What's Inside Volume 18 - Number 5 July 2004 UTU is at it again, seeking backdoor takeover of BLET In the Line of Duty: Dennis Vinson In the Line of Duty: Heath Pape Three General Chairmen win reelection bids Pine Bluff remote control wreck reinforces BLET's safety concerns Montana State Legislative Board marks 100th anniversary IC&E workers rally for dignity, respect and first contract EUMA 2004 registration information Important advisory to all active members BLET/IBT conducts collective bargaining survey New FRA rule proposal targets hearing loss in train crews SWCM registration information Advisory Board May 2004 Activity Calendar & Events

BLET responds to UTU President BLET Editor's Note: The following is the text of a letter from BLET National President Don M. Hahs to UTU President Paul Thompson. Complete Story Members of Congress focus on Rail Security Day BLET and Teamster members joined members of Congress on June 21 to speak out about the state of rail security in the nation at rallies across the country. Among those holding press conferences or rallies were Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) at Grand Central terminal in New York City and Congressman Sherrod Brown (D-OH) at the Amtrak station in Akron, Ohio. Complete Story CSX seeking line sale/lease in West Virginia According to recent articles by the Associated Press and the Huntington Dispatch, CSX Transportation has put up for bid or lease two major routes in West Virginia and western Maryland, potentially affecting as many as 250 union jobs. Complete Story BLET short-term disability insurance coming in October As a result of the last national contract, many members of the BLET will soon be able to take advantage of a short-term disability program obtained by the National Division through MetLife. Complete Story

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