[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 155 (Friday, December 15, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2199]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         IN HONOR OF TOM SHORT

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 15, 2000

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, President Thomas Short of IATSE, the 
International Alliance of Theatrical and Stage Employees, ranks as one 
of the City of Cleveland's favorite sons. Cleveland is proud of his 
strong, disciplined, patient leadership which has earned him the 
gratitude of the rank and file of the IATSE, the appreciation of all 
international labor leaders, and the respect of those who sit across 
the table from his I/A team.
  As a member of the labor committee of the United States Congress and 
as a member belonging to IATSE Local 660 (when you are in politics it 
is always good to have another trade) I know first hand the powerful 
and positive impact Tom Short has had in protecting and advancing the 
economical, social, and political rights of working men and women. 
President Short achieves success for his members through making the use 
of principle, a practical and pragmatic goal.
  As a veteran of both labor and politics, I am aware of the challenges 
which confront my brothers and sisters in the entertainment world. 
Surely this, the most dynamic of all industries, with so many 
exceptional individuals blessed with depth of talent and breadth of 
vision--surely you can call upon the limitless reservation of spiritual 
and creative energies always available to you, to design an environment 
of benevolence and co-operation where all are winners in the collective 
bargaining process.
  Over thirty years ago, when I began my career in public service, I 
worked closely with Tom Short's father, Adrian, who led Cleveland's 
stage hand union. Adrian Short introduced me back then to his sons, 
Dale, a labor leader in his own right, and Tom, our honoree.
  How very proud your father would be of this well deserved moment of 
grace, Tom, for you embody every dream he had--in your quest to elevate 
the dignity of all working people.

                          ____________________