[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 61 (Monday, April 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E586]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            39TH ANNUAL LABOR AND COMMUNITY AWARDS RECEPTION

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 28, 2014

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate 
several of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens. The Northwest Indiana 
Federation of Labor, American Federation of Labor-Congress of 
Industrial Organizations, recognized several individuals for their 
dedication and service during the 39th Annual Labor and Community 
Awards Reception, which was held at Wicker Park in Highland, Indiana, 
on Thursday, April 24, 2014. These individuals, in addition to all 
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. The Joseph A. Beirne Community Service Award is 
presented each year to local and national labor leaders for their 
volunteer service to United Way. This year, Jim Stemmler, retired 
Business Manager for Ironworkers Local 395, was the recipient of this 
prestigious honor for his outstanding dedication and noteworthy service 
to the United Way movement.
   Dave Fagan, Financial Secretary, International Union of Operating 
Engineers Local 150, is this year's recipient of the President's Award. 
Mr. Fagan was honored for enhancing the well-being of workers 
throughout Northwest Indiana through countless contributions to further 
the philosophy of the Labor Movement.
   The Union Label Award was presented to Lake County Sheriff John 
Buncich for his unselfish devotion to the Labor Movement through its 
promotion in all areas of endeavor: social, civic, educational, and 
political.
   Larry Regan, Vice President, Teamsters Local 142, 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.
   Dr. Debra Dudek, Director of Title and Special Student Services for 
the Portage School District, 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.
   The Industrial Sector Award was presented to Dave McCall, Director, 
District 1, United Steelworkers, for his leadership and support of 
working families throughout Northwest Indiana.
   David Tharp, Midwest District Vice President, Carpenters Local 1005, 
was the recipient of the Building Trades Sector 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.
   Tim Murray, of the Ceramic Tile, Terrazzo and Granite Cutters Union 
Local 21, and Michael Larson, of the International Brotherhood of 
Electrical Workers Local 697, received the George Meany Award for their 
significant contributions to the youth of their communities through 
their involvement with the Boy Scouts of America.
   Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its 
craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These honorees are all 
outstanding examples of these qualities. They have demonstrated their 
loyalty to their unions and the Northwest Indiana community through 
their hard work and tireless service.
   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, DC.

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