[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 11, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E205]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO TOM STAPLETON

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. VIC FAZIO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 11, 1997

  Mr. FAZIO of California. Mr. Speaker, after 50 years of service and 
leadership in the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 3, 
T.J. (``Tom'') Stapleton is being honored by his friends and peers.
  Tom Stapleton was first elected in 1982 as business manager and chief 
presiding officer of Local 3 of the Operating Engineers. Based in 
Alameda, CA, Local 3 represents 35,000 members in northern California, 
northern Nevada, UT, and Hawaii--the largest construction local union 
in the country. Tom took the helm of the union and guided it safely 
through the most turbulent economic times in the history of the 
construction industry.
  A visionary in every sense of the word, Tom understood the importance 
of strengthening the bridges between unions and employers for the 
benefit of the men and women of the construction industry. When medical 
costs were escalating out of control for construction workers, he 
brought unions and employers together to build a vast network of 
contract health care providers. This network, the Basic Crafts Health 
Care Coalition, has brought health care costs back under control.
  It can be said that Tom Stapleton never picked a fight, but he never 
backed away from one, either. Tom organized a grassroots program that 
mobilized thousands of workers when the prevailing wage laws that 
provides stability to the construction industry were threatened. He 
also spearheaded the Foundation for Fair Contracting, a program which 
monitors the illegal construction industry and provides evidence 
against unscrupulous contractors who cheat their employees out of wages 
and benefits.
  Tom has earned the admiration and respect from those in the highest 
levels of government, the labor movement, and the business community 
for his leadership and genuine care for the well-being of those who 
make construction their livelihood.
  Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our 
heartfelt congratulations upon the retirement of Tom Stapleton. I know 
Tom will be just as successful in his future endeavors as he was at 
Local 3.

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