TLA — Katherine T. Garber

The Transpor TaT ion L awyer TLA Editor’s Column

As Eric Benton and I both practice law in Houston, he didn’t have to go far to pass the TTL editorial baton this year—he’s Speaking of getting back together: In this edition of the TTL, we celebrate and reflect on the 2022 Annual Conference in practically across the street from me, at least by Texas standards. Which is good for me (but perhaps not so good for him) in the event I have questions—and I no doubt will. With Eric being one rung ahead of me on the TLA ladder and now President-Elect, I continually learn from him as I follow him on the climb. For his guidance, I thank him, and I sincerely hope he doesn’t take to blocking my calls and emails in the future.

I am also delighted to be working this year with President Chris Kelly, who you will see from his TLA President’s Biography is the the Energizer Bunny of the legal profession. I marvel at his energy and enthusiasm, and look forward to his tenure as President of this organization. Louis Amato-Gauci brings his style and charm to TLA’s website and social media duties as Second Vice President, and Jeff Pincus joins the executive ladder as Secretary/Treasurer with his ever-present positivity and enthusiasm. Steve Canty, who has demonstrated calm and rock-steady leadership over the past year, “retires” to Past President status. Each of these gentlemen is amazing in his own right, and Katherine T. Garber I am honored and privileged to serve with them.

With the passing of the editorial baton comes the annual changing of the TTL colors—from Eric’s blue and gold to my maroon and burnt orange. I am a native Texan, and I hold degrees from the two largest schools in the state—Texas A&M University and The University of Texas.1 These schools were the fiercest of rivals in the Southwest Conference when I was a student at each, and they remained so until A&M’s move to the SEC in 2012 caused them to part ways. Now that Texas has announced its defection from the Big 12 to the SEC, it appears they will be reuniting and reigniting their rivalry; thus, their joinder here (at least in colors) seemed timely and appropriate. Williamsburg, Virginia—where the past and the present quite literally came together for education, fellowship and fun in our first fully in-person annual conference since the pandemic. Melissa Richardson and Fred Marcinak, together with their program committee, put together a terrific and informative educational program. I’m pleased to report that no attorneys or guests suffered any harm from the Thursday night ax throwing (other than perhaps having sore arms) and, thanks to our fife and drum escorts, no one got lost on the way to Shield’s Tavern for the Saturday night dinner. There’s a recap of the events, replete with photos, in this edition. Next up: TLI in Boston. Beata Shapiro and Dan Sonneborn provide us with an overview of what to expect, so mark your calendars and join us in Massachusetts in November! Our featured articles in this edition of the TTL continue to reflect the current times in which we live: Dylan Jones and Ian Breneman provide a review of COVID vaccination requirements for transportation workers engaged in international commerce, and Heather Devine and Paul Jon analyze the effects of supply chain interruptions on the Formula 1 and MotoGP racing circuits. Rocky Rogers highlights the Indiana Supreme Court’s recent opinion on the MCS 90 endorsement, J.W. Taylor reports on the Florida Supreme Court’s ruling regarding the admissibility of medical damages, and Al Teel and Madeline Hughes cover the current status of case law interpreting the phrase “in use” as used in the Locomotive Inspection Act. Thanks to all who have contributed to this edition of the TTL through their submission of written content and photographs. I also want to extend a very special thanks to Rachel Celentano and Jill Gabbert with Kellen, who have made my editorial debut easier than I anticipated.

1 I have, for many years, referred to myself as “bi-collegiate,” given that I spent an equal amount of time at each university. My diehard Aggie family members, however, prefer the term “nuts,” as they just don’t get how a third-generation Aggie would even consider going to school in Austin. I have often tried to explain to them that my options for attending law school were limited at the time, as A&M had not yet acquired one. They don’t buy it.

TTL Call for Articles

We are looking for more featured articles and/or case notes for upcoming issues. This is an opportunity for TLA and CTLA members to write on timely issues which will allow greater exposure among our memberships. This will give you nationwide recognition and is a great way to expand your networking abilities as part of a well-respected and widely read industry publication. The submission deadline for the next publication is August 4, 2022. Please direct any questions and submissions to TTL Editor Kathy Garber at KGarber@ClarkHill.com.