We don’t the little guy won’t do so well es and the services you get ers and me, then I’m con- force anybody to vote a par- at all. Under Bush, bus drivers on a day-to-day basis. I’m cerned. The presidential elec- ticular way, but we explain may see a trickle-down effect registered as a Democrat, tion matters to me because why the people we’re sup- as companies gain power and but I’ll vote for whoever I the president appoints these porting are in their best inter- unions lose it. We face con- think is the best person. people on mediation boards est. I don’t vote a certain way tract negotiations in two years. More times than not, that’s a and emergency boards. If because the UTU tells me to, Under Reagan and the elder Democrat. I think they tend they’re not friends of ours, but I vote the way I feel, and it Bush, we just took what we to help everybody, and not we’re not going to get any- happens to coincide with the got – we couldn’t even think a select few.” thing out of it. “ UTU’s recommendations.” about striking.”
according to reports. Prankster The tip that led to Goltz’ arrest came from L&DRR pact Continued from page 1 two unnamed informants who told the FBI Continued from page 1 that Goltz admitted manipulating a switch ankles and feet. that caused the derailment. The tipsters may L&DRR employees approached the UTU and Davis was a two-year member of the UTU. share in a reward offered by DM&E and UTU. went to the National Mediation Board for per- He is survived by a wife and five children. The DM&E offered a $20,000 reward for mission to hold another representation elec- tion. Of the 16 workers on the L&DRR eligi- The four-locomotive, 55-car train, which information in the case; the UTU offered ble to vote, 15 cast votes for the UTU. The originated in Lamberton, Minn., was traveling $5,000. BLE did not receive one vote. westbound to Brookings, S.D., when it collided “That’s the best $20,000 we’ve ever spent,” with the parked cars at approximately 3:40 a.m. DM&E President Kevin Schieffer said. The new contract, negotiated by Vice Presi- dent Pete Patsouras and L&DRR employee and According to reports, Goltz admitted that he The railroad operates in what is called "dark new Local Chairperson Chris Varisco, became broke a lock off the switching mechanism, territory," on tracks without centralized con- effective September 1. Highlights include an moved the switch to direct the train off the trol. Larger railroads have tracks that operate almost 10% wage increase over the next three main track and covered a warning reflector like an electrical circuit and are controlled by years, the implementation of a formalized griev- with a plastic garbage bag. computers or train conductors. ance procedure, and other benefits. Goltz claimed to have committed these acts "If we had the system in place that we're try- “I wouldn’t treat my dog like we get treated as a “prank.” ing to build, this never would have happened," from the L&DRR,” said employee Francis Goltz has no connection to the DM&E nor Schieffer said. "Had this system been in place, Poirier. “The wages and working conditions any group opposed to the railroad’s $1.4-bil- that person would never have been able to are terrible. I have more respect for animals lion plan to renovate some tracks and build a throw that switch, or if he had, it would have than they have for us.” new line into the Wyoming coal fields, the sent signals and shut the railroad down." Poirier continued: “From everybody over FBI said. “There will never be another train crew or here, you all are a godsend to us. I’ve been rail- “There is no indication the act was caused by train worker that will go by a switch without roading for 20 years, and I don’t know every- any animosity to the two individuals or to thinking of Brad and Dennis or what could thing about it, but I know the difference DM&E,” McBride said. “They were in the way.” happen to them," he said. between right and wrong, and we’ve been If convicted, Goltz could face the death A small memorial of flowers and notes treated unjustly wrong. I speak for everybody penalty on a statute that could for the first placed on a fence by the accident scene con- when I say thanks. We wouldn’t be where we time in South Dakota lead to an execution, tinues to grow. A flowered wreath from the are now, and it would have been the same for Davis family hung beside a DM&E cap. the next 10 years, without the UTU.” Cards bearing handwritten notes from Davis’ “We are proud to be part of the UTU. We Monthly winner children adorned the wreath. have a voice now,” Varisco said. “I go with the This month’s lucky winner of his “I hope you’ll be proud of me,” wrote Joshua ‘Power of One’ union. We are all engineers choice of any item of apparel bearing the Davis. and conductors, and we all feel that way down UTU logo is Kenneth S. Taylor of Local “I love you Dad. I wish I could have seen you here. 446, Cheyenne, Wyo., which represents or told you I love you before you were taken “We thank the UTU for everything it has workers on the Union Pacific Railroad. from us. Love, McKenzie,” reads another. done. We are proud to be members. I’ll tell These items are awarded every month by you, we have come a long way,” random drawing as a show of apprecia- he added. tion to the many members who have been supportive of the UTU throughout the years. 