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November 4, 2011 City of Chicago Teamster 86 Years Old and Going Strong When Richard Swiec began working when he was 16 years old, one of the first things he did was become a member of Teamsters Local 705. Since then, for the past 61 years, Swiec has been a dedicated Teamster and driver for the City of Chicago. He is currently a member of Teamsters Local 700. “My crew has asked me when I’m going to retire,” said Swiec, who turns 86 on Nov. 9. “I told them when I can’t drive any more, that’s when I’ll retire.” Swiec just had his license renewed this year. After he turned 80, Swiec explained that he has to go every two years for renewal. With no signs of stopping, Swiec reminisced on the man who gave him the motivation and energy to push himself. “I was so stubborn when I was a little boy,” Swiec said. “One day my dad asked me, ‘You got two eyes? You got two arms? You got two legs?’ When I said yes, he told me to put a smile on my face because I have something that some people don’t.” Swiec is looking forward to traveling with his wife after he retirees. Having already been to a number of states and other countries, he hopes to continue to be adventurous. “People like Richard can teach us so much,” said John T. Coli, Local 700 Trustee. “He teaches us all that patience, perseverance and above all solidarity, will go a long way in paving our future.” |
William P. Logan, President 1300 W. Higgins Rd. Suite 301 CONTACT YOUR STATE LEGISLATOR: UPCOMING EVENTS Monday, May 28 Wednesday, July 4 Saturday, August 4 |
