[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 79 (Tuesday, June 8, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1076-E1077]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             NORTHWEST INDIANA FEDERATION OF LABOR AFL-CIO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 8, 2004

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate 
some of the most dedicated and skilled workers in Northwest Indiana. 
The Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor AFL-CIO will recognize these 
individuals for their dedication during a banquet to be held at the 
Avalon Manor Banquet Hall in Hobart, Indiana, on Thursday, June 10, 
2004. These individuals, in addition to the other Northwest Indiana 
Federation of Labor members who have served Northwest Indiana so 
diligently for such a long period of time, are a testament to the 
exemplary American worker: loyal, dedicated, and hardworking.
  Mr. Johnathan Comer will receive the Old Warrior Award. Mr. Comer was 
the first African American to be elected to a major basic steel local--
Youngstown Sheet & Tube, USWA 1011. He has spent many years dedicating 
his life to the interests of the labor community as well as his 
community in Northwest Indiana. The years of hard work he has put forth 
are a true inspiration to all.
  Mr. Robert Cashman will receive the George Meany Award. Mr. Cashman 
has contributed graciously to the youth of our community. His 
dedication and devotion to the youth of our nation is a goal we should 
all strive to achieve.
  Ms. Robin Rich is being honored with the Service to Labor Award. She 
has been a devoted organizer for the United States Steelworkers of 
America in District 7. Ms. Rich is a bold, strong, and loyal person, 
and is willing to fight for what she believes in. She has organized 
various events and programs for USWA District 7. Ms. Rich has given her 
time and effort selflessly to the people of Northwest Indiana and 
Illinois throughout her career.
  Mr. Bob Anadell is being honored with the Community Service Award. 
Bob has spent nearly 40 years dedicating his life to the interests of 
Local 697 as well as his community in Northwest Indiana. His career at 
Loom 697 has allowed him the opportunity to touch the lives of numerous 
people.
  Portage Mayor Doug Olson and City Council Members Elizabeth Modesto, 
David Fagen, David Highlands, Ed Gottschling, Richard Turnak, Mark 
Oprisko, and Olga Velazquez, are being honored with the Union Label 
Award. The exceptional service they have provided to the community 
deserves our admiration and respect. The dedication and commitment 
these elected officials have demonstrated for their community is 
exemplary of the values we cherish in Northwest Indiana.
  David Chlebek is being honored with the 23rd Annual President's 
Award. David is a fine example of the tenets embodied by those who have 
dedicated their lives to enhancing the well being of workers throughout 
Northwest Indiana. He has mastered his trade and has consistently 
performed at the highest level throughout his hard work and self 
sacrifice.

[[Page E1077]]

  Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its 
craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These individuals are all 
outstanding examples of these qualities. They have demonstrated their 
loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and 
self-sacrifice.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me 
in congratulating these dedicated, honorable, and outstanding citizens, 
in addition to all the hardworking union men and women in America. I am 
proud to represent such dedicated men and women in Congress. Their hard 
labor and resolute courage are the achievement and fulfillment of the 
American dream.

                          ____________________