9 Senior News Volunteering makes Retiree life insurance policies community a winner Each year since 1997, retired administered by two companies member Virgil R. Lindberg of UTU members who retired from railroad ser- For retirees from all other railroads partici- Fort Madison, Iowa, has been vice on or after April 1, 1967, are reminded pating in the Railroad Employees’ National deemed a runner-up in the that they may be eligible for a $2,000 retiree Health and Welfare Plan, the benefit is UTUIA’s “Volunteer of the life insurance benefit. administered by MetLife. Year” program, but those in his The benefit, formerly administered by The To file a claim or obtain a change-of-benefi- community would likely certi- Travelers, is now administered by Minnesota ciary card to remain on file, call Minnesota fy he’s a solid-gold winner. V.R. Lindberg Life and MetLife. Life toll free at 1-800-328-9442, or call Just following the activities The insurance benefit is administered by MetLife toll free at 1-800-310-7770. pursued by the 74-year-old member of Local 643 Minnesota Life for those members who retired Those filing a claim or contacting either in Fort Madison takes some energy. from Burlington Northern Santa Fe, CSX, insurance company with questions should Lindberg volunteers at least two days a week to Conrail, Kansas City Southern, Norfolk have available the date the employee last work with the Southeast Iowa Agency on Aging’s Southern or Union Pacific, or retired from worked, the name of the employing railroad, “Meals on Wheels” program, an effort that railroads now part of those railroad systems. and the employee’s Social Security number. brought recognition in 1998 from then-Gov. Ter- ry Branstad, who honored Lindberg as “volunteer of the year” for his efforts. Two dates mark return of Swiss Rail Tour A deacon with his church since 1953, Lindberg It’s back, and due to popular demand, it’s lingual tour director. (This tour requires limit- gives the first Friday of each month to the Com- available to twice as many who love rail trav- ed walking to and from trains and hotels in munity Food Pantry, a project run by 30 area el and harbor a taste for overseas adventure! city centers.) churches that ensures needy families have food on It’s the Swiss Rail Tour, first offered by the their plates. In addition, he drives the church van Breathtaking mountain vistas experienced UTU Travelers Club last April. on some Sundays, giving rides to and from services aboard European railways, along with accom- to those who can’t drive themselves. This time, arrangements have been made for modations at superior tourist hotels, buffet “Actually,” Lindberg said, “I’ve recently turned two groups of travelers to savor this amazing breakfasts each morning, supper every even- that job over to a younger person so I don’t have a European rail experience. Choose the package ing, luggage handling at hotels, entrance fees stroke behind the wheel and hurt someone. But if set for March 21-29, 2001, or the second tour to selected attractions, a visit to Glacier Gar- that driver can’t make it, I still drive the route.” slated for March 28-April 5, 2001, and you’ll den, and an excursion on Lake Lucerne all add He gives time each summer to the North Lee get everything a traveler looks for in an unfor- up to the memories of a lifetime. County Historical Museum, rings a bell for the gettable vacation package, including a very For complete information and a color bro- Salvation Army from Thanksgiving through special price. chure (or to learn about the Alaskan cruise Christmas, and has raised money for local fire- For just $1,799 (double occupancy, plus $137 that’s as deluxe or economical as you want it to fighters and for the high school marching band. in taxes), including round-trip airfare between be), call toll free (888) 280-7657, phone For 12 years, he served as National Association Chicago and Zurich, participants will visit (440) 748-2777 from Canada, send e-mail to of Retired and Veteran Railway Employees such destinations as Zurich, Lucerne, Interlak-
T HE F INAL C ALL
Following are the names of members of the UTU Retiree Program who have died recently, according to reports received at UTU International Headquarters. These brothers and sisters will be missed by their many friends and by fellow UTU Retiree Program members.
