CLEVELAND, April 30 — General Chairman Mike Priester (CP Rail-US/Metra North/Indiana Southern Railroad/DM&E Railroad) was reelected to a fourth term as Chairman of BLET’s Western General Chairman’s Association (WGCA) at meetings held in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 20-22, 2010. He was elected by acclamation by the Association’s members.
Also elected by acclamation were First Vice Chairman Pat Williams (BNSF — former AT&SF), Secretary/Treasurer Rick Gibbons (BNSF — former STL-SF) and Alternate Secretary/Treasurer Keith Stauber (DM&IR). The Association also elected Matt Wilson (BNSF — former CB&Q/GN/NP/SP&S/MRL) and John Reynolds (Wisconsin Central) to round out its Executive Committee.
“I am honored by this Association’s continuing support of me as their Chairman,” Brother Priester said. “The Western General Chairmen serve as a highly cohesive unit wherein an open forum exists to discuss and explore solutions to the core problems facing our respective members. It is this open dialogue and fellowship that empowers us to make a difference.”
In attendance were 17 General Chairmen and eight Vice General Chairmen, along with a host of speakers and guests. Presentations from the BLET National Division were made by National President Paul Sorrow, First Vice President Dennis Pierce, National Secretary-Treasurer Bill Walpert and Vice President & National Legislative Representative John Tolman.
President Sorrow’s comments focused on this round of National bargaining, which includes the health and welfare piece that will demand a lot of patience and hard work in the upcoming months. He spoke about strength and unity within the Brotherhood and pledged on behalf of himself and the Advisory Board to cultivate a stronger and more effective BLET.
Various law firms making up a portion of the BLET Designated Legal Counsel were also in attendance. They spoke regarding subjects such as worker’s compensation versus FELA, proof of fault, whistle blower legislation, harassment/intimidation and a host of other issues.
John Conklin, Engineer Certification Specialist for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), also addressed the group. He addressed concerns regarding Engineer Certification as well as issues arising out of the Railroad Safety Improvement Act of 2008. His presentation was well received and was followed by a considerable question and answer session.
Also speaking to the Chairmen was Tom Pontolillo, Director of Research and Assistant to the National President. His comments centered on changes to the Hours of Service Law and the effects on availability and earnings.
On the last day of the meeting, the group heard from Vice President Marcus Ruef, Director of the BLET Arbitration Department and Labor Member-NRAB lst Division. His roundtable discussion and question-and-answer session focused on the arbitration process.
The meeting concluded with Chairman Priester recognizing Vice Presidents Merle Geiger and Steve Speagle who will be retiring at year’s end. He extended the Association’s deep appreciation to both Brothers for their dedication to the membership, the WGCA and the BLET.
“Through their collective efforts, visions and professionalism, the BLET and the Advisory Board on which they serve is something all the membership should be very proud of,” Chairman Priester said.