Celebration memorial service for former UMWA President Sam Church to be August 6

A celebration of the life of former United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Sam Church will be held August 6, 2009, in the Goodloe Center building on the campus of the Mountain Empire Community College in Big Stone Gap, Va. A reception will begin at 5:00 pm, followed by the celebration service at 7:00 pm.

Speakers will include UMWA International President Cecil E. Roberts, International Secretary-Treasurer Daniel J. Kane and AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard L. Trumka. Video remarks from Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine, U.S. Rep. Rick Boucher and Va. Sen. Creigh Deeds will also be part of the celebration service.