[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1919]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE SAFETY RECORD OF THE UTILITIES DISTRICT OF WESTERN INDIANA 
                                  REMC

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. JOHN N. HOSTETTLER

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 28, 2006

  Mr. HOSTETTLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Utilities 
District of Western Indiana Rural Electric Membership Corporation 
(REMC) for its remarkable safety record, specifically working more than 
750,000 hours without a lost-time accident.
  Since its incorporation some seventy years ago, UDWI REMC has focused 
on its core mission of providing reliable and affordable power to its 
member consumers. The electric cooperative was formed to serve 
southwestern Indiana residents in 1936 when most of our nation's rural 
homes and farms were without the benefits of electric power.
  Today, UDWI REMC delivers power, services and energy solutions to 
nearly 19,000 homes, businesses and farms in Indiana's Greene, Clay, 
Daviess, Knox, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Owen, Putnam, Sullivan and 
Vigo counties. Through its efforts, the Bloomfield-based cooperative 
has improved the quality of life for thousands of Hoosiers.
  Ensuring reliable electric distribution is a vital job that requires 
dedication, skill and safe work practices. Electricity provides light, 
heat, cooling, and comfort, and power for labor-saving conveniences and 
electronics along with life-saving benefits. Yet electricity demands 
proper respects and attention. UDWI REMC's 49 employees have 
demonstrated their commitment to safe work practices by compiling an 
exceptional safety record, working from February 24, 1998 to August 10, 
2006 without a lost-time accident.
  Mr. Speaker, it is through the efforts and cooperation as 
demonstrated by UDWI REMC that our country's rural communities enjoy 
the benefits of clean, safe electricity. We take great pride in 
commending UDWI REMC General Manager Roger Davis, the cooperative's 
employees, and Board of Directors on a job done well--and safely--for 
the past 8 years. Thanks to these men and women, and others like them, 
the future is bright in southwestern Indiana.

                          ____________________