Local Name City/State Local Name City/State Local Name City/State Local Name City/State 2 Benward, Claude W. Leesburg, FL 471 Speight, Charles N. Portland, OR 942 Rogers, Gary A. Moncks Corner, SC 1469 Leiper, Clinton A. Sacramento, CA 145 Hirschman, Harold N. Cumberland, PA 493 Barron, Leon E. Freeport, IL 970 Milam, W.M. Marietta, GA 1571 Cantrill, Robert J. El Paso, TX 225 Burford, John S. Heflin, AL 525 Rindahl, Myron R. Barnesville, MN 1006 Hanna, John Elizabeth, PA 1581 Disney, William C. Bakersfield, CA 239 Miller, W.F. Pahrump, NV 693 Freund, Nelson P. Akron, OH 1172 Kirk, Kenneth W. Mullens, WV 1594 Ritter, Walter Ridley Park, PA 277 Greaney, Francis P. Waterbury, CT 753 Jolly, Harry E. Horseshoe Lk., AR 1337 Powers, Willard Ville Platte, LA 1637 Basse, Robert W. Wishram, WA 298 Cegielski, John Bensenville, IL 821 Vineyard, Bonney J. Del Rio, TX 1358 Stiegman, Ralph Port Charlotte, FL 1948 Chmiola, Walter K. Wilkes-Barre, PA 329 Reckseen, R.R. Woodward, IA 911 Wagner, Elmo C. Montrose, MN 1375 Raffaele, Max V. Philadelphia, PA 1962 Droddy, Jr., Howard N. Elkview, WV 426 Sutton, Donald J. Renton, WA 941 McRae, Alto L. Columbus, GA 1418 Hastings, Clifford S. Rochester, PA 2000 Ezell, Janice L. Memphis, TN 10 Think UTU for your holiday shopping needs It is not too early to start thinking about holiday gifts for the UTU Watches and Rings members in your family. In a time-honored tradition, the significant moments that come The UTU offers its members a wide variety of UTU-logoed items but once in a lifetime now can be marked forever with a fine time- such as jackets, polo and T-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball and stocking piece or ring custom-designed especially for UTU members. caps, two types of watches, men’s and women’s rings, craft caps, desk clocks, belt buckles, pocket knives, canvas bags, pens, playing cards, Men’s, Women’s Rings, Hamilton Watches now available golf balls and other items. UTU rings that grandly display the union’s logo and highlight the All items are union or American made. All prices include ship- union’s creed, “Progress Through Unity,” feature the wearer’s ping and taxes. smooth-top or facet-cut birthstone circled with the words “United Most UTU-logo items are available for viewing on the UTU web Transportation Union.” site at
11 Election 2000 Voter Guide UTU supports Gore/Lieberman Labor’s best chance is with a worker-friendly administration One year ago, the UTU said it stood behind Al Gore for U.S. President. As the campaign marches on, Gore is prov- ing on a daily basis that he is the man for the job. Last summer, Gore told 2,000 UTU members and friends at our Washington, D.C., Regional Meet- ing that he “believes in the UTU.” This Little November, the UTU is asking its members and friends to “believe in Al Gore.” This union is bipartisan and supports both Democrats and Republicans who support us. This special section endorses candidates from both parties – and in some races can- Vice President Al Gore at last year’s Washington, D.C., Regional Meeting: “I believe that our country didates from neither party. Our job is to does better when organized labor is treated with respect and has real power and the ability to negotiate.” choose the best candidate for our issues and our members, and that man is clearly Al Your vote can be the difference Gore to win the White House. Many people feel that their vote does not •In 1776, one vote decided that English, not UTU is charged by our membership with make a difference. But your vote does count. German, would be the official language of the the responsibility of keeping you informed It can make all the difference in the world. United States; about situations that involve your job, your Before I prove that to •In 1868, one vote saved President Johnson from impeachment; security and your retirement. These are the you, I want to say a few things about how the •In 1876, one vote changed France from a so-called “pocketbook” issues. Under no UTU approaches elec- monarchy to a republic; circumstances does the UTU become tions. The UTU would •In 1876, Rutherford B. Hayes was elected involved in rating candidates based on never dream of telling President by one vote; social issues, such as guns, abortion rights, you how to vote. •In 1920, women in the United States school prayer, and many others. We would not even gained the right to vote by one vote; UTU spends many hours talking directly try. No one ever likes to •In 1923, Adolph Hitler was elected head of be told how to exercise with candidates, reviewing the informa- Brunkenhoefer the Nazi Party by one vote; an individual right. But •In 1960, Nixon would have been elected tion provided to us by them, and looking we do want to give you our recommendations President instead of President Kennedy by a at their voting record. We attempt to based on issues that are important to this change of one vote/precinct; make judgements based on a wide variety union and to you. In the last national round of Many things are at stake in this year’s elec- of criteria, some of which, naturally, are elections, UTU-endorsed candidates won tion. We would hope that as you make your 95% of their elections. subjective. voting decision that you will give UTU- Now a few words about the difference one endorsed candidates careful consideration. But no matter who you support for polit- vote can make: We believe UTU can count on them. ical office, please vote. Your vote is your •In 1645, one vote gave Oliver Cromwell Remember your vote can make all the differ- voice in a democratic society. control of England; ence in the world. Gore/Lieberman Something to consider… is the choice The United Transportation Union is a bi-partisan organization that works closely with mem- of UTU Auxiliary bers of both the Democratic and Republican parties in the halls of Congress and in the state cap- The Auxiliary of the United Trans- itals across our great nation. Money from the UTU’s Transportation Political Education League portation Union is endorsing the candida- is used to support lawmakers who are sympathetic to our concerns and the concerns of all work- cies of Al Gore and Joseph Lieberman for ing men and women. But here is something worth considering before casting your ballot on elec- president and vice president of the United tion day. The following is excerpted from the Democratic Party platform, which was adopted by States. delegates to the party’s national convention earlier this year: “We are asking all Auxiliary members “Democrats know that workers’ freedom to choose a voice at work is a fundamental American right that to vote your pocketbook in the November must never be threatened, never be obstructed, never be taken away. From the Industrial Age to the Infor- elections for the future of all working men mation Age, unions have given working people the chance to improve their living standards and have a voice and women,” said Auxiliary President on the job. We are fighting for a new ergonomic standard and whistle-blower protections. We have stood up Edythe Walter. for the National Labor Relations Board and fought to protect the right of working families to participate in the political process when it was under attack. “We encourage our members to get their spouses, friends and neighbors regis- “We need a new national law banning permanent striker replacement workers…We must also reform tered to vote and to be available to provide labor laws to protect workers’ rights to exercise their voices and organize into unions by providing for a transportation to those persons who would more level playing field between management and labor during organizing drives, and facilitating the abil- otherwise be unable to get to the polls on ity of workers to organize and to bargain collectively.” election day,” she added. See if you can find the same pledge in the Republican Party platform. See election recommendations by state inside this section These Candidates Deserve your Vote!
