[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 35 (Tuesday, March 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E275]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          THE 38TH ANNUAL LABOR AND COMMUNITY AWARDS RECEPTION

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 12, 2013

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate 
several of Northwest Indiana's most devoted and proficient workers. The 
Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, American Federation of Labor-
Congress of Industrial Organizations, recognized several individuals 
for their dedication during the 38th Annual Labor and Community Awards 
Reception, which was held at Duneland Falls Banquet and Meeting Center 
in Chesterton, Indiana on Thursday, March 7, 2013. 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. Thomas Conway Sr., United Steelworkers 
International Vice President, Administration, received the Service to 
Labor Award for assisting organized labor to improve the quality of 
life of workers throughout Northwest Indiana.
  The Union Label Award was presented posthumously to William Cantrell 
and Steven Skvara, retired members of United Steelworkers and 
Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees (SOAR), for their 
unselfish devotion to the Labor Movement through its promotion in all 
areas of endeavor: social, civic, education, and political.
  Michael Flores, of Teamsters Local 142, and Eric Jania, of Carpenters 
Local 272, received the George Meany Award for their significant 
contributions to the youth of their communities through their 
involvement with the Boy Scouts of America.
  Brenda Bowler, of United Steelworkers Local 6787, was honored with 
the Community Services Award for her exemplary service to her community 
and to the enhancement of the quality of life for the people of 
Northwest Indiana.
  Ray Jackson, Treasurer, United Steelworkers Local 6787, is this 
year's recipient of the President's Award. Mr. Jackson was honored for 
enhancing the well-being of workers throughout Northwest Indiana 
through countless contributions to further the philosophy of the Labor 
Movement.
  The Industrial Sector Award was presented to Michael Young, Vice 
President, United Steelworkers Local 6103, for his leadership and 
support of working families throughout Northwest Indiana.
  Thomas Williamson, Business Agent, Ironworkers Local 395, was the 
recipient of the Building Trades Award, which was bestowed upon him for 
his many years of service to the Labor Movement and his outstanding 
dedication to his fellow union members.
  David Sikes, Director of Allocations/AFL-CIO Community Services 
Liaison for the Lake Area United Way, was honored with the Lifetime 
Achievement Award for his many years of Labor activism and his 
commitment to his community. For the exceptional service he has 
provided to the people of Northwest Indiana, he is worthy of our 
admiration and respect.
  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 throughout 
America. They have shown commitment and courage toward their pursuits, 
and I am proud to represent them in Washington, D.C.

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