Richmond to host BLET for 86th annual SMA
CLEVELAND, March 13 — All members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) are invited to Richmond, Va., for the 86th annual Southeastern Meeting Association (SMA) from June 23-28, 2013.
SMA Arrangements Chairman Tory Bryant (Local Chairman, Division 532) and Co-Chairman Dave Powers (Secretary-Treasurer, Division 532) have organized a program of entertainment and education for BLET members and their families.
Guests will stay at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa in Richmond/Short Pump, where the BLET has secured a room rate of $129 per night. Reservations must be made by June 1, 2013. Registration deadline for the SMA convention is May 17. Registration is still open after May 17, but the fee will increase by $40. Those who make hotel reservations by May 15 will be eligible for a drawing to receive a free night’s stay to be given away during the week of the convention.
Hotel reservations and SMA registration forms are available at the SMA website, www.sma2013.net, or the BLET National Division website, www.ble-t.org/sma.
Workshops will feature specialized training for BLET Legislative Representatives, Secretary-Treasurers, Local Chairmen, and Division Presidents. Also available are: a workshop on the BLET mobilization network; a mock Public Law Board; a seminar with the Federal Railroad Administration; and an informational presentation on the BLET health & welfare plan.
Entertainment activities will include a welcome reception to kick off the SMA on June 23, a casino night (June 24), the annual SMA golf outing (June 25), a tour of Virginia’s historic Maymont estate (June 25), discount tickets to King’s Dominion theme park (June 25), and the annual SMA banquet (June 27).
“The members of Division 532 are proud to welcome all BLET members to Richmond for the 86th annual SMA,” Brother Bryant said. “Our agenda offers something for everyone — educational opportunities for members, shopping and historic tours for spouses, and theme park attractions for families. I hope to see you all in Richmond in June.”
For more information, please contact SMA Chairman Troy Bryant or Co-Chairman at the SMA Hotline: (804) 571-0273 or 86thsma2013@gmail.com.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
bentley@ble.org