The candidates listed below have been determined by the UTU’s state legislative boards to be the best qualified and most sympathetic to the needs of working men and women in this country. In districts not shown, there is no recommendation. Incumbents are marked with an asterisk (*). Alabama House Louisiana 8th Dist. Jo Ann Emerson (R)* 2d Dist. Bob Etheridge (D)* South Carolina House 2d Dist. Allen Boyd (D)* House 9th Dist. Steven R. Carroll (D) 4th Dist. David Price (D)* House 1st Dist. Sonny Callahan (R)* 4th Dist. Ander Crenshaw (R) 1st Dist. David Vitter (R)* 7th Dist. Mike McIntyre (D)* 1st Dist. Andrew Brack (D) 5th Dist. Karen Thurman (D)* Montana 8th Dist. Mike Taylor (D) 4th Dist. Marsha Folsom (D) 2d Dist. William Jefferson (D)* Senate 5th Dist. John M Spratt, Jr. (D)* 5th Dist. Bud Cramer (D)* 7th Dist. John Mica (R)* 3d Dist. W.J. “Billy” Tauzin (R)* 10th Dist. Delmas Parker (D) 6th Dist. James Clyburn (D)* 8th Dist. Linda Chapin (D) Brian Schweitzer (D) 11th Dist. Sam Neil (D) 7th Dist. Earl F. Hilliard (D)* 4th Dist. Jim McCrery (R)* House 11th Dist. Jim Davis (D)* 5th Dist. John Cooksey (R)* 12th Dist. Mel Watt (D)* Tennessee Alaska 12th Dist. Mike Stedem (D) AL Nancy Keenan (D) Senate 6th Dist. Richard Baker (R)* North Dakota House 15th Dist. Patsy Ann Kurth (D) 7th Dist. Chris John (D)* Nebraska Jeff Clark (D) AL Don Young (R)* 17th Dist. Carrie Meek (D)* Senate House Senate Kent Conrad (D)* 18th Dist. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R)* Maine Ben Nelson (D) 3d Dist. William Callaway (D) Arizona 19th Dist. Robert Wexler (D)* Senate House 4th Dist. David Dunaway (D) House AL Earl Pomeroy (D)* House 20th Dist. Peter Deutsch (D)* Mark W. Lawrence (D) 1st. Dist. Doug Bereuter (R)* 5th Dist. Bob Clement (D)* 1st Dist. David Mendoza (D) 21st Dist. Lincoin Diaz-Balart (R)* House 2d Dist. Shelly Kiel (D) 6th Dist. Bart Gordon (D)* 2d Dist. Ed Pastor (D)* Ohio 23d Dist. Alcee Hastings (D)* 1st Dist. Thomas Allen (D)* 3d Dist. Tom Osborne (R) Senate 5th Dist. George Cunningham (D) 2d Dist. John E. Baldacci (D)* Texas Georgia Nevada Theodore S. Celeste (D) House Arkansas Senate Maryland Senate House 1st Dist. MaxSandlin (D)* House Zell Miller (D)* Senate Ed Bernstein (D) 1st Dist. John Cranley (D) 4th Dist. Ralph M. Hall (D)* 1st Dist. Marion Berry (D)* House Paul S. Sarbanes (D)* House 2d Dist. Charles W. Sanders (D) 5th Dist. Regina Montoya Coggins (D) 2d Dist. Vic Snyder (D)* 2d Dist. Sanford Bishop (D)* House 1st Dist. Shelly Berkley (D)* 3d Dist. Tony P. Hall (D)* 9th Dist. Nick Lampson (D)* 4th Dist. Mike Ross (D) 4th Dist. Cynthia McKinney (D)* 3d Dist. Benjamin L. Cardin (D)* 5th Dist. Paul E. Gillmor (R)* 10th Dist. Lloyd Doggett (D)* 5th Dist. John Lewis (D)* 4th Dist. Albert R. Wynn (D)* New Hampshire 6th Dist. Ted Strickland (D)* 11th Dist. Chet Edwards (D)* California 7th Dist. Roger Kahn (D) 5th Dist. Steny H. Hoyer (D)* House 7th Dist. Dave Hobson (R)* 13th Dist. Curtis Clinesmith (D) Senate 8th Dist. Jim Marshall (D) 7th Dist. Elijah Cummings (D)* 1st Dist. Martha Clark (D) 8th Dist. John A. Boehner (R)* 15th Dist. Ruben Hinojosa (D)* Dianne Feinstein (D)* 8th Dist. Terry Lierman (D) 2d Dist. Barney Brannen (D) 9thDist. Marcy Kaptur (D)* 16th Dist. Silvestre Reyes (D)* House Illinois 10th Dist. Dennis J. Kucinich (D)* 17th Dist. Charles W. Stenholm (D)* House Massachusetts New Jersey 11th Dist. Stephanie Tubbs Jones (D)* 1st Dist. Mike Thompson (D)* Senate 18th Dist. Sheila Jackson Lee (D)* 4th Dist. Mark A. Norberg (D) 1st Dist. Bobby Rush (D)* Senate 12th Dist. Mary Ellen O’Shaughnessy (D) 20th Dist. Charles Gonzalez (D)* 2d Dist. