[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1707] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] JOHN CZUCZMAN, INTERNATIONAL VICE PRESIDENT OF TWU RETIRES ______ HON. BILL SHUSTER of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, September 4, 2003 Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer congratulations to John Czuczman upon his retirement from the Transportation Workers Union TWU. Before retiring, Mr. Czuczman served as International Vice President and Director of the Railroad Division for TWU representing employees throughout the Northeast and Midwest. Mr. Czuczman began his career in the rail industry in 1955 as an employee of the Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad and was a member of the TWU Local 1427. In 1968, he successfully ran for Local 1427 President and Grievance Chairman. He continued to serve the Local 1427 in those positions for the next 14 years. During his tenure as President, Mr. Czuczman was an active member of the union's Policy Making Board for railroad members. In 1980, TWU's late president William Lindner appointed Mr. Czuczman to the International Union's staff as an International Representative. While on the International's staff, Mr. Czuczman was involved in most of the Union's key negotiations and arbitrations. He served as TWU's representative on the task force that put Conrail together in the early 1980's. Additionally, he participated in the crucial TWU negotiations that led to the takeover of Conrail's commuter lines by SEPTA, Metro- North and the New Jersey Transit in 1982. Mr. Czuczman also served as Chairman of the Conrail Screening Committee and participated in a number of Conrail's contract negotiations. Since 1982, Mr. Czuczman has negotiated every contract with Amtrak involving the Joint Council of Carmen and the Amtrak Service Workers Council. A tireless fighter for the rights of rail workers, Mr. Czuczman has been a strong advocate for the protection and improvement of the benefits provided by the Railroad Retirement Board. He also served as a member of the Board of Governors for Amtrak's Red Block Program which offers assistance, education and rehabilitation to those with alcohol and substance abuse problems. Mr. Speaker, for almost 50 years John Czuczman has been a tireless advocate for the right of railroad workers. From negotiating contracts, to lobbying, to advocating for better benefits, to just simply being a friend to his fellow workers, John has served his fellow rail workers with dignity and class. Mr. Speaker, I hope that you will join me today in wishing John a long and happy retirement. ____________________