[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 52 (Tuesday, April 24, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E591]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           HONORING JD BUTLER

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. LOIS CAPPS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 24, 2001

  Mrs. CAPPS. Mr. Speaker, nearly half a century ago, after bravely 
serving his nation in the United States Navy, JD Butler became a 
carpenter and joined the Carpenters Union. Today, I rise to announce to 
my colleagues that JD has announced his retirement from the Carpenters 
Union, and to commend him for his outstanding services to his fellow 
carpenters and to our nation.
  I have known JD for several years in his capacity as Executive 
Secretary Treasurer of the Gold Coast District Council. In this 
capacity, JD was a passionate and effective spokesman, not only for the 
members of his union, but for working families across California and 
our country. Since coming to Congress, I have been guided by JD's 
wisdom and experience on a range of issues, from pension reform, to 
school construction, to workplace safety, to preserving the protections 
of Davis-Bacon. On these and other issues, JD is a tireless advocate 
for the rights of American workers.
  JD's success as a carpenter and labor leader is impressive. But more 
significant to me is the man's character. JD is a warm and 
compassionate man, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and 
someone who has given so much of himself to better his community.
  Mr. Speaker, on May 5, people from across Central and Southern 
California, Nevada, and Arizona will gather in Palm Springs to pay 
tribute to JD's decades of service to the Carpenters Union. This is 
certain to be an extraordinary affair honoring an extraordinary man. I 
know my colleagues will join me in congratulating JD on his retirement 
and applauding him for a career of achievement and accomplishments.

                          ____________________