[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 57 (Wednesday, May 11, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 11, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
              TRIBUTE TO GEORGE WATTS UPON HIS RETIREMENT

                                 ______


                          HON. WILLIAM D. FORD

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 11, 1994

  Mr. FORD of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
George Watts, of the United Steelworkers of America. He is a dedicated 
member of the labor community and an old friend.
  George Watts began his career in the labor industry in 1960 as a 
production worker for McLouth Steel Corp. in Trenton, MI. George 
immediately involved himself in a number of grievance and safety 
committees, contributing his considerable leadership skills and energy. 
In 1965, he was appointed to the staff of the United Steelworkers of 
America, District 29, and entered the arena of labor organization. 
George continued up the ladder of labor leadership with his election as 
secretary-treasurer of the Michigan State AFL-CIO in 1976.
  Throughout his 34 years of dedication to the labor movement, George 
gave tirelessly of his time and energy to make an impact in labor and 
politics. From 1967 to 1983, George acted in the capacity of a staff 
representative in subdistrict offices around the State. During his 
tenure as a staff representative, he serviced a variety of types of 
plants including foundries, wire plants, steel, plastic, and chemical 
production facilities. In 1983, George was promoted to his current 
position as assistant to the director, United Steelworkers of America, 
District 29. George has used his background and knowledge of all areas 
of labor in his work as an advocate for labor safety and education.
  George has been one of my strongest supporters in the labor movement 
throughout my political career. In addition to serving as a valuable 
resource on the needs and interests of labor, George has also been one 
of the most positive people with whom I have had the pleasure to work. 
His commitment to the rights of working people is illustrated in the 
fact that he has worked tirelessly with State and national governments 
to raise health and safety concerns and fight for improved education.
  Beyond his daily duties as a staff representative and assistant to 
the director, George has always been active in labor-oriented programs 
and commissions, as well as in local politics. He has served as 
president of the Southgate Democratic Club and is an active member of 
the 15th and 16th District Congressional Committees. George's 
commitment to community service and leadership has been a 
distinguishing quality of his life.
  Though I have worked with George in a professional role, I have come 
to value him highly as a family friend. I have been the lucky recipient 
of his support and friendship and am pleased to have this opportunity 
with which to thank him. After a life of devotion and commitment to the 
labor movement, I encourage George to enjoy his retirement with his 
family, and wish him and his dear wife, Mernie, best wishes in all of 
their future endeavors.

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