[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 94 (Tuesday, June 29, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1434]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO JOAN STEFANSKI

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SANDER M. LEVIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 29, 1999

  Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Joan Stefanski who today 
retires from her position of Director of the Ferndale Chamber of 
Commerce after twenty-two years of distinguished service to the 
Ferndale community.
  She has been instrumental in coalition-building in the City of 
Ferndale. A unique contribution has been her efforts in building 
relationships between business and the homeowners of Ferndale. A 
familiar scene were the block parties where business men and women 
would volunteer along with the residents. Joan has that special skill 
of bringing together people of diverse interests and abilities, and 
encouraging a partnership between them.
  Years ago, the assumption by many was that Ferndale was a city in 
decline. Many citizens felt otherwise and Joan Stefanski was among the 
key activists. She played an important role in business development in 
the city, bringing about a re-blossoming of Ferndale. An example was 
the decision of Credit Union One to remain in Ferndale, thus helping to 
keep Ferndale commercially viable, and set the tone for other companies 
to bring their business to the city. Today, we see downtown Ferndale 
moving ahead rapidly. Today, we see the neighborhoods increasingly 
sought after as a place of residence.
  As a Congressman, I have thoroughly enjoyed the many years of our 
working relationship. Whether it was trying to find a reasonable and 
real solution to the Ferndale Post Office difficulties, bringing 
together people to form the Southwest Oakland Coalition for the 
prevention of drug and alcohol abuse, or attending Chamber meetings, 
among many endeavors, my staff and I have always found working with 
Joan to be most productive and satisfying.
  Joan Stefanski has also been an unassuming and highly effective 
pioneer in breaking down barriers to women in the business world.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in wishing Joan 
Stefanski and her husband good health and happiness as they move to 
their retirement home on the west side of Michigan and in honoring her 
for over 20 years of exceptional and committed service to the community 
of Ferndale.

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