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D)* Edward M. Kennedy (D)* Jon S. Corzine (D) 13th Dist. Sherrod Brown (D)* 5th Dist. Robert Matsui (D)* House 24th Dist. Martin Frost (D)* 6th Dist. Lynn Woolsey (D)* 3d Dist. William Lipinski (D)* House 14th Dist. Thomas C. Sawyer (D)* 25th Dist. Kenneth Bentsen (D)* 4th Dist. Luis Gutierrez (D)* 1st Dist. John Olver (D)* 1st Dist. Robert Andrews (D)* 15th Dist. Deborah Pryce (R)* 7th Dist. George Miller (D)* 2d Dist. Frank A. LoBiondo (R)* 27th Dist. Solomon P. Ortiz (D)* 8th Dist. Nancy Pelosi (D)* 5th Dist. Rod Blagojevich (D)* 2d Dist. Richard Neal (D)* 16th Dist. William Smith (D) 28th Dist. Ciro D. Rodriguez (D)* 7th Dist. Danny Davis (D)* 3d Dist. James McGovern (D)* 3d Dist. Susan Bass Levin (D) 17th Dist. James A. Traficant (D)* 9th Dist. Barbara Lee (D)* 4th Dist. Christopher Smith (R)* 29th Dist. Gene Green (D)* 10th Dist. Ellen Tauscher (D)* 9th Dist. Jan Schakowsky (D)* 4th Dist. Barney Frank (D)* 18th Dist. Bob Ney (R)* 30th Dist. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D)* 10th Dist. Lauren Beth Gash (D) 5th Dist. Marty Meehan (D)* 5th Dist. Marge Roukema (R)* 19th Dist. Steven C. LaTourette (R)* 11th Dist. Richard W. Pombo (R)* 6th Dist. Frank Pallone (D)* 12th Dist. Tom Lantos (D)* 11th Dist. Jerry Weller (R)* 6th Dist. John Tierney (D)* Utah 12th Dist. Jerry Costello (D)* 7th Dist. Edward Markey (D)* 7th Dist. Maryanne Connelly (D) Oklahoma Senate 13th Dist. Fortney Stark (D)* 8th Dist. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D)* 14th Dist. Anna Eshoo (D)* 13th Dist. Judy Biggert (R)* 8th Dist. Michael Capuano (D)* House Orrin Hatch (R)* 14th Dist. Dennis Hastert (R)* 9th Dist. Joe Moakley (D)* 9th Dist. Steve Rothman (D)* Dist. 2 Brad Carson (D) House 15th Dist. Mike Honda (D) 10th Dist. Donald Payne (D)* 16th Dist. Zoe Lofgren (D)* 15th Dist. Mike Kelleher (D) 10th Dist. William Delahunt (D)* Dist. 6 Randy Beutler (D) 1st Dist. Kathleen McConkie Collinwood (D) 17th Dist. Lane Evans (D)* 12th Dist. Rush Holt (D)* 2d Dist. Jim Matheson (D) 17th Dist. Sam Farr (D)* 13th Dist. Robert Menendez (D)* Oregon 18th Dist. Gary Condit (D)* 18th Dist. Ray LaHood (R)* Michigan 3d Dist. Donald Dunn (D) Senate House 20th Dist. Cal Dooley (D)* 19th Dist. David Phelps (D)* New Mexico 1st Dist. David Wu (D)* 22d Dist. Lois Capps (D)* Debbie Stabenow (D) Vermont Indiana House Senate 2d Dist. Greg Walden (R)* House 24th Dist. Brad Sherman (D)* Jeff Bingaman (D)* 3d Dist. Earl Blumenauer (D)* 26th Dist. Howard Berman (D)* Senate 1st Dist. Bart Stupak (D)* AL Bernie Sanders (I)* Richard Lugar (R)* 5th Dist. James Barcia (D)* House 4th Dist. Peter DeFazio (D)* 27th Dist. Adam Schiff (D) 1st Dist. John Kelly (D) 5th Dist. Darlene Hooley (D)* Virginia 29th Dist. Henry Waxman (D)* House 8th Dist. Dianne Byrum (D) 1st Dist. Peter J. Visclosky (D)* 9th Dist. Dale Kildee (D)* 2d Dist. Michael Montoya (D) House 30th Dist. Xavier Becerra (D)* 3d Dist. Tom Udall (D)* Pennsylvania 2d Dist. Jody Wagner (D) 31st Dist. Hilda L. Solis (D)* 2d Dist. Robert W. Rock (D) 10th Dist. David Bonior (D)* Senate 3d Dist. Tim Roemer (D)* 12th Dist. Sander Levin (D)* 3d Dist. Bobby Scott (D)* 32d Dist. Julian Dixon (D)* New York Ron Klink (D) 4th Dist. Norm Sisisky (D)* 33d Dist. