[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 80 (Tuesday, June 10, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      IN HONOR OF RICHARD D. ACTON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 10, 1997

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Richard D. Acton, a union 
leader for over 45 years who has worked tirelessly for his members and 
for his community.
  Dick began his union career as a member of the International 
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Union, Local No. 38. He rapidly 
earned the respect of his peers, and they chose him for higher union 
office. Dick rose to treasurer and business manager, a post he held for 
21 years.
  His fellow union leaders recognized Dick's leadership qualities and 
elected him to the IBEW International Executive Council in 1979, where 
he served until 1996. Dick was also elected to the post of executive 
secretary of the Cleveland AFL-CIO Federation of Labor.
  Dick devoted much of his time to improving the lives of his members 
and the Greater Cleveland community. As president of the United Labor 
Agency, the social service arm of the Cleveland AFL-CIO, the United 
Auto Workers and the Teamsters, Dick led the institution which embodies 
the generosity and social commitment of the union movement. The United 
Labor Agency provides programs in strike assistance, job counseling, 
training, youth job placement, services for laid-off workers, 
unemployed, and underemployed persons. Of particular note, the United 
Labor Agency developed a special economic response team that delivered 
a range of programs for people who were laid off or were subject to 
plant closing. The program was so successful that it was replicated 
around the country. The United Labor Agency also provides needed 
durable medical equipment, and offers programs for senior citizens and 
retired workers.
  Mr. Speaker, let us recognize the achievements of Dick Acton, who 
will be honored by his peers on June 11, 1997, for a lifetime of 
giving, service, and achievement.

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