[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 109 (Wednesday, August 5, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1555]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       COMMENDING LOCAL UNION 101

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                         HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, August 5, 1998

  Mr. COSTELLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Local Union 101 of 
the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry in Belleville, Illinois on the 
100th anniversary of its charter.
  Local 101 has been serving the needs of the plumbing and pipe-fitting 
industry for 100 years. It is made up of plumbers, pipe-fitters, steam-
fitters, service-fitters and gas-fitters. These men and women work 
hard, and they have made a significant difference in the community. In 
part due to the dedication of the members of Local 101, the Belleville 
community has one of the highest standards of living in the Metro-East. 
Local 101 has helped complete the two hospitals in Belleville, the area 
high school and many other building and infrastructure projects in the 
community. All projects were completed with the highest quality 
craftsmanship. Mr. Speaker, Southwestern Illinois is growing rapidly. 
MidAmerica Airport, MetroLink Light Rail and other economic development 
projects give the region even more potential for growth and prosperity. 
Local 101 will continue to play a significant role in the development 
of the region.
  Local 101 was one of the first unions in the area. When Local 101 was 
chartered on August 17, 1898 it had 23 members. Today it numbers over 
200. Local 101 has been instrumental in securing pay equity for its 
members, health insurance, a 40-hour work week, its own pension plan 
and a continuous training program. 100 years ago these innovations were 
unheard of. Today, because of the work of unions such as Local 101, the 
hardworking men and women in the plumbing and pipe-fitting industry are 
afforded safe workplaces, equitable pay and worker protections.
  Mr. Speaker, I commend Local 101 on its fine history of quality 
workmanship and its laudable record of promoting workers rights. I 
congratulate Local 101 on its first 100 years and wish Local 101 and 
its members well in the years to come.

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