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D)* 4th Dist. Michael D. Foster (D) 13th Dist. Lynn Rivers (D)* House House 5th Dist. Greg Goodnight (D) 14th Dist. John Conyers, Jr. (D)* 1st Dist. Felix J. Grucci (R) 8th Dist. Jim Moran (D)* 34th Dist. Grace Napolitano (D)* 1st Dist. Robert A. Brady (D)* 9th Dist. Rick Boucher (D)* 35th Dist. Maxine Waters (D)* 6th Dist. Dan Burton (R)* 15th Dist. Carolyn Kilpatrick (D)* 2d Dist. Joan B. Johnson (R) 2d Dist. Chaka Fattah (D)* 36th Dist. Steven T. Kuykendall (R)* 7th Dist. Brian D. Kerns (R) 16th Dist. John Dingell (D)* 3d Dist. Peter T. King (R)* 3d Dist. Robert A. Borski (D)* Washington 37th Dist. Juanita M. McDonald (D)* 8th Dist. Paul E. Perry (D) 4th Dist. Carolyn McCarthy (D)* 4th Dist. Terry Van Horne (D) Senate 9th Dist. Baron Hill (D)* Minnesota 5th Dist. Gary L. Ackerman (D)* 38th Dist. Steve Horn (R)* Senate 6th Dist. Tim Holden (D)* Maria Cantwell (D) 39th Dist. Gill G. Kanel (D) 10th Dist. Julia M. Carson (D)* 6th Dist. Gregory W. Meeks (D)* 7th Dist. Curt Weldon (R)* House Mark Dayton (D) 7th Dist. Joseph Crowley (D)* 42d Dist. Joe Baca (D)* Iowa House 9th Dist. Bud Shuster (R)* 1st Dist. Jay Inslee (D)* 45th Dist. Ted Crisell (D) 8th Dist. Jerrold Nadler (D)* 10th Dist. Patrick Casey (D) 2d Dist. Rick Larson (D) House 2d Dist. David Minge (D)* 9th Dist. Anthony D. Weiner (D)* 46th Dist. Loretta Sanchez (D)* 1st Dist. Bob Simpson (D) 4th Dist. Betty McCollum (D) 11th Dist. Paul Kanjorski (D)* 3d Dist. Brian Baird (D)* 47th Dist. John Graham (D) 10th Dist. Edolphus Towns (D)* 12th Dist. John P. Murtha (D)* 4th Dist. Jim Davis (D) 2d Dist. Donna Smith (D) 5th Dist. Martin Olav Sabo (D)* 11th Dist. Major R. Owens (D)* 50th Dist. Bob Filner (D)* 3d Dist. Leonard Boswell (D)* 6th Dist. Bill Luther (D)* 13th Dist. Joseph Hoeffel (D)* 5th Dist. Tom Keefe (D) 52d Dist. Craig Barkacs (D) 12th Dist. Nydia M. Velazquez (D)* 14th Dist. William J. Coyne (D)* 6th Dist. Norm Dicks (D)* 4th Dist. Michael Huston (D) 7th Dist. Collin Peterson (D)* 13th Dist. Nito Fossella (R)* 5th Dist. Michael Palecek (D) 8th Dist. James Oberstar (D)* 15th Dist. Ed O’Brien (D) 7th Dist. Jim McDermott (D)* Colorado 14th Dist. Carolyn B. Moloney (D)* 16th Dist. Bob Yorczyk (D) 8th Dist. Heidi Behrens-Benedict (D) House Kansas Mississippi 15th Dist. Charles B. Rangel (D)* 17th Dist. Leslye Herrmann (D) 9th Dist. Adam Smith (D)* 1st Dist. Dianna DeGette (D)* House Senate 16th Dist. Jose E. Serrano (D)* 18th Dist. Mike Doyle (D)* 2d Dist. Mark Udall (D)* 1st Dist. Jerry Moran (R)* Trent Lott (R)* 17th Dist. Eliot L. Engel (D)* 19th Dist. Todd Platts (R) West Virginia 6th Dist. Ken Toltz (D) 3d Dist. Dennis Moore (D)* House 18th Dist. Nita M. Lowey (D)* 20th Dist. Frank Mascara (D)* Senate 1st Dist. Joe “Joey” Grist, Jr. (D) 19th Dist. Sue W. Kelly (R)* 21st Dist. Phil English (R)* Robert C. Byrd (D)* Connecticut Kentucky 2d Dist. Bennie Thomson (D)* 20th Dist. Benjamin Gilman (R)* House Senate House 3d Dist. Chas. “Chip” Pickering (R)* 21st Dist. Michael R. McNulty (D)* Rhode Island 1st Dist. Alan B. Mollohan (D)* Joe Lieberman (D)* 3d Dist. Eleanor Jordan (D) 4th Dist. Ronnie Shows (D)* 22d Dist. John E. Sweeney (R)* House 2d Dist. Jim Humphreys (D) House 4th Dist. Ken Lucas (D)* 5th Dist. Gene Taylor (D)* 23d Dist. Sherwood L. Boehlert (R)* 1st Dist. Patrick Kennedy (D)* 3d Dist. Nick Joe Rahall II (D)* 1st Dist. John Larson (D)* 5th Dist. Hal Rogers (R)* 24th Dist. John M. McHugh (R)* 2d Dist. James Langevin (D) 2d Dist. Sam Gejdenson (D)* 6th