Contact: Kay Chase, Communications Coordinator
Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers
kay.chase@wmich.edu 269-388-3777
Former Congressman Dr. John J.H. “Joe” Schwarz has been honored for his work to improve and expand passenger train services in Michigan. The “Michigan Leadership Award” was presented to Schwarz by Robert Tischbein, chair of the Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers, at the group’s 38th Annual Meeting held Saturday at Clara’s On the River in Battle Creek.
A lifelong train enthusiast, Schwarz has played important roles as a state legislator, a Congressman, and a private citizen. Schwarz has long recognized modern and efficient train service as an economic development tool and a provider of jobs. He has advocated for trains as a vital component of a safe, convenient and energy efficient transportation system that provides access to business, tourism, and educational venues for travelers of all ages and income levels.
Schwarz was recently appointed by Governor Snyder to represent the public on the Midwest Interstate Passenger Rail Commission. His keynote address to the rail passenger’s group detailed the initiatives of this eleven-state compact to promote, coordinate and support improvements to passenger rail service throughout the region.
What: Presentation of “Michigan Leadership Award” to former Congressman Dr. John J.H. “Joe” Schwarz
When: 1:30 pm, Saturday, 10 September 2011
Where: Clara’s On The River, 44 McCamly St. N, Battle Creek MI
Who: The Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers, 38th Annual Meeting
Details: Dr. Schwarz will give the keynote address at 1:00 pm; presentation of award follows at 1:30 pm
Visuals: Presentation of the award by Robert Tischbein, Chair, Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers
The Michigan Association of Railroad Passengers, Inc. (MARP), is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation established in 1973 to improve passenger train service, travel conditions for passengers, and to work for the preservation of historic rail stations. The organization has more than 300 members statewide, publishes The Michigan Passenger quarterly, and maintains a website at www.marp.org.
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