[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 153 (Thursday, November 17, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2386]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[[Page E2386]]
                       A TRIBUTE TO JAMES HARPER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT A. BRADY

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, November 17, 2005

  Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James 
Harper upon his receipt of the Outstanding Labor Leader award from the 
Friends of Labor Committee of Laborers' Local 332. Jim Harper has 
filled the position of Business Manager of Laborers' Local No. 413 
since 1977, where he has earned great respect within the Local and in 
the community at large.
  Jim first joined Local 413 in June of 1960, after graduating from 
Upper Darby High School. Following graduation, Jim put himself through 
school at West Virginia State College, by using the union dollars he 
earned from summer employment. A hardworking student, Jim was also very 
active in the community, where he taught neighborhood children reading 
and writing skills and developed a college open-house program for 
students, parents, and school administrators. He also led civil rights 
demonstrations and participated in the ROTC program.
  After college, Jim continued to add to his already impressive record. 
He attended Penn State University Graduate School, where he balanced 
his publications on Black History with crucial practical contributions 
to the community, such as mentoring youth and working to reduce street 
gang tensions. Jim later served in Vietnam, attaining the rank of 
captain and receiving several Medals of Honor before returning to teach 
at Penn State. Throughout his career, Jim has constantly demonstrated 
his dedication to the union's commitments to unity, education, safety, 
and community.
  Today, Mr. Speaker, I wish to express my gratitude for Jim Harper's 
years of service to the community, and I extend my warmest 
congratulations to him upon his receipt of this award. I ask that you 
and my other distinguished colleagues rise to congratulate him on all 
of his accomplishments.

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