Dist. Scottie Baesler (D) Missouri 25th Dist. James T. Walsh (R)* Wisconsin 3d Dist. Rosa DeLauro (D)* Senate 26th Dist. Maurice D. Hinchey (D)* House 5th Dist. James Maloney (D)* Mel Carnahan (D) 27th Dist. Thomas M. Reynolds (R)* 1st Dist. Paul D. Ryan (R)* House 28th Dist. Louise M. Slaughter (D)* 2d Dist. Tammy S.G. Baldwin (D)* District of Columbia 1st Dist. William Lacy Clay (D) 29th Dist. John J. LaFalce (D)* 3d Dist. Ronald J. Kind (D)* House 2d Dist. Ted House (D) 30th Dist. Jack Quinn (R)* 4th Dist. Gerald D. Kleczka (D)* AL Eleanor Holmes Norton (D)* 3d Dist. Richard A. Gephardt (D)* 31st Dist. Amo Houghton (R)* 5th Dist. Thomas M. Barrett (D)* 4th Dist. Ike Skelton (D)* 6th Dist. Thomas E. Petri (R)* Florida 5th Dist. Karen McCarthy (D)* North Carolina 7th Dist. David R. Obey (D)* Senate 6th Dist. Steve Danner (D) House 8th Dist. Mark A. Green (R)* Bill Nelson (D) 1st Dist. Eva M. Clayton (D)* The UTU’s state-of-the-art mobile education and training center, Membership I, visits the nation’s Capitol to help spread the TPEL message. Let your voice be heard. Sign up for TPEL!
UTU members have made the union’s Transportation Political Education League (TPEL) the top railroad union political action com- TPEL Emblems mittee (PAC) in the United States. TPEL is many times more influential than all other railroad union of Distinction PACs. Consider this: TPEL is more than one-and-a-half times bigger than the next five largest railroad union PACs combined; TPEL dwarfs the Millennium pin All TPEL contributors in 2000 will BLE’s political action fund; TPEL average contributions per member are receive this special limited-edition pin larger than those of all other railroad unions; TPEL ranks second to Platinum Club pin the 1.4-million member Teamsters among all transportation PACs. Awarded to those individuals who con- ✧✧✧ tribute $1,200 or more per year to TPEL We need the Power of One – and the Power of TPEL – to make our voic- es heard even louder in Washington, D.C., and in your state capital. Double Diamond Club pin Awarded to those individuals who con- If you are not a member of TPEL, please consider joining today. If you ✧✧ tribute $600 or more per year to TPEL are a member, please consider boosting your monthly pledge. Diamond Plus Club pin Your future could depend on it. Awarded to those individuals who con- ✯✧✯ tribute $400 or more per year to TPEL
OLLAR D
A D Dollar-A-Day Club pin TPEL Pledge Form A Y T . . P. E. L Awarded to those individuals who con- Mail to UTU, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107. tribute $365 or more per year to TPEL
I, (please print) , of Local , Diamond Club pin proudly pledge to UTU/TPEL the amount indicated annually to be pro-rated monthly Awarded to those individuals who con- and collected with my union dues: ✧ tribute $300 or more per year to TPEL
❒ $25 per year ❒ $50 per year ❒ $100 per year ❒ $300 per year Gold Club Diamond Club Gold Club pin Awarded to those individuals who con- ❒ $365 per year ❒ $400 per year ❒ $600 per year ❒ $1,200 per year tribute $100 or more per year to TPEL Dollar-A-Day Club Diamond Plus Club Double Diamond Club Platinum Club
❒ I wish to contribute $ per month, or I would like to make a one-time con- TPEL pin tribution of $ . (Please enclose a check to “TPEL” with this form.) Awarded to those individuals who con- tribute $25 or more per year to TPEL ❒ I am a retired member of Local and I still want to help. My $ contribution to TPEL is enclosed.
