[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 123 (Monday, October 4, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN HONOR OF DENNIS A. LUSARDI

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 4, 2004

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Dennis A. 
Lusardi who will receive the Four Freedoms Award on Friday, November 5, 
2004. This prestigious award is given by the Franklin and Eleanor 
Roosevelt Institute to exceptional men and women who, in their work and 
life, are committed to the 4 principles outlined by President Roosevelt 
in 1941. These principles are the freedoms of speech and expression, 
worship, and the freedom from both want and fear.
  I know that Dennis embodies these pillars in his work with the labor 
movement. As a dedicated worker, he has served the labor community and 
union members for over 40 years. He was born in Yonkers and graduated 
from Christopher Columbus High School and then attended Westchester 
Community College. I admire his entrance into the workforce in 1958 as 
an apprentice in the esteemed Ironworkers' Union. My father was an 
Ironworker, and I have great respect for trade unions, their values, 
and the work that they do. Dennis immediately showed that he was a 
dedicated and passionate advocate for improvements to his union. He 
took his first leadership role in the 1970s when he was appointed to 
the Pension Fund, and has proven his devotion by continuing his service 
as Chairman still today. He continued his impassioned work in 1981 when 
he became a Delegate to the International Convention.
  In 1989 Dennis also became the Financial Secretary Treasurer, and 
since then he has held his position by acclamation from those he 
serves. Dennis' expertise and experience have truly benefited the labor 
movement, the community, and those who know and love him. He also lends 
his services and experiences as the Ironworkers' Union's Business 
Manager. He is as committed to advocating on behalf of his fellow 
workers today as the day he began his career. I am delighted to say 
that he continues this exceptional service as the Vice President of 
Westchester Building Trades, the Treasurer for the Ironworkers District 
Counsel of New York, and is also representative for the Ironworkers 
District Counsel Pension Plan. He exemplifies the hardworking ideals of 
his union and this country, and truly deserves this great honor. In 
addition to the incredible and significant work on behalf of organized 
labor, Dennis is also a proud father of two, and has three wonderful 
grandchildren. It is my privilege today to speak in the House of 
Representatives in honor of Mr. Dennis A. Lusardi.

                          ____________________