[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 16 (Wednesday, February 1, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E108]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            THE 37TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY LABOR AWARDS RECEPTION

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 1, 2012

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate 
some of the most devoted and proficient workers in Northwest Indiana. 
The Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, American Federation of 
Labor--Congress of Industrial Organizations, recognized several 
individuals for their dedication during the 37th Annual Community Labor 
Awards Reception, which was held at Wicker Memorial Park in Highland, 
Indiana, on January 31, 2012. These individuals, in addition to the 
other Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor members who have served 
Northwest Indiana so diligently for such a long period of time, are the 
epitome of the ideal American worker: loyal, dedicated, and 
hardworking.
  At this year's event, several individuals and organizations received 
special recognition. Ray Kasmark, Business Manager, International 
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 697, was this year's recipient 
of the President's Award. Mr. Kasmark was honored for his many years of 
service and his exceptional contributions to the well-being of workers 
throughout Northwest Indiana.
  The Democratic Members of the Indiana House and Senate received the 
Service to Labor Award for their tireless efforts to assist organized 
labor with improving the quality of life for workers in Northwest 
Indiana.
  Randy Palmateer, Business Manager, Northwestern Indiana Building and 
Construction Trades Council, was presented with this year's Union Label 
Award for his unselfish devotion to the Labor Movement through social, 
civic, educational, and political endeavors.
  United Steelworkers Local 6787 accepted the Community Services Award 
for its members' exemplary service to the community and the enhancement 
of the quality of life for people in Northwest Indiana, as demonstrated 
by their countless hours of volunteerism and charity work.
  For his outstanding leadership skills and dedication to assist 
working Americans through trying times, Rich Trumka, President, 
American Federation of Labor--Congress of Industrial Organizations, 
received the Leadership Award.
  Roger Jachna, Jr., of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 
Local 697, and William Beck, of Pipefitters Local 597, received the 
George Meany Award, an honor bestowed upon them by the Boy Scouts of 
America.
  Mike Summers, former Business Manager of Ironworkers Local 395 and 
former President of the Northwestern Indiana Building and Construction 
Trades Council, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The 
exceptional service he has so generously provided to the community 
deserves our admiration and respect. His dedication and commitment are 
representative of the values we cherish in Northwest Indiana.
  Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its 
craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These individuals are all 
outstanding examples of these qualities. They have demonstrated their 
loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and 
self-sacrifice.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me 
in congratulating these dedicated, honorable, and exemplary citizens, 
as well as all of the hardworking union men and women in America. They 
have shown commitment and courage toward their pursuits, and I am proud 
to represent them in Washington, DC.

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