[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 8]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 10493]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                  OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 12, 2001

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today 
to join the Connecticut Federation of Educational and Professional 
Employees, AFT, AFL-CIO in paying tribute to their president of twenty-
two years, and my dear friend, George C. Springer as he celebrates the 
occasion of his retirement. His outstanding leadership and unparalleled 
dedication has made a difference in the lives of thousands of families 
across Connecticut.
  I have always held a firm belief in the importance of education and a 
deep respect for the individuals who dedicate their lives to ensuring 
that our children---our most precious resource---are given a strong 
foundation on which to build their futures. As a twenty year veteran of 
the New Britain, Connecticut school system, George made it his personal 
mission to help our students learn and grow---touching the lives of 
thousands of students.
  During his tenure in the New Britain school system, George also 
served as an officer and negotiator for the New Britain Federation of 
Teachers, Local 871. Twenty-two years ago, he was elected to the 
position of state federation president. As the state president, George 
has been a tireless advocate for his membership and their families. I 
have often said that we are fortunate to live in a country that allows 
its workers to engage in efforts to better employee standards and 
benefits. George has been a true leader for teachers across the state, 
providing a strong voice on their behalf.
  George set a unique tone for this organization, extending their 
mission beyond the fight for better wages, better work environments, 
and more comprehensive health benefits. He has led the effort of the 
Connecticut chapter to become more involved with the larger issues of 
how to improve our schools---for teachers and for students. Though we 
will miss him in the long battle ahead, George's leadership and 
outspoken advocacy on behalf of our public school system will continue 
to be an inspiration to us all.
  In addition to his many professional contributions, George has also 
been involved with a variety of social service organizations in the 
community. The John E. Rodgers African-American Cultural Center, New 
Britain Boys Club, Amistad America, Inc., Coalition to End Child 
Poverty, and the New Britain Foundation for Public Giving are just a 
portion of those organizations who have benefitted from his hard work 
and contagious enthusiasm.
  It is my great honor to rise today to join his wife, Gerri, their 
four children, ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well 
as the many family, friends, and colleagues who have gathered this 
evening to extend my deepest thanks and appreciation to George C. 
Springer for his outstanding contributions to the State of Connecticut 
and all of our communities. He will certainly be missed but never 
forgotten.

                          ____________________