[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 162 (Monday, November 14, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1431]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE NORTHERN INDIANA AREA LABOR FEDERATION COMMUNITY LABOR 
                                 AWARDS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, November 14, 2016

  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 (AFL-CIO), recognized several individuals and 
organizations for their dedication and service during the Northern 
Indiana Area Labor Federation Community Labor Awards Reception, which 
was held at Wicker Park in Highland, Indiana, on Thursday, October 20, 
2016. 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 will 
receive special recognition. Jeff Chidester, Ironworkers 395, is the 
recipient of the Service to Labor Award for his many years of service 
to the labor movement and his outstanding dedication to his fellow 
union members.
   The Union Labor Award was presented to the Women of Steel, United 
Steelworkers, District 7, for their unselfish devotion to the labor 
movement through its promotion in all areas: social, civic, 
educational, and political.
   Mayor Pete Buttigieg, South Bend, Indiana, was honored with the 
Community Services Award for his exemplary service to his community and 
to the enhancement of the quality of life for the people of Indiana.
   State Senator Earline Rogers was honored with the Lifetime 
Achievement Award for her many years of labor activism and her 
commitment to her community. For the exceptional service she has 
provided to the people of Northwest Indiana, she is worthy of our 
admiration and respect.
   Ray Kasmark, IBEW, and David Blankenship, Sheet Metal Workers Local 
73, were presented with 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, D.C.

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