[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 49 (Thursday, April 5, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E541]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO TOM KRIEGISH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JAMES A. BARCIA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, April 4, 2001

  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Tom Kriegish 
upon the occasion of his retirement as Chief of the Electrical Division 
of the state of Michigan's Bureau of Construction Codes. Tom has spent 
35 years to working in the electrical industry and for the past 15 
years he has used his vast array of knowledge and training to ensure 
public confidence in the safety of buildings and structures throughout 
the state.
  Such work is critical to the well-being of citizens all over Michigan 
and Tom has always approached his job with extraordinary dedication and 
energy. Tom's work ethic and positive attitude in dealing with 
management, co-workers and customers have served as a shining example 
for others to follow. Tom has proved in his years of service that it is 
possible to exhibit character and professionalism in a job, while 
simultaneously earning the friendship of those with whom and for whom 
you work.
  Tom's successful efforts in ensuring the electrical safety of 
Michigan homes and buildings often took him on the road. His time away 
from home certainly was a sacrifice for his wife, Vicki, and three 
daughters, Leslie, Sandy and Jill. Michigan residents owe a debt of 
gratitude both to Tom and his family for an unfailing devotion to duty.
  As an electrical inspector, Tom became a legend for his ability to 
quickly react to a problem and solve it satisfactorily. His 
responsiveness came in handy during his frequent travels in northern 
Michigan. Once, Tom, who was known to miss a curve or two on slippery 
winter roads, found his vehicle heading straight for a dump truck 
hauling a backhoe. Showing his acumen for swift reaction, Tom regained 
enough control of his vehicle to bury it in a snowbank. Always faithful 
to the mission at hand, Tom had plenty of time to reflect on electrical 
inspections protocol while waiting for a wrecker to arrive.
  On a more serious note, Tom has always displayed a willingness to 
give back to the industry to which he dedicated his life. His active 
role in the Michigan Chapter of the International Association of 
Electrical Inspectors, including terms as President and Executive Board 
Chairman, have contributed greatly to the industry and to the general 
public by developing professionalism and expertise among his peers.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our deep appreciation to 
Tom and his family for outstanding service and in wishing them well in 
all future endeavors.




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