Bruce L. Braley

Mr. Speaker, I'd like to take an opportunity to congratulate Machinists Local Lodge 831 on their 100th anniversary. Local Lodge 831 is located in Cedar Rapids, which is in my district. Local Lodge 831 was chartered as Harmony Lodge 831 on November 18, 1913.

For over a century, the Machinists in Cedar Rapids have worked to strengthen the middle class and advance every American's right to collectively bargain. Machinists successfully implemented the 8-hour workday, helped outlaw child labor, and have worked to increase salaries for middle class Americans. In Cedar Rapids, Local Lodge 831 has provided good paying jobs to many hardworking Iowans. Since being elected to Congress, I've been proud to work alongside the members of Local Lodge 831 in strengthening the middle class.

I'm proud to call many of the members of Local Lodge 831 my friends, including President Brad Van Fossen and former President Joe lronside. I congratulate every member of Local Lodge 831 on their 100th anniversary and wish them all the best for the future.

Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 488, had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 24th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

For 24 years now, the ADA has secured for people with disabilities their most fundamental rights, and allowed them to integrate more fully in their communities. More than two decades ago, my hero, Tom Harkin spearheaded this legislation that would change the attitudes of so many in order to protect the civil rights of the 54 million Americans with disabilities. Like so many others, I thank him for his tireless advocacy in the United States Senate and his continued dedication to this important issue.

I would also like to thank all of the organizations involved in this year's Johnson County ADA Celebration for bringing together a community of all walks of life, and recognizing that all people have unique skills, talents and abilities.

Expanding access and opportunities for people with disabilities is something we must work to improve every day. There are obstacles that, thanks to the Americans with Disabilities Act, have been all but eliminated and I look forward to seeing even more progress.