Category: Member Spotlight
Vice General Chairperson Tessitore Retires After 30-Year Career
Over the past 30 years, Vice General Chairperson Vincent Tessitore, Jr. has built a career dedicated to serving the members of the Long Island Rail Road. Rising from an Assistant Conductor to General Committee leadership, he never lost sight of the importance of fighting for his union brothers and sisters and improving the quality of life for all workers in the transportation industry. As he retires, read on to learn more about his lasting impact on SMART-TD.
Photography is a lifeline for member, veteran
When Brother Jeffery (JP) Caffee (Local 465, Wyoming) returned from Iraq and recovered from alcohol and drug addiction, he found himself looking for a way to occupy his time and stay clean. His salvation was photography. Read on to learn about his recovery journey and the role that his union membership has played.
Local 94 Leads by Example
During their first year in office, the leadership at SMART-TD Local 94 in Kansas City has increased their local impact by planning “Leadership Team Building Event Days” and other activities. Read on to learn more about the ideas and attitudes designed to pull their local together and create a better community for everyone.
Local 202’s Tierney Gallegos connects union strength with public good
Over the past five years, Sister Tierney Gallegos (Local 202) has emerged as a model of leadership, service, and solidarity for our union. Read on to find out how her dedication and commitment benefits her members and the public.
In Loving Memory of Donald H. Wolff II
SMART-TD mourns the loss of Brother Donald H. Wolff II, a devoted railroad professional and Local 903 Chairperson of the Florida East Coast (FEC) railroad, whose unwavering integrity, leadership, and dedication to his fellow union members left a profound impact across the industry. Remembered as a man of unmatched character, Don’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the causes he supported, and the strength with which he served.
Union officers go the extra mile, but Brian McWilliams literally went 65 of them!
Gary Railway General Chairperson Brian McWilliams of Local 1383 exemplified grit and dedication by running 65 miles in 24-plus hours to raise over $3,700 for Portage High School’s athletic and music programs. Read on to see how his extraordinary feat highlights the values of perseverance, community support, and unwavering commitment that define the SMART-TD spirit.
Acknowledging the mothers of SMART-TD
As Mother’s Day approaches, we would like to salute the mothers in our ranks. We also want to put this message out a bit early as a reminder/warning to our members who haven’t realized that it's time to get your cards/flowers/act together for the moms in your life!
Brother Wirth Crowned Champion in 168-Pound Masters Division Victory
Known for his fierce advocacy on the job, Andrew Wirth brought his determination into the ring. Wirth, the Chairperson of Local 1760, claimed the 168-pound Masters Amateur Division Title Saturday by defeating reigning champion Michael Pinto at Cleveland’s LaSalle Theatre.