[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 60 (Friday, May 4, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E734]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        A SALUTE TO DAVID HECKER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SANDER M. LEVIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 3, 2001

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work and 
achievements of David Hecker, as he is honored by The Workmen's Circle/
Arbeter Ring in Oak Park, Michigan on May 6, 2001.
  The Workmen's Circle/Arbeter Ring is a national fraternal 
organization committed to the pursuit of social and economic justice 
while fostering Jewish identity through culture, education, friendship 
and mutual aid.
  I have had the honor and pleasure of knowing David for many years. It 
is not surprising that David's life's work has embodied these ideals. 
His union roots run deep, back to Poland where David's paternal 
grandfather was active in the Bund (a Jewish labor organization). 
David's parents, Arnold and Josephine, were both activists in the labor 
movement: Arnold in the United Auto Workers and Josephine in the Health 
Care Union in the Bronx, New York.
  David has pursued advanced degrees in labor relations and has worked 
his entire adult life on behalf of working people. He has been active 
with the American Federation of Government Employees, the Allied 
Industrial Workers, the Michigan AFL-CIO, the Metropolitan Detroit AFL-
CIO, and the Michigan Federation of Teachers and School Related 
Personnel.
  David embodies the values of social and economic justice in every 
aspect of his life. His passion for his work and beliefs shines through 
in his personality. David is a gifted organizer, motivator and 
strategic planner. He has used his talents in numerous roles to the 
benefit of many.
  David is truly devoted to creating A Besere Un A Shenere Velt (A 
Better and More Beautiful World). His commitment to community is 
evident through his work as a board member of the Jewish Community 
Council and the Michigan Association for Children with Emotional 
Disorders, as well as his political activity in the Democratic Party.
  We are truly fortunate that such a talented individual has committed 
his life to working for economic and social justice. We are especially 
fortunate that he and his wife, Alice Audie-Figueroa, have chosen to 
make the Metro Detroit community their home.
  So, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating David and 
wishing both David and Alice, along with their children, Joelle, Jose 
and Gustavo, the very best.

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