[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 63 (Thursday, May 19, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: May 19, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
 CONGRATULATIONS TO ROY BLACK AND POWERS CLAYPOOL ON THEIR SERVICE TO 
                     LOCAL 159 IN DECATUR, ILLINOIS

                                 ______


                           HON. GLENN POSHARD

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 19, 1994

  Mr. POSHARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Roy Black and Powers 
Claypool for their many years of dedicated service to Laborers' 
International Union of North America, Local 159 in Decatur, IL. These 
two good men, through their roles as union members and leaders, have 
devoted themselves and their careers to the betterment of working 
standards and conditions for laborers in central Illinois and across 
our Nation.
  In 1965, Roy Black joined Laborers' Union Local 159, a union in 
central Illinois whose membership included construction and road 
workers. After laboring 8 years out in the field, Roy was appointed the 
union's assistant business agent, and in 1987, Roy became the local 
union's business representative, the position he holds until the end of 
this month. As business representative, Roy has maintained working and 
safety conditions and regulations for local union members. Over the 
years, Roy has also actively participated in many charitable causes 
that include the founding of a local food bank and Dollars Against 
Diabetes. I must also recognize Roy's wife, Darlene, and his three 
children, who have continuously provided Roy with the support and 
encouragement that has allowed him to play such an active role in the 
union for 29 years.
  Powers Claypool joined the Laborers' Union in 1947. During Powers' 32 
years as a laborer, he held such offices as a member of the executive 
board, recording secretary, and vice president. In 1979, Powers traded 
in his hard hat for that of the secretary-treasurer of Local 159. Mr. 
Claypool held the very important position of secretary-treasurer until 
March of this year. Like his colleague Roy, Powers has also involved 
himself with many local charity causes over the years. Powers' wife, 
Judy, and his three daughters have also provided him with the 
foundation on which to build a long and successful career.
  On behalf of the people of the 19th Congressional District, I would 
like to congratulate Mr. Roy Black and Mr. Powers Claypool on their 
retirement from Laborers' International Union, Local 159. Their service 
and dedication to the union, its members, and the Decatur community 
will remain an example for all for years to come.

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