[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 87 (Friday, May 25, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1171]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF UA LOCAL 370 PLUMBERS AND PIPEFITTERS

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                          HON. DALE E. KILDEE

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 24, 2007

  Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, today I would like to take the opportunity 
to extend congratulations to the UA Local 370 Plumbers and Pipefitters 
as they commemorate their 100th anniversary. A celebration will be held 
on June 7 in Flint Michigan.
  Local 370 was chartered on June 4, 1907 with 15 members. As a part of 
the United Association, Local 370 worked to change the 10-hour workday 
and the working conditions of its members. Over the years the benefits 
enjoyed by the membership have changed and grown. Base wages, 
initiation fees, and window dues have all changed to reflect changing 
economic times. The pension fund and insurance fund were created by in 
response to the needs of the membership.
  Over the past 100 years Local 370 has been an integral part for 
worker rights. Chartered 30 years before the famous UAW sitdown strike 
in 1937, members of Local 370 built the building where the sitdown 
strike took place. The members have been committed to protecting 
prevailing wages, working for laws to mandate plumbing licenses for 
anyone working in the plumbing industry, working with other labor 
organizations to improve the day-to-day lives of workers everywhere.
  Committed to the United Association motto, ``We Do It Right the First 
Time,'' Local 370 has created a first-class training center for 
apprentices to develop their skills. The current roster of almost 500 
members can earn up to 70 different certifications from United 
Association. The members strive to be the best trained and most up to 
date in their professions.
  Madam Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in 
congratulating Local 370 for their assurance to their craft, their 
customers, the public and to the American worker. We have all benefited 
from their desire to work in a safe, conscientious environment.

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