Retired BLET Division 34 member J.D. Scott (holding plaque) was one of three individuals honored at the May 13 event. Pictured here, from left: First Vice Chairman Doc Woods, CSX-Northern Lines GCA; Ohio SLB Chairman John Esterly; Brother Scott; and General Chairman Brian Farkas, CSX-Northern Lines GCA.
The BLET’s Ohio State Legislative Board hosted a Founders Day dinner on May 13 in recognition of the BLET’s 163rd anniversary. Approximately 170 individuals attended, including BLET members, their families, and guests who included elected government officials and labor leaders. First Vice President Gary Best and National Secretary-Treasurer David Estes represented the BLET National Division.
Three individuals received awards as part of the festivities:
• Michael J. Skindell received the Locomotive Tender Award, which is given to an elected official who, like the coal tender supported the steam locomotive, has supported the BLET and its work. Skindell served the Lakewood area of Cleveland in the House and Senate before his retirement at the end of the 135th General Assembly. He was a staunch advocate for rail safety and the expansion of passenger rail in Ohio.
• Brian Garrison of BLET Division 607 received the Louis P. Shuster Award, which is given to an Ohio BLET member and veteran who carries on the legacy of the late Brother Lou. Garrison is a veteran of the United States Navy who currently serves BLET as Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio State Legislative Board.
• Jeff “J.D” Scott of BLET Division 34 received the Tim T. Price award, which is given to a retired Ohio BLET member who exemplifies the standard of excellence in our union. Brother Scott served Division 34 in numerous capacities over the years prior to his service to the CSXT-Northern Lines General Committee of Adjustment. The award was presented by CSX-Northern Lines General Chairman Brian Farkas.
Earlier in the day, the Ohio SLB hosted an informational session featuring Jess Conard, who provided updates on the growth of Rail Watch, the new rail safety service she founded in the aftermath of the East Palestine tragedy. Rail Watch is designed to assist community leaders who are facing rail-related threats. Also on hand were representatives from the Railroad Retirement Board, the Federal Railroad Administration (District 2), and legal counsel.
A gallery of photos from the Founders Day event can be found here on the National Division website.