“Because of the individual and joint efforts of the more than 30,000 members of TPEL, the UTU is able to have an impact Signature Effective Date on the legislative process, at all levels.” TPEL reports are filed with the Federal Election Commission, 999 E St., N.W., Washington, DC 20463, and are available for – UTU National Legislative Director inspection from that agency and appropriate state agencies. Contributions or gifts to TPEL are not deductible as charitable contri- James Brunkenhoefer butions for Federal income tax purposes. UTU VISA® card saves you money
The new UTU VISA cards, issued by National City Bank, are All UTU cards will soon have a special Internet e-commerce now available to members, family and friends. rebate program that lets members earn rebates from 5% to 25% With UTUIA’s National City sent a mailing to UTU members in late July offer- on purchases made through the PrimeCard e-commerce web- ing the new UTU VISA cards. Have you responded yet? site. Rebates will be automatically received on the VISA state- Don’t forget, the VISA cards issued by National City replace the ment for purchases from more than 500 merchants like Land’s DISABILITY INCOME old UTU credit card. So, apply for the new UTU VISA and trans- End, Barnes & Noble, The Gap, CarParts.com and The Sharper fer your balance to 3.9% APR*. Image. REPLACEMENT UTU PRIME RATE VISA Start saving money now by trans- PLATINUM AND CLASSIC VISA ferring balances from higher-rate ¥Introductory 3.9% APR for the credit cards to 3.9% APR. You Insurance, You first six billing cycles; could save hundreds of dollars the ¥Thereafter, the Prime Rate, cur- first year alone. rently 9.5%; Won’t Have to ¥At least a 25-day grace period To apply by phone, on purchases; call 1-888-622-8434. ¥$35 annual fee for VISA Worry About Platinum; $25 annual fee for Classic VISA. *The information about the costs of the cards described is accurate as of 5/31/00. The introductory 3.9% APR is This! UTU NO-ANNUAL-FEE VISA valid for the first six billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers. PLATINUM AND CLASSIC VISA Thereafter, the APR for purchases and ¥Introductory 3.9% APR for the balance transfers will be variable, cur- first six billing cycles; rently 9.5% for Prime Rate VISA and ¥Thereafter, the Prime Rate plus 4.9%, currently 14.4%; 14.4% for No Annual Fee VISA. The variable cash advance APR is cur- rently 9.5% for Prime Rate VISA and 14.4% for No Annual Fee VISA. ¥At least a 25-day grace period on purchases. If you miss two consecutive payments, the default APR is the higher of INSUFFICIENT 22.9% or a variable rate of Prime + 14.65%, currently 24.15%. Cash ADDITIONAL VISA PLATINUM BENEFITS Advance Fee: 3% of advance amount, $5 minimum. Cash Equivalent FUNDS Item Fee: 3% of advance amount, $10 minimum. Minimum Finance ¥$250,000 travel accident insurance; Charge: $.50 in any month finance charge is imposed. There is at least ¥Automatic rental car insurance; a 25-day grace period on purchases if the balance is paid in full month- ¥Global emergency travel assistance services; ly.
UTUIA recognizes your need to replace disability with the ability to meet never-ending Periodicals Postage obligations when an accident or illness strikes. Our unfailing commitment to provide the best PAID at Cleveland, Ohio, Disability Income Replacement insurance has made UTUIA the association to rely upon for and additional affordable disability income insurance. mailing offices For more information, please complete and return the coupon below or telephone toll-free OCTOBER 2000 1-800-558-8842 for the name and telephone number of your UTUIA representative. ISSN 0098-5937 Published monthly by the UNITED TRANSPORTATION UNION, 14600 DETROIT AVE., CLEVELAND, OH 44107-4250 ¥ Periodicals postage paid at Information, Please Cleveland, Ohio, and additional mailing offices ¥ Charles L. I would like more information on UTUIA’s Disability Income Replacement insurance. Little, International President; Paul C. Thompson, General (Please print) Secretary/Treasurer ¥ This pub- lication available on microfilm from UMI, 300 N. Zeeb Rd., Ann Full Name Sex Date of birth Arbor, MI 48106 ¥ POSTMAS- TER: Send address changes Address City State Zip to UTU News, 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107- Telephone Number with Area Code UTU Local Number 4250.
Please recycle Complete and mail to: UTUIA Sales Dept., 14600 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44107-4250 10/00
10/00