A Moving Tribute to Phil Neuenfeldt
The crowd was moved by a touching tribute to Phil Neuenfeldt that included a photo slideshow of friends, family and union brothers and sisters over the years. The slideshow was set Tom Morello’s “Union Town” inspired by 2010 Wisconsin protests. Neuenfeldt was presented with Proclamations throughout the day for his service to working families from Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, Congresswoman Gwen Moore and U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin. Friends and former colleagues honored Phil by sharing workplace memories and stories. Jeannine Rivers, Milwaukee-based Jazz singer, sang Phil an acapella song to close out the afternoon’s tribute.
The first day of the convention wound down with a “Toast and Roast” of outgoing President Phil Neuenfeldt. The laugh-out-loud Roast was held at Vue on the 21st floor of the Hyatt Hotel. Over drinks and Phil’s favorite mash potato bar, delegates told stories and shared fond memories of Phil’s time in the labor movement. It is clear that many friendships have been forged with union members, union leaders and elected officials across the state during Phil’s tenure.