[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 15 (Monday, January 22, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E87-E88]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     LABORERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA LOCAL 81 100TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, January 22, 2018

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration 
that I recognize Laborers International Union of North America Local 81 
as the organization celebrates its 100th anniversary. A century of 
dedication, hard work, and perseverance is certainly an amazing 
accomplishment, and the leaders and members of Local 81 are to be 
commended. In honor of this milestone, a 100th anniversary ceremony 
will take place on Thursday, January 25, 2018, at the Local 81 Union 
Hall in Valparaiso, Indiana.
   Laborers Local 81 was founded in 1918 in Gary, Indiana. In the early 
days, union members and leaders helped to build the foundation for the 
future success of the organization. Prior to the late 1950's and early 
1960's, union members worked without receiving health insurance, 
retirement benefits, or pension benefits. Many of these individuals 
banded together, went on strike, and fought for these benefits, thus 
allowing today's members to obtain these benefits for themselves and 
their families. Under the leadership of Laborers International Union of 
North America General President Terry O'Sullivan, as well as Local 81 
President and Business Manager, Mike Campbell, Local 81 looks forward 
to advancement and success over the next 100 years, striving to ``stay 
united in justice, honor, and strength.''

[[Page E88]]

   Laborers Local 81 represents some of the hardest workers in 
Northwest Indiana. They are the men and women who help construct our 
roads, bridges, and buildings. They install waterlines, sewer lines, 
and gas lines. They work to remove hazardous waste and pour concrete, 
among many other important jobs. They help to build America every day, 
and I am truly grateful for their service.
   Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its 
craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. Local 81 is an outstanding 
example of these qualities. The leaders and members of Local 81 have 
demonstrated their loyalty to their union and the Northwest Indiana 
community through their hard work and tireless dedication.
   Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join 
me in congratulating the honorable leaders and members of Laborers 
Local 81, as well as all of the hard working union men and women 
throughout the United States. For their outstanding commitment to their 
trade and to improving their communities, these outstanding individuals 
are worthy of the highest praise.

                          ____________________