[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 127 (Friday, August 3, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1731]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO MS. VIRGINIA GUFFEY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 3, 2007

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride and sincerity 
that I wish to honor Ms. Virginia Guffey, who on August 12, 2007, will 
be honored at the U.S. Steel Yard by the Youngstown Sheet and Tube Old-
Timers Club for her 58 years of service at U.S. Steel.
  Virginia Guffey was born in the town of Seymour, Indiana. Until 1949, 
she worked at the National Veneer and Lumber Company in Seymour. At 
that time, she was told that her services were no longer needed. Not to 
be discouraged, Virginia traveled north to seek one of the many 
employment opportunities in Gary, IN. That same year she was hired at 
U.S. Steel, and as they say, the rest is history. In the beginning she 
lived with relatives in order to send her earnings back home to Seymour 
to support her parents and siblings. Virginia eventually settled in 
Merrillville, IN.
  It is important to understand that Virginia was one of only 300 women 
working in a workplace dominated by males at U.S. Steel. The small 
group of 300 women is epitomized by Virginia, who demonstrated strength 
of character and devotion to her career, and over time she persevered 
to gain acceptance and make great strides to ensure women's equality in 
the workplace. Fifty-eight years later, her loyalty to U.S. Steel and 
passion for her job still burns strong. Virginia is now an inventory 
clerk in the tin division's coating-packaging warehouse. At 82 years 
old, she does not intend to retire any time soon.
  Virginia has overcome a life of hardships and discrimination with 
courage and determination. She is a dedicated employee who loves her 
work and who greets each workday with enthusiasm. Her optimism and 
tenacity are an example to us all. Her strong work ethic and positive 
attitude have earned her the respect and admiration of not only her co-
workers, but of every person who has the pleasure of knowing her.
  One such person is Chester Lobodzinski, founder of the Youngstown 
Sheet and Tube Old-Timers Club, an organization for retired and current 
employees in the steel industry. Mr. Lobodzinski accurately painted a 
portrait of Virginia when he stated, ``Virginia's work ethic of pride, 
dedication, concern, and 150 percent effort takes a back seat to no 
one. She is not just an employee at U.S. Steel, but is a living legend 
whose survival in life can be credited to her very positive attitude, 
combined with her many true class of friendships.''
  Madam Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in congratulating Ms. Virginia Guffey as she is 
honored for her longevity and unmatched commitment to her job. Her 
unselfish and lifelong dedication to U.S. Steel is worthy of the 
highest commendation, and I am proud to represent her in Congress.

                          ____________________