[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 33 (Wednesday, March 22, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E378-E379]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     CONGRATULATING MILLWRIGHT LOCAL #548's CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BRUCE F. VENTO

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 22, 2000

  Mr. VENTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Centennial 
anniversary of the Millwright Local #548 in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
  Unions have become a key element in the strong economy and culture of 
Minnesota, and the Millwright Local #548 is no exception. In fact, 
chartered on December 4, 1900, Local #548 is the oldest organization in 
the United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners of America, and the 
oldest Millwright organization in the country. The Millwrights 
currently are 600 members strong, serving the needs of industry, 
improving the quality of life and maintaining high standards for their 
families in our area.

[[Page E379]]

  I applaud the dedication of this Millwrights union to their 
organization and advocacy of worker's rights. They have worked hard to 
ensure that their members have safe work places, receive fair benefits 
and earn livable wages. But beyond this, the Millwrights have promoted 
the idea of being responsible members of the community. They encourage 
members to reach out to others and to become active, informed citizens.
  The Millwright apprenticeship programs combine both academic and 
hands-on experience. Over a period of years these trades people have 
become the most productive in their craft. It is just such performance 
that broadly results in good products and a strong economy. The 
Millwrights, for over 100 years, have been a part of the fabric of our 
great state. In fact, they have significantly contributed to the 
building of the culture and infrastructure of Minnesota.
  It is my pleasure to take this opportunity to congratulate Local #548 
on 100 years of service and advocacy, and I wish them the best in the 
next century. I am confident they'll keep their faith in one another 
and in their union solidarity.

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