[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 33 (Thursday, March 1, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E305]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING IBEW LOCAL 716 ON ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 1, 2012

  Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 716 for 
their 100 years of dedication to improving the life of not only its 
members but electricians across the Houston area.
  As one of the largest unions in America, IBEW represents 
approximately 750,000 workers of a variety of occupations including 
construction, utilities, telecommunications, broadcasting, 
manufacturing, railroads and government. The hard work of IBEW members 
does not benefit them alone but also enhances the quality of life for 
electricians across the United States by securing adequate wages, high-
quality health insurance, retirement, pensions and creating safer 
working conditions.
  Since 1912, Local Union 716 has helped raise the standard of living 
for tens of thousands of electricians and their families. Local Union 
716 has assisted its members during this difficult economic time by 
helping to ensure its members keep the jobs they have and help those 
without find employment. This union has continuously worked to not only 
uphold the goals of the national organization but also dedicate its 
services to improving the moral, intellectual and social conditions of 
their members and families. Through their apprenticeship program, the 
IBEW has trained and developed craftsmen into highly skilled 
professionals who know and understand the many facets of electrical 
work including the dangers and the safety precautions required to 
mitigate those dangers. The union has worked with the management staff 
of several companies to promote safe working conditions and improve 
company training programs.
  Local Union 716 is also known in the community for promoting citizens 
to get out and vote. They have participated, along with several other 
organizations, in neighborhood block walking events to hand out door 
hangers and motivate their neighbors to take part in government by 
going to the polls and voicing their opinions.
  And so it is with great pleasure that I recognize and congratulate 
the members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 
Local Union 716 for their success and dedication to improving life for 
its members and their community as a whole for 100 years.